The Islamic calendar is also known as the Hijri calendar which is used by Muslims to keep track of time. While the Gregorian calendar is based on the solar year, the Hijri calendar is based on lunar cycles. This means it follows the phases of the moon, and each month begins with the sighting of the new moon.
The term "Hijri" comes from "Hijra," which refers to the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This event marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar, making it a key historical and religious milestone for Muslims.
This lunar calendar plays a crucial role in determining important Islamic dates. It helps Muslims know when to observe the holiest month of Ramadan and plan the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. This is because the Hijri calendar is shorter than the Gregorian calendar, Islamic months shift slightly each year, moving through different seasons. Understanding this calendar is essential for following Islamic religious practices and celebrating Islamic festivals on their correct dates.
The Hijrah: Migration of the Allah’s Messenger
The Hijrah marks a crucial moment in Islamic history. This journey was the migration of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. It happened during a tough time when the early Muslim community faced serious challenges, including persecution and hostility from the Quraysh tribe in the holy city.
The move to then Yathrib was not just about escaping the danger. It was a chance to reestablish a new base where Muslims could practice their faith freely and build a larger community. This migration helped set the stage for the growth and development of the Islamic society.
The time is so significant that it became the starting point for the Islamic calendar. This is because it represents the beginning of a new era for Muslims, where they could build a society based on their beliefs and values. It marks the shift from a period of hardship to one of hope and growth. By choosing this event as the start of their calendar, Muslims honor the resilience and determination shown during this pivotal journey.
Creation of the Hijri Calendar
Khalifa Umar ibn Al-Khattab is known for creating the Hijri calendar. This calendar has 12 months and relies on the sighting of the full and crescent moons to determine the start and end of each month. This method is especially important for marking the beginning of Ramadan, the start of Shawwal, and the dates of Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr.
Before the calendar came into force, Muslims used significant historical events to keep track of time. For example, they referred to the year of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birth, known as Am Al-Fil. However, about 17 years after the Prophet’s (PBUH) migration, Abu Musa al-Ash'ari, an official in Basrah, complained to Khalifa Umar about the confusion caused by inconsistent dates in official correspondence.
To resolve this, Khalifa Umar discussed the issue with his advisors. Some proposed using the Prophet’s (PBUH) birth or death as the starting point for a new calendar, but most agreed that his migration would be the best choice. After consulting with the Prophet’s (PBUH) close companions, Uthman ibn Affan and Ali bin Abi Talib, Khalifa Umar decided that the year of Muhammad’s (PBUH) migration would mark the start of the Lunar calendar. Thus, 622 AD became the first year in this calendar, with months starting from Muharram and ending in Dhu Al-Hijjah.
Why does the Lunar Calendar begin with Muharram?
After deciding which year to begin the Islamic calendar, the next step was to choose the first month of the Calendar
The companions of the Prophet (PBUH) suggested different months, like Ramadan for its holiness or Dhul-Hijjah for Hajj. However, Usman ibn Affan (RA) proposed Muharram, and everyone agreed.
There were two main reasons for this choice. First, the Hijra (migration) was first announced in Muharram, after the Ansar in Madinah pledged to protect the people of Islam. Second, after performing Hajj in Dhul-Hijjah, they would feel spiritually renewed, making Muharram a fitting start for the new year.
Thus, Muharram became the first month of the Islamic calendar, symbolizing a fresh beginning.
The Months of Hijri Calendar:
The Hijri calendar has twelve months, each with its own significance and meaning. Know about the months and their significance.
- Muharram: This is the first month of the Hijri calendar. It’s one of the four sacred months in which fighting is prohibited. The 10th day, known as Ashura, is important for the followers of Islam.
- Safar: The second month is known for its name, which means “empty” or “void.” Historically, it was believed that this month was unlucky, but this is not a belief held by modern Muslims.
- Rabi' al-Awwal: This month means "the first spring." It is famous for the birth of Allah’s Messenger (PBUH), celebrated on the 12th day, known as Mawlid al-Nabi.
- Rabi' al-Thani: This month means "the second spring." It follows Rabi' al-Awwal and is a quieter month without major celebrations.
- Jumada al-Awwal: Meaning "the first of the parched land," this month is named for its dry and arid characteristics.
- Jumada al-Thani: This month means "the second of the parched land." It is similar to Jumada al-Awwal and is another month of dryness.
- Rajab: This is one of the sacred months, and it means "to respect" or "to honor." It is a time of reflection and preparation for the coming months.
- Sha'ban: This month means "to scatter" and is known for being a time when the Prophet (PBUH) would prepare for Ramadan. It’s also a month when many Muslims seek forgiveness and blessings.
- Ramadan: The ninth month is very special as it is the month of fasting. Fasting from dawn to dusk is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and Ramadan is a time for spiritual growth, and seeking blessing from Allah (SWT).
- Shawwal: This month comes right after Ramadan and is marked by Eid al-Fitr, a festival that celebrates the end of fasting. It means "to increase" and is a time of joy and gratitude.
- Dhu al-Qi'dah: This month means "the month of rest." It is one of the sacred months and a time of peace before the Hajj pilgrimage in Dhu al-Hijja.
- Dhu al-Hijja: The twelfth month is significant for the Hajj pilgrimage and Eid al-Adha, the festival of sacrifice. It means "the month of pilgrimage" and is a time of worship and sacrifice.
Each month in the Hijri calendar has its own place in Islamic tradition and helps Muslims track religious observances and important events.
Important Events in the Hijri Calendar
The Hijri calendar is filled with important events that hold deep meaning for Muslims. Here are some of the key events:
- Ramadan: This is the ninth month of the Hijri calendar and one of the holiest times for Muslims. During Ramadan, they fast from sunrise to sunset, focusing on prayer, self-reflection, and helping others. The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a joyful festival called Eid al-Fitr.
- Eid al-Fitr: This festival marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated on the first day of the month of Shawwal. It's a time of happiness, with special prayers, feasts, and giving charity to those in need.
- Hajj: The annual pilgrimage to Mecca is known as Hajj. It takes place during the first 10 days of the month of Dhu al-Hijja. Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and those who are able to do so are required to make this journey at least once in their lifetime. It includes important rituals like circling the Holy Kaaba and standing at the Plain of Arafat.
- Eid al-Adha: This festival is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijja, during the Hajj pilgrimage. Eid al-Adha honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah (SWT). Muslims around the world mark this day by sacrificing an animal and sharing the meat with family, friends, and those in need.
- Mawlid al-Nabi: This day, on the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal, celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It's a time for Muslims to reflect on the Prophet's life and teachings.
- Ashura: Observed on the 10th of Muharram, Ashura has different meanings for different Muslim communities. For some communities, it's a day of fasting, while some remember the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
These events in the Hijri calendar are significant moments of worship, reflection, and celebration in the Islamic faith.
What is unique about the Islamic calendar?
The Islamic calendar is unique because it is based on the lunar cycle. This means it follows the phases of the moon, with each month starting when a new moon is sighted. Unlike the solar calendar, the Islamic calendar has 12 months, but it is shorter by about 10 to 12 days each year, making Islamic holidays and events move backward through the seasons over time.
What is the significance of the Hijri calendar?
The calendar is significant because it marks important religious events and rituals in Islam. It begins with the Hijra, the migration of the Prophet (PBUH) from Mecca to Medina, a key moment in Islamic history. The calendar guides Muslims in observing religious practices, such as fasting during Ramadan, performing Hajj, and celebrating Eid. It also connects Muslims to their history and strengthens their sense of community worldwide.
Importance of the Calendar in Today’s Scenario
The Lunar calendar continues to hold great importance in today’s Islamic world. It is more than just a way to mark time; it connects the people of Islam to their faith, history, and religious practices.
- Guiding Religious Observances: This calendar plays a key role in determining important Islamic events and rituals. For example, the start of Ramadan, the month of fasting, is determined by the sighting of the moon in the month of Sha'ban. Similarly, the dates for Hajj, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha are all based on the Lunar calendar. Without it, Muslims would struggle to observe these important aspects of their faith at the correct times.
- Preserving Islamic Heritage: This calendar reminds Muslims of significant events in Islamic history, such as the Prophet’s (PBUH) migration from Mecca to Medina. By following this calendar, Muslims are continually connected to their heritage and the important milestones that shaped their faith.
The Hijri calendar helps bring the Ummah together by providing a shared timeline for religious observances. When Ramadan begins, People of the religion all around the world fast together, creating a sense of global unity. The same is true for other important dates like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, where the shared experience strengthens the bond among Muslims.
Conclusion
As we have come to the end of this blog, now you know how the Hijri calendar an essential part of Muslim life has been since its creation, marking significant religious events and guiding daily practices. It begins with the Hijra, a key moment in Islamic history, and continues to connect Muslims to their faith, heritage, and community through its lunar cycle.
In summary, the calendar not only preserves the history of Islam but also shapes the spiritual and cultural practices of Muslims around the world. Its unique role in guiding religious observances, fostering unity, and connecting the past with the present makes it a vital part of both Islamic history and everyday life.
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