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Islamic New Year

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Announcement: Start of Islamic New Year 1445 – First Day of Muharram (أول أيام محرم)

A person prays on sighting of moon,for the islamic new year

We have some very important news to share regarding the start of the Islamic New Year 1445 and the sacred month of Muharram.

The Islamic New Year holds significance in Saudi Arabia, with the government giving it importance by announcing the first day of Muharram based on the sighting of the crescent moon.

It marks the beginning of the Islamic year, symbolizing renewal, reflection, and spiritual devotion for Muslims in the Kingdom.

As per the official announcement made by the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia, the first day of Muharram for the Islamic New Year 1445 will be observed on Wednesday, July 19, 2023.

The decision was made after no confirmed report of the Muharram 2023 moon sighting was received from any place in the Arab World.

The crescent moon marking the beginning of Muharram was not sighted on the evening of Dhul Hijjah 29 (Monday, July 17). Consequently, July 18 will be the last day of the month of Dhul Hijjah, and the new Islamic year will commence on July 19.

We are delighted to enter this auspicious month, which holds significant religious importance in Islam as the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Muharram is a time for reflection, remembrance, and seeking spiritual renewal.

Let us take this opportunity to contemplate and express gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us.

Throughout Muharram, many of us may choose to fast, perform voluntary acts of worship, and engage in acts of kindness and charity. It is a chance to strengthen our connection with Allah (SWT) and make positive changes in our lives.

We, as a community, should come together to support one another and extend a helping hand to those in need. May this new Islamic year bring peace, prosperity, and blessings to all of us, our families, and the entire Muslim ummah.

For those in Pakistan, we are pleased to confirm that the moon for the Islamic New Year 1445 was sighted on July 20, 2023. As a result, the first day of Muharram in Pakistan will be observed on Thursday, July 20, 2023, and Ashura 2023 will be kept on Friday, July 28, 2023.

Muharram in Pakistan

The Islamic New Year, starting with Muharram Sharif holds great significance and is observed with deep reverence in Pakistan. Here is an overview of the importance and customs associated with Muharram in the country:

  • Historical and Religious Significance: Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is marked by historical events, particularly the Battle of Karbala. It commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (R.A.), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), and his loyal companions. The events of Karbala symbolize the struggle for justice, sacrifice, and the preservation of Islamic values.
  • Commemorative Processions: Throughout Muharram, processions are held in various cities and towns in Pakistan.

The Pakistan government has declared public holidays on the 8th and 9th of Muharram to observe Ashura commemorations. Please note that government offices and educational institutions will remain closed on these dates

We are wishing you all a blessed Muharram and a joyous start to the Islamic New Year 1445.

May Almighty Allah bless us and guide us on the right path.

Team of Hajj

FAQs

Muharram Sharif is the first month of the Islamic New Year and holds significant religious importance for Muslims worldwide. It is a month of reflection, remembrance, and mourning, particularly for the events of Karbala.

Muslims observe Muharram Sharif with fasting, prayer, recitation of the Quran, and attending Majalis (religious gatherings) to recount the events of Karbala. Some individuals engage in acts of self-flagellation as a symbolic expression of grief.

Muharram Sharif, particularly Ashura (the tenth day), is often observed as a public holiday in many Muslim-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and others.

The sighting of the crescent moon marks the beginning of Muharram Sharif and the Islamic New Year. Its sighting is essential for determining the exact dates for observing Muharram and other Islamic months.

During Muharram Sharif, Muslims may engage in voluntary fasting, recite Nohas (elegies) and Marsiyas (poems of mourning), and participate in processions and charity activities.

While Muharram Sharif is primarily observed by Muslims, non-Muslims are welcome to attend gatherings to gain insight into the significance and customs of the month. However, respectful behavior and cultural sensitivity are essential.

Muharram Sharif lasts for 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon, with Ashura falling on the tenth day of the month. The month is followed by the arrival of Safar in the Islamic lunar calendar.

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