Holy days

Muslim holy days

There are only two Muslim festivals set down in Islamic law. There are several other special days that Muslims celebrate, although some Muslims disapprove of adding extra festivals.

Al-Hijra

Al-Hijra is the Muslim new year. It marks the Hijra, Muhammad's journey in 622 CE to Medina.

Ashura

Ashura marks two historical events: the day Nuh (Noah) left the Ark and Musa's (Moses') escape from the Egyptians. Shi'a Muslims also commemorate the martyrdom of Hussein, Muhammad's grandson.

Eid ul Adha

The festival of sacrifice remembers the prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son when God ordered him to.

Eid ul Fitr

This festival comes at the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting. Muslims thank Allah for the strength he gave them to help them practice self-control.

Lailat al Miraj

The festival celebrates Prophet Muhammad's journey from Mecca to Jerusalem in a single night on a winged creature called Buraq. From Jerusalem he ascended into heaven, where he met the earlier prophets, and eventually God.

Lailat al Qadr

Lailat al Qadr, the Night of Power, marks the night in which the Qur'an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by Allah.

Lailat-ul-Bara'h

The Night of Forgiveness is the time when Muslims ask God to forgive their past sins.

Milad un Nabi

Milad un Nabi marks the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month in which Muslims practise fasting (sawm).