Muslims Mark Muharram As Islamic New Year Begins

Muslims Mark Muharram as Islamic New Year Begins

Muslims around the world have entered the year 1448AH following the commencement of the Islamic lunar calendar on June 16, 2026, with today, June 19, corresponding to the fourth day of Muharram, one of Islam’s four sacred months. Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, occupies a special place in Islamic tradition and is regarded as a period of spiritual reflection, devotion and remembrance. Islamic scholars note that the month is among those specifically designated as sacred in the Qur’an, where believers are urged to uphold righteousness and avoid wrongdoing. Religious leaders have used the occasion to remind worshippers of the significance of Qur’an 9:36, which references the twelve months ordained by God and identifies four of them as sacred. The verse is often cited during Muharram to encourage greater piety, self-discipline and commitment to justice. The month is also associated with important historical events in Islamic tradition, including the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the deliverance of the Children of Israel from the oppression of Pharaoh. Many scholars highlight the account as a powerful lesson on faith, perseverance and the ultimate triumph of justice over tyranny. According to Islamic teachings, voluntary acts of worship and fasting during Muharram are highly recommended. Particular attention is given to the Day of Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram, which holds special religious significance for Muslims across different traditions. Clerics have encouraged believers to use the new Islamic year as an opportunity for spiritual renewal, personal reflection and stronger commitment to moral values. They also called for prayers for peace, national unity and social justice. As the year 1448AH begins, Muslim communities are marking the occasion through prayers, sermons and religious gatherings focused on the lessons of faith, gratitude and steadfastness drawn from Islamic history.