The Islamic lunar calendar, also known as the Hijri or Islamic calendar, is a purely lunar calendar consisting of 12 months in a year of 354 or 355 days. It is used to determine the proper days of Islamic holidays and rituals, such as the annual period of fasting and the proper time for pilgrimage to Mecca. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is solar, the Islamic calendar is based on the phases of the moon, causing it to shift by about 10-12 days each year in relation to the Gregorian calendar.
The months in the Islamic calendar are: Muharram, Safar, Rabi’ al-Awwal, Rabi’ al-Thani, Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada al-Thani, Rajab, Sha’ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhu al-Qi’dah, and Dhu al-Hijjah. The beginning of each month is marked by the sighting of the new moon. The 10th of the month, is observed as Ashura, a day of fasting in commemoration of the Prophet Musa (Moses) and his followers being saved from Pharaoh's tyranny.
The Significance of first Muharram
The first of Muharram is one of the most significant dates in the Islamic calendar. It marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year. This day is not only significant for its placement in the calendar but also for its historical and religious connotations.
Muharram is considered one of the four sacred months in Islam. The sanctity of these months was established by Allah in the Quran: “Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred. That is the correct religion, so do not wrong yourselves during them...” (Quran 9:36).
The 1st of Muharram is a time for reflection and remembrance for Muslims around the world. It serves as a reminder of the Hijra, the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Mecca to Medina, which signifies the start of the Islamic calendar.
History of the Hijri Calendar
The Hijri calendar was instituted by the second Caliph, Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), in 638 AD. The need for a distinct calendar arose as the Muslim community expanded and there was a necessity to unify the dates for administrative and religious purposes.
The starting point of the calendar, known as the Hijra, commemorates the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD. This migration was a pivotal event in Islamic history, marking the beginning of the first Muslim community (Ummah) under the Prophet's leadership.
Before the adoption of the Hijri calendar, Arabs used various systems for marking time, often based on significant events or natural phenomena. The decision to start the calendar from the Hijra was both practical and symbolic, emphasizing the importance of the Prophet's migration and the establishment of a Muslim society.
Celebrations and observances associated with Muharram
Muharram is observed with a mix of solemnity and reflection. While it is the beginning of the Islamic New Year, it is not typically celebrated with festivities in the way the Gregorian New Year is celebrated. Instead, it is a time for Muslims to reflect on their lives, seek forgiveness, and make resolutions for the coming year.
One of the most significant observances during Muharram is Ashura, which falls on the 10th day of the month. Ashura is observed as a day of fasting in commemoration of the Prophet Musa (Moses) and his followers being saved from Pharaoh's tyranny. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended fasting on this day as a means of expiating sins from the previous year.
Rituals and practices
During Muharram, Muslims engage in various acts of worship and remembrance, including:
Fasting: Many Muslims fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This act of fasting is believed to be a means of expiation for sins.
Prayers and Recitations: Special prayers and recitations of the Quran are conducted during this month. Muslims seek to increase their good deeds and spiritual activities.
Charity: Acts of charity and helping those in need are emphasized during Muharram, reflecting the values of compassion and community support.
Lectures and Gatherings: Religious lectures and gatherings are organized to educate and remind Muslims of the historical and spiritual significance of Muharram. These events often include recounting the stories of
the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions.
The 1st of Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year and holds deep historical and religious significance for Muslims worldwide. It is a time for reflection, remembrance, and renewal of faith. The Hijri calendar, rooted in the momentous Hijra of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), serves as a constant reminder of the trials, perseverance, and ultimate triumph of the early Muslim community.
As Muslims observe Muharram and the day of Ashura, they are reminded of the values of sacrifice, steadfastness, and devotion to faith. Whether through fasting, prayers, charity, or commemorative rituals, the month of Muharram provides an opportunity for spiritual growth and a renewed commitment to the principles of Islam.
(Ponda-based Mediha Shah is passionate about understanding religion and modern education)