Across the world Muslims have been marking the first month of the Islamic Calendar, but what actually is the Hijri New Year? Here is everything you must know.
Muslims will be celebrating the Islamic New Year on September 11 this year as it has been announced by the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia. The crescent moon was not sighted on Sunday evening and Supreme Court has decided that Monday shall be the completion of the month of Dhul Hijjah. As per the Umm Al Qura calendar, Tuesday is the first day of Muharram.
What is the Islamic New Year?
Islamic or Hijri New Year is the day that symbolizes the beginning of the new Islamic calendar year, this year it will begin on September 11, 2018.
The day actually decided with the moon as the Islamic Calendar is lunar, so last year it fell on September 22, 2017. The Islamic lunar year lasts for eleven to twelve days quite shorter than the Gregorian year and that is the reason the dates always differ.
During these days of the month, devoted Muslims offer special prayer meetings in the private mosques while during the ninth, tenth, and 11th day of Muharram, Muslims practice fast from dawn to dusk.
What is Muharram?
The word Muharram is derived from the word “forbidden”. It is believed that Muharram as the first month of the year is different from the Georgian calendar.
Muharram is considered as the second holiest and sacred month of the Muslim calendar after Ramadan. People offer prayers and fasting feature is observed daily. During the 10th day which is marked as the day of Ashura.
It is believed that Noah left the ark and that God saved Moses from the Egyptians and that is the reason commemoration takes place.
The period has a historical significance, as it marks the date when Hussein Ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was martyred. For next 11 days, Shia Muslims refrain themselves from taking part in joyous events. Following the religious scriptures, Sunni Muslims fast on the 10th day of Muharram. This is to pay respects to the rescue of the people of Israel by Prophet Moses (PBUH) from the Pharaoh.
What is Ashura Fasting?
Ashure or Noah’s pudding is prepared which is a firm fixture which traditionally involves at least seven ingredients, but regional variations. The ingredients may include – water, grains, pulses, fresh fruit, dried fruit, salt, and honey.
The dish may also be garnished with sesame seeds, rose water, nuts, and pomegranate seeds.
Ashura of Muharram – A Shia and Sunni Muslim Observance
Sunni Muslims look at Ashura as a day of “respect and gratitude” (for Prophet Moosa and his nation), while Shia Muslims believe that day to be a day of mourning and sorrow.
Responsible Corporate wishes all its loyal readers a happy and a peaceful year. Have a blessed Muharram!