Controversies Surrounding Previous Sidang Isbat Lebaran and Lessons Learned for 2023
The Sidang Isbat is an annual event that takes place in Indonesia to determine the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal, which marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. The committee responsible for this announcement is known as the Pengurus Besar Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), which is led by a board of scholars and experts.
However, over the years, controversies have surrounded the Sidang Isbat due to disagreements among scholars and religious leaders on the sighting of the new moon, which is essential in determining the start of the new month. These controversies were widely discussed following the Sidang Isbat Lebaran in recent years.
One of the controversies surrounding the Sidang Isbat Lebaran was the presence of government officials and politicians during the event. This led to accusations that the government was attempting to influence the PBNU’s decision on the start of the new month. This perception of government intervention triggered protests from some scholars and religious leaders who argued that the Sidang Isbat should be an independent decision made only by Islamic scholars.
Another controversy during the Sidang Isbat Lebaran was the disagreement among scholars on the sighting of the new moon. Some scholars argued that the sighting had to be done with the naked eye, while others argued that technological advancements such as telescopes and satellite imagery could be used. This disagreement led to confusion among the public, as different regions of Indonesia celebrated Eid al-Fitr on different days.
The controversies surrounding the Sidang Isbat Lebaran have highlighted the need for reforms in the process of determining the start of the new month. To prevent future controversies, the PBNU could take several steps. For example, the committee could limit the attendees of the Sidang Isbat to only scholars and experts in Islamic jurisprudence. This would prevent government officials and politicians from attending and attempting to influence the committee’s decision.
Additionally, the PBNU could establish clear guidelines on the sighting of the new moon, taking into account both traditional methods and technological advancements. This would provide a common ground for scholars and religious leaders, thereby reducing misunderstandings and disagreements.
In conclusion, the controversies surrounding the Sidang Isbat Lebaran have taught us several lessons, including the need for an independent decision-making process and clear guidelines on the sighting of the new moon. By taking steps to reform the Sidang Isbat, the PBNU can ensure that future announcements of the start of the new month are harmonious and meet the expectations of the Indonesian public.