Islamic Calendar 2024 : Complete List of the 12 Islamic Months name in Sequence

Introduction

Islamic months name are an important aspect of the Islamic calendar, which is a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months. Each month in the Islamic calendar has its own significance and is associated with various Islamic events, festivals, and traditions.

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Understanding the Islamic Calendar

The Islamic  timetable consists of 12 months and is grounded on the position and phases of the moon. The utmost Islamic months begin with the sighting of the new moon and are roughly 29 to 30 days long. The lunar  timetable changes over time, and every time, the placement of each month is different from that of the  former time.

An Islamic time doesn’t conform to seasons and is about 10 days shorter than the solar time.   Each month in the Islamic  timetable is significant in its own way and symbolizes a particular meaning. Nearly every month features an obligatory event or a festivity that grants Muslims the  occasion to earn  redundant blessings.

The 12 Islamic Months Name list

In Islam, Muslims calculate on the Islamic  timetable that’s twelve distinct months.Each month has some important events that are obligatory for the Muslims to follow while some events are only for the  redundant  prices and benefits from ALLAH. Also, all twelve Islamic months are observed according to the position and phases of the moon. When’s the list of each Islamic month’s name along with their brief details. Here’s a detailed history of each Islamic month and the significance it holds for Muslims.Complete Islamic months’ names are as follows.

1. Muharram (Forbidden)
2. Safar  (Void)
3. Rabi-ul-Awwal (The First Spring)
4. Rabi-ul-Akhir  (The Second Spring)
5. Jamad-ul-Awwal (The First of Parched Land)
6. Jamad-ul-Akhirah (The Second of Parched Land)
7. Rajab (Respect, Honour)
8. Shaban (Scattered)
9. Ramadan (Burning Heat)
10. Shawwal (Raised)
11. Dhul-Qadah ( The one of Sitting)
12. Dhul-Hijjah (The one of Pilgrimage)

1. Muharram (Forbidden)

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the most sacred months in Islam. It is a month of remembrance and mourning for Muslims, particularly for the Shia community, as it marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.

Imam Hussain and his family and companions were brutally killed in the battle of Karbala in 680 AD by the forces of the Umayyad caliph, Yazid I. This event is considered a defining moment in Islamic history and is remembered by Muslims every year during the month of Muharram.

During Muharram, Shia Muslims hold processions, hold majlis (gatherings) and recite mourning poems to commemorate the tragedy of Karbala. They may also perform various acts of self-flagellation and mourning rituals as a way of expressing their grief and devotion to the cause of Imam Hussain.

It is important to note that while Muharram is a month of mourning for the Shia community, Sunni Muslims may also observe this month as a time of fasting and reflection, without the mourning rituals specific to Shia traditions.

Narrated ‘Aisha: 

The people used to gormandize on' Ashura( the tenth day of the month of muharram) before the fasting of Ramadan was made obligatory. And on that day theKa'ba used to be covered with a cover. When Allah made the fasting of the month of Ramadan  mandatory, Allah's Apostle said," Whoever wishes to grandma( on the day of' Ashura') may do so; and whoever wishes to leave it can do so." 

Reference (Sahih bukhari;1592 )

2. Safar (Void)

Safar is the second month of the Islamic calendar, following the month of Muharram. In Islamic tradition, Safar has been associated with various cultural and superstitious beliefs, but there is no specific religious significance attached to this month in Islam.

Some people believe that Safar is an unlucky month and that it brings misfortune and calamities. However, such beliefs have no basis in Islamic teachings, and they are not supported by the Quran or the Sunnah (the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad).

It is important to note that in Islam, any kind of superstitious belief or practice that is not rooted in the Quran and Sunnah is considered to be un-Islamic. Muslims should not attribute any kind of power or influence to any month or day, as this is considered a form of shirk (polytheism) and goes against the oneness of Allah.

Therefore, while some people may attach negative beliefs and superstitions to the month of Safar, it is not considered to be a month of special significance in Islam, and it is not associated with any religious practices or rituals. Muslims are encouraged to focus on the teachings of Islam and avoid any un-Islamic beliefs or practices.

Abu Dawud said Malik was asked about the meaning of his saying There's no safar. He replied The people ofpre-Islamic Arabia used to make the month of safar legal( for war). They made it legal at one time and unlawful in another year.The Prophet said There's no safar. 

Reference (Sunan abi dawud ;3914)

3. Rabi_ul_Awwal ( The First Spring)

Rabi ul-Awwal is the third month of the Islamic calendar and is significant for Muslims as it marks the birth and death anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad.

The 12th of Rabi ul-Awwal is celebrated by many Muslims as the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, known as Mawlid or Eid Milad un-Nabi. While the exact date of his birth is not known with certainty, it is generally celebrated as a time of joy and gratitude for the Prophet’s life and teachings.

During this month, Muslims may hold gatherings and processions, recite poetry, and perform various acts of worship and charity as a way of showing their love and devotion to the Prophet.

In addition to being a time of celebration, Rabi ul-Awwal is also a time for reflection and contemplation on the Prophet’s life and teachings. Muslims may study his life and teachings, emulate his example of compassion, kindness, and service to others, and strive to deepen their spiritual connection with Allah.

It is important to note that while the celebration of Mawlid is a significant event for many Muslims, it is not universally observed by all Muslim communities. Some Muslims view the celebration of Mawlid as an innovation or bid’ah in the religion and prefer to focus solely on the Prophet’s teachings rather than his birthday.

“It was only as a mercy that We sent you (Prophet) to all people.” 

(Al Qur’an, 21:107)

4. Rabi_ul_Akhir (The Second Spring)

Rabi ul-Akhir is the fourth month of the Islamic calendar and follows the month of Rabi ul-Awwal. It is not associated with any major religious events or practices in Islam, and there is no specific significance attached to this month in Islamic teachings.

While there are no specific religious practices or rituals associated with Rabi ul-Akhir, Muslims are encouraged to engage in acts of worship and good deeds throughout the year, including during this month. Muslims are encouraged to deepen their spiritual connection with Allah through prayer, fasting, reading the Quran, and performing acts of charity and service to others.

It is important to note that in Islam, all months are considered to be equally important and sacred, and Muslims should strive to worship Allah and live their lives according to Islamic principles and values at all times, not just during specific months or times of the year.

Therefore, while Rabi ul-Akhir is not a month of special significance in Islam, Muslims are encouraged to use this time to reflect on their faith and strive to become better individuals and members of their communities.

Narrated Abu Huraira:

I heard Allah's Messenger saying." By Allah! I ask for forgiveness from Allah and turn to Him in repentance more than seventy times a day."

Reference (Sahih Bukhari;6307)

5. Jamad_ul_Awwal (The First of Parched Land)

Jamad ul-Awwal is the fifth month of the Islamic calendar and is not associated with any major religious events or practices in Islam. However, it is still considered a sacred month, and Muslims are encouraged to engage in acts of worship and good deeds throughout the year, including during this month.

While there are no specific religious practices or rituals associated with Jamad ul-Awwal, Muslims are encouraged to deepen their spiritual connection with Allah through prayer, fasting, reading the Quran, and performing acts of charity and service to others.

It is important to note that in Islam, all months are considered to be equally important and sacred, and Muslims should strive to worship Allah and live their lives according to Islamic principles and values at all times, not just during specific months or times of the year.

Therefore, while Jamad ul-Awwal is not a month of special significance in Islam, Muslims are encouraged to use this time to reflect on their faith and strive to become better individuals and members of their communities. Muslims are also encouraged to seek knowledge and understanding of Islam and to deepen their understanding of the Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad.

Narrated Abu Huraira

I heard Allah's Messenger saying, "Before Allah created the creations, He wrote a Book (wherein He has written): My Mercy has preceded my Anger." and that (Book) is written with Him over the Throne."

Reference(sahih Bukhari:7553) 

6. Jamad_ul_Akhirah (The Last of Parched Land)

Jamad ul-Akhirah is the sixth month of the Islamic calendar and follows the month of Jamad ul-Awwal. Similar to Jamad ul-Awwal, Jamad ul-Akhirah is not associated with any major religious events or practices in Islam.

However, Muslims are encouraged to use this month as an opportunity to increase their worship and good deeds. They are encouraged to engage in acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, and reading the Quran, and to perform acts of charity and service to others. Muslims are also encouraged to seek knowledge and understanding of Islam and to deepen their understanding of the Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad.

It is important to note that in Islam, all months are considered to be equally important and sacred, and Muslims are encouraged to worship Allah and live their lives according to Islamic principles and values at all times, not just during specific months or times of the year.

Therefore, while Jamad ul-Akhirah is not a month of special significance in Islam, Muslims are encouraged to use this time to reflect on their faith and strive to become better individuals and members of their communities.

Narrated' Abdullah bin' Amr A man asked the Prophet What  kind of deeds or( what  rates of) Islam aregood? The Prophet replied,' To feed( the poor) and hail those whom you know and those whom you don't Know.  

 Reference (Sahih bukhari; 12)

7. Rajab (Respect, Honour)

Rajab is the seventh month of the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the four sacred months in Islam. These four months are Rajab, Dhul-Qa’dah, Dhul-Hijjah, and Muharram.

Rajab is significant in Islam because it is believed to be the month in which the Prophet Muhammad received his first divine revelation from Allah, which eventually led to the revelation of the Quran. This event is known as the Isra and Mi’raj, which marks the night journey of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem and then to the heavens.

What did the Prophet (SAW) ( PBUH ) say about Rajab?

During this month, Muslims are encouraged to engage in acts of worship and good deeds, including fasting, prayer.

Recited Abu Bakra The Prophet said."( The division of time has turned to its original form which was current when Allah created the welkin and the Earths. The time is of twelve months, out of which four months are sacred Three are in race Dhul- Qa' da, Dhul- Hijja and Muharram, and( the fourth is) rajab of( the  lineage of) Mudar which comes between Jumadi- ath- Thaniyah and Sha ban." 

Reference(Sahih Bukhari :3197 )

8. Shaban (Scattered)

Shaban is the eighth month of the Islamic calendar, and it is an important month for Muslims due to its association with the preparation for the month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered the holiest month in Islam.

During Shaban, Muslims are encouraged to increase their worship and good deeds, including fasting and performing acts of charity. While it is not obligatory to fast during Shaban, some Muslims choose to fast during this month as a way of preparing for Ramadan.

In addition to preparing for Ramadan, some Muslims also observe a special night of worship during Shaban called Laylatul Bara’ah, also known as the Night of Forgiveness. This night is believed to be a time when Allah forgives sins and grants blessings to those who seek His forgiveness and mercy.

 Abu Hurairah  Narrated that the Messenger of Allah said" When a half ofSha'ban remains  also don't gormandize". 

Reference (Jami at- tirmidhi ;738)

9. Ramadan (Burning Heat)

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims around the world observe a period of fasting, spiritual reflection, and increased devotion to Allah .It is considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam, along with the declaration of faith, prayer, charity, and the pilgrimage to Mecca.

During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset, including smoking and engaging in sexual activity. This is done to help Muslims cultivate self-discipline, empathy for those less fortunate, and an increased connection with Allah. 

Muslims also increase their spiritual activities during Ramadan, such as praying more frequently, reciting the Quran, and engaging in charitable acts. The month of Ramadan ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the fasting period and is a time of joyous festivities and giving to others.

Narrated Ibn 'Umar: I heard Allah's Messenger saying, "When you see the crescent (of the month of Ramadan), start fasting, and when you see the crescent (of the month of Shawwal), stop fasting; and if the sky is overcast (and you can't see it) then regard the month of Ramadan as of 30 days".

Reference (Sahi bukhari 1900)

10. Shawwal (Raised)

Shawwal is the tenth month of the Islamic calendar and is significant in Islam because it is the month following the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn until dusk. The first day of Shawwal marks the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which is one of the major festivals in Islam.

Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion in which Muslims celebrate the end of the month of Ramadan and give thanks to Allah for the blessings and benefits they have received throughout the month. On this day, Muslims gather with family and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals.

11. Dhul Qa’dah (The One of Sitting)

Dhul-Qa’dah is the eleventh month of the Islamic calendar and is one of the four sacred months in Islam. The other three sacred months are Rajab, Dhul-Hijjah, and Muharram.

During the sacred months, Muslims are encouraged to engage in acts of worship and good deeds, and to avoid any sinful behavior. The significance of Dhul-Qa’dah lies in the fact that it immediately precedes the month of Dhul-Hijjah, which is the month of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.

Muslims who are planning to perform the Hajj pilgrimage will often use the month of Dhul-Qa’dah to prepare for this important journey. They will engage in additional acts of worship, seek forgiveness for their sins, and make other preparations in anticipation of the Hajj.

It was  recited from Abu Hurairah that " The Messenger of Allah said the salam  also he performed two  lassitudes of  obliviousness while he was still sitting,  also he said the salam".

Reference (Sunan an- nasai ;1330)

12. Dhul_Hijjah(The One of Pilgrimage)

Dhul-Hijjah is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar, and it is one of the four sacred months in Islam. The other three sacred months are Rajab, Dhul-Qa’dah, and Muharram.

Dhul-Hijjah is significant in Islam because it is the month in which the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca takes place. The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and it is a mandatory religious duty for able-bodied Muslims who can afford it. During the Hajj, Muslims from all over the world come together to perform a series of rituals, including circumambulating the Kaaba, standing at the plain of Arafat, and sacrificing an animal.

Even for those who are not performing the Hajj, Dhul-Hijjah is considered a sacred and blessed month in which Muslims are encouraged to engage in acts of worship and good deeds. 

Narrated Nubayshah:

The Prophet said We  proscribed you to eat their meat for  further than three days in order that you might have cornucopia; now Allah has produced cornucopia, so you may eat, store up and seek  price. Guard, these days are days of eating, drinking and remembrance of Allah, Most High 

Reference(Sunan abi Dawud:2813)

Importance of Islamic Months 

The importance of Islamic months can be seen in several ways:

Religious significance: 

The Islamic months are associated with various important religious events, such as Ramadan, Hajj, and Eid al-Fitr, which are integral to Islamic faith and practice. These events are important for Muslims around the world and help to strengthen their spiritual connection with Allah.

Cultural significance: 

Islamic months also have cultural significance, as they are associated with various customs and traditions that are important to the Muslim community. For example, the month of Ramadan is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection, while the month of Dhul Hijjah is associated with the pilgrimage to Mecca.

Historical significance: 

Islamic months are also important for their historical significance, as they are associated with various important events in Islamic history. For example, the month of Muharram is associated with the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, which is a significant event for the Shia community.

Community cohesion: 

Islamic months provide an opportunity for Muslims to come together and celebrate important events and festivals as a community. This helps to strengthen social bonds, foster a sense of belonging and unity, and promote mutual understanding and respect.

Overall, the Islamic months play a significant role in Islamic faith, culture, and history, and are an important aspect of Muslim identity and community.

Surely the reckoning of months, in the sight of Allah, is twelve months, laid down in Allah's decree on the day when He created the  welkin and the earth; and out of these months four are sacred. That's the true ordainment. Do not,  thus, wrong yourselves, with respect to these months. 

(Surah Tawbah : 9:36)

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Conclusion

The Islamic months name are associated with various important religious events, such as Ramadan, Hajj, and Eid al-Fitr, which are integral to Islamic faith and practice. These events are important for Muslims around the world and help to strengthen their spiritual connection with Allah. Islamic months also have cultural significance, as they are associated with various customs and traditions that are important to the Muslim community. For example, the month of Ramadan is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection, while the month of Dhul Hijjah is associated with the pilgrimage to Mecca.

FAQ – Islamic Months name