The Hijri calendar preserves Muslim identity
“We are human beings; we have shortcomings; we make mistakes.”
The Hijri calendar, established around the Hijrah, is a core Muslim identity and spiritual framework that calls Muslims to honor sacred times, worship through the lunar calendar, and serve others.
The khutbah in 5 steps
- Introduces the Hijri new year as a time for reflection and explains the twelve months and four sacred months.
- Explains Umar ibn al-Khattab’s consultation and the selection of the Prophet’s Hijrah as the calendar’s starting point.
- Contrasts lunar timekeeping with modern technology and urges Muslims to observe creation and teach children Islamic identity.
- Applies the beginning of Muharram through fasting Ashura and, if possible, an additional neighboring day.
- Concludes with charitable opportunities for wheelchairs and eye surgery and prayers for oppressed communities.
In the khateeb's words
“but it is something for us to reflect upon the importance of the Hijri calendar for us as Muslims preserving our identity”
“so this is part of our deen our identity right so the Hijri calendar the day of Jum'ah right all these different aspects these are all part of our identity”
“so we all make mistakes every single one of us myself included we are human beings we have shortcomings we make mistakes so this is an opportunity for us to fast”
For the dinner table
The khutbah says the Hijri calendar is more than a date system: it helps Muslims remember who they are and how their worship is shaped by the moon. It explains that the Companions chose the Prophet’s Hijrah from Makkah to Madinah as the starting point because it marked a turning point toward openly practicing Islam. As Muharram begins, families are encouraged to fast Ashura and, if possible, add a neighboring day while asking Allah to forgive their mistakes. The sermon also reminds us to teach children to notice creation, support the masjid, and help people who need wheelchairs or eye surgery.
- What part of the Hijri calendar helps you feel connected to Muslim history?
- What can we notice in nature when we put our phones away?
- How can our family turn worship into help for someone in need?
More on the Islamic calendar
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