Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of Ramadan. Still, the exact date has been debated due to differing methods of determining the new moon, which leads to confusion about when Hari Raya is. So If you're wondering when Hari Raya is this 2023, we have the answer for you!
When is Hari Raya 2023?
Hari Raya Aidfitri is in Singapore on the 22nd of April, 2023 (Saturday). While some countries United Arab Emirates, will be on the 21st of April, The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) has clarified that it will tentatively be on the 22nd.
Credit: Muis Facebook
Why do countries have different dates to celebrate Hari Raya?
In 2022, Malaysians celebrated Hari Raya one day earlier than Singaporeans due to Singapore not being able to see the moon. Therefore, they had to fulfil the full 30 days. 2022 was not the first time Singapore celebrated a different day than its neighbouring countries, this was also the case in 2014, 2015 and many other years!
The difference in celebration dates is because each country has various techniques to determine the date. As for Singapore, according to the MUIS office, we use the Imkan Ar-Rukya method. The Imkan Ar-Rukya method involves 700 data points of crescent sightings from around the world and from their own country.
They also use an Astronomical Calendar to predict the dates as well, so moon sightings may differ from location to location.
During sunset on the 29th day of the month, two parameters are considered by the criteria: the crescent moon's elevation, which must be over three degrees, and the degree of elongation of the sun and the moon, which must exceed 6.4 degrees.
What happens if we can't see the moon?
If a country can't see the moon, it is consensus to fast for 30 days instead of 29.
It is a narration from the Prophet Muhammad which states this:
"Do not fast until you have sighted the crescent moon, do not end your fast (celebrate Eid) until you have seen it (the Syawal crescent moon). If it is obscured from you, then regard the month of Ramadan as 30 days."
We hope we cleared the air on when Raya is! Are you excited about Hari Raya? Have you shopped for all the necessities? If you're searching for Raya kueh, it's not too late because we've rounded up 26 Places To Get The Best Kuih Raya And Snacks In Singapore!