The Inadmissibility of Relying upon Astronomical Calculations to Confirm the Start of the Month of Ramadan
As-Salaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakaatuhu Question: I have read a question and answer about the inadmissibility of relying upon astronomical calculations to confirm the start of the month and Baarakallahu Feekum. However one point remains that I would like to be explained. It is that some have taken the use of astronomical calculations to negate the validity of a moon sighting meaning that if the correct calculation states that the Hilaal (new moon) will not be born and then someone appears giving witness to having seen it, then they will not take his testimony and witness and consider that he has imagined something that he thought was the new moon and as a result his testimony is rejected. And I have read a story from the Islamic history about similar situations in which the testimony and witnessing was rejected. This is the opinion stated by the Imaam and Qaadi (Judge) Taqi ud Deen Ali Bin Abdul Kaafi As-Sabki Ad-Dimashqi (the author of the book: Al-Ibhaaj Fee Sharh Al-