The Islamic Calendar: How does it Work and Why

For Muslims worldwide, the sighting of a new moon marks the beginning of a month in the Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar. This lunar-based system holds deep spiritual significance, as it governs the timing of key religious events, including Ramadan, Hajj, and Islamic New Year. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is widely used today, the calendar of Islam reflects the rhythm of the moon’s phases, creating a unique cycle of time revered by nearly 1.8 billion Muslims globally.

Historically, the 12 months of the Islamic calendar were the foundation of daily life in Muslim societies. The transition to the Gregorian calendar came later with modernization, but the Islamic calendar remains deeply embedded in religious practices and spiritual observances. The Islamic months’ names include Muharram, Safar, Rabi’ al-Awwal, and Dhul Hijjah, among others, each carrying its own historical and spiritual significance.

At Makkah2Madinah, we understand how vital it is for pilgrims to have reliable and comfortable travel options during these spiritually significant times. Whether you’re observing one of the holy Islamic year months such as Ramadan or Dhul Hijjah, or simply planning an Umrah trip during any of the Islamic  months, our expert Umrah taxi services ensure a seamless journey.

The 12 Islamic Months

The 12 months of the Islamic calendar are:

1. Muharram (المحرّم)
2. Safar (صفر)
3. Rabi’ al-Awwal (ربيع الأوّل)
4. Rabi’ al-Thani (ربيع الثاني)
5. Jumada al-Awwal (جمادى الأولى)
6. Jumada al-Thani (جمادى الثانية)
7. Rajab (رجب)
8. Sha’ban (شعبان)
9. Ramadan (رمضان)
10. Shawwal (شوّال)
11. Dhul-Qi’dah (ذو القعدة)
12. Dhul-Hijjah (ذو الحجة)

MUHARRAM (Sacred month of Allah)

Muharram, which means “forbidden” in Arabic, is the first month of the Hijri calendar and is very important in Islam. As the 1st month of the Islamic calendar, it is one of the four holy months when fighting is not allowed, focusing on peace and reflection. This month is considered sacred to protect Muslims, especially after returning from Hajj.

The Islamic calendar starts with Muharram, marking the beginning of the year for Muslims. It is a time for prayer, reflection, and remembering key events in Islamic history.

The most important day in this month is the Day of Ashura, which falls on the tenth day. For Sunni Muslims, it celebrates the parting of the Red Sea by Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him), while for Shia Muslims, it is a day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), at the Battle of Karbala.

By remembering the events of Muharram, Muslims are reminded of faith, sacrifice, and unity that are part of the first month of the Hijri calendar. The 1st month of the Islamic calendar helps Muslims reflect on their rich history and the importance of time in the Islamic calendar.

Muharram is one of the four holy months of Islam and the start of the Hijri year. The Qur’an emphasizes its sanctity:

“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah… of these, four are sacred.” (Qur’an 9:36)

Ashura, which falls on the 10th of Muharram, honors the Israelites’ and Prophet Musa’s (AS) miraculous freedom from the oppression of Pharaoh. Additionally, the Prophet ﷺ urged Muslims to fast on this day in order to atone for sins committed throughout the previous year.

LESSONS OF MUHARRAM 

1. Revive Your Beliefs: Begin the new year by refreshing your intentions and deepening your relationship with Allah.
2. Have Faith in Allah: The story of Musa (AS) reminds us to trust in Allah during challenges; patience brings eventual help.
3. Increase Good Deeds: Make the most of this holy month by focusing on fasting, giving to those in need, and performing acts of kindness.

SAFER (Have Faith in Allah’s Plan)

Safar is the name of the second month. There are two probable explanations for the translation’s meaning of “void.”

Since everyone was out searching for and gathering food at this time of year, some people think the name comes from the fact that Arab homes were deserted. On the other hand, some people think that stories about Arabs robbing their enemies’ homes after a war are the source of the month’s significance. In an attempt to solidify Islam as a nonviolent faith, Allah (SWT) ordered the Muslims to relocate to Medina during Safar in order to prevent any more fighting. 

Lessons of Safar Month

1. Avoid Baseless Beliefs
   Safar teaches us to abandon myths and unfounded fears, focusing instead on positive actions and strong belief in Allah.
2. Maintain Good Deeds and Repentance
   Continuing acts of worship, charity, and seeking forgiveness in Safar reinforces our connection with Allah.
3. Takeaway Embrace tawakkul (faith in Allah) and let rid of cultural superstitions.

RABI-UL-AWAL (The Month of Light and Blessings)

Rabi al-Awwal stands as a beacon of hope and renewal for Muslims, commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the final messenger and guide for humanity. This month symbolizes the beginning of divine guidance that illuminated the world with principles of mercy, justice, and unity.

It is a time to reflect deeply on the Prophet’s ﷺ unparalleled legacy, emulate his character, and spread the values he championed. Through increased devotion and acts of kindness, Rabi al-Awwal inspires believers to embody the light of his teachings in their daily lives.

Lessons from Rabi’ al-Awwal

1. Emulate the Prophet ﷺ: Learn compassion, humility, and devotion from his seerah.
2. Revive the Sunnah: Practice sunnahs like saying “Bismillah” and making daily du’as.
3. Strengthen Bonds: Promote unity, kindness, and reconcile relationships in his spirit.

Rabi al-Thani (The Month of Perseverance and Spiritual Growth)

Rabi al-Thani, which translates to “the second spring,” is the fourth month of the Islamic calendar. Even though this month has seen a variety of events, many Muslims use it as a time for grief. During Rabi al-Thani, Fatimah bint Musa, the daughter of Sufi sheikh Abdul-Qadir Gilani and the seventh Twelver Shia Imam Musa al-Kadhim, passed away. 

1. Seek Knowledge: Embrace learning about Islamic teachings and applying them to your daily life.
2. Strengthen Your Faith: Cultivate a deeper connection with Allah through consistent worship and trust in His plan.
3. Persevere in Good Deeds: Maintain sincerity and commitment in acts of charity, prayer, and community service.

Jumada al-Awwal: The Month of Resilience and Preparation

 The fifth month of the year, Jumada al-Awwal, means “the first parched land.” Jumada al-Awwal is supposed to have traditionally been the first month of summer before Islam, however some people think it means “to freeze” and has to do with parched land caused by frozen weather. 

Lessons from Jumada al-Awwal

1. Embrace Resilience: Like the challenges faced by early Muslims, this month encourages patience, perseverance, and faith in adversity.
2. Prepare for Spiritual Growth: Use this time to strengthen your relationship with Allah and prepare for upcoming months of devotion.
3. Reflect on Unity: Jumada al-Awwal reminds us to work towards unity within the Muslim community, focusing on compassion and support for one another.

Jumada al-Thani: The Month of Strength and Renewal

Jumada al-Thani, or “the last parched land,” is the sixth month of the Islamic calendar. Although it is a noteworthy month on the calendar, Muslims of various sects observe it for various reasons. The youngest daughter of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Khadijah, Fatimah al-Zahra, was born in this month and passed away in the same month. Many people are in mourning this month since Caliph Abu Bakr died on Jumada al-Thani.

Lessons from Jumada al-Thani

1. Persevere Through Challenges: Like the resilience of the early Muslims, this month teaches us to remain steadfast and patient in difficult times.
2. Renew Your Commitment: Jumada al-Thani encourages spiritual renewal—strengthen your worship, repentance, and connection with Allah.
3. Focus on Self-Improvement: Use this month as an opportunity to evaluate your actions and strive for personal growth in faith and character.

Rajab (The Month of Sacred Opportunities)

Rajab, which means “respect” or “honor,” is the seventh month of the Islamic calendar. Since it is the second of the holy months, fighting or being involved in conflict is prohibited. Rajab is a very important time of year since it is regarded as Allah’s (SWT) month. Rajab is thought to have been chosen by the Creator as a holy month so that Muslims could safely do the voluntary Umrah pilgrimage. 

Lessons from Rajab

1. Renew Your Relationship with Allah: Increase worship, repentance, and remembrance of Allah to purify your heart and actions.
2. Prepare for Ramadan: Use Rajab as a spiritual warm-up by strengthening your faith and setting goals for the holy month ahead.
3. Practice Generosity: Follow the example of the Prophet ﷺ by being charitable and showing kindness to those in need.

Sha’ban (The Month of Preparation and Blessings)

Sha’ban, the eighth month in the Islamic calendar, is regarded as the month of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Because Ramadan immediately follows it and Rajab comes before it, it is frequently called the ignored month, yet it is still a significant month. Sha’ban, which translates to “scattered,” refers to the season when Arabs have traditionally dispersed in search of water. Sha’ban is a popular tool used by Muslims nowadays to be ready for Ramadan.

Lessons from Sha’ban

1. Prepare for Ramadan: Sha’ban is a time to increase acts of worship and align your heart and intentions for the sacred month ahead.
2. Strengthen Your Connection with Allah: Engage in fasting, extra prayers, and sincere repentance to grow closer to Allah.
3. Revive Sunnah Practices: Follow the Prophet’s ﷺ example by fasting and increasing remembrance of Allah during this blessed month.

Ramadan (The Month of Mercy, Forgiveness, and Salvation)

One of the most notable months in the Islamic calendar, the ninth month is also widely recognized outside of the Muslim community. Ramadan, which traditionally falls during a hot season, implies “burning heat.” Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset throughout Ramadan to purify their bodies, minds, and spirits and to remember the blessings Allah (SWT) has given them. Muslims who fast are able to understand the suffering that their less fortunate brethren endure when they are hungry. 

At the conclusion of Ramadan, the blessed celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr marks the culmination of this spiritual journey. It is a joyous occasion of gratitude and unity, where Muslims glorify Allah (SWT) for granting them the strength to complete their fasts and gather with loved ones to share the blessings of this holy month. Eid also emphasizes the spirit of giving, as Muslims engage in acts of charity to ensure that even the less fortunate can partake in the happiness of the day.

Lessons from Ramadan

1. Strengthen Taqwa (God-consciousness): Fasting instills discipline and awareness of Allah in every action.
2. Appreciate Allah’s Blessings: Abstaining from food and drink fosters gratitude for Allah’s provisions.
3. Emphasize Charity and Generosity: Ramadan encourages helping those in need through zakat and sadaqah.
4. Value Time and Reflection: Nights of worship, such as Taraweeh and Laylatul Qadr, remind us of the importance of time and devotion.

Shawwal (The Month of Renewal and Gratitude)

The tenth month of Shawwal, month after ramadan which translates to “raised,” follows Ramadan. The term refers to the fact that female camels are typically pregnant during this season. With Eid al-Fitr occurring from the first to the third day, Shawwal is a month of celebration. During Shawwal, a lot of food, gifts, and prayers are shared, with many people hoping that Allah (SWT) will accept their Ramadan.

Lessons from Shawwal

1. Continue the Spirit of Ramadan: Shawwal encourages us to maintain the good habits formed during Ramadan, like fasting and prayer.
2. Fast Six Days for Reward: The Prophet ﷺ recommended fasting six days in Shawwal, which brings the reward of fasting for a whole year.
3. Embrace Gratitude: Use this month to express gratitude for the blessings of Ramadan and continue acts of worship and charity.

Dhul al-Qadah (The Month of Peace and Reflection)

Dhul al-Qadah, or “the month of truce,” is the eleventh month in the Islamic calendar. In order to allow Muslims to travel to Mecca and begin their Hajj in safety, Allah (SWT) opposes violence during this third holy month. It is unique because Allah (SWT) declared it to be such, and like the other holy months, it is a period when good and evil deeds are given greater weight.

Lessons from Dhul al-Qadah

1. Focus on Inner Peace: Dhul al-Qadah encourages reflection, calmness, and seeking peace within yourself and with others.
2. Prepare for Hajj: This month marks the beginning of the Hajj season, reminding us to prepare spiritually and mentally for the pilgrimage.
3. Strengthen Faith: Use this time to renew your commitment to Allah through worship, prayers, and good deeds.

Dhul Hijjah (The Month of Sacrifice and Divine Mercy)

The holiest and most important month of the Islamic year is the last one. Dhul Hijjah, which translates to “pilgrimage,” refers to the fact that Muslims perform the Hajj as part of their religious obligation during this month. The Day of Arafah, when Allah (SWT) finalized Islam, is one of the numerous important days in this month. Qurbani, the Festival of Sacrifice honoring Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his dedication to the Creator, is another important date.

Eid al-Adha is a time for immense joy and celebration that comes after Qurbani. The fourth and last holy month is Dhul Hijjah, which allows Muslims to safely do the Hajj.

Lessons from Dhul Hijjah

1. Embrace the Spirit of Sacrifice: Dhul Hijjah reminds us of the importance of sacrifice, exemplified by the actions of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), as we strive to put Allah’s will above our desires.
2. Maximize Worship: The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are among the most virtuous, offering a chance to increase acts of worship, including extra prayers, fasting, and dhikr.
3. Reflect on the Hajj Journey: Even for those not performing Hajj, this month encourages reflection on the spiritual journey and unity of Muslims worldwide.

Conclusion

The Islamic calendar, with its cycle of months, offers a profound spiritual journey that guides Muslims through a year of worship, reflection, and self-improvement. Each month carries unique lessons, from the fasting and self-discipline of Ramadan to the acts of charity and sacrifice in Dhul Hijjah.

These sacred months are designed not only to draw us closer to Allah but also to strengthen our communities, nurture our faith, and remind us of the timeless values of compassion, patience, and gratitude. By embracing the teachings of each month, we are reminded of the importance of spiritual renewal, the power of sacrifice, and the endless opportunities for growth. The Islamic calendar serves as a constant reminder of the divine mercy and the endless paths to purification, unity, and devotion.

About Makkah2Madinah

Makkah2Madinah is a UK-registered travel agency proudly serving Muslims from both Pakistan and the United Kingdom. Since our inception, we have been dedicated to providing personalized care to every traveler. Whether you are young or old, a first-time pilgrim, or a seasoned traveler, our knowledgeable guides, well-versed in Islamic history, ensure a spiritually uplifting journey from the moment you depart until you return home. 

At Makkah2Madinah, we also offer reliable Umrah taxi services to make your pilgrimage stress-free. Whether you need transportation from Jeddah to Makkah or between the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, our modern fleet and experienced drivers ensure a smooth and punctual ride.

With our Pay After Service option, you can experience the quality of our transportation services before making any payment, giving you added peace of mind and convenience. To learn more about our services and explore how we can assist you on your spiritual journey, click here for detailed information.

Performing Umrah: A Step-by-Step Guide

Performing Umrah for the first time is a profound and transformative experience. To ensure a fulfilling pilgrimage, it is crucial to understand each step, from entering the state of Ihram and reciting the Talbiyah, to performing Tawaf, completing Sa’i, and concluding with Tahalul. For an in-depth guide and valuable tips, visit our blog on How to Perform Umrah [INSERT LINK], where you will find everything you need to know for your spiritual journey.