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The first day of the Islamic year is called the Day
of Hejira. This holiday commemorates the occasion in 622 when Mohammed
and his companions left Mecca and journeyed to Medina, which became the
first Islamic community. Ashura is observed ten days after the Day of
Hejira. It commemorates Moses' victory over the Egyptians, when he led
the Israelites out of slavery. On this day, Muslims fast and weddings
and public entertainment are prohibited.
Milad al-Nabi in the third month of the Islamic
year commemorates the birth of the prophet. Prayers and readings honour
Mohammed's birth, life and teachings. In the evening, children light
firecrackers and families enjoy a special meal together. On Lailat
al-Isra, people celebrate Mohammed's night-time journey from Mecca
to Jerusalem. From Jerusalem, Mohammed was taken up to visit heaven. |
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Two weeks before the beginning of Ramadan is Lailat
al-Bahr, the Night of Forgiveness, when Muslims prepare for Ramadan by
saying prayers and forgiving one another. During Ramadan, people are forbidden
to eat, drink or smoke during the day, but they celebrate the end of the day's
fast with special meals. Lailat al-Qadr, the Night of Power, falls
during Ramadan. It celebrates the occasion when an angel revealed God's
teachings to Mohammed.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. It is a
joyful time. People wear new clothes and give money to the poor. Families
decorate their homes and enjoy a feast of special foods and sweets. Eid
al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, takes place during the period when
many Muslims make their pilgrimage to Mecca. It commemorates Abraham's
willingness to sacrifice his son to God. |
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Did you know? |
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Muslim holidays are based on the lunar calendar. There
are 354 days in a lunar year and each month begins with the new moon. As a
result, the holidays do not fall on the same day each year according to the
calendar used in Canada.
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