Rabi-al-Awwal, the 3rd month in the Hijri calendar, is expected to start on Wednesday, September 4, according to astronomical calculations.
“The Astronomical New Moon (conjunction) is on September 3, 2024, (Tuesday) at 1:55 UT,” Moonsighting.com reported.
“On September 3, the moon can be seen by high powered telescope in Americas. On September 4, it can be seen with difficulty in Far East and Southern Europe, but can be easily seen in Africa and Americas.
The statement added, “On September 5, it is visible in the whole world.”
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The most important event during this month is the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Although the exact date is unknown, the majority of Muslim scholars believe the birth date of the noble prophet, peace, and blessings be upon him, occurs on the 12th of Rabi’ Al-Awwal.
The Hijri calendar is a lunar one. Its months begin when the first crescent of a new moon is sighted. The Hijri lunar calendar year is 11 to 12 days shorter than the solar year. Thus, Rabi-al-Awwal and Hijri months migrate throughout the seasons.
The date held to be al-Mawlid (the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him) will be on Tuesday, September 16.