Amman: The Grand Mufti of Jordan, Ahmad al-Hasanat, announced on Monday that Tuesday will mark the first day of the holy month of Muharram, signifying the beginning of the Hijri new year 1448.
According to Jordan News Agency, this announcement sets the stage for the Islamic community in Jordan to observe the beginning of a new year in the Islamic lunar calendar. The Hijri calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon, is used primarily to determine the dates of Islamic holidays and rituals. The month of Muharram is considered one of the holiest months in the Islamic faith, and the announcement by the Grand Mufti is a significant event for Muslims in the country.
The role of the Grand Mufti is central in such announcements, as he is responsible for determining the start of new months in the Islamic calendar based on moon sightings. The confirmation of the new year allows for the planning of religious observances and activities that are tied to the Islamic calendar.