Islamic New Year 2023, also known as the Hijri New Year, marks the commencement of the Hijri calendar—a significant time of reflection, renewal, and spiritual goal-setting for Muslims worldwide. It signifies the beginning of the new lunar year and the increment of the year count. Most Muslims observe the first day of the month of Muharram as the start of the Islamic year.
The Islamic New Year falls on July 19, and Saudi Arabia has designated it as the first day of Muharram for the Islamic year 1445. This determination is based on the sighting of the crescent moon, which indicates the end of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah on July 18. Consequently, Wednesday, July 19, will be observed as the first day of Muharram in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, India will mark the first day of Muharram on Thursday, July 20.
The Islamic calendar consists of 12 months or 355 days and plays a central role in determining key religious events and obligations for Muslims, such as fasting during Ramadan and pilgrimage.
The significance of the Islamic New Year lies in its association with Muharram—a period of spiritual reflection and rejuvenation. It serves as a time for self-evaluation, expressing gratitude, seeking forgiveness, and making resolutions to strengthen one’s relationship with Allah. Additionally, the Islamic New Year serves as a reminder of the virtues of justice, bravery, and resistance against injustice, commemorating the sacrifices of Imam Hussein and his companions.
Some interesting facts about the Islamic calendar include its lunar nature, shorter duration compared to the Gregorian calendar, absence of leap years, and the occasional addition of an intercalary month called “Adh-Dhul Hijjah” approximately once every three years.
The exact date of the Islamic New Year varies each year due to the dependence on the sighting of the new moon. For instance, in India and several other countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, Morocco, and Malaysia, the month of Muharram is expected to begin on July 18, but the precise date will be confirmed upon the sighting of the moon of Muharram.