In Britain, the Muslim community, particularly those of Pakistani heritage, frequently experience division over the celebration of Eid. This division is notably absent during other significant Islamic dates, such as the beginning of Muharram or other months in the Hijri calendar. The discord becomes apparent specifically during the observance of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

The primary cause of this division is the differing practices regarding the sighting of the moon, which determines the start of these holidays. While some members of the community adhere to local moon sightings, others follow moon sightings from other countries, such as Saudi Arabia. This results in varying dates for the celebrations within the same community.

Despite widespread dissatisfaction with this division, the community has yet to find a way around it and unify the Eid celebration. Many voice their frustration but hesitate to take up the issue directly with religious leaders or community authorities.

This lack of unity has not gone unnoticed by other communities in the UK, often leading to negative remarks and a perception of disorganisation among British Muslims. The reluctance among religious leaders to seek a consensus has allowed the situation to persist.

A concerted effort towards dialogue and consensus-building in the community could pave the way for a unified Eid celebration. Encouraging discussions among religious leaders and community members about the benefits of a single celebration might lead to greater unity and a stronger, more positive representation of the Muslim community in Britain.

Islamic scholars and religious authorities have varying opinions on the criteria for moon sighting and the acceptability of astronomical calculations. In practice, these differing opinions lead to celebrations of differing dates.

Another divisive issue is the prayer times. One school of thought believes that the Isha prayers in summers can only be said after midnight. The other school is of the view that Isha prayers can be performed an hour and a half past sunset.

Despite widespread dissatisfaction with the division, the community has yet to find a way to unite. Many voice their frustration but hesitate to take up the issue directly with religious leaders or community authorities.

Talking toThe News on Sunday, Qari Ameen Chishti, the head of Tunstead Road Mosque in South Hall? said stubbornness was the primary cause of persisting disagreements over prayer timings and moon sighting for the Eids. He said these differences were not based on any scientific evidence. He also said the ‘birth’ of the moon was consistently verified by observatories around the world.

“A part of the community, frustrated by these divisions, has begun saying Eid prayers in parks instead of mosques,” Ameen Chishti said. He said that some members of the community criticized Islamic countries for not providing proper leadership to the Muslim Ummah. “Despite clear guidelines on moon sightings and the required witnesses, these are not being appropriately followed in the community.”

Talking to TNS, Mufti Muhammad Khalid said that it was very unfortunate that Muslims were divided in Britain on Eid celebration. “We represent all Muslims, but nobody believes in our integrity. We have been practicing for decades what all schools should follow. The Rooyet Hilal Committee’s decision should determine the moon sighting,” he said.

Various Islamic scholars and authorities may have different opinions on the criteria for moon sightings and the acceptability of astronomical calculations. Such differing opinions can lead to divisions within the community.

Divisions may also arise from cultural practices and traditions that have developed over time in various Muslim communities. These cultural differences can influence the preference for local versus global moon sightings.

In the modern, hyper-connected world, the spread of information and the need for coordination among diverse Muslim communities can be challenging. Miscommunication or lack of consensus among community leaders can contribute to differing celebration dates.

The writer is a correspondent for Geo News, Daily Jang and The News in London