The Hijri calendar, also known as the Islamic calendar or the Muslim calendar, is a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months in a year of 354 or 355 days. It is the official calendar in many Muslim-majority countries and is used worldwide by Muslims to determine the proper days for Islamic holidays, rituals, and events.
The Historical Origins of the Hijri Calendar
The Hijri calendar was established during the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) in 638 CE, approximately six years after the death of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The calendar begins its count from the year of the Hijra, the migration of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
This migration, known as the Hijra, marks one of the most significant events in Islamic history. It was not merely a physical journey but a transformative moment that established the first organized Muslim community and laid the foundation for Islamic civilization.
How the Hijri Calendar Works
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is a solar calendar based on Earth's rotation around the sun, the Hijri calendar is a purely lunar calendar. Each month begins with the sighting of the new moon (hilal), making it approximately 11 days shorter than the solar year.
The Twelve Months of the Hijri Calendar
- Muharram - The first month, one of the four sacred months
- Safar - The second month
- Rabi al-Awwal - The month of the Prophet's birth
- Rabi al-Thani - The fourth month
- Jumada al-Awwal - The fifth month
- Jumada al-Thani - The sixth month
- Rajab - One of the four sacred months
- Sha'ban - The month before Ramadan
- Ramadan - The month of fasting
- Shawwal - The month following Ramadan
- Dhul Qi'dah - One of the sacred months
- Dhul Hijjah - The month of Hajj pilgrimage
Significance in Daily Muslim Life
The Hijri calendar plays a crucial role in determining the timing of religious obligations and celebrations:
- Ramadan: The ninth month dedicated to fasting from dawn to sunset
- Eid al-Fitr: Celebrated on the first day of Shawwal after Ramadan
- Eid al-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice during Dhul Hijjah
- Hajj: The annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Dhul Hijjah
- Ashura: The 10th of Muharram, commemorating significant historical events
Moon Sighting and Calendar Determination
One unique aspect of the Hijri calendar is that each month traditionally begins with the physical sighting of the new crescent moon. This practice connects Muslims to the natural world and the rhythms Allah has established in the heavens.
In modern times, some communities use astronomical calculations to determine the beginning of months, while others maintain the traditional practice of physical moon sighting. Both approaches reflect the flexibility within Islamic jurisprudence to address practical needs while preserving religious authenticity.
The Hijri Calendar in the Modern World
Today, the Hijri calendar serves multiple purposes:
- Religious observance and worship timing
- Official governmental use in many Muslim countries
- Personal spiritual connection to Islamic history
- Community coordination for religious events
Understanding the Hijri calendar deepens our connection to Islamic heritage and helps us appreciate the wisdom behind its establishment. As Muslims around the world continue to mark their days according to this blessed calendar, they maintain a living link to the prophetic tradition and the early Muslim community.
Conclusion
The Hijri calendar is more than just a way of counting days—it is a spiritual compass that guides Muslims through the sacred rhythms of their faith. By understanding its history and significance, we can better appreciate the wisdom embedded in Islamic tradition and strengthen our connection to the global Muslim community.