JAKARTA– The phenomenon of the sun above the Kaaba will return to Earth on July 15. This is the second time this phenomenon has occurred after appearing on May 27, 2021.
This phenomenon is called Istiwa’ul A’zham (Great Culmination) and is used to straighten the Qibla direction for Muslims. The peak will occur at 16.26.42 WIT or 17.26.42 WITA or 18.28.42 WIT in Indonesia.
According to the National Institute of Aeronautics and Space (LAPAN), this phenomenon occurs when the sun’s declination is the same as the geographical latitude of the Kaaba. So that it makes the sun is above the Kaaba at noon.
The shadow formed will also point towards Mecca. This observation has actually been made since the 14th century when it was recorded by astronomers Jaghmini and Nasir al-Din al Tusi.
But their time cannot be determined on a specific date because the Islamic calendar is lunar. The solar date by which the sun reaches the peak of Mecca is constant but the lunar date varies from Year to Year.
Meanwhile, to determine the steps in determining the Qibla direction using the Great Kumination, here’s how.
1. Determine the place where the direction of Qibla will be known, find a flat location and of course exposed to sunlight.
2. Prepare a straight stick or if not available, use bobbin thread.
3. Prepare the clock that has been calibrated. (can refer to https://jam.bmkg.go.id or https://time.is)
4. Stick the stick on the ground surface and make sure the stick is completely straight (90˚ from the ground surface), or hang the bobbed thread just now.
5. Wait until the time of the Great Culmination arrives, then observe the shadow of the stick or string at that time. Mark the end of the shadow, then draw a straight line with the center of the shadow (stick/pendulum). The straight line that goes from the tip to the center of the shadow is the Qibla direction for the place.
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