Saudi Arabia announces Sallah day as it confirms the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent, marking the beginning of the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This significant event heralds the onset of one of the holiest periods in the Islamic faith, with the sighting being a crucial element in the Islamic tradition for determining the exact timing of key religious observances.
Consequently, the holy month of Dhul Hijjah will commence on Friday, June 14, 2024. The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia had called upon Muslims across the Kingdom to participate in the sighting of the crescent moon on Wednesday, a traditional practice that helps unify the start of the holy month across the Islamic world.
This sighting is essential for determining the start of Dhul Hijjah and the timing of significant religious observances. The Hajj pilgrimage for the year 1445 AH will begin on Friday, June 14, with the day of Arafah, a crucial day of prayer and reflection during Hajj, falling on Saturday, June 15. This period is considered the pinnacle of the pilgrimage, where millions of Muslims gather in the plains of Arafah to pray and seek forgiveness.
Following this, Eid Al-Adha, the largest Islamic Sallah festival, will be observed on Sunday, June 16, 2024. Eid Al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command. It is celebrated with communal prayers, feasts, and acts of charity, symbolizing the spirit of giving and gratitude.
The entire month of Dhul Hijjah is considered holy, featuring a series of important days in the Muslim faith. It is one of the four sacred months for Muslims, known as Al Ash-hur Al Hurom, along with Rajab (the seventh month), Dhul Qa’dah (the 11th month), and Muharram (the first month). These months are traditionally seen as times of peace and spirituality, where Muslims are encouraged to engage in increased devotion and reflection.
The announcement by the Saudi authorities not only sets the dates for these observances but also highlights the importance of the lunar calendar in Islamic traditions, ensuring that the faithful can prepare for and participate in these significant religious events. The entire Muslim world looks forward to this period with a sense of anticipation and reverence, marking it with various rituals and customs that have been passed down through generations.
