🚶♂️ The Significance of HEGIRA (Hijrah): A Journey of Faith
The term “Hijrah” (الهجرة), also known as “Hegira,” refers to the migration of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) and his followers from Mecca (مكة) to Medina (المدينة) in 622 CE. This crucial event marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar (Hijri calendar).
Etymology and Definition
Etymology: The word “Hijrah” derives from the Arabic root “هجر” (h-j-r), which means “to migrate” or “to abandon.”
Definition: In Islamic tradition, the Hijrah not only signifies a physical journey but also represents a profound spiritual transition and the establishment of an Islamic state in Medina.
Background and Historical Context
The Hijrah took place due to increasing persecution of Muhammad and his followers by the Quraysh tribe in Mecca. This historic migration was both a tactical retreat and a strategic move to spread Islam in a more welcoming environment. The people of Yathrib (later named Medina) had invited Muhammad to mediate tribal disputes, providing an opportunity to establish a new Muslim community based on Islamic principles.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Cultural Differences:
- Before Hijrah: Mecca was predominantly polytheistic with tribal traditions; Islam faced considerable resistance.
- After Hijrah: In Medina, Islam began to flourish, solidifying into a structured religion with both political and religious authority for Muhammad.
Cultural Similarities:
- Shared Heritage: The Hijrah is a major event commemorated across diverse Islamic cultures.
- Unity in Faith: Regardless of cultural differences, Muslims worldwide regard Hijrah as a symbol of faith, courage, and commitment.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
Synonyms: Emigration, Exodus, Migration
Antonyms: Stay, Return, Immobility
Related Terms:
- Muhajirun (المهاجرون): The emigrants who accompanied Muhammad on the Hijrah.
- Ansar (الأنصار): The Medinian supporters who welcomed the Muhajirun and helped them settle in Medina.
- Islamic Calendar: The Hijri calendar started from the year of Hijrah, known as “Anno Hegirae” (AH).
Exciting Facts
- Hijri Calendar: The Hijrah marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar year (1 AH).
- Transformation of Medina: After the Hijrah, Yathrib was renamed Medina (City of the Prophet), symbolizing the rise of Islamic society.
- Al-Aqaba Pledge: The migration was preceded by secretive pledges of support made between Muhammad and Medinian tribes at Aqaba.
Quotations
- Ibn Kathir: “Hijrah did not end with the Prophet’s departure to Medina. It exists in every call to put Islam into practical use.”
- Ibn Hisham: “Hijrah is synonymous to a fresh start and an abandon of what is sinful and mistaken.”
References & Further Reading
- Hamidullah, Muhammad. The Ordinances of the Quran (1951)
- Armstrong, Karen. Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet (1992)
- Abul A’la Maududi. Towards Understanding Islam (1932)
Quizzes
Thank you for your continuous quest for knowledge and understanding. May your journey in learning be as enlightening and transformative as the Hijrah was for the early Muslims.
Farewell, Ahmed Al-Hakim (2023-10-01)
