Topic: “Hari Ini Berapa Ramadhan” – Finding the Best Time to Celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan in 2023 Keywords: Ramadan, hijri calendar, lunar calendar, moon sighting, fasting, suhoor, iftar, spirituality, community, charity Introduction: Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims around the world. It is a time for spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and community building. This year, many Muslims are asking the question, “Hari ini berapa Ramadhan?” or “What day is Ramadan today?” In this article, we will explore the best ways to determine the start of Ramadan in 2023 and how to make the most of this special month. Understanding the Hijri Calendar: The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar based on the phases of the moon. This means that the start of each month is determined by the sighting of the new moon. The beginning of Ramadan, therefore, is dependent on the sighting of the crescent moon. Moon Sighting: Traditionally, Muslims have relied on local sightings of the moon to determine the start of Ramadan. This means that different regions may start Ramadan on different days, depending on when the moon is sighted. In some cases, this can lead to confusion and disagreement within communities. Alternative Methods: In recent years, some Muslim organizations have begun using astronomical calculations to determine the start of Ramadan. This method takes into account the position of the moon and the sun, as well as the earth’s rotation. While this approach is more standardized and can help prevent confusion, it is not without controversy. Preparing for Ramadan: Regardless of how the start of Ramadan is determined, it is important to prepare for the month ahead. This includes adjusting sleeping and eating habits to accommodate the fasting period, known as sawm. Muslims wake up early before dawn for suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, and break their fast at sunset with iftar. It is also a time to focus on spiritual practices such as prayer, reading the Quran, and giving to charity. Making the Most of Ramadan: Ramadan is a time for personal growth and community building. Many Muslims use this month to focus on self-improvement, whether that means breaking bad habits or developing new ones. It is also a time to come together with family and friends for iftar and taraweeh, the special nightly prayers during Ramadan. Conclusion: In conclusion, determining the start of Ramadan can be a complex process, but it is important to remember the true purpose of this holy month. Whether through moon sighting or astronomical calculations, the start of Ramadan marks the beginning of a period of spiritual reflection, community building, and personal growth. By preparing for Ramadan and making the most of this special month, Muslims around the world can deepen their connection to their faith and to each other.