Ramadan 2026: Paris Grand Mosque Awaits ‘Night of Doubt’ for Official Announcement
Paris, January 11 – With Ramadan 2026 just weeks away, the Muslim community in France is eagerly awaiting the official announcement of the holy month’s start date from the Grand Mosque of Paris. While astronomical calculations suggest a mid-February commencement, tradition dictates that the final confirmation will follow the observation of the lunar crescent during the ‘Night of Doubt’.
The Central Role of the Grand Mosque of Paris
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, meaning the exact start date of Ramadan cannot be determined months in advance. Despite reliable astronomical predictions, religious tradition requires the moon’s sighting to confirm the beginning of a new month.
In Paris, the Grand Mosque, located in the 5th arrondissement, plays a pivotal role in this communication. Its annual announcement is closely watched by faithful Muslims, as well as institutions, associations, and various local stakeholders. Once the decision is made public, the information is rapidly disseminated nationwide.
What is the ‘Night of Doubt’?
The ‘Night of Doubt’ is the evening when religious authorities seek to observe the lunar crescent, which signals the start of a new month in the Islamic calendar. In France, this observation combines both astronomical data and long-standing religious tradition. Following this night, the Grand Mosque of Paris officially communicates the start date of Ramadan.
Astronomical Predictions and Tentative Dates
According to forecasts from the Muslim Theological Council of France (CTMF), the new moon announcing the month of Ramadan is expected to be observable in late February 2026. This would place the first day of fasting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in most Muslim calendars based on astronomical calculations.
Based on these predictions, the holy month is expected to last 30 days, with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr potentially occurring around Friday, March 20, 2026. However, these dates remain tentative until the official confirmation is made after the ‘Night of Doubt’.
The anticipation builds as the Muslim community prepares for this significant period of fasting, prayer, and reflection, underscoring the importance of tradition and religious authority in determining the calendar of their faith.
Source: actu.fr
