History of the Hijri Calendar: Umar (RA) and the Year of Hijrah
Published: · اردو میں پڑھیں
The Arabs already used lunar months with the names we know today, but they had no fixed era for numbering years. Years were often known by major events, such as the “Year of the Elephant”.
Umar (RA) establishes the era
During the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), letters and state documents needed clear dates. Historians such as al-Tabari report that, around 17 AH (some reports say 16 AH), Umar consulted the Companions about where the count of years should begin. Options included the Prophet’s ﷺ birth, the start of revelation and his passing; the Hijrah was chosen, a view reported from Ali (RA).
Counting from the Hijrah
Sahl ibn Sa‘d (RA) said: “They did not count [the years] from the Prophet’s mission nor from his death, but from his arrival in Madinah.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 3934). The Hijrah from Makkah to Madinah took place in 622 CE, so 1 AH (“After Hijrah”) corresponds to 622–623 CE.
Why Muharram is the first month
The Hijrah itself took place in Rabi‘ al-Awwal, but the Companions kept Muharram as the first month of the year, as it comes after the pilgrims return from Hajj. Historical reports credit this suggestion to Uthman (RA), among others.
The calendar today
The months still begin with the new crescent. Saudi Arabia uses the calculated Umm al-Qura calendar for civil purposes, while Pakistan begins each month by moon sighting through the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
Check the date: Islamic date today in Pakistan · Islamic date tomorrow · Hijri calendar
Frequently asked questions
Who started the Hijri calendar?
Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), after consulting the Companions, around 17 AH (some reports say 16 AH).
Why does the Hijri calendar start from the Hijrah?
The Companions chose the Prophet's ﷺ migration to Madinah as the start of the era (Sahih al-Bukhari 3934).
In which Gregorian year was the Hijrah?
622 CE.
References
- Sahih al-Bukhari 3934
- Tarikh al-Tabari (History of the Prophets and Kings), events of 16–17 AH
- Ibn Hajar, Fath al-Bari, commentary on Bukhari 3934