Islamic New Year
Most everyone is familiar with the celebrations that occur every year on January 1 to commemorate the new year. Countries around the world participate in activities such as the ball drop, parades, musical performances and other festivities.
However, this date does not represent the new year for all cultures and countries, including for those celebrating the Islamic New Year.
History of the Islamic New Year
The Islamic New Year, also referred to as the Hijra, indicates the beginning of the Islamic calendar. Before the establishment of the Hijra, Muslims living in the city of Mecca were persecuted for their belief in one God. In 622 C.E. (Common Era), the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) led his followers to the city of Medina.
The first Islamic society was established in Medina and the city became known as the “City of the Prophet”. In the following years, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) created the Constitution of Medina, declaring religious freedom for all.
Understanding the Islamic Calendar
The Islamic calendar began in the year 622 C.E. when the Prophet Muhammad traveled with his followers to Medina. The Islamic calendar is extremely unique and wholly different from the Gregorian calendar which is recognized around the world.
First and foremost, the Islamic calendar is cyclical, repeating itself every 30 years. Within the 30 years there are 11 leap years with 355 days and 19 regular years with 354 days.
Each month has a special meaning. For example, Muharram means “forbidden”. Hence the prohibition of fighting during this time.
Another distinctive feature of the Islamic calendar is the fact that it’s lunar. The beginning of each month is determined by the phases of the moon. Hence the difference in dates each year for important holy days such as Ramadan, Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha.
The 12 months of the Islamic calendar
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and it marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year.
Safar is the second month in the Islamic lunar calendar and is often associated with travel and journeying.
Rabi' al-Awwal is significant as it's the month in which Muslims celebrate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.
Rabi' al-Thani, also known as Rabi' al-Sani, is the following month in the Islamic calendar.
Jumada al-Awwal is the fifth month in the Islamic lunar calendar, and its name signifies "the first Jumada."
Jumada al-Thani, or Jumada al-Sani, follows the first Jumada and is the sixth month in the Islamic calendar.
Rajab is considered one of the sacred months in Islam and is a time for reflection and prayer.
Sha'ban is the month preceding Ramadan, and Muslims often engage in acts of worship and preparation during this time.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar when Muslims fast from dawn until sunset as an act of devotion and self-discipline.
Shawwal follows Ramadan, and it's notable for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festive holiday marking the end of Ramadan.
Dhu al-Qi'dah is the eleventh month in the Islamic calendar and is often associated with the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Dhu al-Hijjah is the twelfth month, and it is significant for being the month of the Hajj pilgrimage and Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice.
Shia Celebrations and Sunni Celebrations
There are two different types of Muslims – Shia Muslims and Sunni Muslims. Each group celebrates the Islamic New Year in a different manner.
Shia Muslims begin the year with 10 days of mourning and fasting in memory of the Prophet Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-law Ali and grandson Husayn.
Sunni Muslims begin the year with prayer and time spent with family.
How To Celebrate Islamic New Year in the Workplace
The Islamic New Year may be difficult to celebrate in-office as Muslims take the day off to spend time with family and friends.
However, there is a multitude of ways to stand in solidarity with the Muslim community in the workplace. Here are several actions leaders and employees can take to ensure a safe workplace for Muslim employees.
Accommodate Dietary Restrictions
Muslims choose to abstain from pork and alcohol. When organizing a luncheon or night out on the town, be sure to account for these dietary restrictions.
Allow Time for Prayer
Muslims pray five times per day for a brief period of time. The times during which they pray are early morning, afternoon, late afternoon, evening and night. Allow Muslim employees to practice prayer and avoid scheduling meetings or other events during these times.
Respect Boundaries Between Men and Women
Muslims abide by different guidelines that dictate interactions between men and women. While these guidelines may not be customary in other cultures, they should be respected. For example, leaving the door open during a one-on-one meeting between a male leader and female employee, or vice versa.
Workplace Inclusive Training
Celebrating important holidays, like Islamic New Year and Ramadan, is integral to creating an inclusive environment.
Further Resources
Check out the following resources to learn more about inclusive practices for Muslim employees and overcoming Islamophobia in the workplace.