Masjid-al-Haram in Makkah (the Sacred Mosque) during Hajj season

FCNA ANNOUNCES EID UL-ADHA

Special Announcement

Eid ul Adha 1430/2009

According to astronomical calculations, the month of Zul Hijjah will begin on November 18 and thus theexpected date of Eid ul Adha is Friday, November 27. The final decision will be posted after receiving the announcement of ‘Arafah date by the Hajj authorities in Saudi Arabia.

The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) Majlis Ash-Shura, the highest policy making body of ISNA, has resolved to follow the position of the Fiqh Council of North America on the issue of determining the beginning of the Islamic lunar months for North America.

Muslims in America as well as in many other parts of the world hold two different opinions about the observance of Eid ul-Adha. Some observe it on the 10th of Zul Hijjah according to their local lunar date and others follow the announcement of Hajj by the authorities in Makkah and celebrate this Eid after the day of ‘Arafah. After much careful study and consideration, the Fiqh Council has reached the conclusion that Eid ul-Adha will follow the Day of ‘Arafah as announced in Makkah. This is also the conclusion of the European Council of Fatwa and Research (EFCR).

The Fiqh Council does not, and does not intend to, force its decision on anyone or on any Muslim community. People should follow the decision of their Imam and their Masjid. Moreover, people should do so with great respect and avoiding unnecessary disputes and arguments.

Sincerely,
Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi
Chairman, Fiqh Council of North America