The Islamic calendar, or Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar used by Muslims worldwide to determine religious events and holidays. This calendar is based on the phases of the Moon and consists of twelve months in a year of 354 or 355 days. Each month begins with the sighting of the new Moon. The Hijri calendar was initiated in 622 AD, the year of the Hijra, when the Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Medina. This migration marks the beginning of the Islamic era.
Here is an overview of the twelve months in the Hijri calendar, along with their meanings and significance:
1. Muharram
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the four sacred months in which fighting is prohibited. It is a time for reflection and piety. The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, is significant in Islamic history, particularly for Shia Muslims, as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad. For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is also a day of fasting and remembrance.
2. Safar
The second month of the Islamic calendar is Safar. Traditionally, it is considered an unlucky month, although this belief is not based on Islamic teachings. In the early Islamic era, Safar was a time when the Arab tribes engaged in warfare. Today, it has no special religious significance but is often associated with the continuation of the new yearβs events.
3. Rabi’ al-Awwal
Rabi’ al-Awwal is the third month of the Islamic calendar and holds special significance as the month in which Prophet Muhammad was born. The 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal is celebrated as Mawlid al-Nabi (the birthday of the Prophet), although observance of this occasion varies across the Muslim world. It is a time for Muslims to celebrate the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
4. Rabi’ al-Thani
The fourth month, Rabi’ al-Thani, follows Rabi’ al-Awwal. It does not have any particular religious observances associated with it, and its significance is mainly that of a transitional period in the Islamic year. The month is marked by continued adherence to Islamic principles and preparation for upcoming events.
5. Jumada al-Awwal
Jumada al-Awwal, the fifth month, is the first of two months named Jumada, meaning “the first of the freezing” or “the first of the dry.” The name reflects the harsh winter conditions experienced in pre-Islamic Arabia. This month is relatively quiet in terms of religious observances, but it is a time for Muslims to continue their daily religious practices.
6. Jumada al-Thani
Jumada al-Thani, the sixth month, follows Jumada al-Awwal. Like its predecessor, it has no specific religious events associated with it. The month is a period of regular worship and reflection. In Islamic tradition, the emphasis during this time is on personal development and maintaining faith.
7. Rajab
Rajab is the seventh month of the Islamic calendar and is one of the four sacred months when warfare is traditionally suspended. It is a time of increased spiritual reflection and worship. The 27th day of Rajab is significant for many Muslims because it is believed to mark the Night Journey (Isra and Mi’raj), when Prophet Muhammad is said to have been miraculously transported from Mecca to Jerusalem and then to the heavens.
8. Sha’ban
Sha’ban, the eighth month, is a time for preparation leading up to Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It is a month for Muslims to increase their prayers, seek forgiveness, and make preparations for the spiritual challenges of Ramadan. The 15th night of Sha’ban, known as Laylat al-Miraj, is observed by many Muslims as a night of prayer and supplication.
9. Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month and is one of the most sacred periods in Islam. It is observed with fasting from dawn to dusk, refraining from eating, drinking, and other physical needs. The fast is a time for self-discipline, spiritual reflection, and increased devotion. The end of Ramadan is marked by the festival of Eid al-Fitr, celebrating the completion of the fast and the communal prayers and festivities that follow.
10. Shawwal
Shawwal is the tenth month and follows Ramadan. The first day of Shawwal is celebrated as Eid al-Fitr, a joyous occasion marking the end of fasting. Shawwal is also a time for Muslims to continue their good deeds and maintain the spiritual gains achieved during Ramadan. It is a month for celebrating and giving thanks for the strength and guidance provided during Ramadan.
11. Dhu al-Qi’dah
The eleventh month, Dhu al-Qi’dah, is one of the sacred months in which warfare is traditionally prohibited. It is a month of rest and reflection before the pilgrimage season of Hajj. During Dhu al-Qi’dah, Muslims often prepare for the Hajj pilgrimage, which takes place in the following month.
12. Dhu al-Hijjah
Dhu al-Hijjah is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. It is the month of the Hajj pilgrimage, a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for Muslims who are physically and financially able. The first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah are considered among the most virtuous days of the year, culminating in Eid al-Adha (the Festival of Sacrifice), which commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The rites of Hajj are performed during this month, and it is a time for Muslims worldwide to participate in acts of worship and sacrifice.
The Islamic calendar, with its twelve lunar months, plays a crucial role in the religious and cultural life of Muslims. Each month has its own significance and traditions, providing a rhythm to the Islamic year that guides spiritual practices, community events, and personal reflection. Understanding the meanings and observances associated with these months helps deepen the appreciation of the Islamic faith and its practices.