When we write today's Islamic date – Jumada al-Awwal 1448 AH – the letters "AH" stand for Anno Hegirae, "in the year of the Hijrah". But what was the Hijrah, and why did the companions choose it as the starting point of the Islamic calendar?
What Was the Hijrah?
For thirteen years, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ called people to Islam in Makkah. The Muslims faced mockery, boycott and violence. Then Allah opened a door: the people of Yathrib (later called Madinah) accepted Islam and invited the Prophet ﷺ to live among them. In 622 CE, the Prophet ﷺ migrated from Makkah to Madinah. This migration is called the Hijrah.
The Journey
The Prophet ﷺ left Makkah secretly with his close friend Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him). They hid for three nights in the Cave of Thawr while the Quraysh searched for them. When the searchers came close to the cave, Abu Bakr was afraid, and the Prophet ﷺ comforted him. Allah describes this moment: "…he said to his companion, 'Do not grieve; indeed Allah is with us.'" (Surah At-Tawbah, 9:40)
They then travelled to Madinah, where the Muslims welcomed them with great joy.
Why Start the Calendar from the Hijrah?
During the caliphate of 'Umar ibn al-Khattab, the Muslim state had grown, and official letters needed clear dates. 'Umar consulted the companions. They considered several events, but agreed on the year of the Hijrah, because it marked the beginning of the Muslim community and the separation between truth and falsehood. Muharram was kept as the first month of the year.
What Happened After the Hijrah
- The first masjid, Masjid Quba, was built.
- Masjid an-Nabawi was built in the heart of Madinah.
- The Prophet ﷺ joined the Muhajirun (migrants) and the Ansar (helpers) as brothers.
- A peaceful, just society was established based on Islam.
Lessons for Us Today
- Trust in Allah in hard times: "Indeed Allah is with us."
- True friendship: Abu Bakr risked everything to stay with the Prophet ﷺ.
- Brotherhood: The Ansar shared their homes and wealth with the Muhajirun – a lesson for welcoming new Muslims and newcomers in our communities.
- Every new beginning can be a "hijrah" from bad habits to good ones.
For Kids: Draw the Journey
Draw a simple map: Makkah, the Cave of Thawr, and Madinah. Write one fact next to each place. Share it with your family at dinner!
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