The Islamic calendar is also called the Hijri calendar. It is used by Muslims around the world. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, it follows the lunar cycle. Therefore, it has 12 months in a year. Each month starts with the sighting of the new moon. The total number of days in a Hijri year is about 354. That’s 11 days shorter than the solar calendar.
What Are the 12 Months in the Islamic Calendar?
Here are the months of the Islamic calendar in order:
- Muharram
- Safar
- Rabi’ al-Awwal
- Rabi’ al-Thani
- Jumada al-Awwal
- Jumada al-Thani
- Rajab
- Sha’ban
- Ramadan
- Shawwal
- Dhul-Qa’dah
- Dhul-Hijjah
Each month has its own significance. For example, Ramadan is known for fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
What Does the Quran Say About the Months?
The Quran clearly mentions the number of months in Islam.
Indeed, the number of months ordained by Allah is twelve—in Allah’s Record since the day He created the heavens and the earth—of which four are sacred. That is the Right Way. So do not wrong one another during these months. And fight the polytheists together as they fight together against you. And know that Allah is with those mindful of Him.
Quran 9:36
This verse confirms that there are twelve months in the Islamic calendar. And these months were set from the beginning of time.
Which Months Are Sacred in Islam?
Four months in the Islamic calendar are considered sacred. They are:
- Muharram
- Rajab
- Dhu al-Qi’dah
- Dhu al-Hijjah
During these months, fighting is forbidden. Muslims are encouraged to increase good deeds and avoid sinful acts.
Why Is the Islamic Calendar Important?
The Islamic calendar governs religious duties. It determines the timing of Ramadan, Hajj, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha. Without knowing the Islamic months, it’s hard to follow these acts of worship correctly. Moreover, Islamic history is recorded using this calendar. Understanding it strengthens our connection to our past.
Differences From the Gregorian Calendar
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar is lunar. This causes Islamic months to move each year relative to the Gregorian calendar. The calender moves back 11 days reletive to the Gregorian calendar. Also the Islamic months are based on the sighting of the moon through its cycle. As a result, Muslims must rely on moon sightings or trusted Islamic authorities.
Conclusion
So, how many months are in the Islamic calendar? The answer is twelve as confirmed by the Quran. Each month holds deep spiritual meaning. From fasting in Ramadan to pilgrimage in Dhu al-Hijjah, every month has its purpose. Learning these months helps Muslims practice their faith better. It also builds stronger ties to Islamic tradition. Stay aware of the Islamic months, and you stay connected to your faith.
