Islamic New Year (redirected from Muslim New Year)

Islamic New Year

First day of the Islamic month of Muharram

The Islamic New Year occurs on the first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar. Muharram is one of four especially holy months for Muslims, along with Dhu al-Qadah, Dhu al-Hijjah (when the Pilgrimage to Mecca takes place), and Rajab (when Laylat al-Miraj is celebrated). The name of the month means "sacred."
The first day of Muharram commemorates the flight of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca, where he had experienced hostility toward his teachings, to Medina in 622, which is considered year one in the Muslim calendar. Muhammad's journey, known as the Hijra, is an important milestone in Islamic history, because it brought the religion to more people. Muhammad was welcomed in Medina and soon had many followers.
Devout Muslims observe New Year's Day by going to mosque to worship and listen to stories about Muhammad and early Muslims. Muslims traditionally make resolutions on this day to live more strongly in accord with the teachings of Islam. Some people may exchange gifts, but this is not a popular custom.

SOURCES:
ConEncyIslam-1991, p. 285
MusFest-1987, p. 43
RelHolCal-2004, pp. 143, 144