cover
Contact Name
Nurnadiyah Syuhada
Contact Email
nsyuhada@uinmataram.ac.id
Phone
+6281313322667
Journal Mail Official
al-afaq@uinmataram.ac.id
Editorial Address
Prodi Ilmu Falak - Fakultas Syariah Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram, Jl. Gajah Mada 100, Jempong – Kota Mataram,Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB).
Location
Kota mataram,
Nusa tenggara barat
INDONESIA
Al-Afaq: Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi
ISSN : 26850176     EISSN : 27220176     DOI : https://doi.org/10.20414/afaq.v3i2
Core Subject : Science, Social,
Jurnal Al-Afaq merupakan jurnal yang dibentuk oleh Prodi Ilmu Falak Fakultas Syariah Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Mataram. Jurnal ini membahas keilmuan Ilmu Falak terkait kajian arah kiblat, Hisab dan Rukyah awal Bulan Hijriah, Kalender Dunia dan Fenomena Gerhana. Selain itu, jurnal Al-Afaq juga membahas kaitan antara fenomena astronomi umum dengan kajian ilmu falak.
Arjuna Subject : Ilmu Sosial - Hukum
Articles 204 Documents
The Concept of Qibla Direction in Sayyid Usman’s Tahrir Aqwa Al-Adillah Fi Tahsil ‘Ain Al-Qiblah nanaridwan, Mau'idhatul Hasanah Ridwan; Ahmad Izzuddin; Fatmawati Hilal
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025): Juni 2025
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.20414/afaq.v7i1.13400

Abstract

Establishing the correct Qibla direction is essential for Muslims when performing prayers, particularly in distant regions like Southeast Asia, far from the Kaaba. This study examines the viewpoints and techniques of Sayyid Usman bin Abdullah bin Aqil bin Yahya in ascertaining the Qibla, as documented in his manuscript Tahrir Aqwa al-Adillah fi Tahsil ‘Ain al-Qiblah, while evaluating its significance within the framework of Islamic astronomy and historical context. A qualitative methodology was adopted, relying on textual analysis of the primary source alongside supplementary scholarly references. The research highlights Sayyid Usman’s integrative approach, blending religious principles with astronomical calculations to ensure precision in Qibla alignment. His techniques included observing rasd al-qiblah the phenomenon where the sun aligns vertically above the Kakbah and tracking the position of the star Arcturus (as-Simak) for regions like Java and the Malay Peninsula. His work differentiates between the exact bearing of the Kaaba (‘ain al-qiblah) and its approximate direction (jihah al-qiblah), advocating for expertise in astronomical science (‘ilm al-falak) to issue accurate religious rulings. Furthermore, he challenged unsubstantiated practices, urging adherence to rigorous scholarly interpretation (ijtihad) or the guidance of qualified jurists. In conclusion, Sayyid Usman’s contributions in Tahrir Aqwa al-Adillah fi Tahsil ‘Ain al-Qiblah advanced both theoretical and practical dimensions of Qibla determination in the Malay Archipelago. His methodologies transcended their era, retaining applicability in contemporary settings and offering potential synergy with modern advancements. This work exemplifies how interdisciplinary harmony between Islamic jurisprudence and empirical science can yield actionable solutions to theological challenges.
The Concept of Imk?n al-Ru’yah Sayyid Usman in the Book Iqaz An-Niyam f? Ma Yata?allaq bi Ahillah wa as-Siyam Hafiz, Zahra Hayati; Ahmad Izzuddin
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025): Juni 2025
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.20414/afaq.v7i1.13411

Abstract

This research aims to examine the concept of imk?n al-ru’yah according to Sayyid Usman in the book Iqaz an-Niyam fi Ma Yata'allaq bi Ahillah wa as-Siyam and to analyze its relevance to contemporary crescent visibility criteria. The implementation of this research uses a approach qualitative based on a number of literature review, relying on Iqaz an-Niyam fi Ma Yata'allaq bi Ahillah wa as-Siyam as the primary source, along with e-journals, reference books, and relevant literature as secondary sources. The results show that Sayyid Usman's concept of imk?n al-ru’yah is drawn from the views of various scholars, stipulating that in some locations, the new crescent can only be sighted if it reaches a minimum altitude of 7 degrees, while in other places, an altitude of 8 degrees or more is required for visibility. Sayyid Usman's concept of imk?n al-ru’yah remains relevant to contemporary crescent visibility criteria. The relevance between Sayyid Usman's concept of imk?n al-ru’yah and contemporary visibility criteria lies in their common round in establishing crescent visibility standards, despite significant differences in their approaches.
Astronomical Review of the Beginning of Prayer Times Before Isra’ Mi’raj Fiya Faridatul Afidah
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026): Juni 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.20414/afaq.v8i1.14483

Abstract

Before Isra’ Mi’raj, the Prophet Muhammad and his companions had already performed night prayer as well as prayers in the morning and evening, which had roots in the traditions of earlier prophets. However, studies on the determination of the beginning of prayer times prior to Isra’ Mi’raj remain rarely examined, particularly from the perspective of Islamic astronomy (falak). This research aims to trace the historical and astronomical foundations of the beginning of prayer times before Isra’ Mi’raj. The method used is library research employing historical-textual and astronomical approaches. The results of the study show that before the obligation of the five daily prayers, prayer had already been prescribed with cosmic signs such as the alternation of day and night, where the night prayer was associated with one-third to two-thirds of the night, the morning prayer coincided with the emergence of the true dawn (fajr ṣādiq) on the eastern horizon, and the evening prayer occurred before sunset. This study confirms that from the beginning, the prescription of prayer has been closely related to astronomical phenomena that can be directly observed.
Geospatial Accuracy Evaluation of Napier's Analogy Method for Global Qibla Direction: Analyzing Quadrant Ambiguity at High Latitudes Zahra Fauziah; Ahmad Syifaul Anam; Ahmad Adib Rofiuddin; Syahri Ramdani
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026): Juni 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.20414/afaq.v8i1.14601

Abstract

Accurate determination of the Qibla direction is fundamental to Muslim worship, requiring rigorous validation of various calculation methods. This study conducts a mathematical comparative study between Napier's Analogy Formula and Spherical Trigonometry. The method used is a qualitative analysis based on literature studies with modeling simulations at various global geographic locations. The results show that Napier's Analogy Formula has an identical level of accuracy to Spherical Trigonometry in tropical regions. However, an anomaly was found in the form of quadrant ambiguity that results in a constant deviation at locations with latitudes above 21° (North and South), which is a critical point related to the geographical position of the Kaaba (21°25′21.04′′ N). This finding confirms that Napier's Analogy has limited spatial scope. As a solution, this study proposes the implementation of quadrant correction logic to ensure the precision of results at extreme latitudes. Thus, the use of Napier's Analogy should be limited to tropical regions or followed by the correction parameters formulated in this study.
The Validity of Hilal Sighting Testimony According to the Imams of the Madhhab: A Jurisprudential Study and Contemporary Issues Muhammad Himmatur Riza; Ahmad Izzuddin; Restu Trisna Wardani
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026): Juni 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.20414/afaq.v8i1.15040

Abstract

The determination of the beginning of lunar months, particularly Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dhu al-Hijjah, is a crucial issue in the religious life of Muslims as it is directly related to the performance of worship. One of the critical aspects in this determination is the validity of testimony in the sighting of the new crescent moon (rukyatul hilal). This article aims to comprehensively examine the perspectives of the Islamic legal schools (imam mazahib) regarding the requirements, number, and admissibility of witnesses in rukyatul hilal, as well as to analyze their implications in a contemporary context. The research method employed is a library study with a comparative fiqh analysis approach, by comparing the opinions of the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi‘i, and Hanbali schools based on classical fiqh literature and modern fatwas. The findings indicate that there are fundamental differences among the schools concerning the number of witnesses, the acceptance of individual testimony, and the criteria of witness credibility. These differences stem from distinct methodologies of legal reasoning (istinbat al-hukm) and approaches to interpreting hadith. Contemporary analysis emphasizes that such differences should be understood as part of the richness of Islamic jurisprudence, while also opening new avenues of ijtihad for the unification of the Hijri calendar in Indonesia. Thus, this study is expected to contribute to strengthening the discourse on hisab-rukyat fiqh in the modern era.
A Juridical Analysis of the Rejection of Rukyatul Hilal Testimony in the Determination of 1 Ramadan 1446 H by the Sharia Court of Jantho City Putri Kaushari
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026): Juni 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.20414/afaq.v8i1.15057

Abstract

This research is motivated by the rejection of rukyatul hilal testimony by the Mahkamah Syar’iyah of Jantho City in determining 1 Ramadan 1446 H, which raises questions regarding the conformity of religious court procedures with the Supreme Court’s Technical Guidelines. The study aims to analyze the legal basis of the rejection and its alignment with the normative provisions stipulated in the laws and regulations, as well as the Supreme Court Technical Guidelines Number 1711/DjA/SK.HK.00/IXL2024 on the Procedures for the Implementation of Rukyatul Hilal. This research employs a normative juridical method using statutory and conceptual approaches. The findings indicate that the court’s rejection was based on technical considerations related to the qualifications of the witnesses and the validity of the hilal observation process; however, it does not fully conform to the procedural standards outlined in the technical guidelines. Therefore, the study concludes that there is a disharmony between judicial practice and normative ideals, highlighting the need to strengthen guidelines for religious courts in handling the determination of the beginning of the lunar month. 
Defining the Onset of Fajr: An Evaluation of Comparative Evidence of Solar Depression Standards in Indonesia Musliatin; Siti Tatmainul Qulub; Ahmad Adib Rofiuddin; Firqi Hidayat
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026): Juni 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.20414/afaq.v8i1.15173

Abstract

In 2010, an issue circulated in Indonesia claiming that the Fajr prayer time was set too early, which was published in Qiblati Magazine at that time. This issue eventually received responses from experts in Islamic Astronomy (Ilmu Falak), who then conducted a re-examination of the determination of the Fajr prayer time. After years of conducting a re-examination, the researchers eventually reached a conclusion and decided that the solar altitude criterion for the beginning of the Fajr prayer time used by the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia and Nahdlatul Ulama was already appropriate, while it differed from the criterion used by Muhammadiyah. The study entitled “Defining the Onset of Fajr: An Evaluation of Comparative Evidence of Solar Depression Standards in Indonesia” aims to compare the foundations used by these three institutions in determining the Sun’s altitude at dawn. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method with a comparative and library-based approach. The findings show that the three institutions determine the beginning of the Fajr (Subuh) prayer time based on the appearance of true dawn (fajr sadiq) on the eastern horizon, which is used as the sign for the start of the Subuh prayer time, as stated in Q.S. Al-Baqarah verse 187. There are differences of opinion regarding the most preferable time to perform the subuh prayer. The Ministry of Religious Affairs holds that there are two possible times, namely ghalas and isfar. Meanwhile, Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah consider ghalas to be the more preferable time. However, the similarity among these three institutions lies in the shar’i foundation they use, the main instruments employed, and the resulting decisions. Furthermore, the practical contribution of the study is the development and establishment of an SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) for research related to the Fajr or dawn prayer time. This SOP aims to ensure consistent results and to optimize its implementation so that it can be applied effectively in various regions across Indonesia.
Analysis of Perigee-Apogee Longitude Classification with Crescent Visibility Years 1300H-1600H Based on New MABIMS Criteria Puput Dwi Aryani; Novi Sopwan; Ahmad Syifaul Anam
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026): Juni 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.20414/afaq.v8i1.15177

Abstract

The determination of the beginning of the Hijri month in Indonesia still faces inconsistencies due to the complexity of astronomical parameters. This study analyzes the classification pattern of the Moon's perigee-apogee longitude position in relation to the visibility level of the crescent moon during the 1300H-1600H period to provide an in depth understanding of the orbital factors in determining the beginning of the Hijri month in Indonesia. A descriptive quantitative method was used by analyzing 10,836 data from three locations (Sabang, Surabaya, and Merauke) using astronomical algorithms from Chapront-Touze & Jean Meeus based on the New MABIMS and Odeh criteria. The results show that crescent visibility frequency at the apogee position is higher than at perigee under both criteria, with New MABIMS recording 1,314 apogee compared to 163 perigee cases, and Odeh recording 1,113 apogee compared to 127 perigee cases. New MABIMS consistently yielded higher overall visibility rates (4,539 cases) than Odeh (2,353 cases), a difference statistically confirmed through a chi-square test of independence across all three cities (p<0.001). The data distribution pattern is relatively consistent across the three locations, with orbital factors proving more dominant than geographical factors in determining crescent visibility. This study provides an initial overview that the Moon's orbital dynamics have the potential to provide additional context in crescent observations. Empirical validation through actual observation data and the integration of atmospheric factors are needed to produce a more comprehensive and applicable understanding.
The Implications of Air Humidity on Determining the Sun's Dip for the Start of Isha Prayer Kurlian Puspa Dwi Dharma Yanti; Ahmad Adib Rofiuddin; Ahmad Abdillah Rauf Syam
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026): Juni 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.20414/afaq.v8i1.15280

Abstract

This study aims to explain the implications of air humidity on determining the beginning of Isha prayer time. This is because of the different times of Syafaq's disappearance at the same location, due to air humidity, which has led to differences of opinion regarding the dip of the Sun. This research is a qualitative study using a field research approach. The primary source is data collected through direct observation with a Sky Quality Meter (SQM) over 30 days in the highlands of Tanjung Heran Village and at Cemara Indah Beach. This study found that air humidity on the coast of Cemara Indah, with a value of <80%, detected the disappearance of Syafaq Ahmar at Dip -18°, which is the same as the dip of the Sun according to the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs. Meanwhile, air humidity of 81-90% resulted in a variable dip in the Sun and, of course, Syafaq disappeared more quickly. In the highlands of Tanjung Heran Village, the air humidity of 95-99% caused Syafaq to be detected as disappearing faster than -18 °, with higher values indicating faster disappearance. Therefore, humidity levels are one of the factors that influence the calculation of the Sun’s Dip to determine the start time of the Isha prayer.
An Analysis of the Effectiveness of the Apexel Lens as a Non-Conventional Optical Device for Hilal Observation Muhammad Khalil Mubarraq; Ravik Walhidayah; Ismail
AL - AFAQ : Jurnal Ilmu Falak dan Astronomi Vol. 8 No. 1 (2026): Juni 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar

Abstract

Crescent moon (Hilal) is a primary indicator to determine the onset of a new month in Hijri calendar, but access limitation to the conventional optical instrument such as telescope and theodolite remains a significant constaint across various strategic observation sites. This study aims to analyze the feasilibity of the Apexel telephoto lens as a non-conventional optical instrument for hilal observation, while also evaluating its potential as a screening tool to assessing the suitability of rukyat (crescent sighting) sites. The research employed a field-experimental approach, by comparing the optical performance of the Apexel lens mounted on a Google Pixel 5 with a standard astronomical telescope F70060 Telescope during Hilal observation conducted between November 21–24, 2025 at the Malikussaleh Observatory. The result demonstrate that Hilal image was successfully documented on November 23, 2025 with an altitude of 6° above the horizon. This outcome was significantly supported by favorable atmospheric conditions, characterized by cloud cover below 10%, which enabled the camera sensor to compensate for the Apexel lens's aperture limitations in capturing the low-contrast luminosity of the thin crescent. Conversely, detection attempts on other days failed due to adverse atmospheric conditions, wherein dense cloud cover attenuated hilal luminosity beyond the instrument's sensitivity threshold. From economic standpoint, this device represents a viable alternative for grassroots rukyat communities in remote areas, given its affordability and accessibility. Accordingly, Apexel telephoto lens has a potential to be a supplementary instrument for Hilal observation in the context of site exploration and public education, with the caveat that its performance is highly depends on sky clearance and astronomical parameters that meets the minimum visibility criteria.