Astronomers predict rare double Ramazan in one year

Muslims around the world are in for a rare spiritual event in 2030, as astronomers predict that the holy month of Ramazan will occur twice in the same year.

The phenomenon arises from the difference between the Islamic lunar calendar and the Christian solar calendar. While the Islamic calendar follows the moon, with a year lasting approximately 354 days, 10 to 11 days shorter than the solar year, Ramazan shifts earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.

According to experts, Ramazan will first begin on January 5, 2030 (Islamic year 1451 AH) and then again on December 26, 2030 (1452 AH). Muslims will fast for 30 days in January and 6 days in December, totaling 36 days of fasting in a single year.

Such a rare occurrence happens roughly every 33 years, as the lunar months gradually cycle through the seasons. The last time Ramazan appeared twice in a single year was 1997, with the next expected in 2063.

Fasting from dawn to sunset during Ramazan is a central pillar of Islam, symbolizing worship, patience, and spiritual purification. The length of daily fasts varies with the season, ranging from shorter winter days to more than 17 hours in the summer.

While astronomical calculations can predict the start of Ramazan, many countries still follow the traditional moon-sighting method. Nations like Saudi Arabia rely on human observation of the crescent moon, while others incorporate scientific calculations alongside traditional practices.

Experts say that the double Ramazan of 2030 will offer a unique opportunity for Muslims worldwide to deepen their spiritual practice, embrace patience, and experience the holy month in an unprecedented way.