Dhu al-Qa’dah 1, 1447
(April 18, 2026)
Assalaamun Alaykum Warahmatullah Taallah Wabarakatuhu.
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
It is a known fact that many of us have little or no familiarity with the Islamic Hijrah Calendar. This is as a result of the Western tradition under which we were brought up.
Thus, our affinity to the Gregorian Calendar could be understood. And it is not our fault. However, we have the opportunity to develop the consciousness and assimilation of the Islamic Calendar. And we have no excuse failing to do that. We have to start from somewhere.
As we combine the pursuit of both Islamic and Western education simultaneously, we could also cultivate the same disposition to integrate Hijrah dated in our daily activities without prejudice, without stress.
It is against this backdrop that *Monthly Hijrah Calendar Reminder* is being introduced on the online news magazine – Savannah Newshub – featuring articles on the first day of each Lunar month, the Hijrah; reminding us that we are at the entrance gate of a new month of Islamic Calendar. This way, our gradual affinity to Hijrah days as reference points would begin to develop.
Brothers and Sisters, I wish us a Very Happy New Hijrah month: Dhu al-Qa’dah 1, 2447.
Please read on:
Dhu al-Qa‘dah: A Month That Teaches Us to Pause
In the fast rhythm of modern life, where everything competes for our attention, the arrival of Dhu al-Qa‘dah offers something rare: an invitation to slow down. As the eleventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Dhu al-Qa‘dah is not just another passage of time—it is a sacred pause, a spiritual breathing space gifted to the believers.
Dhu al-Qa‘dah is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Qur’an (Surah At-Tawbah 9:36), alongside Dhu al-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab. These months were honored long before Islam, but the message of Islam deepened their meaning: they are periods where violence is forbidden, sins carry greater weight, and good deeds are multiplied. In essence, they are months of heightened awareness—of our actions, our words, and our intentions.
The name “Dhu al-Qa‘dah” itself comes from the Arabic root meaning “to sit” or “to refrain.” Historically, Arab tribes would lay down their arms during this time, choosing peace over conflict to allow safe travel, especially for those intending to perform Hajj.
But beyond its historical context lies a timeless lesson: sometimes, strength is found not in movement, but in restraint.
In today’s world, we are rarely encouraged to “sit.” Productivity is often measured by how much we do, not by how wisely we pause. Yet Dhu al-Qa‘dah reminds us that stepping back is not weakness—it is wisdom. It is a time to evaluate our spiritual state before the intense days of Hajj in Dhu al-Hijjah. It is a moment to ask ourselves: Where am I with Allah? What needs to change? What can I let go of?
This month also invites us to reflect on the sanctity of life and relationships. If entire communities once suspended warfare out of respect for this sacred time, what does that say about our everyday conflicts? Perhaps Dhu al-Qa‘dah is a chance to resolve disputes, mend broken ties, and choose peace in our personal lives. It is a reminder that faith is not only about rituals, but also about how we treat others.
Spiritually, Dhu al-Qa‘dah can be seen as a preparation ground. Just as an athlete prepares before a major competition, believers are given this month to ready their hearts for the sacred season of Hajj. Even for those not performing the pilgrimage, the atmosphere of reflection, humility, and devotion is something everyone can share in. Increasing in voluntary prayers, fasting, charity, and remembrance (dhikr) during this time can have a lasting impact on one’s faith.
Importantly, this month teaches us accountability. Since deeds carry more weight in sacred times, it encourages mindfulness. Every action matters. Every word counts. And every moment is an opportunity to draw closer to Allah.
In a world that rarely stops, Dhu al-Qa‘dah gently tells us: pause. Sit with your soul. Reconnect with your purpose. Realign your heart.
Because sometimes, the most powerful journey forward begins with a moment of stillness.
May Allah SWT guide us aright.
