1 Muharram 2002: A New Beginning
On September 16, 2001, Muslims around the world welcomed the new Islamic year, 1423 Hijriah. The first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar, marked a new beginning for millions of Muslims globally.
A Time for Reflection
The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, and its dates are based on the Moon's cycles. The Islamic year is approximately 11 days shorter than the solar year, and the dates of the Islamic months vary each year on the Gregorian calendar. The beginning of a new Islamic year is a time for reflection, prayer, and rejuvenation.
The Significance of Muharram
Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is considered a sacred month in Islam. It is a month of mourning, as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Tragic Event of Karbala, where Imam Hussein and his family were brutally murdered, is remembered during the first ten days of Muharram.
Welcoming the New Year
As Muslims entered the new year 1423 Hijriah, they were met with a mix of emotions. The excitement of a new beginning was tempered by the reality of the world around them. The world was still reeling from the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, which had taken place just five days earlier.
A Call to Faith
In the face of adversity, Muslims were reminded of the importance of their faith. The start of the new Islamic year served as a poignant reminder of the values of Islam: compassion, justice, and mercy. As Muslims looked to the future, they were called upon to renew their commitment to their faith and to spread love, kindness, and peace.
Conclusion
The beginning of the Islamic year 1423 Hijriah on September 16, 2001, marked a new chapter in the lives of Muslims worldwide. As they navigated the challenges of the modern world, they were reminded of the importance of their faith and the values of compassion, justice, and mercy. As they looked to the future, they were called upon to spread love, kindness, and peace, and to strive for a better world for all humanity.
