Muhammadiyah Sets First Ramadan on June 28
Reported by Erna Martiyanti | Translated by Isa Efriadi
Muhammadiyah Leadership Council has set Ramadan on Saturday (6/28). The determination is based on Hisab method. The new month is not determined based on moon appearance which can be seen by naked eyes.
Muhammadiyah may conducts first tarawih pray on Friday night, June 27, 2014. While for the first fasting will be on June 28, 2014
Jakarta Muhammadiyah Leadership Council Head, Agus Suradika, said that Muhammadiyah sets 1 Ramadan begin on June 27, 2014 afternoon. On that date, the Hilal or moon is predicted can be seen even only half degree. Based on Islamic calendar, new day begins after maghrib or in the evening.
“So that Muhammadiyah may conducts first tarawih pray on Friday night, June 27, 2014. While for the first fasting will be conducted on June 28, 2014,” said Suradika who is also have job position as Jakarta Library and National Archives Head, Tuesday (6/24).
Approaching Ramadan, Beef Stock in Jakarta SafeSuradika told that Muhammadiyah using hisab method to determine Ramadan. This is conducted because there was no binocular on Muhammad Prophet’s era. It means that the moon must be seen by naked eyes. “According to Muhammadiyah’s method, even the moon is only seen for half degree,” he explained.
Suradika admitted, some point of view said that the moon have to be seen 2 degrees. Because invisibly, the moon appearance can bee seen on 2 until 4 degrees.
He predicted Muhammadiyah and Government’s determination to set early Ramadan might be different. It is according to Ministry Religious Affairs determination which usual to make hilal observation. “It is depend on 28 June, can be same. But if the moon can not be seen, government will set Ramadan on June 29,” he added.
The determination of early fasting month is based on PP Muhammadiyah Intimation number 02/MLM/1.0/E/2014, Rajab 09th 1435 H/May 8th 2014.
He hoped that the difference of first Ramadan may not disturb moslem unity. "Please respect each other and prioritizing tolerance, brotherhood," he uttered.
