The crescent was sighted in Saudi Arabia, but not in other countries. In this situation, the question of “whose decision is right, which one should we follow?” is raised again and again every year on the eve of Ramadan. This time, the same question arose in the public, and the Fatwa Center of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan gave a clear and understandable answer to it.
The Fatwa Center first of all reminds us of an important fact: the crescent (new moon) is not visible in all parts of the Earth at the same time. Its appearance strongly depends on factors such as its distance from the Sun, its height above the horizon, and the clarity of the air. Therefore, it is natural that the moon is visible in one place, and not visible at all in another.
Experts explain that the crescent is most likely to be seen in North America, and the least likely to be observed in the eastern part of the globe. So, "seen in Saudi Arabia" does not automatically mean "seen everywhere."
For this reason, on the night of February 17, the crescent was not seen in most countries, and it was correct to complete the month of Sha'ban with 30 days. In Saudi Arabia, because the news of "sighting the crescent" was relied on, Ramadan began earlier there and in some countries that followed it.
Now the most important point is the practical decision. The Fatwa Center determines the most correct way in such a situation: each country should follow the fatwa issued by its mufti and its official religious authority. That is, rather than starting a debate and dividing the community with statements such as "it started in such and such a country, why didn't it start in ours?", it will be better for everyone to unite around the decision made in their country.
It is worth noting that the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia declared February 18 the first day of Ramadan, and Tarawih prayers began that night. Naturally, questions have increased following these reports.
In Uzbekistan, the Fatwa Center of the Muslim Authority of Uzbekistan announced that since the crescent moon was not sighted on February 17, the first day of Ramadan will fall on February 19. At the same time, many Muslim communities in Central and East Asian countries and Europe have also declared February 19 as the first day of Ramadan.
The conclusion is simple: it is important to understand each other, not to argue about "seeing the moon the same way." If everyone follows the official decision in their country, Ramadan will be peaceful and blessed.
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