Origin & history
Islamic New Year commemorates the Hijra, the migration of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This event was so significant that it was later chosen by Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab to mark the start of the Islamic lunar calendar, known as the Hijri calendar. The first day of the month of Muharram, which is the first month of this calendar, is celebrated as the Islamic New Year.
In Egypt, the observance of Islamic New Year has deep roots, as Egypt was among the first regions to embrace Islam after the Muslim conquest in the 7th century. Over the centuries, Egyptian scholars and rulers have contributed to the development of Islamic jurisprudence and the preservation of Islamic traditions, making the Hijri New Year an integral part of the country's religious and cultural identity.
Customs & traditions
In Egypt, Islamic New Year is a public holiday, and most government offices, banks, and businesses are closed. Egyptians mark the day with extra prayers and recitations of the Quran, particularly in mosques. Many families take this opportunity to visit relatives, exchange greetings, and give to charity, reflecting the spirit of renewal and reflection.
Food plays a central role in celebrations, with households preparing traditional Egyptian dishes such as fattah (rice, bread, and meat in a garlicky sauce), mahshi (stuffed vegetables), and various sweets like konafa and basbousa. While it is not a festival like Eid, many Egyptians use the day to reflect on their past year and set spiritual resolutions for the new one, often participating in religious lectures and gatherings.
Why it is celebrated
Islamic New Year is significant as it marks the beginning of a new year in the Islamic lunar calendar, reminding Muslims of the Prophet's sacrifice and the importance of unity and faith. For Egyptians, it is a time for spiritual introspection and strengthening their connection to their Islamic heritage.
The holiday also emphasizes the importance of community and charity. Many Egyptians use the occasion to engage in acts of kindness and support those in need, aligning with the core Islamic values of compassion and generosity. It is a solemn yet hopeful day that reinforces the cultural and religious bonds that unite the Egyptian people.