Introduction: The Significance of Moon Sighting in Eid ul Adha
Eid ul Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most significant Islamic holidays, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. The festival’s timing is intrinsically linked to the lunar Islamic calendar, specifically the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon, which determines the dates of Hajj and Eid celebrations.
In Pakistan, the moon sighting holds profound religious and cultural importance, as it sets the stage for nationwide preparations, including the procurement of sacrificial animals, community gatherings, and spiritual observances. This article delves into the details of the 2025 moon sighting, the official announcement by Pakistan’s Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, and how these events align with regional practices.
Official Moon Sighting Announcement in Pakistan
On the evening of Tuesday, May 27, 2025, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee convened in Islamabad to determine the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon. After thorough consultations and the absence of credible moon sighting testimonies from across the country, the committee declared that the moon had not been sighted. Consequently, the first day of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH was set for Thursday, May 29, 2025, and Eid ul Adha was scheduled to be observed on Saturday, June 7, 2025.
Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, stated, “No credible testimonies of moon sightings were received from major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, and Islamabad.”
Regional Observances and Variations
Saudi Arabia and Gulf Countries
In contrast to Pakistan, Saudi Arabia announced the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Accordingly, the Kingdom scheduled Eid ul Adha for Friday, June 6, 2025. This date aligns with the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage, which is set to occur on Thursday, June 5, 2025.
Other Countries Observing Eid on June 6
Several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Australia, and Indonesia, also confirmed the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon on May 27, 2025, and thus will observe Eid ul Adha on June 6, 2025.
Countries Observing Eid on June 7
Alongside Pakistan, countries such as India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Brunei, Morocco, and Mauritania reported not sighting the moon on May 27, 2025. Therefore, these nations have scheduled Eid ul Adha for Saturday, June 7, 2025.
Government-Declared Public Holidays in Pakistan
In anticipation of the Eid celebrations, the Government of Pakistan has officially declared public holidays from Thursday, June 5, to Monday, June 9, 2025. This extended holiday period allows citizens ample time to engage in religious rituals, family gatherings, and community events associated with Eid ul Adha.
Preparations and Rituals Associated with Eid ul Adha
The Act of Qurbani (Sacrifice)
Central to Eid ul Adha is the ritual of Qurbani, wherein Muslims who can afford to do so sacrifice permissible animals such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels. The meat from the sacrifice is distributed into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the needy and poor. This act symbolizes obedience to Allah and promotes communal harmony and charity.
Spiritual Observances
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered highly sacred in Islam. Muslims are encouraged to engage in increased worship, including additional prayers, fasting, and recitation of the Quran. The Day of Arafah, which falls on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (June 5, 2025, in Pakistan), holds particular significance, and fasting on this day is highly recommended for those not performing Hajj.
Community and Cultural Aspects
Eid ul Adha in Pakistan is marked by vibrant cultural traditions. Markets and livestock bazaars become bustling centers as families select animals for sacrifice. On Eid day, communal prayers are held in mosques and open grounds, followed by the Qurbani ritual. Families then gather to share meals, distribute meat, and extend greetings to neighbors and the less fortunate, reinforcing social bonds and community spirit.
Conclusion: Embracing the Spirit of Sacrifice and Unity
The observance of Eid ul Adha on June 7, 2025, in Pakistan, following the official moon sighting announcement, underscores the nation’s adherence to Islamic traditions and the importance of communal consensus in religious matters. As Muslims across Pakistan prepare to commemorate this sacred festival, the emphasis remains on embodying the values of sacrifice, charity, and unity that Eid ul Adha represents.
