ACJU/NGS/2025/110
2025.06.27 (1447.01.01)
The Islamic Hijri calendar was initiated during the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), based on the historic migration (Hijrah) of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).
According to Islamic teachings, there are twelve months in a year, and among them, four are considered Sacred, as clearly mentioned in the Qur’an:
“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah from the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred.” (Surah At-Tawbah: 36)
Among these sacred months are Rajab, Dhul Qa’dah, Dhul Hijjah, and the month we have now entered – Muharram.
Just as the last ten nights of Ramadan and the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah hold great significance, the first ten days of Muharram, marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year, are also filled with spiritual merit.
The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) said: “The best fasting after the month of Ramadan is the fasting in the month of Allah – Muharram. And the best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer (Tahajjud).” (Sahih Muslim: 2157)
Imam Nawawi (Rahimahullah) explained:
“Fasting during the four sacred months is highly recommended (Mustahabb), and the most virtuous among them is fasting in Muharram.”
In this light, the beginning of a new year should serve as an opportunity for positive transformation in our lives. This is a moment to self-reflect on our level of faith (Iman) and religious commitment in the past year, and to determine the improvements we must make going forward. At the very least, we must firmly resolve to implement the following five key areas in our lives:
1. Organize and improve our daily acts of worship.
2. Ensure purity and transparency in our financial dealings.
3. Maintain discipline and balance in our family life.
4. Uphold noble character with compassion and humanity.
5. Strive to be good Muslims and responsible citizens of the country.
The All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama prays that Almighty Allah grants us the opportunity to begin this month of Muharram with righteous actions.
May peace and harmony prevail in our personal lives, in our nation, and throughout the world.
Mufti M.I.M. Rizwe
President
All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama
Ash-Shaikh M. Arkam Nooramith
General Secretary
All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama
