The Book of Fasting - Sahih Muslim 1081c

Observe fast on sighting it (the new moon) and break it on sighting it. But if (due to clouds) the actual position of the month is concealed from you, you should then count thirty (days).

Commentary on the Lunar Sighting

This noble hadith establishes the fundamental principle for determining the beginning and end of Ramadan through physical moon sighting. The command "observe fast on sighting it" indicates the obligation commences upon verified visual confirmation of the crescent moon, not through astronomical calculations alone.

The repetition "on sighting it" for both beginning and ending the fast emphasizes the uniformity of this divine legislation. The same method that initiates the blessed month also concludes it, maintaining consistency in our worship.

Divine Wisdom in Cloudy Conditions

The phrase "if the actual position is concealed from you" refers to weather conditions preventing moon sighting. Here, Allah's mercy manifests through the instruction to "count thirty days," providing a clear alternative when direct observation is impossible.

This completion of thirty days serves as a practical solution that preserves the lunar nature of Islamic months while accommodating natural obstacles. It demonstrates the Shariah's balance between ideal observance and practical reality.

Scholarly Interpretations

The majority of scholars understand "sighting" to require actual visual confirmation by reliable witnesses. This maintains the Prophetic tradition while ensuring communal unity in worship.

The counting of thirty days when the moon is obscured reflects the principle of proceeding with certainty after reasonable effort has been made. This prevents unnecessary hardship while upholding religious obligations.