Islamic New Year

Islamic new year History

The Islamic New Year (Arabic: رأس السنة الهجرية), also known as Hijri New Year or Arabic New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. The Islamic calendar consists of 12 lunar months, and the new year begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, signifying a new cycle and the potential for spiritual growth. While its primary purpose is religious, the event also serves as an opportunity to connect with family, friends, and the wider community, reflecting on the achievements and challenges of the past year and setting goals for the year ahead.

The Islamic New Year dates back to the migration (Hijra) of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This significant event marks the turning point in the spread of Islam and serves as the starting point for the Islamic calendar. For Americans, the Islamic New Year presents a chance to learn about and appreciate the rich history and cultural traditions of the expansive Muslim community that resides within the United States. Understanding this event allows individuals outside the Muslim faith to foster greater empathy and support for the beliefs and customs of their fellow citizens.

In America, the Islamic New Year is observed with prayers, religious lectures, and gatherings in mosques and community centers. The event is often an occasion for Muslims to come together, deepen their faith, and participate in community service. The Islamic New Year varies from year to year in the Western (Gregorian) calendar, due to the differences between the lunar-based Islamic calendar and the solar-based Gregorian calendar. Muslims in America will observe the Islamic New Year in accordance with the sighting of the new moon, as is done throughout the worldwide Muslim community.

Islamic New Year facts

• Muharram (1st first month of the Islamic calendar), is the holiest month after Ramadan. This month is most recommended by Muhammad to fast and worship in.
• The Islamic method of dating was invented by Umar ibn Al-Khattab, a close friend of Muhammad. He was the second Islamic Caliph (rulers) and in the year 638 he standardize the many calendars of the Arabian peninsula.
• The Islamic calendar is lunar cycle based and contains twelve months that make up a total of 354.36 days together.
• There are parallels between this holiday and the day of Ashura. Ashura commemorates what Muslims believe is Moses crossing the Red Sea to escape the oppressive Pharaoh on Ashura. Similarly, the Islamic New Year marks Muhammad's crossing the desert between Mecca and Medina to escape the oppressive Quraish nobles. For both observances, Muhammad recommended Muslims to fast.
• The Islamic calendar is abbreviated A.H. or Anno Hegirae in Western languages. The first date on the Islamic calendar, 1,1 Muharram A.H. corresponds to July 16, year 622.

In the News and Trending in the US for Islamic New Year

Top things to do in the US for Islamic New Year's Day

• Muslim parents traditionally tell their children of Muhammad's escape from Mecca to Medina on this night.
• Attend a Islamic New Year Celebration. In Indonesia, the government holds various parades and marches to celebrate the Islamic new year. This includes chanting songs called kidung.
• Read more about Muhammad's journey from Mecca to Medina by reading his biography, The Sealed Nectar.
• Places like The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston have significant collections of Islamic art. Visiting these places can be a way of celebrating Islamic heritage on New Year.