When is the 1st Muharram? 2023 start date and when day of Ashura falls this year

The Islamic New Year is almost here and millions of Muslims around the world will be welcoming the year 1445.

The arrival of the new moon at sunset marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year, and for many Muslims, the time symbolises non-violence and reflection. It’s common for Muslims to try to avoid negativity during this period in order to promote peace.

The Islamic year runs for 354 or 355 days and uses the lunar calendar. It has 12 months, starting with Muharram.

When is 1st Muharram 2023?

Muharram 2023 or the new Hijri year 1445 will take place on Wednesday 19 July, 2023.

The date is determined using either astronomical calculations or official moon sightings, with different countries preferring different methods.

There is some debate as to whether the idea of a moon sighting should refer to you physically witnessing the new moon in your region, which could be hampered by factors such as weather conditions, or whether to defer to sightings in Saudi Arabia or other regions.

Some people argue that technological advancements in astronomy mean that the rising of the new moon can be calculated with accuracy, meaning that a standardised start date can be used for all Muslims around the world, rather than having variations.

The calendar began AD622, when the Prophet Mohamed and his followers made the journey from Mecca to Medina, known as the Hijrah.

The concept of Hijrah is of great importance in Islam. The Prophet migrated to Medina because Muslims faced persecution in Mecca and found it difficult to practice their new religion.

When is the day of Ashura?

Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram and is expected to fall on 28th July, 2023.

For Muslims around the world, the holy day of Ashura is a day of celebration as well as mourning, depending on which school of thought you belong to.

The day is commemorated by both Sunni and Shia Muslims in different ways.

The split between Shia and Sunni Muslims stems from differing views on the rightful successor and leader of the Muslim community following the death of Prophet Mohamed in AD632. It was exacerbated by the subsequent killing of Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet, and most of his followers in Karbala, Iraq AD680 by the forces of Yazid, Hussain’s rival to head the caliphate.

Shia Muslims tend to observe Ashura and the month of Muharram as a period of mourning and commemorate the martyrdom of Hussain through various activities and practices, including public processions and gatherings, known as majalis, whereas many Sunnis fast on the day as a sign of respect.

Ashura also marks the day the Prophet Noah left the Ark, and the day that the Prophet Moses parted the Red Sea. Sunni Muslims also observe a fast to commemorate these incidents.