Validation of the Qibla Direction of the Mushalla of Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Nurul Islam, Ragang Village, Waru District, Pamekasan Regency through the Sun Compass Application

Abstract

The accuracy of the qibla direction is a fundamental requirement for the validity of prayer in Islam. Nevertheless, many rural mushalas still determine the qibla merely by estimation, without precise astronomical calculations. Musala of Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Nurul Islam 1 in Ragang Village, Waru District, Pamekasan Regency, built in 1998, faced a similar issue as its qibla was established only by approximation (syatrah). This study aims to validate the accuracy of the mushala’s qibla direction using the Sun Compass application, a modern instrument that is simple and easily accessible. This research employed a qualitative field approach with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The findings revealed that the musala’s qibla direction deviated by approximately 13° north of the correct qibla direction. These results highlight the importance of utilizing digital technology in determining the qibla, ensuring the validity of prayer practices. This study contributes practical insights for Islamic educational institutions and enriches contemporary Islamic astronomy literature regarding the use of mobile-based applications in religious practices.