Muslims across Australia are preparing for the sighting of the Muharram moon, which will mark the beginning of the new Islamic year, 1446 AH. The Moon Sighting Committee of Australia has announced that moon sighting efforts will take place on the evening of Friday, 5th July 2024.
The start of Muharram 2024 in Australia expected on Saturday, 6th July 2024, depending on the moon sighting. The Moon Sighting Committee is responsible for making moon sighting announcements and decisions in Australia.
Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is one of the four sacred months in Islam. Its commencement is a time for reflection, prayer, and observance, with Ashura on the 10th day commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) in the Battle of Karbala.
The Moon Sighting Committee encourages Muslims across Australia to look for the moon shortly after sunset on 29th Dhū al-Hijjah. Clear skies and a good vantage point will enhance the chances of sighting the crescent moon. Communities advised to gather and share their observations to contribute to the collective effort.
Many Muslims in Australia follow Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting announcement for the commencement of the new Islamic month. Thus, if the moon sighted in Saudi Arabia on 5th July, Muharram will begin in Australia on 6th July; otherwise, it will commence on 7th July.
Stay tuned for updates from the Moon Sighting Committee of Australia, who will provide the final confirmation on the start of the new Islamic year based on the moon sighting results.
