Month

Month (Shahr)

Etymology and Arabic Translation

Month in Arabic is shahr (شهر), with the plural form being shuhūr (شهور). This term is integral to the Islamic lunar calendar system.

The Islamic Lunar Calendar

The months of the Islamic calendar are based on the lunar cycles. The commencement of each month is marked by the appearance of the new moon (hilāl). In total, there are twelve lunar months, each with its own historical and religious significance.

Names and Significance of Islamic Months

Below are the names of the twelve months along with their etymology and significance:

1. Muḥarram (محرّم):

   • Etymology: The month derives its name from the Arabic root ḥarām, meaning “forbidden,” as warfare was traditionally prohibited during this period.
   • Significance: It is considered a sacred month. Important events include the martyrdom of al-Ḥusain and the observance of the ‘Āshūrā’ fast.

2. Ṣafar (صفر):

   • Etymology: Derived from ṣafir, meaning “empty,” possibly because homes were left empty during journeys or battles.
   • Significance: Often viewed as an inauspicious month, associated with the fall of Adam from paradise and the illness of Prophet Muhammad.

3. Rabīʿu ʾl-Awwal (ربيع الاول):

   • Etymology: “The first spring.” Named when the month coincided with the spring season.
   • Significance: Prophet Muhammad was born and died in this month.

4. Rabīʿu ʾl-Āk͟hir (ربيع الاخر):

   • Etymology: “The second spring.” Similarly named during the spring.
   • Significance: Continuation of the spring season observances.

5. Jumādā ʾl-Ūlā (جمادى الاولى):

   • Etymology: Derived from jamādā, which means freezing, due to its occurrence during the winter season initially.
   • Significance: Indicates the onset of harsher climatic conditions.

6. Jumādā ʾl-Uk͟hrā (جمادى الاخرى):

   • Etymology: Similar to Jumādā ʾl-Ūlā, referring to frozen conditions or dry land.
   • Significance: Represents harsher weather conditions.

7. Rajab (رجب):

   • Etymology: Means “honored,” due to its sanctity and prohibition of warfare.
   • Significance: A time for heightened religious observance and prayer.

8. Shaʿbān (شعبان):

   • Etymology: Means “separation,” referring to the dispersion of people in search of water or for raiding.
   • Significance: Known for the observance of Shab-i-Barāt, the “Night of Record.”

9. Ramaẓān (رمضان):

   • Etymology: From ramẓ, meaning “to burn,” signifying the hot season when it was named or the burning away of sins.
   • Significance: The holy month of fasting, introspection, and prayer, marking the revelation of the Qur’an.

10. Shawwāl (شوال):

    • Etymology: From shawāl, meaning “to raise,” linked to she-camels raising their tails in this season.
    • Significance: Marks the end of Ramazan fasting with ’Īd al-Fiṭr celebrations.

11. Ẕū ʾl-Qaʿdah (ذو القعدة):

    • Etymology: Means “month of truce,” when fighting was traditionally halted.
    • Significance: A time for peace and preparation for the pilgrimage.

12. Ẕū ʾl-Ḥijjah (ذو الحجة):

    • Etymology: Means “month of pilgrimage.”
    • Significance: Includes the Hajj pilgrimage rites and ’Īdu ʾl-Aẓḥā, the Festival of Sacrifice.

Sacred Months

The four sacred months during which warfare is prohibited are Muḥarram, Rajab, Ẕū ʾl-Qaʿdah, and Ẕū ʾl-Ḥijjah. These months hold immense spiritual significance, rooted in pre-Islamic traditions and confirmed in Islamic teachings.

Suggested Books for Further Studies:

• “Islamic Calendar: Time and History in the Muslim Mind” by Julian Barbour
• “A History of Islamic Societies” by Ira M. Lapidus
• “The Muslim World: A Historical Survey” by J.L. Esposito
• “Islamic Beliefs, Practices, and Cultures” by Marshall Cavendish

Takeaways

• The Islamic lunar calendar is a crucial aspect of Muslim life, determining the timing of religious observances and historical commemorations.
• Each month has a unique significance and often connects to historical events or divine ordinances.
• Understanding the etymology and customs can deepen the appreciation of Islamic culture and religious practices.

Conclusion

Grasping the significance of the months in the Islamic calendar offers valuable insights into the spiritual and communal life of Muslims. The sacred months, in particular, emphasize the enduring importance of peace, reflection, and devotion in Islamic tradition.