What is the Hijri Calendar?

The Hijri calendar, also known as the Islamic or lunar calendar, is a calendar based on the cycles of the moon. It is primarily used in the Muslim world to determine religious occasions such as Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and the Hajj pilgrimage.

Origins of the Hijri Calendar

The Hijri calendar was established during the rule of the second Caliph, Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), when Muslims decided to mark the Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Mecca to Medina as the starting point of the Islamic calendar. This event took place in 622 AD, which became the first year of the Hijri calendar.

How the Hijri Calendar Works

The Hijri calendar consists of 12 lunar months, with each month lasting 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. As a result, the Hijri year is about 10 to 12 days shorter than the Gregorian (solar) calendar, causing the Islamic months to shift through different seasons over the years.

Hijri Months and Their Names

Muharram Safar Rabi' al-Awwal Rabi' al-Thani Jumada al-Awwal Jumada al-Thani Rajab Sha'ban Ramadan Shawwal Dhul-Qi'dah Dhul-Hijjah

Importance of the Hijri Calendar in Islam

The Islamic calendar plays a crucial role in determining the dates of religious observances, including: Fasting in Ramadan: The month of Ramadan begins based on the sighting of the new moon. Hajj pilgrimage: The Hajj takes place during the month of Dhul-Hijjah. Islamic Holidays: Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr after Ramadan and Eid al-Adha during the Hajj season. Differences Between the Hijri and Gregorian Calendars The Hijri calendar follows the lunar cycle, while the Gregorian calendar follows the solar cycle. The Hijri year is approximately 10 to 12 days shorter than the Gregorian year. The Hijri calendar begins from the Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, while the Gregorian calendar begins from the birth of Jesus Christ (peace be upon him). Use of the Hijri Calendar Today Although the Gregorian calendar is widely used globally, many Islamic countries, such as Saudi Arabia, still rely on the Hijri calendar for official purposes, especially for religious events, legal documents, and age calculations.

Conclusion

The Hijri calendar is an essential part of Islamic heritage and plays a vital role in organizing religious events and rituals. Despite the differences from the Gregorian calendar, Muslims around the world continue to depend on it for religious observances.