Analysis of Determining the Beginning of the Lunar Month in Indonesia: A Comparative Study of the Rukyah and Hisab Methods

Abstract

The determination of the beginning of Qamariyah months in Indonesia often leads to differences among Islamic groups, especially in marking the start of Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dhu al-Hijjah. This issue involves not only technical aspects of moon sighting and astronomical calculations but also diverging epistemological paradigms and religious authority. This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the rukyah (moon sighting) and hisab (astronomical calculation) methods in determining the beginning of the lunar months, while examining their interaction with Indonesia's socio-religious context. Employing a qualitative approach and library research method, data were collected through a review of primary and secondary literature, including official documents from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the results of sidang isbat (decree sessions). The findings reveal that the hisab method emphasizes astronomical precision and scientific rationality, while the rukyah method prioritizes empirical observation and traditional religious authority. The relationship between the two is not always antagonistic but is often shaped by the ideological stance of religious organizations. The study concludes that integrating both methods requires a more inclusive epistemological approach and open dialogue among religious authorities to establish a comprehensive and sustainable national Islamic calendar system.