The Muslim community of Salt Lake City frequently has questions about the criteria used by the Islamic Society to determine the beginning and end of Ramadan, and the two Eid celebrations. Below are the criteria put into place by the Hilaal Committee of the Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake City:
- Islamic Society will accept duly verified reports of crescent sighting from anywhere in North America.
- All reports of naked-eye sighting of the crescent must be verified by experts with knowledge of Islamic rules and regulations in this matter, and aided by astronomical information.
- If the sky is clear, the concept of Jamme Ghafeer (a large number of witnesses) shall be used to authenticate reports of crescent sighting.
- If the sky is overcast, expert testimony shall be essential and over-riding unless validated by Jamme Ghafeer.
- If astronomical data suggest that it is improbable to sight the crescent on a given day, Jamme Ghafeer shall be employed to reach a decision.
May Allah help us and guide us. Ameen.