Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy
Vol. 4 No. 2 (2025): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (Desember)

Akurasi Data Koordinat Atlas Der Gehele Aarde Dalam Penentuan Arah Kiblat: Studi Kasus BHRD Kabupaten Tegal

Naelul Marom (Universitas Islam Negeri Walisongo Semarang)
Ahmad Izzuddin (Universitas Islam Negeri Walisongo Semarang)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Dec 2025

Abstract

The determination of the Qibla direction in Indonesia ideally utilizes precise local coordinate data. However, the Board of Hisab and Rukyat (BHRD) of Tegal Regency employs a unique method by using coordinate data derived from the "Atlas Der Gehele Aarde," a Dutch colonial-era atlas, combined with a "Two Compass Method." This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of Qibla measurements resulting from this method and to analyze it from the perspectives of Falak science (astronomy) and Islamic law (Fiqh). This research is a field study using a qualitative approach. Data were collected through interviews with BHRD officials and direct verification measurements at five sample mosques using a Theodolite and Google Earth data. The results indicate a discrepancy between the BHRD calculations and modern astronomical measurements. The use of single-city coordinates from the Atlas and the neglect of magnetic declination in the compass method resulted in a Qibla deviation ranging from 1° to 2° 35'. Astronomically, this deviation is considered inaccurate as it exceeds the tolerance limit of 0° 42'. However, from the perspective of Islamic Law, particularly the Shafi'i school, these measurements remain legally valid (sah) under the concept of 'jihat al-ka'bah' (general direction) based on 'dzan' (strong assumption) for regions far from Mecca.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ASTROISLAMICA

Publisher

Subject

Religion Astronomy

Description

Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy is a journal that studies Islamic astronomy and Islamic laws related to astronomy. Astroislamica focuses on Islamic astronomy topics such as Qibla direction, prayer times, calendars, and eclipses through multiple perspectives, including Islamic law, ...