URGENCY OF UNIFYING THE ISLAMIC CALENDER (Reading the Epistemology of Shafi’I Jurisprudence Amidst the Tide of Lunar Globalization)

Abstract

This study aims to analyze Imam al-Shafi‘i’s perspective on the determination of the beginning of the lunar month (qamariyah) and its relevance to the concept of a Global Hijri Calendar, which is rooted in the differences between the rukyat method based on crescent moon observation and the astronomical hisab approach that promotes the concept of unified matla’. The research questions are: (1) how is the conceptualization of determining the beginning of the lunar month according to Imam al-Shafi‘i in al-Umm; and (2) how relevant is this perspective to the development of a unified Global Hijri Calendar. This study employs a qualitative approach through library research by analyzing al-Umm as the primary source, supported by classical fiqh literature and contemporary astronomical studies, using Fazlur Rahman’s Double Movement theory to understand both the historical context and contemporary relevance. The findings indicate that: (1) Imam al-Shafi‘i places rukyat as the primary method with the principle of ikhtilaf al-mathali’ (local lunar horizon differences); and (2) the Global Hijri Calendar can be accommodated within the Shafi‘i framework through a contextual reinterpretation of legal principles by positioning hisab as a supporting instrument and rukyat as the basis for validation. The study concludes that integrating classical and contemporary approaches requires a contextual framework that accommodates developments in astronomical science to address the needs of modern Muslims without neglecting fundamental Sharia principles.