MCQ Detailed View

The Islamic calendar, also called the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar used to determine Islamic months, events, and rituals such as Ramazan, Hajj, and Eid. Its starting point is the Hijrah, the migration of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) from Makkah to Madina in 622 CE, marking the beginning of the first year of the Islamic era.

The Islamic calendar has 12 months, each beginning with the sighting of the new moon, making it purely lunar. This is why Islamic months are shorter than the Gregorian solar months, causing Islamic events to shift approximately 10–12 days earlier each solar year. The calendar is essential for determining religious obligations, such as fasting in Ramazan, offering Hajj in Zil-Hajj, and other significant dates.

Key Facts:

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  Names: Muslim calendar, Hijri calendar, Lunar calendar

  
  


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  Starting Point: Hijrah (Migration) of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) in 622 CE

  
  


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  Number of Months: 12 lunar months

  
  


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  Lunar Basis: Months begin with the sighting of the moon

  
  


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  Importance: Determines Islamic rituals, festivals, and religious duties

  
  


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  Example Months: Muharram, Ramazan, Zil-Hajj

  
  

The Islamic calendar plays a vital role in the daily and spiritual lives of Muslims. It ensures accurate observance of religious duties and aligns the community with Islamic traditions. By understanding the multiple names of the calendar, one can appreciate its historical, religious, and practical significance in Islam.