The 1st of Muharram 2025 marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year. Falling on Sunday, June 29, 2025 (subject to moon sighting), this date holds deep historical and spiritual importance for Muslims around the world. It commemorates the Hijrah—the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, a pivotal moment that led to the establishment of the first Islamic state.
The 1st of Muharram 2025 marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year. Falling on Sunday, June 29, 2025 (subject to moon sighting), this date holds deep historical and spiritual importance for Muslims around the world. It commemorates the Hijrah—the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, a pivotal moment that led to the establishment of the first Islamic state.
What is Muharram?
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is one of the four sacred months in Islam. Its name comes from the Arabic root “ḥ-r-m,” meaning forbidden or sacred. During this month, warfare and conflict were traditionally prohibited by tribal customs, a principle that Islam upheld and reinforced.
The month of Muharram is particularly sacred for reflection, remembrance, and spiritual devotion. It is also a time when Muslims reflect on themes of sacrifice, justice, and perseverance.
Muharram 2025: 1st Month of New Islamic Year 1447
The first month of the Islamic calendar, 1st Muharram 2025 in Pakistan, possesses great religious significance to Muslims all over the world. 1st Muharram 2025 is thus the beginning of the new Hijri year 1447 A.H. It is the month of contemplation, prayers, and remembrance, especially of the martyrs of Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions in Karbala. Also, it is a month to renew your spiritual self and start a healing journey.
Key Facts About Muharram:
1. A Sacred Month
Muharram is considered one of the holiest months in Islam, after Ramadan.
Fighting or war is historically forbidden during this month, as part of ancient Arabian custom preserved in Islam.
Good deeds done during this month are believed to carry greater reward.
2. Start of the Islamic New Year
The 1st of Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar.
It commemorates the Hijrah (migration) of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
This migration marks Year 1 of the Islamic calendar (AH - After Hijrah).
3. The Day of Ashura (10th Muharram)
Ashura is the 10th day of Muharram and is one of the most significant days in Islamic history.
For Sunni Muslims:
It is a day of fasting, in remembrance of the Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites being saved from Pharaoh.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ fasted on this day and recommended others do the same.
For Shia Muslims:
Ashura is a day of mourning and grief to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.
Shia communities hold processions, recite elegies, and reenact the events of Karbala to honor his sacrifice for justice and truth.
🙏 How Muslims Observe Muharram
Fasting, especially on the 9th and 10th (or 10th and 11th) of Muharram.
Prayer and reflection, especially on the meaning of sacrifice, faith, and justice.
Charity and good deeds are encouraged.
Avoiding sin and conflict, as it's a sacred time.
Shia Muslims engage in majlis (gatherings), mourning rituals, and public commemorations of Karbala.
The Significance of 1st Muharram
While the 1st of Muharram marks the start of the new Hijri year, it is not celebrated with festivities like the Gregorian New Year. Instead, it is observed with prayers, quiet reflection, and remembrance of important Islamic historical events. For many Muslims, it’s a moment to renew their spiritual goals, seek forgiveness, and set intentions for the year ahead.
The 1st Muharram is also a time to remember the trials faced by the early Muslim community and the enduring values of faith, patience, and unity.
🕋 1. The Start of the Hijri Calendar
The Islamic calendar begins with 1st Muharram, 1 AH (After Hijrah).
It commemorates the Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
This migration was not just a physical journey—it marked the foundation of the first Islamic state and the beginning of a new era for the Muslim community.
🙏 2. A Time for Reflection and Renewal
The 1st of Muharram is not celebrated with parties or fireworks like the Gregorian New Year.
Instead, it is a time of quiet reflection, self-assessment, and setting spiritual goals.
Many Muslims make du'a' (supplication) for a blessed year, increase in good deeds, and seek forgiveness from Allah.
🕌 3. One of the Sacred Months
Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam (along with Dhul-Qi 'dah, Dhul-Hijja, and Rajab).
The Qur’an mentions that fighting and war are forbidden during these months, emphasizing their peaceful and spiritual nature.
Deeds done in these months—whether good or bad—carry greater weight in the sight of Allah.
📜 4. The Beginning of Important Islamic History
The 1st Muharram serves as a reminder of how early Muslims endured hardship and persecution.
The Hijrah represents the transition from oppression to freedom, from fear to security, and from despair to hope.
It inspires Muslims to trust in Allah, be patient in adversity, and remain firm in their faith.
💡 Summary
Aspect | Significance |
Historical | Marks the Hijrah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ |
Spiritual | A time for renewal of intentions and self-reflection |
Sacred | One of Islam’s four sacred months |
Moral Message | Teaches patience, perseverance, and hope |
The 1st of Muharram is not just a date—it's a symbol of new beginnings, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. It reminds Muslims to start the year with purpose, humility, and gratitude.
Muharram and the Day of Ashura
Although the entire month is revered, the 10th day of Muharram—Ashura—is especially significant. For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is observed through fasting and commemorates several important events, such as the saving of Prophet Musa (Moses) and his people from Pharaoh. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended fasting on this day and the day before it (9th Muharram) as an act of devotion.
For Shia Muslims, Muharram—and especially Ashura—is a time of profound mourning, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This tragic event is remembered through majlis (gatherings), processions, poetry, and public expressions of grief and solidarity.
Significance of Ashura in Sunni Islam
For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is a day of fasting and gratitude to Allah.
🌊 Historical Events Remembered:
The deliverance of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites from Pharaoh’s tyranny, as mentioned in the Qur'an.
It is reported that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ found the Jews of Medina fasting on this day and said:
“We are closer to Musa than they are.”
He then encouraged Muslims to fast on Ashura, and later also on the 9th or 11th Muharram to distinguish it.
🟢 Sunnah of the Prophet:
Fasting on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura) is a Sunnah (recommended practice).
Fasting on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th is even more encouraged.
🖤 Significance of Ashura in Shia Islam
For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a day of deep mourning and remembrance of Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
⚔️ The Battle of Karbala:
On 10th Muharram, 61 AH (680 CE), Imam Hussain and his small group of followers were martyred in Karbala, Iraq, by the forces of the tyrant ruler Yazid.
Imam Hussain stood for truth, justice, and resistance against oppression.
His death is a symbol of sacrifice, moral courage, and standing up against tyranny.
🕯️ How Shia Muslims Observe It:
Attend Majlis (gatherings) where sermons and poetry are shared about Karbala.
Participate in mourning processions and reenactments of the tragedy.
Express grief through du'a' (supplications), chest-beating (matam), and public reflections.
🤝 Shared Values
While Sunni and Shia observances differ, the month of Muharram—and especially the Day of Ashura—is a time for spiritual reflection, remembrance of history, and a reminder of the values of:
Faith
Sacrifice
Justice
Patience
Devotion to Allah
📜 In Summary
Event/Practice | Sunni Muslims | Shia Muslims |
Fasting on Ashura | Yes, highly recommended | May not fast (focus is on mourning) |
Focus of the Day | Gratitude for Prophet Musa’s deliverance | Mourning Imam Hussain’s martyrdom |
Recommended Acts | Fasting, prayer, reflection | Majlis, mourning, processions, remembrance |
Historical event recalled | Exodus of Musa | Battle of Karbala and martyrdom of Hussain |
How Muslims Observe the Islamic New Year (1st Muharram)
The Islamic New Year begins on the 1st of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Unlike the festive and public celebrations seen during the Gregorian New Year, the Hijri New Year is observed in a quiet, spiritual, and reflective manner by Muslims around the world.
🕌 1. Attending Mosque and Religious Gatherings
Some Muslims attend special lectures or sermons in mosques where the story of the Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is shared.
These gatherings focus on lessons from Islamic history, especially the values of faith, sacrifice, and perseverance.
🙏 2. Making Du'a' (Supplication) and Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)
Muslims use this day to pray for a blessed year ahead.
They may recite special du'a' for protection, forgiveness, and guidance.
It’s a time to remember Allah often through dhikr, reflecting on His mercy and greatness.
📖 3. Reflecting on the Hijrah and Setting Spiritual Goals
The Hijrah (migration) from Mecca to Medina symbolizes a fresh start, sacrifice for a greater purpose, and trust in Allah.
Many Muslims take this opportunity to:
Review their faith and character
Set personal and spiritual goals
Commit to improving their worship, kindness, and behavior
❤️ 4. Doing Good Deeds
Since Muharram is a sacred month, good deeds are believed to carry extra reward.
Acts like giving charity, helping others, and forgiving past wrongs are encouraged.
Some people use this time to reconnect with family, support the needy, or volunteer.
🕊️ 5. Maintaining Peace and Avoiding Sin
As one of the four sacred months, Muslims are reminded to avoid conflict, anger, and wrongdoing.
It’s a time to cultivate peace, patience, and self-control.
📅 6. Fasting During Muharram
While not required on the 1st of Muharram itself, many Muslims fast during Muharram, especially on the 9th and 10th (known as Ashura), following the example of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Fasting these days is considered to bring great spiritual rewards and forgiveness.
💬 Summary: A Time for Renewal
Practice | Purpose |
Prayer and Du'a' | Seek blessings and guidance from Allah |
Reflection and Repentance | Spiritual self-check and setting new goals |
Fasting (especially on Ashura) | Acts of worship and remembrance |
Charity and Good Deeds | Gaining reward and helping others |
Peaceful Conduct | Honoring the sacred nature of the month |
The Islamic New Year is a quiet but powerful reminder that each day is a new opportunity to become a better person and grow closer to Allah. It’s not about outward celebration, but inward transformation.
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