What is Islamic calendar ?

The Islamic calendar, or the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar used by Muslims worldwide.

It is based on the cycles of the moon, and it is different from the Gregorian calendar, a solar calendar commonly used in the Western world.

History and Origins

The Islamic calendar was introduced by Prophet Muhammad in 622 CE when he migrated from Mecca to Medina. This event, known as the Hijra, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, which is why it is also known as the Hijri calendar.

Lunar Calendar System

The Islamic calendar follows a lunar calendar system, meaning that each month begins with the sighting of a new moon. The lunar cycle lasts approximately 29.5 days, meaning the Islamic year is about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year.

12 Lunar Months

The Islamic calendar consists of 12 lunar months, each starting and ending with the sighting of the new moon. The months are Muharram, Safar, Rabi al-Awwal, Rabi al-Thani, Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada al-Thani, Rajab, Sha’ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhu al-Qidah, and Dhu al-Hijjah.

Significance of Muharram

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and is considered a sacred month for Muslims. It is also the month when the Battle of Karbala occurred, a significant event in Islamic history.

Importance of Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, considered the holiest month in Islam. Muslims fast during Ramadan from dawn until sunset, a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and charity.

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are two major festivals in Islam that are celebrated according to the Islamic calendar. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, while Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.

Leap Years

The Islamic calendar is shorter than the Gregorian calendar by approximately 11 days, which means that the Islamic calendar shifts forward by about 11 days every year. To adjust for this, the Islamic calendar has leap years, which occur once every 2 or 3 years, depending on the sighting of the new moon.

Use in Daily Life

The Islamic calendar is used in daily life by Muslims all over the world. It is used to determine the dates of religious festivals and observances and personal and business matters.

Islamic New Year

The Islamic New Year, also known as Muharram, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. Muslims celebrate the Islamic New Year by reflecting on the past year and making resolutions for the year ahead.

Importance in Islamic Culture

The Islamic calendar is integral to Islamic culture and is deeply intertwined with religious beliefs and practices. It is a reminder of the importance of time and the need to use it wisely in service to God and humanity.

In conclusion

the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar used by Muslims worldwide. It is based on the moon’s cycles and differs from the Gregorian calendar. The Islamic calendar has 12 lunar months, each starting and ending with the sighting of the new moon. It is an integral part of Islamic culture, and it is