Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," holds immense significance in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah, which was then substituted by a ram. In 2024, the determination of the exact date of Eid al-Adha has highlighted differences between the methods used by PP Muhammadiyah and the Indonesian government.
Determining the Islamic Calendar: Hisab and Rukyat Methods
The Islamic calendar, or Hijri calendar, is lunar-based, meaning it relies on the phases of the moon. There are two primary methods used to determine the start of a new Islamic month: Hisab (astronomical calculations) and Rukyat (moon sighting).
Hisab Method
The Hisab method involves astronomical calculations to predict the positions of the moon and sun. This method is highly precise and uses mathematical and scientific principles to determine when the new moon (hilal) will be visible.
PP Muhammadiyah, one of the largest Islamic organizations in Indonesia, follows the Hisab method, specifically the Hisab Hakiki Wujudul Hilal. This method requires three conditions for the new month to begin:
Ijtimak (conjunction) must occur.
Ijtimak must occur before sunset.
The moon must be above the horizon at sunset.
Rukyat Method
The Rukyat method involves physically sighting the new moon. This traditional approach is widely used by many Islamic scholars and governments. It requires clear visibility of the moon after sunset on the 29th day of the current month. If the moon is not visible, the month is extended to 30 days.
The Indonesian government often uses the Rukyat method combined with Hisab for verification. This approach ensures that the date determination accommodates various Islamic perspectives and maintains unity among the Muslim community.
Eid al-Adha 2024: PP Muhammadiyah's Determination
According to PP Muhammadiyah, Eid al-Adha in 2024 falls on Monday, June 17th. This date is based on the Maklumat PP Muhammadiyah No. 1/MLM/I.0/E/2024 issued on January 12, 2024. Their calculations indicated that Ijtimak occurred on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 19:39:58 WIB. However, at sunset in Yogyakarta, the moon was still below the horizon, prompting them to complete the month of Zulkaidah to 30 days. Therefore, the 1st of Zulhijah is set on June 8, 2024, making the 10th of Zulhijah (Eid al-Adha) fall on June 17, 2024.
Indonesian Government's Determination
The Indonesian government, through a meeting known as Sidang Isbat, determined the start of Zulhijah 1445 H on June 8, 2024, after conducting moon sightings on June 7, 2024. This decision also sets Eid al-Adha on June 17, 2024. The Sidang Isbat, held on June 7, 2024, involved numerous Islamic scholars, astronomers, and representatives from various Islamic organizations, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive decision-making process.
The Convergence of Dates
Interestingly, both PP Muhammadiyah and the Indonesian government have arrived at the same date for Eid al-Adha in 2024. This convergence helps unify the observance of this important Islamic festival across Indonesia, fostering a sense of togetherness and community among Muslims in the country. Lionel Messi - Thiago Messi's Dream: Playing Alongside Barcelona Wonderkid Lamine Yamal
The Historical and Religious Significance of Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail (Ishmael), highlighting themes of faith, obedience, and sacrifice. According to Islamic tradition, Ibrahim dreamt that Allah commanded him to sacrifice his son Ismail. In his unwavering faith and obedience, Ibrahim prepared to carry out the command. However, Allah intervened and provided a ram to sacrifice instead, sparing Ismail's life. This event is narrated in the Quran in Surah As-Saffat (37:106-107):
"Indeed, this was the clear trial."
"And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice."
Eid al-Adha is a time when Muslims around the world remember this profound act of faith and obedience. The festival involves performing the Eid prayer and the sacrifice of an animal, usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat from the sacrifice is distributed among family, friends, and the needy, symbolizing the importance of charity and community.
Rituals and Practices of Eid al-Adha
The Eid Prayer
The Eid prayer is performed in congregation, typically in an open field or large mosque. It includes a sermon that reminds the congregation of the significance of the festival and the lessons to be learned from Prophet Ibrahim's story.
The Sacrifice (Qurbani)
The act of sacrificing an animal, known as Qurbani, is a central aspect of Eid al-Adha. The animal should meet specific criteria, including being of a certain age and free from defects. The sacrifice is performed following the Eid prayer, and the meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends and relatives, and one for the poor and needy.
Takbir and Festive Activities
Muslims also engage in Takbir, the declaration of the greatness of Allah, starting from the dawn of the 9th of Zulhijah (Day of Arafah) until the last day of the days of Tashreeq (13th of Zulhijah). Families gather for festive meals, exchange gifts, and visit friends and relatives, reinforcing social bonds and community spirit.
Modern-Day Observance and Its Challenges
While the essence of Eid al-Adha remains the same, modern-day observance comes with its challenges. Urbanization and busy lifestyles sometimes make it difficult for Muslims to participate fully in traditional practices. However, many communities and organizations make concerted efforts to facilitate these rituals, such as organizing communal prayers and collective sacrifices.
In addition, the pandemic years have posed unique challenges, forcing Muslims to adapt their practices to comply with health guidelines. Despite these challenges, the spirit of Eid al-Adha endures, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of Islamic traditions.
Eid al-Adha 2024, as determined by both PP Muhammadiyah and the Indonesian government, will be observed on June 17th. This agreement reflects a unified approach to celebrating one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar. The festival serves as a profound reminder of faith, obedience, and sacrifice, principles that are as relevant today as they were in the time of Prophet Ibrahim.
The convergence of dates between PP Muhammadiyah and the government highlights the potential for harmony and unity within the Muslim community, despite differing methods of moon sighting and calendar determination. As Muslims around the world prepare to celebrate Eid al-Adha, the festival remains a time for reflection, gratitude, and community spirit, embodying the core values of Islam.
