The Islamic Months: A Complete Guide to All 12 Months

Each of the 12 months in the Hijri calendar carries its own distinct character in Islam. Some are sacred months (Al-Ashhur al-Hurum), some are tied to the pillars of Islam, and others mark defining moments in Islamic history.

Muharram – The First Month

Muharram opens the Islamic year and is one of the four sacred months. Its most significant day is Ashura (the 10th), when Allah saved Prophet Musa from Pharaoh. The Prophet ﷺ said that fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year.

Safar – The Second Month

Safar is a regular month with no special prescribed worship. Pre-Islamic superstitions about it being an unlucky month were firmly rejected by Islam.

Rabi al-Awwal – The Third Month

This month holds a cherished place as the birth month of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (12th, according to the most widely cited view). It is also the month of his passing. Muslims mark it by studying his biography and sending abundant prayers upon him.

Rajab – The Seventh Month

One of the four sacred months. The miraculous Night Journey and Ascension (Isra and Miraj) occurred on the 27th, when the Prophet ﷺ was transported from Mecca to Jerusalem and then ascended to the heavens. It is recommended to increase supplication and remembrance of Allah in this month.

Shaban – The Eighth Month

The month before Ramadan, when deeds are lifted to Allah. The Prophet ﷺ fasted extensively in Shaban. The 15th night (Laylat al-Nisf) is considered a night for supplication and voluntary prayer.

Ramadan – The Ninth Month

The greatest of all months. Fasting is obligatory, the Quran was revealed in it, and Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Decree) — better than a thousand months — occurs in its last ten nights. It ends with Zakat al-Fitr and Eid al-Fitr.

Shawwal – The Tenth Month

Opens with Eid al-Fitr. Fasting six days in Shawwal is highly recommended — the Prophet ﷺ said it is as if one has fasted the entire year.

Dhul Hijjah – The Twelfth Month

The year's finale and a sacred month. Its first ten days are the best days of the year for good deeds. The 9th is the Day of Arafah and the 10th is Eid al-Adha, followed by three days of Tashreeq.