Islamic New Year A Sacred and Celebratory Occasion

1. ALL THINGS TRENDING Islamic New Year A Sacred and Celebratory Occasion   BY MOHIT-KUMAR-SHARMA JUL 20, 2023 11:24  Introduction The Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year or Arabic New Year, is a significant occasion in the Islamic calendar. It marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar year and is observed with reverence and celebration by Muslims around the world. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the history, cultural significance, traditions, and customs associated with the Islamic New Year. From the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to the rich Islamic heritage, we will explore the essence of this sacred event. Join us as we embark on this enlightening journey through the Islamic New Year. Islamic New Year: An Overview Before we dive into the details, let's have a brief overview of the Islamic New Year: The Islamic New Year is based on the lunar Islamic calendar, which consists of 12 months in a year of 354 or 355 days. The first month of the Islamic calendar is Muharram, and the

2. Islamic New Year falls on the first day of Muharram. It is a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewal for Muslims worldwide. Significance of Muharram in Islamic New Year Muharram holds great significance in the Islamic New Year as it marks several historical events, including: 1.The Migration (Hijra) of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): The Islamic New Year begins with the commemoration of the Hijra, the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This migration holds immense historical and religious importance in Islam. 2.Martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA): For the Shia Muslim community, Muharram is a time of mourning as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), at the Battle of Karbala. Islamic New Year Traditions The Islamic New Year is observed with various traditions that hold cultural and spiritual significance: Gathering for Prayers and Sermons On the first day of Muharram, Muslims gather at mosques to offer special prayers and listen to sermons about the significance of the Islamic New Year. Imams and scholars enlighten the community about the historical events and encourage reflection and self-improvement. Fasting on the Day of Ashura The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, is a day of fasting and reflection for Sunni Muslims. It is believed that fasting on this day absolves sins and brings blessings for the coming year. Aashura Observances for Shia Muslims For Shia Muslims, the day of Ashura is observed with deep mourning and processions to remember the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA). They engage in acts of charity and distribute food to the needy as a way of showing empathy and compassion.

3. Reciting Duas and Qur'an During the Islamic New Year, Muslims engage in increased supplications (duas) and recitation of the Qur'an. This practice is believed to bring blessings and prosperity to their lives. Sharing Meals with Family and Neighbors Muslim families come together on the occasion of the Islamic New Year and share meals to celebrate the day. They also extend the festivities by sharing meals with neighbors and friends. Decorating Homes and Mosques Muslims decorate their homes and mosques with lights, lanterns, and colorful banners to mark the joyous occasion of the Islamic New Year. The Islamic New Year's Historical Journey The history of the Islamic New Year is deeply intertwined with the life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the development of the Islamic calendar: The Pre-Islamic Calendar Before the Islamic calendar, the Arabian Peninsula followed a lunar calendar known as the Pre- Islamic or Jahiliyyah calendar. This calendar was used by various tribes but lacked uniformity and had only 354 days in a year. The Hijra and Islamic Calendar In 622 CE, the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Medina took place, and it marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar. The decision to adopt a lunar calendar was made based on Islamic principles, emphasizing the importance of the moon's cycles. The Lunar Months The Islamic calendar consists of 12 lunar months, with each month corresponding to the phases of the moon. However, because a lunar year is shorter than the solar year, the Islamic calendar shifts approximately 11 days earlier each year in relation to the Gregorian calendar.

4. The Establishment of Muharram as the First Month The first month of the Islamic calendar,Muharram, was established by the Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab in 638 CE. He chose Muharram as the starting point because it holds historical significance due to the events of the Hijra. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1.What is the Islamic New Year? The Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and commemorates the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Medina. 2.How is the Islamic New Year celebrated? The Islamic New Year is celebrated with prayers, sermons, fasting on the day of Ashura, distributing food to the needy, reciting Qur'an, and sharing meals with family and neighbors. 3.Why is Muharram important in the Islamic New Year? Muharram is significant as it marks both the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) for Sunni and Shia Muslims, respectively. 4.What is the significance of fasting on Ashura? Fasting on Ashura is believed to absolve sins and bring blessings for the coming year, as it is associated with various historical and religious events. 5.How do Shia Muslims observe Ashura? Shia Muslims observe Ashura with mourning and processions to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA). They engage in acts of charity and express empathy and compassion. 6.Why does the Islamic calendar have fewer days than the Gregorian calendar? The Islamic calendar is based on lunar months, which are approximately 11 days shorter than solar months. As a result, the Islamic year has fewer days than the Gregorian year. Conclusion The Islamic New Year, symbolized by Muharram, is a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration for Muslims worldwide. It marks the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and holds historical significance in Islam. The observances during this sacred occasion, such as prayers, fasting, and acts of charity, emphasize the values of unity,

5. compassion, and self-improvement. As we commemorate the Islamic New Year, let us take a moment to reflect on its historical journey and cultural significance. The migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Medina not only marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar but also symbolizes resilience, faith, and the pursuit of religious freedom. It serves as a reminder of the unity and strength that can be achieved when people come together under a common purpose. ALSO READ International Moon Day Celebrating the Universal Bond with Our Celestial Neighbor - This Year Educate Yourself and Develop Your Skill with EasyShiksha Online Courses with Certificate - Authorised certificate recognized everywhere TAGS:ISLAMIC NEW YEARHIJRI NEW YEARARABIC NEW YEARISLAMIC CALENDARMUHARRAMPROPHET MUHAMMADPBUHMIGRATION OF PROPHET MUHAMMADHIJRASUNNI MUSLIMSSHIA MUSLIMSASHURAIMAM HUSSAINRAISLAMIC TRADITIONSISLAMIC CELEBRATIONSISLAMIC CUSTOMSISLAMIC HERITAGEISLAMIC HISTORY