The Islamic world is abuzz with anticipation as Muhammadiyah, a prominent Indonesian Islamic organization, announces the start of Ramadan 2026. But the date they've chosen is sparking curiosity and debate among Muslims worldwide.
February 18, 2026: A Controversial Start to Ramadan?
Muhammadiyah has declared that the holy month of Ramadan for the year 1447 Hijri will commence on February 18, 2026. This decision, outlined in the PP Muhammadiyah Declaration, is based on intricate astronomical calculations, known as Hisab, which determine the beginning of Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dzulhijjah.
But here's where it gets intriguing: the calculation process involves a global perspective. The declaration states that the date is set based on the ijtima', or the precise alignment of Earth, Moon, and Sun, which will occur on February 17, 2026, at 12:01 UTC.
And this is the part most people miss: the decision considers the Global Calendar Parameters (PKG). PKG 1 requires a minimum moon altitude and elongation, which no region met before 24:00 UTC on the day of ijtima'. PKG 2, however, was met after 24:00 UTC in a specific region on the American mainland.
The declaration then invokes the Global Unity Principle, stating that since the ijtima' time is before dawn in New Zealand, the 1st of Ramadan will be observed worldwide on February 18, 2026, to maintain a unified start.
This announcement has already started a conversation among Muslims, with some questioning the methodology and its implications. The use of the Global Hijri Calendar and the interpretation of PKG parameters are points of interest, especially for those in regions where the calculations may differ.
As the Islamic community prepares for Ramadan, this decision serves as a reminder of the diverse interpretations and calculations that exist within the faith. It begs the question: how do we navigate these differences while maintaining unity? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let's explore this fascinating aspect of Islamic tradition together.
