Jakarta, NU Online
within the frame of forming excellent cadres in the field of astrology, Nahdlatul Ulama Committee of Astrology (Lajnah Falakiyah NU) will conduct a basic national education and training (Diklat) on Hisab and Rukyat on September 15-17 in Asrama Haji, Pondok Gede, Jakarta.

The diklat would be reportedly attended by around 64 persons coming from NU autonomous bodies or institutions, and numbers of representatives from both NU regional and branch boards (PWNU/PCNU) of Zona I consisting of three provinces, namely Jakarta, Banten and West Java.

<>The forum would be opened by the General Chairman of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), KH Hasyim Muzadi and Chairman of the LFNU, KH A Ghazali Masroeri.

There are three important matters which would be discussed. First, concerning the position and relationship between astrology and (Islamic) jurisprudence, presented by KH A Ghazali Masroeri.
Second, concerning the calculation of direction of Mecca, presented by KH Muhyidin Hazin. Third is discussing about matters related to methods of calculating the time for prayers that would be presented by Drs. Sirril Wafa, MA.

“We expect the cadres will get such insight and deep knowledge in the course of hisab (calculation) and rukyat (determining date by sighting of moon), and be able to face recent challenges. The process of transferring intensively knowledge of astrology through formal and informal education should be always carried out,” said the Vice Secretary of LFNU, Agus Salim Thoyyib.

He suggested that the basic function of the science is aimed at revealing verses of Almighty to strengthen Muslims’ faith. (nam)