Islamic New Year Starts

Islamic new year History

Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, is an important observance for Muslims around the world as it marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. The event holds spiritual significance, as it commemorates the migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD. This migration, called the Hijra, is seen as a pivotal turning point for Islam, and the New Year serves as an opportunity for Muslims to reflect on their faith and personal growth.

Historically, the Muslim community in South Africa has grown in size and influence since the arrival of the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century, with the first Muslims being brought over as slaves and political exiles from other countries. Islamic New Year holds special meaning for the Muslim community in South Africa, who hail from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The occasion provides a chance for these individuals to share their religious heritage and cultural practices with both the Muslim and non-Muslim populations of South Africa, fostering greater understanding and tolerance.

In South Africa, the Islamic New Year is observed through a combination of religious and cultural activities. Muslims attend special prayer services at mosques and take time to focus on their personal spiritual growth, including fasting, penance, and charity. It is also an opportunity for families to come together and celebrate, through communal meals and the sharing of gifts. The Islamic New Year is observed on July 23rd this year.

Islamic New Year Starts facts

• Muharram (1st first month of the Islamic calendar), is the holiest month after Ramadan. This month is most recommended by Muhammad to fast and worship in.
• The Islamic method of dating was invented by Umar ibn Al-Khattab, a close friend of Muhammad. He was the second Islamic Caliph (rulers) and in the year 638 he standardize the many calendars of the Arabian peninsula.
• The Muslim slaves and political exiles brought to South Africa during the Dutch colonial rule in the 17th and 18th centuries introduced Islam to the region. The Cape Malay community played a significant role in the spread of Islam in present-day South Africa.
• Islamic New Year is also referred to as Ra's as-Sanah al-Hijriyah (head of the Islamic year) in South Africa, depending on cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for Islamic New Year Starts

Top things to do in South Africa for Islamic New Year's Day

• Muslim parents traditionally tell their children of Muhammad's escape from Mecca to Medina on this night.
• Attend a Islamic New Year Celebration. In Indonesia, the government holds various parades and marches to celebrate the Islamic new year. This includes chanting songs called kidung.
• Visit the Bo-Kaap neighborhood in Cape Town, a historic neighborhood with links to the Cape Malay Muslim community. You can explore the colorful streets, visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, or sample some delicious Malay cuisine at a local restaurant.
• Visit the Auwal Mosque in Cape Town. As the oldest mosque in South Africa, visiting the Auwal Mosque during Islamic New Year can be an excellent way to experience a piece of South African Islamic history.