Islamic New Year

The Islamic New Year (Arabic: رأس السنة الهجرية, Raʾs as-Sanah al-Hijrīyah), also known as Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the new Islamic lunar calendar year. It falls on 1 Muharram, the first day of the first month of the Islamic calendar. Because the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar with approximately 354 days per year, the date shifts roughly 10-12 days earlier each year relative to the Gregorian calendar.

Unlike many secular New Year celebrations, the Islamic New Year is generally observed as a day of quiet reflection and religious contemplation rather than festive celebration. It is a time for Muslims to reflect on the Hijra (migration) of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina, which marks the starting point of the Islamic calendar.

The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, was established by Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab in 638 CE (17 AH). He chose the Hijra — the Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE — as the starting event of the calendar, as it marked the founding of the first Muslim community (ummah) in Medina.

The month of Muharram holds special significance in Islam. It is one of the four sacred months (al-Ashhur al-Hurum) mentioned in the Quran, during which warfare was traditionally forbidden. The word "Muharram" itself means "forbidden" or "sacred."

The 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, is particularly significant. For Sunni Muslims, it commemorates the day when Prophet Moses (Musa) and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh by the parting of the Red Sea. The Prophet Muhammad recommended fasting on this day. For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a solemn day of mourning that commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.

Prayers and Reflection: Muslims attend special prayers at mosques and spend time in personal reflection and supplication (dua), contemplating the past year and setting intentions for the new one.

Recitation of the Quran: Many Muslims engage in recitation of the Quran, particularly passages related to the Hijra and the virtues of Muharram.

Fasting: Some Muslims observe voluntary fasting during the first days of Muharram, especially on the 9th and 10th of Muharram (Tasu'a and Ashura), following the Prophet's recommendation.

Community Gatherings: In many Muslim-majority countries, community gatherings and religious lectures are held to discuss the significance of the Hijra and the lessons it carries.

Storytelling: The story of the Prophet's migration from Mecca to Medina is retold, emphasizing themes of sacrifice, faith, perseverance, and the building of community.

Acts of Charity: Muslims are encouraged to perform charitable acts and give to those in need, particularly during the sacred month of Muharram.