30 September 2016
In welcoming the Islamic New Year 1438, the Secretary General of the MCB, Harun Khan said, “The first Islamic year commenced with the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from his home in Makkah to a new city following persecution. We pray for every refugee who has fled their home in recent times, fleeing from persecution and bloodshed in search of safety and a peaceful life”.
On Sunday 2nd October, Muslims all over the world will welcome the Islamic New Year, which begins with the first day of the month of Muharram. This month is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Holy Qur’an and marks the significant journey (Hijra) made by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from Makkah to Madina. During this month, many Muslims will reflect upon his great journey and upon the values the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) stood for.
The tenth day of Muharram, known as Ashura, is a day on which, according to our tradition, the Prophet Musa (Moses) was saved by the miracle of the parting of the sea from the Pharaoh. Many Muslims observe a fast on Ashura and on the day preceding it, in remembrance and gratefulness to God. Ashura is also commemorated for the tragic massacre at Karbala, in Iraq in 61 A.H. of Imam Husain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), his family and supporters.
Harun Khan continued, “As we reflect upon the many events that have taken place this year; with the refugee crisis, Brexit, and the rise in hate crime, lessons from the past teach us the timeless virtues of unity, patience, hope, justice and equality. These are just some of the qualities the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) stood for, and what we as British Muslims seek to uphold”.