The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is more than just a timeline for Muslims; it is a spiritual compass that guides their worship, remembrance, and connection with Allah. Throughout the 12 lunar months, there are certain dates that hold profound religious significance—dates that Muslims around the world do not take lightly.
These sacred moments are either divinely emphasized in the Qur’an and Hadith or honored through centuries of Islamic tradition. Below are the notable dates in the Islamic calendar that Muslims simply do not joke with.
The Four Sacred Months
The Qur’an refers to four months as sacred—a time when Muslims are especially conscious of their actions, words, and behavior:
- Muharram (1st month): Known as the Month of Allah, it’s the start of the Islamic New Year. The 10th day, called Ashura, is especially revered due to the deliverance of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the fasting tradition encouraged by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Rajab (7th month): Often called the “Month of Allah,” Rajab is a prelude to Ramadan. It also houses the miraculous Isra and Mi’raj—the night journey and ascension of the Prophet Muhammad (27th Rajab).
- Dhul-Qi’dah (11th month): A month of peace and preparation leading to the Hajj. It is one of the months in which warfare was traditionally forbidden.
- Dhul-Hijjah (12th month): The climax of the Islamic spiritual calendar. The first ten days are considered the best days of the year, especially the 9th (Day of Arafah) and 10th (Eid al-Adha).
Key Dates That Command Reverence
Beyond the sacred months, there are specific days that resonate deeply in the hearts of Muslims:
1st Muharram: The Islamic New Year. A time of reflection, not celebration in the modern sense.
10th Muharram (Ashura): Associated with historic events, especially the Exodus of Prophet Musa and the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (RA).
27th Rajab (Isra and Mi’raj): Marks the miraculous night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and ascension to the heavens.
15th Sha’ban (Nisf Sha’ban): Believed by many to be a night of forgiveness and divine decree.
1st Ramadan: The beginning of the month of fasting, worship, and Quranic recitation.
Last 10 nights of Ramadan: Particularly the odd-numbered nights, as one of them hosts Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power)—the night better than a thousand months.
Odd nights in the last 10 days of Ramadan (Laylatul Qadr): A night of immense spiritual value, where destinies are written and prayers are accepted.
1st Shawwal (Eid al-Fitr): Celebrated after Ramadan, it’s a day of joy, gratitude, and unity.
9th Dhul-Hijjah (Day of Arafah): Considered the holiest day in the Islamic calendar. Pilgrims gather on the plains of Arafat, while non-pilgrims are encouraged to fast.
10th Dhul-Hijjah (Eid al-Adha): The Festival of Sacrifice, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering faith.
Jumu’Ah – The Weekly Eid
Every Friday (Jumu’ah) is considered a sacred day for Muslims. It is the weekly Eid—a day for communal prayer, spiritual reflection, and increased supplication. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that Friday carries immense blessings, and Muslims are encouraged to dress well, perform Ghusl, recite Surah Al-Kahf, and arrive early for Jumu’ah prayer.
Why These Dates Are No Joking Matter
For Muslims, these dates are not just cultural markers—they are divine appointments. They represent times when heavenly gates are wide open, when sins are forgiven, and when hearts are softened. Making light of these days or treating them with indifference is frowned upon because they carry spiritual weight and eternal value.
These moments serve as reminders of our purpose, our Creator, and our connection to the Prophets and the ummah (Muslim community). They are seasons of mercy and accountability—and are never to be joked with.
Understanding the notable dates in the Islamic calendar helps Muslims realign their hearts and actions. These are times when worship intensifies, communities unite, and divine mercy flows abundantly. Whether it is the sacred hush of Arafah, the solemnity of Ashura, the joy of Eid, or the tranquility of Jumu’ah, each date is an opportunity to draw closer to Allah.
So when these dates approach, Muslims don’t joke—they prepare, they remember, and they submit.
-Jamiu Abubakar (08085185886) with
Additional information from online sources
