The Hijri New Year, also known as the Islamic New Year, is celebrated on the initial day of Muharram, the inaugural month of the Islamic calendar, which follows a lunar system distinct from the Gregorian calendar. The Islamic New Year precedes the Gregorian calendar by ten days each year. For instance, the year 2023 CE corresponds to the Islamic years AH 1444–1445.

This occasion signifies the commencement of the Muslim era and the establishment of the first Islamic community. Additionally, it holds particular significance for Muslims, as it marks the period when Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Medina.

Islamic Calendar

• Lunar Calendar: The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months in a year of 354 or 355 days. It is used to determine the dates of Islamic religious observances.

• Start Date: The Islamic calendar begins with the migration (Hijra) of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This event is considered significant in Islamic history and marks the start of the Islamic era.

Significance of Islamic New Year

• Historical Event: The Islamic New Year commemorates the migration (Hijra) of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina. This event occurred in the year 622 CE (commonly referred to as 1 AH - After Hijra).

• Spiritual Reflection: It is a time for Muslims to reflect on the Hijra and its lessons of faith, perseverance, and community solidarity. It marks a new beginning and serves as an opportunity for spiritual renewal and growth.

Observance and Practices

• Non-Religious Observance: Unlike some other cultural New Year celebrations, the Islamic New Year is not marked by festivities or public celebrations. It is observed primarily through religious activities and personal reflection.

• Prayers and Sermons: Muslims may attend special prayers at mosques, where religious leaders may deliver sermons (khutbah) focusing on the significance of the Hijra and its teachings.

• Private Reflection: Many Muslims take the day to engage in personal reflection, repentance (tawbah), and setting spiritual goals for the new year.

Practices and Customs

• Fasting: Some Muslims choose to fast on the day of the Islamic New Year as a form of worship and gratitude.

• Charity: Giving charity (sadaqah) and helping those in need are encouraged practices during the Islamic New Year and throughout the Islamic calendar.

Cultural Variations

• Regional Differences: While the Islamic New Year is universally recognized by Muslims, specific customs and practices may vary based on cultural traditions and local interpretations.

Conclusion

The Islamic New Year, or Hijri New Year, holds deep significance for Muslims worldwide as a time to commemorate the migration of Prophet Muhammad and to reflect on spiritual growth and renewal. While it is not marked by lavish celebrations, it is a meaningful occasion for Muslims to reaffirm their faith and dedicate themselves to acts of worship, kindness, and spiritual improvement in the year ahead.