HAVING ONE UNANIMOUS CALENDAR FOR THE WHOLE OF THE MUSLIM WORLD IS IN INTEREST OF THE UMMA

Abstract

According to the author of the article both the traditional as well as astronomical methods of establishing the time of the beginning of the month of Ramadan are equally acceptable and reliable. Since both the methods are the outcome of human efforts and estimations we cannot hold either to be absolutely reliable and correct. All of the rational explanation like precision, certitude and predictability are on the side of the astronomic method of the calculation. The author of this article also holds that a great majority of the Muslim countries accept such deviations and is ready to adjust their own calculations in accordance to any subsequent alterations concerning the day of the Arefat. Such alterations do not diminish or impair the legitimacy or the authority of the Islamic Community even though in this case it has caused a degree of disturbance and confusion. As a possible long term solution to this problem the author suggests that the teem of experts should be formed with the task to construct one unitary calendar for the whole of the Islamic world.