“Lo! The number of the months with Allah is twelve months by Allah’s ordinance in the day that He created the heavens and the earth. Four of them are sacred.” (Surat At-Tawbah 36).

New hijrah, 1446, begins today, the 1st day of Muharram. Hijrah, the migration of the Muslims of Makkah to Madinah 1446 years ago, is used as the starting point for the Islamic calendar and a reference point for major Islamic events. The migration was a watershed event not only on a personal level for Prophet Muhammad (SAW), but also for the Muslims who left their beloved Makkah, the Muhajirun, sacrificing material possessions, adapting a new lifestyle and fleeing persecution. Similarly, the Muslims of Madinah, the Ansar, who welcomed them and shared their city, life savings and wealth were affected by the change. All these are important lessons for us today.

As Muharram, one of the 4 sanctified months (the others are Rajab (7th), Dhu Al Qaeda (11th) and Dhu Al Hijjah (12th)) was a new beginning for the Prophet and his companions, so can it be for us as well. As a nation and individually, it is time to assess, reassess, and commit to a fresh start.

May Allah make Hijrah 1446 a year full of success and prosperity for us all. For us and our nation, we pray that each day will be full of Allah’s blessings and mercy. Happy Hijrah 1446.

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