The Reason Why the Hijri Months Are Called by Their Well-Known Names
The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months. It begins with Muharram and ends with Dhul-Hijjah. Each month has a unique name, and many of these names have historical, linguistic, and cultural meanings dating back to pre-Islamic Arabia.
The names of the Hijri months were not chosen randomly. They reflect the seasons, weather conditions, customs, and important practices of the Arabs at the time they were named.
Let's explore the meanings and origins of all 12 Hijri months.
1. Muharram – The Sacred Month
The word Muharram comes from the Arabic root meaning "forbidden" or "prohibited." It was named so because fighting and warfare were prohibited during this sacred month. Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam.
2. Safar – The Empty Month
The name Safar is commonly associated with the Arabic word meaning "empty." It is believed to refer to the time when people would leave their homes for travel or expeditions, leaving their houses empty. Some explanations also connect it with the departure of people for seasonal activities.
3. Rabi' al-Awwal – The First Spring
Rabi' means spring, while al-Awwal means first. This month was named because it coincided with the spring season when the names were traditionally established.
4. Rabi' al-Thani – The Second Spring
Also known as Rabi' al-Akhir, this month means the second or latter spring. It follows Rabi' al-Awwal and completes the two months associated with the spring season.
5. Jumada al-Awwal – The First Dry or Frozen Month
The word Jumada is associated with dryness and the freezing or solidification of water. It is believed that this month was named because it coincided with a period of cold weather when water could freeze.
6. Jumada al-Thani – The Second Dry or Frozen Month
Also known as Jumada al-Akhirah, this is the second month associated with dryness or freezing conditions. Its name follows the same seasonal explanation as Jumada al-Awwal.
7. Rajab – The Revered Month
The name Rajab comes from an Arabic root associated with respect and reverence. It was named because the Arabs honoured this month and refrained from fighting during it. Rajab is also one of the four sacred months in Islam.
8. Sha'ban – The Month of Separation
The name Sha'ban is commonly linked to the Arabic word Tasha'aba, meaning to disperse or branch out. It is believed that people would spread out in different directions during this month in search of water, food, and other necessities.
9. Ramadan – The Month of Intense Heat
The word Ramadan is derived from the Arabic root Ramida, associated with intense heat or scorching conditions. According to a traditional explanation, the month received its name because it coincided with extremely hot weather when the names were established.
Today, Ramadan holds a special place in Islam as the month of fasting, the revelation of the Qur'an, and increased worship.
10. Shawwal – The Month of Raising
The name Shawwal is associated with the Arabic word Shala, meaning to rise or lift. Some explanations connect it with the raising of the tails of she-camels during the mating season. Shawwal is also the month in which Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
11. Dhul-Qa'dah – The Month of Sitting
The word Qa'dah means sitting or remaining seated. This month was named because people would traditionally refrain from fighting and sit back from warfare and travel. It is the third of the four sacred months.
12. Dhul-Hijjah – The Month of Pilgrimage
The name Dhul-Hijjah means "the month of Hajj." It was named because Muslims perform the annual pilgrimage to Makkah during this month. It is also associated with Eid al-Adha, the days of sacrifice, and the blessed first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.
Why Are the Hijri Months Important in Islam?
The Hijri calendar is more than a way of keeping track of dates. It helps Muslims organise important acts of worship and religious occasions throughout the year.
Allah says in the Qur'an:
"Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah from the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred."
(Surah At-Tawbah, 9:36)
The four sacred months are Muharram, Rajab, Dhul-Qa'dah, and Dhul-Hijjah.
Conclusion
The names of the twelve Hijri months carry centuries of history, Arabic language, and cultural traditions. Their meanings reflect the natural conditions and everyday practices of the Arabs when these names became established.
Understanding these names allows us to appreciate the history of the Islamic calendar and the significance of each month in Muslim life. Every Hijri month reminds us of the passage of time and the importance of making the most of our days through faith, worship, and good deeds.
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