Kriteria Wujudul Hilal dalam Pandangan Imam Madzhab

Abstract

The determination of the beginning of the Hijri month is a crucial issue in Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), particularly in relation to the observance of Ramadan fasting, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha. Historically, the four major Sunni schools of thought—Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali—have unanimously upheld that the primary method for determining the start of a lunar month is rukyat al-hilal (moon sighting), with the method of istikmal (completing the month to 30 days) applied under specific conditions such as cloudy skies or other obstructions to visibility. However, advancements in astronomical science have led certain groups, such as Muhammadiyah through its Majelis Tarjih dan Tajdid, to adopt the wujudul hilal criterion as a modern hisab (astronomical calculation) method for determining the new lunar month. This study aims to examine the differences between these methods from the perspective of the four schools of Islamic jurisprudence and to evaluate their relevance in contemporary times. Using a descriptive qualitative method and library research based on classical fiqh texts and official decisions from Muhammadiyah’s Tarjih Council, this paper finds that while classical scholars emphasize empirical and textual approaches, the wujudul hilal criterion represents a rational and contextual form of ijtihad. Therefore, integrating hisab and rukyat presents a moderate and constructive solution to the ongoing discourse surrounding the beginning of the Hijri month amidst differing views.