Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Meets Today to Sight Zilhajj Moon in Pakistan
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will meet today in Islamabad to determine the sighting of the Zilhajj moon, marking the beginning of the 12th and final month in the Islamic lunar calendar, 1446 Hijri. The session will be chaired by Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabeer Azad, the committee’s chairman.
At the same time, zonal committees will hold meetings in their respective regions across Pakistan to collect and verify eyewitness testimonies from those who may have sighted the new moon.
🌙 Significance of Zilhajj and the Moon Sighting
The moon sighting today is especially important because it signals the beginning of a sacred period in Islam. Zilhajj is the month during which millions of Muslims from around the world gather in Makkah to perform Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
It is also the month in which Eid-ul-Adha — the Festival of Sacrifice — is observed. If the moon is sighted this evening, Eid-ul-Adha is expected to fall on Friday, 7th June 2025, in Pakistan.
🕋 Eid-ul-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice
Eid-ul-Adha commemorates the ultimate act of obedience by Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (A.S.) on God’s command. At the last moment, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram, and this event is honored by Muslims today through Qurbani (animal sacrifice).
During Eid:
Muslims sacrifice goats, cows, or camels.
The meat is divided into three portions: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy.
Eid prayers are offered in large congregations.
The celebrations span three days, filled with acts of worship, charity, and family gatherings.
📍 Hajj 2025 and Pakistan’s Role
Zilhajj also marks the time for Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah. Thousands of Pakistani pilgrims have already traveled to Saudi Arabia to perform this life-changing religious duty. The Pakistani Ministry of Religious Affairs is overseeing logistical arrangements and health services for pilgrims during their stay in the Kingdom.
📅 What Happens After Moon Sighting?
Once the moon is sighted:
Official announcements will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee via TV, radio, and digital platforms.
The first of Zilhajj will be marked the next day.
Preparations for Eid-ul-Adha, including animal purchases and Qurbani arrangements, will intensify nationwide.
Meat markets and cattle mandis are expected to see a surge in activity over the next few days.
📢 Public Advisory
Citizens are advised to follow official moon sighting announcements and avoid spreading unverified news.
Local mosques and community centers will also share updates after receiving confirmation from the central authority.
With potential crowding in animal markets, the public is encouraged to observe hygiene protocols and exercise caution amid rising temperatures.
📝 Conclusion
The sighting of the Zilhajj moon is a spiritually important event for Muslims in Pakistan and around the world. It marks the beginning of a sacred month filled with devotion, unity, sacrifice, and charity. Whether you’re preparing for Qurbani or have loved ones traveling for Hajj, this time of year serves as a reminder of faith and selflessness.
Stay tuned for the official moon sighting update later this evening.
