Hadith Text & Context

On the authority of a man from the Companions of the Prophet (ﷺ): People differed among themselves on the last day of Ramadan (about the appearance of the moon of Shawwal). Then two bedouins came and witnessed before the Prophet (ﷺ) swearing by Allah that they had sighted moon the previous evening. So the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) commanded the people to break the fast. The narrator Khalaf has added in his version: "and that they should proceed to the place of prayer (for 'Id)".

Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 2339 | Book: Fasting (Kitab Al-Siyam)

Scholarly Commentary

This narration establishes several crucial principles of Islamic jurisprudence. Firstly, it demonstrates that the sighting of the Shawwal moon can be accepted from two just witnesses, even if they are bedouins, as their testimony was accepted without requiring investigation into their precise moral character.

Secondly, the Prophet's immediate command to break the fast upon receiving this testimony shows that once legitimate moon sighting evidence is established, one must act upon it without delay, even if there was prior uncertainty or differing opinions among people.

The addition in Khalaf's version emphasizes the connection between ending the Ramadan fast and proceeding to the Eid prayer, illustrating the seamless transition from worship to celebration in Islamic tradition.

Legal Rulings Derived

The testimony of two Muslim witnesses is sufficient for establishing the beginning of Shawwal and ending Ramadan, regardless of social status.

When valid moon sighting evidence is presented, previous uncertainty must be abandoned and the new evidence acted upon immediately.

The Eid prayer is an integral part of concluding Ramadan and should be attended by all capable Muslims.

Breaking the fast upon confirmation of Eid takes precedence over continuing to fast due to prior uncertainty.