Celebrating the Islamic New Year
The Islamic New Year, known as the Hijri New Year or Al-Hijra
marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle for Muslims worldwide. The occasion is celebrated on the first day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.
This year, we pay a special tribute to our beloved Prophet Muhammad
(peace be upon him) and the practices he established for the Ummah. Here, we’ll explore the significance of the Hijri New Year by delving into verses from the Holy Quran and Hadiths.
The Holy Quran sheds light on the importance of reflecting and celebrating during this special occasion
(Celebrating the Islamic New Year)
‘Indeed, with hardship comes ease. Indeed, with hardship comes ease. So, when you have finished [with] your duties, then stand up [for worship]. And to your Lord direct [you’re] longing.’ (Quran, 94:5-8)
This beautiful verse not only serves as a reminder
to make of the cyclical nature of life but also encourages Muslims to seek solace and guidance from their Creator. During the Islamic New Year, Muslims are given an opportunity for new beginnings and for making amends.
Prophetic traditions (Hadiths) offer us guidance on how to welcome the Islamic New Year (Celebrating the Islamic New Year)
1. Supplication and fasting:
The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, ‘Fasting is a shield (or protection) from the fire and from committing sins. If one of you is to fast then let him avoid obscene speech and quarrelling,
and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him then let him say: ‘I am fasting.’ (Bukhari, 1804)
Fasting on the Day of Ashura (10th of Muharram),
which is the next special day after Hijri New Year, is a Sunnah of our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He used to fast on it and recommended the practice to his followers (Muslim, Hadith No. 1134 (S)).
2. Remembering the history:
Muharram is a sacred month, in which Muslims remember the tragic events of Karbala when Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Imam Hussain, and his family were martyred by the army of the tyrant Yazid. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices of the brave heroes of Islam and to remain steadfast on the right path. (Source: Ibn Kathir’s The Beginning and The End, Vol. 2, p. 430-437)
3. Seeking forgiveness and new beginnings:
It is narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “The best supplication is that which is short, comprehensive, and free from exaggeration. The best charity is that which is given out of what is surplus to one’s needs, and the best fasting is that of (Prophet) David (PBUH), who used to fast every alternate day.” (Musnad Ahmad)
The Islamic New Year presents an opportunity to seek forgiveness, make amends, and strive for a fresh beginning.
In conclusion, Muslims around the world celebrate the Hijri New Year with reverence, reflection, and hope. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sets an excellent example of how to welcome this occasion and utilize it as an opportunity for spiritual growth and self-improvement. By incorporating the Quranic verses and Hadiths, we are reminded of the significance of the Islamic New Year and the remarkable legacy left behind by our Prophet (PBUH).
Let us welcome this new year with renewed faith, forgiveness
and a commitment to follow the footsteps of our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
May this year bring peace, unity, and prosperity for the entire Ummah.
