The Controversy Of Hisab and Rukyat in Determining the Islamic Calendar in the Modern Era Contemporary Jurisprudence Approach

Kontroversi Hisab dan Rukyat dalam Penentuan Kalender Islam di Era Modern Pendekatan Fikih Kontemporer

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to identify the advantages and disadvantages of both Hisab and Rukyat and the concept of a meeting point between Hisab and Rukyat in Indonesia. The results of this study show: The advantage of the Hisab method is its ability to accurately determine the position of the moon without being affected by weather conditions such as clouds or fog. With Hisab, the time of conjunction and the position of the moon above the horizon can be determined. Meanwhile, Rukyat aligns with the teachings in the Qur'an and Hadith, where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) instructed to observe the hilal as a sign of the new month. The disadvantage of the Hisab method is that it relies solely on mathematical calculations without considering whether the hilal is actually visible in the sky, which can be a source of controversy. Rukyat, on the other hand, heavily depends on weather conditions such as fog, rain, and dust, which can hinder the observation of the hilal, reduce its brightness, and obscure its image, Both PBNU and PP Muhammadiyah demonstrate that scientific ijtihad and adaptation to advancements in knowledge are important. Collaboration and dialogue between the two methods, both Hisab and Rukyat, can help reach a better consensus in determining significant times in Islam while still respecting tradition and the principles of Sharia, the presence of the government as a unifying institution in determining the beginning of the Hijri month is crucial to maintaining unity among the Muslim community, implementing the principle of maslahah (public interest), and fostering legal compliance and social order.