Hijri (Islamic Calendar)
The Islamic lunar calendar, which begins with the Prophet's migration to Medina.
The Hijri calendar (Arabic: التقويم الهجري) is the Islamic lunar calendar used to determine the dates of Islamic holidays, Ramadan, and other religious events. The calendar begins with the hijra — Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
The Hijri calendar has 12 months based on the moon's cycle: Muharram, Safar, Rabi' al-Awwal, Rabi' al-Thani, Jumada al-Ula, Jumada al-Thani, Rajab, Sha'ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhu al-Qi'dah and Dhu al-Hijjah.
Each month has 29 or 30 days, and the Islamic year is approximately 354 days — 11 days shorter than the Gregorian solar year. Therefore, Islamic holidays and Ramadan "travel" through the Gregorian calendar year and fall at different times each year.
The current Hijri date is displayed on many Islamic websites and in mosques. In 2026, we are in the Hijri years 1447-1448.
Related terms
Salawat (Blessings Upon the Prophet)
Blessings and peace upon the Prophet Muhammad and his family.
Bismillah (In the Name of Allah)
The formula "In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful," which opens prayer and action.
Muezzin (Caller to Prayer)
The person who calls to prayer by reciting the adhan.
Raf' al-Yadayn (Raising the Hands)
The practice of raising the hands to the shoulders or ears at specific points in the prayer.
Najasah (Ritual Impurity)
Impure substances that must be removed before prayer according to Islamic law.
Sahih Muslim (Muslim's Authentic Collection)
The second most authoritative hadith collection in Sunni Islam, compiled by Imam Muslim ibn al-Hajjaj.