Eid-ul-Fitr 2018: Moon sighting timings in Pakistan

Pic Courtesy: Pixabay (representational image)

New Delhi: Muslims across the globe are eagerly awaiting to usher in the Eid celebrations. Eid-ul-Fitr or Eid-al-Fitr marks the end of the 30 days period of fasting (Rozas) during the Islamic holy month of Ramzan or Ramadan. Eid-ul-Fitr is the first and only day in the month of Shawwal during which Muslims are not permitted to fast.

Eid holds a great significance for Muslims who eagerly wait for the festival after keeping Rozas for good 29-30 days during Ramzan. However, confusion over Eid celebration day continues as it purely depends upon the sighting of the moon. This year, it will be either Friday (June 15) or Saturday (June 16).

According to Geo.tv, in Pakistan, Eid is likely to be on June 16 (Saturday). Quoting the Metrological Department of Pakistan, the report states that there is very less chance of the crescent moon being sighted today and Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to be celebrated on Saturday (June 16).

The official committee is set to meet today in the evening for the sighting of the Shawwal moon in Karachi. A formal announcement will be made only after checking information gathered on moon sighting with other parts of the world. 

The Islamic holy month of Ramzan or Ramadan commenced in Pakistan on May 17, 2018 (Thursday). 

Ramzan or Ramadan falls on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and holds a great significance for the Muslim community across the globe. During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims observe fasts for 30 days marking it as a gesture to revere the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad according to Islamic belief.

According to many beliefs, this annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The month lasts for about 29–30 days (usually a month) based on the visual sighting of the crescent moon, according to numerous biographical accounts compiled in the hadiths.

Ramadan word has Arabic root ramiḍa or ar-ramaḍ, which means scorching heat or dryness. It is believed that the holy book of Quran was written during this month. Thus, the people practise fasting in this month to purify their souls and seek forgiveness from the Almighty Allah.

Keep reading this space for all updates on Eid-al-Fitr.

Here's wishing everyone Eid Mubarak!