Have you ever wondered why important Islamic events like Ramadan and Hajj are happening at different times every year? The reason is that Muslims hold to a different calendar based on lunar cycles rather than the solar Grigorian calendar. Adoption of the Islamic calendar, known as the Hijri calendar or Islamic New Year, is related to one of the most important historical events in Islamic History. While scholars applied the Hijri calendar retrospectively, today, all religious events are observed on the lunar Hijri calendar.
The Story of The Islamic New Year
The Hijra, or migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in the year 622 C.E. (Common Era), is the starting point for the Islamic calendar. Today, 1.8 billion Muslims all over the world join their families and friends to celebrate this religious event together. The Hijra is a watershed moment in Islamic history; its significance is evident in the fact that it represents the start of the Islamic calendar, rather than the birth of the Prophet Muhammad or the first Qur’anic revelation in 610 C.E.
Muharram-ul-Haram, or the Arabic New Year, is the Islamic New Year. It happens on the first day of Muharram, which is the first month of the year in the Islamic calendar.
The Hijri Calendar
As a result, the Islamic calendar, known as the Hijri calendar, begins in the year 622 C.E. Because it is a lunar calendar rather than a solar calendar, the start of each month is determined by the sighting of the new moon or crescent.
This is why festivities like Ramadan and the two festivals of Eid ul-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast) and Eid ul-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) occur eleven days earlier each year. As a result, Islamic observances are not associated with any particular season or time of year but rather with the event itself.
Despite the disparity between the lunar calendar and Grigorian calendars, scientifically, the Lunar calendar is more accurate in timekeeping terms. While the mere error of 2 seconds per year causes one leap day in every three thousand years of the lunar calendar, the Grigorian calendar needs a leap day every 4 years.
Islamic New Year Traditions
Even though Hijri New Year is a public holiday in many, if not all, Muslim countries, the way people celebrate it is not the same as it is in the West. It’s peaceful, with plenty of time for self-reflection and religious practices. The Muslim New Year is a holy day, as is the entire month of Muharram. It is an important day that marks the start of a new era, just as it did hundreds of years ago.
Gifting during Hijri New Year
Islamic New Year is widely celebrated among corporates as a gifting period. Many companies take advantage to stand out with unique and memorable gifts. Gifting employees and partners is common across the middle east. Preference is always given to dates, chocolates, and other sweets. To celebrate the occasion, many labels produce unique gift items featuring Islamic art.
Artistic meanings and characteristics
The Islamic world’s art reflects its cultural values and shows Muslims’ perspectives on the spiritual realm and the universe. Islamic art emphasizes the spiritual aspects of objects and persons rather than their physical characteristics. The Muslim artist seeks to portray what nature signifies rather than reproduce it exactly as it is.
What to gift During the Islamic New Year?
If you’re wondering what gifts to send to greet your loved ones on the occasion of the Islamic New Year, we have gathered for you four Islamic-themed gifts to wish your colleagues, friends and family a happy year!
1- White Chocolate Aseeda Box of 35 Bites by Mirzam
Greet the ones you love with this box of delicious white chocolate, toasted until it’s deep brown to create a caramelized flavor and then spiced with cardamom. The authentic patterns on the box make this gift an ideal one for the occasion.
2- Monsoon Collection Library Chocolate Box By Mirzam
Mirzam’s complete Monsoon Collection, presented in a beautiful, high-quality presentation box, made with Mirzam’s signature black kraft paper, with a stamp on the lid. A box for a huge celebration!
3- Baby Blue Earth Stone Rosary from Sabhah
This Baby Blue Earth Stone Rosary from Sabhah is not only beautiful, but it’s also a meaningful gift. The 7mm beads produce an elegant, sophisticated look that’s perfect for both men and women. This gorgeous piece features a delicate design, allowing the natural baby blue color to shine through. Whether you’re giving it as a self-care gift or a token of appreciation and love, this striking rosary is sure to be cherished for years to come. With its timeless beauty and luxurious feel, this is the perfect gift for any occasion.
4- Arabian Wooden Eid Box with stuffed Dates & Date chocolate By The Date Room
Dates are amongst the most authentic and traditional Arabian gifts. This box is filled with the rich properties of nature and made with pure Arabian wood. It is a perfect choice for a very healthy and elaborate gift. Leave a lasting impression on friends and family by giving them a luxurious tasting experience in the form of delicious premium dates.
