Islamic New Year – All You Need To Know

Curious about the Islamic New Year? Wondering how Muslims approach celebrations and their significance? While Muslims embrace joy and happiness, they remain focused on the deeper purpose of life. Read on to discover why the Islamic New Year is observed differently and what it truly means in Islam.

What is the Islamic New Year? 

The Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of a new lunar Hijri year. It is the day when the Islamic calendar year count is incremented. This event commemorates the Hijra, the Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina, which took place in 622 CE. The Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, and the first month of the year is Muharram.

Read more: Hijra Secrets: All You Need to Know About Hijra 

When Does the Islamic New Year Start?

The Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year, begins on the first day of the month of Muharram. This marks the start of the Muslim lunar calendar year. Most Muslims observe the Islamic New Year on this day, reflecting on the significance of Muharram as the inaugural month of the Islamic calendar.

What Do You Need to Know About the Islamic New Year?

The Islamic New Year, or Hijri New Year, was established during the era of the Muslim leader Omar ibn al-Khattab. It is narrated that al-Khattab consulted the Prophet Muhammad‘s companions to choose an event to mark the beginning of the Islamic calendar. They considered three significant events: the birth, death, or Hijra (migration) of Prophet Muhammad to Medina.

The companions agreed to use the date of the Prophet’s Hijra as the starting point for the Islamic calendar. This decision emphasizes the importance of the Hijra, symbolizing a pivotal moment in Islamic history.

Read:

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Why Do Muslims Celebrate the Islamic New Year?

The Islamic New Year is a day of remembrance, honoring the beginnings and history of the Islamic religion. However, it is not a day of celebration for Muslims. Here’s why Muslims are not allowed to celebrate the Islamic New Year:

• Prophet Muhammad’s Practice: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not celebrate the Islamic New Year. Following his example, Muslims do not observe it as a celebratory event. Rather, The Hijri calendar was initiated during the era of Omar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him).
• Day of Reflection: The Islamic New Year serves as a time for Muslims to reflect on the Hijra (migration) of the Prophet Muhammad and the foundational moments of their faith.

The initiation of the Hijri calendar emphasizes the importance of the Prophet’s migration and serves as a reminder of Islamic history and heritage.

Does Islam Celebrate The Islamic New Year?

No, Islam does not celebrate the Islamic New Year. Instead, there are only two religiously sanctioned celebrations in Islam: Eid ul-Adha and Eid al-Fitr.

• Sanctioned Celebrations: Eid ul-Adha and Eid al-Fitr are the only celebrations endorsed by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), his companions, and the subsequent two generations of Muslims known as the Pious Predecessors.
• Invalidity of Innovation in Celebrations: Any other supposed Islamic celebrations are considered impermissible innovations, as the first three generations of Muslims did not practice them.
• Prophet’s Teaching: Anas Ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated an incident that clarifies the stance on celebrations in Islam:

“When the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) came to Medina, the people had two days on which they engaged in games. He asked: What are these two days (what is the significance)? … Allah has substituted for them something better than them, the day of sacrifice and the day of the breaking of the fast”  

(Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 1134)

Thus, celebrating a specific day annually requires Islamic instruction. However, personal occasions like weddings do not fall under this restriction.

Read more:

Eid Al Fitr 2023- Full Guide

How To Celebrate Eid in 2023 – Full Guide

What is the ideal Model that Islam has established?

Islam, being the religion of Allah and not of Muhammad (PBUH), is tailored by our Creator with perfect knowledge to suit and reform humanity. This divine origin sets it apart from being a collection of borrowed instructions and rituals from other traditions.

• Divine Origin: Islam is the religion of Allah, not Muhammad (PBUH). It is designed by our Creator with perfect knowledge to reform and suit us.
• Comprehensive System: Islam doesn’t merely collect some instructions from here and rituals from there. It presents a cohesive and comprehensive system.
• Unique Approach: If it were a man-made religion by Muhammad (PBUH), he could have said, “Let’s have a celebration like Christmas,” or combined all the easy and lovable elements from different religions to attract followers.

This ideal model ensures that Islam provides practical and holistic guidance, addressing every aspect of life and ensuring balance and harmony in society.

Read also:

What Is Islam? A Simple & Easy Guide For Non-Muslim

How can you discover the values of Islam?

Understanding the core value of Islam can be encapsulated in living a purposeful life dedicated to satisfying Almighty God and contributing positively to society. The essence of Islam encourages Muslims to regard their time and health as their most precious assets, emphasizing the importance of utilizing these blessings for good deeds.

A prophetic Hadith highlights this principle:

“There are two blessings in which many people incur loss. (They are) health and free time (for doing good).” (Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 6412)

Thus, this Hadith underscores the significance of using one’s health and free time wisely. In Islam, living with a purpose is fundamental. Muslims are urged to make the best use of their time, considering it the most valuable wealth they possess. The core of their life revolves around satisfying Almighty God (The Creator), reforming corruption, and contributing to the construction and betterment of society.

What is the Pattern that Islam Has Established for Celebrations?

Muslims cherish joy and happiness, yet they abstain from celebrating the Islamic New Year and birthdays, including that of Prophet Muhammad, for several reasons.

Muslims derive their guidance from the Quran, the Noble Book of Allah, and the authenticated sayings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Consequently, they refrain from observing the New Islamic Year or birthdays, in line with the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings.

Does this practice hold significance?

Absolutely. It is crucial for those committed to obeying the Almighty God. Still, the invalid practices of some Muslims don’t represent Islam.

Read: Eid Mubarak Wishes 2024 

History of April’s Fool Day in Islam – Four Assumed Origins Of April’s Fool Day 

Conclusion

To conclude, Islam does not celebrate the Islamic New Year, aligning with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) who did not observe it. Muslims derive their guidance primarily from the Quran and the authenticated sayings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), which do not prescribe celebrations for this occasion. Understanding the significance of following these teachings underscores the spiritual commitment to the religion, emphasizing obedience to the Almighty God rather than cultural or temporal celebrations.

Also, Islam sets noble values urging the wise one to search for the core of life. Don’t be sufficient with superficial matters. Read Quran. It helps you to discover yourself and the purpose of life.

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