Islamic New Year in Kuwait

Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year or Arabic New Year, is celebrated in Kuwait as the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. In Arabic, it is called رأس السنة الهجرية (Ra's al-Sanah al-Hijrīyah). The date of the Islamic New Year changes every year due to its reliance on the lunar calendar.

The Islamic New Year is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, which marks the beginning of the month of Muharram. The exact date of the Islamic New Year may vary between countries, as it depends on the local moon sighting.

History

Islamic New Year celebrations in Kuwait can be traced back to the early days of Islam. The Islamic calendar was introduced by the second Caliph, Umar ibn al-Khattab, in 638 CE. He established the Hijri calendar with the first year being the year of the Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina, known as the Hijra, in 622 CE. Since then, Muslims around the world, including Kuwaitis, have been observing the Islamic New Year as a significant event in their religious and cultural life.

Customs

National customs for Islamic New Year in Kuwait

In Kuwait, the Islamic New Year is a public holiday, and many people get the day off from work. It is a time for reflection, prayers, and contemplation. Muslims in Kuwait attend special prayers at mosques, where sermons may be held to highlight the significance of the Hijra and the importance of following the teachings of Islam.

Many Kuwaitis use this time to strengthen their connection with their faith by reading the Quran, giving to charity, and engaging in acts of kindness. It is also common for families to get together and share meals during the Islamic New Year.

Local customs for Islamic New Year in Kuwait

While the Islamic New Year is a significant event for Muslims in Kuwait, there are no specific local customs exclusive to Kuwait. The customs followed in Kuwait are similar to those observed by Muslims in other countries. However, the way people celebrate the Islamic New Year may vary depending on their cultural background or personal preferences.

Some families in Kuwait may use this time to visit the graves of their loved ones, while others may organize gatherings with friends and extended family members to mark the occasion.

Conclusion

The Islamic New Year in Kuwait is a time for reflection, prayer, and strengthening one's connection with their faith. It is a significant event in the lives of Muslims in Kuwait, as it marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and commemorates the Hijra. While there are no specific local customs in Kuwait, the national customs involve attending special prayers, spending time with family, and engaging in acts of kindness and charity.