Dhul Hijjah moon sighting in Saudi Arabia: Hajj and Eid-el-Adha Dates Confirmed
The crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah has been sighted in Saudi Arabia, confirming June 5 as Arafat Day and June 6 as Eid-el-Adha.
A Sacred Time Begins
As the Dhul Hijjah moon sighting appeared over Saudi skies, Muslims worldwide welcomed the arrival of Dhul Hijjah the final month of the Islamic calendar and one of immense spiritual significance.
Consequently, hearts turn toward Makkah, signaling the beginning of Hajj rituals and preparations for Eid-el-Adha.
Understanding the Significance of Dhul Hijjah
Dhul Hijjah is more than a calendar month it represents the spiritual peak of the Islamic year.
Not only does it encompass the Hajj pilgrimage, but it also includes Eid-el-Adha, two of Islam’s most profound acts of worship.
Moreover, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are regarded among the holiest of the year, offering immense opportunity for prayer, fasting, charity, and reflection.
Moon Sighting Confirmed: What It Means
On Tuesday, Saudi authorities officially confirmed the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon.
Therefore:
Wednesday, May 28: First day of Dhul Hijjah
Wednesday, June 5: Day of Arafat
Thursday, June 6: Eid-el-Adha
These dates are crucial for Muslims worldwide as they align their spiritual observances with the lunar calendar.
The Day of Arafat: The Heartbeat of Hajj
Dhul Hijjah 9, the Day of Arafat, is the spiritual summit of the Hajj. Pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat, standing in prayer and seeking forgiveness from noon until sunset.
For non-pilgrims, fasting on this day is highly recommended.
According to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), this fast brings expiation for both the past and upcoming year’s sins.
Eid-el-Adha: A Celebration of Obedience and Sacrifice
Eid-el-Adha honors the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was ready to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah.
However, his son was spared, and a ram was offered instead symbolizing both submission and divine mercy.
Today, Muslims commemorate this act by performing Qurbani. As a result, meat is shared with family, friends, and the less privileged spreading love, sacrifice, and unity.
The Legacy of Dhul Hijjah in Islamic History
Historically, this month also holds great significance:
It was during Dhul Hijjah that the Farewell Sermon was delivered by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) at Mount Arafat.
Furthermore, the largest gatherings in early Islamic history occurred during Hajj.
These events continue to influence Islamic values like justice, humility, and community service.
Why Moon Sighting Still Matters
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle. Therefore, each month begins with the visual crescent moon sighting.
This ancient tradition connects Muslims with nature, astronomy, and religious order.
In Saudi Arabia, official moon-sighting committees ensure precise religious observances, reinforcing global unity and spiritual synchronization.
Global Response: Unity in Worship
Following Saudi Arabia’s confirmation, Nigeria’s National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) promptly aligned its religious calendar.
Consequently, thousands of Nigerian pilgrims are already in the Kingdom. From Lagos to Lahore, believers are preparing with a unified spiritual goal.
Pilgrims’ Health and Safety: A 2025 Reminder
For those embarking on Hajj:
Stay hydrated and rest between rituals.
Follow all health advisories, especially concerning heat and infections.
In addition, carry essential medications and identification at all times.
Meanwhile, Nigerian health officials advise pilgrims to report symptoms early and stick with their group for added safety.
Involving Children in Dhul Hijjah
Families can use this sacred time to involve children in Islamic traditions.
For example:
Create simple Eid crafts and home decorations.
Teach stories of Ibrahim (AS) and the meaning of Hajj.
Encourage small charitable acts, such as sharing food with neighbors.
Thus, children learn faith and empathy early in life.
Digital Worship Tools to Enhance Your Experience
In today’s digital age, worship can be supported by technology. Consider these tools:
Apps for Qur’an recitation, prayer tracking, and dhikr reminders.
Live coverage of Hajj from Makkah to feel spiritually connected.
Join online reflections with hashtags like #DhulHijjah2025 or #10BlessedDays.
Therefore, even remote worshipers can feel spiritually engaged.
How You Can Benefit from Dhul Hijjah
Even if you’re not in Saudi Arabia, you can still gain blessings:
Fast the first nine days, especially on Arafat Day.
Increase dhikr: SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar.
Give charity, regardless of amount.
Read and reflect on the Qur’an.
Perform Qurbani, if financially able.
In other words, Dhul Hijjah offers universal access to divine rewards.
Interfaith Understanding: How Others Can Support
Dhul Hijjah also offers an opportunity for interfaith dialogue. Non-Muslims can:
Offer respectful greetings like “Eid Mubarak.”
Learn about the stories and significance behind Hajj and Eid.
Attend community events promoting mutual respect.
Thus, bridges of understanding are built across faiths.
A Time for Reflection and Unity
Dhul Hijjah invites Muslims to pause and spiritually recharge. Whether you’re a pilgrim at Mount Arafat or praying from your home, your heart joins a global flow of devotion.
More importantly, this season strengthens the bonds of the ummah.
Personal Reflections: Real Voices, Real Faith
Fatima from Ilorin shared:
“Though I couldn’t attend Hajj, I fast every day of Dhul Hijjah, and I feel spiritually closer to Allah. It’s a month that renews my soul.”
Umar, a first-time pilgrim, said:
“Standing on Arafat was life-changing. I felt my sins lift away. I encourage every Muslim to prepare spiritually for this chance.”
Indeed, personal experiences bring deeper understanding of the season’s essence.
Conclusion: Rise with the Moon, Reflect with Your Soul
The Dhul Hijjah moon sighting is more than a date marker it’s a divine invitation.
Therefore, use these days to fast, pray, give, reflect, and connect.
Let your actions mirror the moonlight: illuminating others with kindness, faith, and sacrifice. This Dhul Hijjah, may your spirituality ascend beyond limits.
Now is the perfect time to elevate your faith. Commit to fasting, increase your prayers, give more in charity, and plan your Qurbani.
Share this article to inspire others and multiply the blessings of this sacred season.
Read Also: Hajj 2025: Saudi Arabia Bans Gumi’s Entry
Author: Fatima Lawal
Date: May 27, 2025
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