In the name of Allaah, the Benevolent, the Merciful. All praise is due to Allaah, and peace and blessings be upon the messenger of Allaah, and upon his family, companions, and those loyal to him.
The American Muslim Jurists Assocation (AMJA) carries to the Muslims at large, and those in the United States particularly, the best of congratulations for the nearing of the days of the blessed Eidul-Adhaa and announces that November 18th 2009 is the first day of the blessed month of Dhul-Hijjah. Friday, November 27th 2009 will be the first day of Eidul Adhaa due to what was announced in the lands of the two holy sites (Makkah & Madinah). May you be all be well with every brand new year, and may Allaah accept from us and you the righteous deeds. The basis of this announcement is per the following:
- What was aforementioned and reiterated numerous times of international moon-sighting, and that it is the majority view of the scholars, and is adopted by most fiqh councils in our contemporary times. It is closer to textual evidence, more analogous to sharee’ah objectives, and more uniting of the ummah.
- There is no justifier to seek the moon locally. In the past, the justification was found in the distance of the lands, difficulty in communication, whereas today the world has turned into what resembles a small town in the speed of communication between its lands. Hence, there is no reason to remain on this view after its justifiers have expired.
- If this difference can be imagined in the matter of Eidul-Fitr, it is difficult to imagine in Eidul-Adhaa due to the connection of this Eid with the rites of Hajj and the turning of the hearts of the Muslims from East and West to the Sacred House and what happens around it of Hajj rituals.
- This is what the majority of Islamic centers and associations are upon in this country, and the prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, has said: “Your fast is the day you fast, and the Fitr is the day you break fast, and your Adhaa is the day you sacrifice.” [Narrated by At-Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud, Al-Bayhaqi, and it is an authentic Hadeeth.]
Once again, the assembly proudly brings these congratulations to the Muslims at large, wishes for them righteous deeds in these blessed days, and reminds them with the statement of the prophet, peace and blessings be upon him: “There are no days wherein righteous deeds are more beloved to Allaah than these ten days.” They said: “Not even fighting in the way of Allaah?” He said: “Not even fighting in the way of Allaah, except a man who went out with his life and his wealth and didn’t return with anything of that.” [Narrated by At-Tirmidhi, and is founded in Al-Bukhari.] And Allaah is sought behind our motives, and He is The Guide to the straight path.
