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Ahmad Izzuddin
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Gedung Dekanat Fakultas Syariah dan Hukum, UIN Walisongo Semarang Jl. Prof. Dr. Hamka, Tambakaji, Kec. Ngaliyan, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50185
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Al-Hilal: Journal of Islamic Astronomy
Published by Universitas Islam Negeri Walisongo Semarang
ISSN : 27751236     EISSN : 27752119     DOI : https://doi.org/10.21580/al-hilal
Core Subject : Religion, Science, Social,
Religion Astronomy Earth & Planetary Sciences Physics Social Sciences
Al-Hilal Journal is a scientific journal published in April and October per year by the Islamic Astronomy at the Faculty of Sharia and Law, Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Walisongo, Semarang colaboration with Asosisasi Dosen Falak Indonesia (ADFI). Articles published in this journal are the results of empirical research in Islamic Astronomy (such as qibla, salat times, Islamic Calendar, Eclipse and others), and its approaching on other area studies (mathematics, physics, astrophysics, social, politics, anthropology, ethnography and others). This journal has specifications as a medium of publication and communication of Islamic Astronomy ideas derived from theoretical and analytical studies, as well as research results in the field of both natural and social science. The editor hopes that writers, researchers and legal experts will contribute in this journal.
Arjuna Subject : Fisika dan Astronomi - Fisika dan Astronomi (Lain-Lain)
Articles 8 Documents
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Search results for , issue "Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025)" : 8 Documents clear
Frequency-Based Analysis of Mosque Qibla Errors in Medan Rakhmadi, Arwin Juli; Putraga, Hariyadi; Ritonga, Marataon; Ismail, Ismail
Al-Hilal: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Syari'ah dan Hukum UIN Walisongo

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21580/al-hilal.2025.7.1.24203

Abstract

Mosque plays a vital role in supporting the performance of prayer comfortably and solemnly. However, one of the most crucial elements in mosque construction is the accuracy of the qibla direction facing the Kaaba. In cities far from the Kaaba, such as Medan, determining the qibla direction cannot be done visually and requires precise astronomical calculations and technical approaches. The problem that arises is the continued presence of mosques with qibla directions deviating from the correct orientation, which can affect the quality of worship for Muslims. This study uses a specially reduced mosque Qibla measurement sample data in Medan city. This paper analyzes data from 38 mosque samples with Qibla direction errors, which were re-measured by the UMSU OIF team. The data were then processed using a frequency distribution method to provide an overview of the error distribution in mosque Qibla directions across the city of Medan. This study found that the error often seen is a deviation of 9-12 degrees from the Qibla direction, and the mistake factors. This study also found that the misalignment of Qibla directions in Medan is mainly due to prioritizing land efficiency over directional accuracy during mosque construction, as well as relying on general assumptions and previously heard fatwas rather than precise astronomical calculations.
Territory, Hilāl, and Sovereignty: Revisiting Indonesia’s Maṭla’ under MABIMS’ New Criteria Arisafitri, Novi; Imron, Ali; Syifaul Anam, Ahmad; Darliswanto
Al-Hilal: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Syari'ah dan Hukum UIN Walisongo

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21580/al-hilal.2025.7.1.25278

Abstract

Differences in determining the start of the lunar month often spark polemics due to varying methods, schools of thought, and interpretations of maṭla’. Indonesia adopts a territorial-based maṭla’, yet inconsistencies remain in how its geographical boundaries are applied. Law No. 43/2008 defines Indonesia’s territory as including land, sea, and air, raising questions about the ideal scope of maṭla’ under the MABIMS Neo Visibility Criteria and its legal status. This qualitative study uses library research and expert interviews, analyzed through Islamic legal principles (ijtihād istiṣlāhī) and a juridical-normative framework. Findings show that Indonesia’s maṭla’ ideally includes all sovereign areas-land, inland waters, archipelagic waters, and territorial seas. From a syar’i perspective, crescent sightings at sea are valid; hence, lunar calculations should reflect land and maritime zones under national jurisdiction.
The Role of Public Law in Determining the Islamic Calendar in Indonesia Holis; Ahmad Musadad; Tri Pujiati
Al-Hilal: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Syari'ah dan Hukum UIN Walisongo

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21580/al-hilal.2025.7.1.25485

Abstract

The debate over the determination of the beginning of the Islamic calendar in Indonesia is still a complex issue that has a vast impact on religious, social, and public policy aspects. This polemic arises due to differences in ḥisāb (astronomical calculation) and rukyat (hilāl observation) methods adopted by various Islamic organizations, such as Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah. This study used a qualitative approach with descriptive-normative analysis to explore the urgency of legal formalization and the supremacy of public law in determining the beginning of the Islamic calendar. The findings show that the absence of a binding legal authority is the main factor fuelling disagreement. Government-organised isbat sessions are often not universally accepted, so a more assertive legal policy based on national consensus is needed. By considering the principle of benefit, this study recommends the integration of sharia, astronomical technology, and positive law to improve accuracy, legitimacy, and uniformity in determining the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
Reforming Lunar Calendar in Indonesia: The Academic Legacy of Muhammad Basiuni Imran Wanandi, Zulfian; Suhardiman, Suhardiman; Masuwd, Mowafg Abrahem
Al-Hilal: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Syari'ah dan Hukum UIN Walisongo

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21580/al-hilal.2025.7.1.25950

Abstract

This study examines Muhammad Basiuni Imran's views on determining the beginning of the lunar month as outlined in his book entitled Ḥusn al-Jawāb ‘an Itsbāt al-Ahillah bi al-Ḥisāb. He emphasized that differences between rukyat (moon sighting) and ḥisāb (astronomical calculation) should not divide Muslims. Imran argued that using ḥisāb to determine the start of fasting and Islamic holidays is valid in Islam, as it offers a systematic and reliable approach. This library study uses primary and secondary sources, with data collected through interviews and documentation and analyzed using a descriptive-analytical method. The study reveals two key findings. First, Muhammad Basiuni Imran favored ḥisāb over rukyat for determining the lunar month, as it provides greater accuracy, such as precisely locating the crescent and setting prayer times using clocks. Second, his views were shaped by his teachers, including Rashid Rida from Egypt, Ahmad Khatib Al-Minangkabawi, and Shaykh Tahir Jalaluddin, a pioneer of ḥisāb in the Nusantara.
Azimuthal Adaptation of the Moon-Based Raṣdu al-Qiblah Method Azmi, Muhammad Farid; Yaqin, 'Alamul
Al-Hilal: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Syari'ah dan Hukum UIN Walisongo

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21580/al-hilal.2025.7.1.26050

Abstract

The Raṣdu al-Qiblah of the Moon is a night-time method for determining Qibla direction, but it can only be used once per night and not on specific dates due to natural limitations. This study introduces an innovation by applying azimuth difference values (+90°, +45°, -45°), allowing the method to be used multiple times a night. The research compares this enhanced method with theodolite measurements and the Raṣdu al-Qiblah of the Sun to test its accuracy. Using a qualitative approach with astronomical analysis, the study finds that this modified method results in a deviation between 0°9'32.96" and 0°57'17.43". These results fall within acceptable Qibla tolerance limits as defined by some experts, showing that this method is accurate and viable as an alternative for Qibla determination, especially at night.
A Semantic Literature Review on Crescent Visibility: Trends, Models, and Implications for the Islamic Calendar Syarif, Muh Rasywan; Sakirman, Sakirman; Syarif, Muhammad Fazlurrahman
Al-Hilal: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Syari'ah dan Hukum UIN Walisongo

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21580/al-hilal.2025.7.1.26099

Abstract

The visibility of the hilāl is a fundamental aspect in determining the beginning of the Hijri month, which significantly impacts the implementation of worship and the social order of Muslims in various parts of the world. This study adopts a Semantic Literature Review approach to analyze research trends, prediction models, and the scientific and social implications of hilāl visibility in the Islamic calendar system. Various methods have been developed, ranging from classical astronomical models such as imkān ar-rukyat to the utilization of artificial intelligence and digital imaging technology. The results show that integrating astronomical methods with data-driven modeling and machine learning algorithms can improve the accuracy of hilāl visibility predictions. However, applying these models still faces challenges, especially regarding acceptance from Muslim communities and religious authorities. This study emphasizes the importance of collaboration between astronomical scientists and religious scholars in formulating a more accurate, inclusive, and globally acceptable Hijri calendar system.
Investigating the Variances of Maghrib Prayer Time in Indonesia and Malaysia Afifi, Filza Noor Rikzal; Umar, Roslan; Hidayah, Vika Rachmania
Al-Hilal: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Syari'ah dan Hukum UIN Walisongo

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21580/al-hilal.2025.7.1.26577

Abstract

The determination of the beginning of Maghrib prayer time is crucial, as it is directly related to the position of the Sun on the western horizon. Indonesia sets the Maghrib time when the Sun is at the proper position of -1 degree or -0° 50', along with elevation and atmospheric refraction corrections. In contrast, Malaysia adds approximately two minutes after sunset without defining a specific angular position, considering local elevation and atmospheric factors. This study aims to comparatively analyze the methodologies used by Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs and Malaysia's JAKIM through a library research approach, employing both philosophical-normative and astronomical perspectives. Data were collected from interviews and Islamic astronomy documents. The findings show that while both countries agree on the Islamic legal principle that Maghrib begins when the Sun has fully set, technical differences in calculation methods reflect their respective approaches to integrating religious texts with astronomical precision.
Evaluating the Feasibility of Yanbu’ul Qur’an Observatory in Menawan Kudus for Lunar Crescent Observation Iqbal, Muhammad Maulana; Habib, Muhammad Akmal; Ramdhani, Fajri Zulia
Al-Hilal: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Syari'ah dan Hukum UIN Walisongo

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21580/al-hilal.2025.7.1.27090

Abstract

The Yanbu’ul Qur’an Observatory in Menawan Kudus, Indonesia, functions as a site for crescent moon (rukyat al-hilāl) observations and Islamic astronomy education. Despite conducting various observation activities, successful hilāl sighting has only occurred during Zulhijjah 1443 H, primarily due to light pollution, limited horizon clarity, and low contrast between the moon and the horizon. This field study analyzes primary data on observatory infrastructure, horizon conditions, sky brightness, and climatological factors, along with secondary data from observation records (2022–2023). The findings indicate two key points: (1) the observatory significantly supports astronomy education at the Yanbu’ul Qur’an Islamic Boarding School, and (2) it is moderately feasible for hilāl observation based on parameters from the Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG), including favorable westward orientation, minimal obstructions, elevated location, low light pollution, and reliable electricity and internet access.

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