The hijra

Definition

The hijra refers to the migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This event marks a significant turning point in Islamic history as it led to the establishment of the first Muslim community and is used as the starting point for the Islamic calendar.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The hijra is considered one of the most important events in Islamic history, symbolizing not just a physical journey but also a spiritual transformation for Muslims.
2. The year of the hijra, 622 CE, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar (AH), which is used by Muslims around the world to date events.
3. Upon arriving in Medina, Muhammad was accepted as a leader and established a constitution that governed relations between different tribes and communities.
4. The hijra solidified the Muslim community's identity and allowed them to practice their faith freely, away from the persecution they faced in Mecca.
5. The migration also highlighted themes of sacrifice and loyalty among Muhammad's followers, as many left behind their homes and possessions for their faith.

Review Questions

• How did the hijra contribute to the establishment of a Muslim community in Medina?
  • The hijra was pivotal in forming a cohesive Muslim community in Medina, as it provided a safe haven for Muhammad and his followers to practice their faith without persecution. In Medina, Muhammad was able to unite various tribes under a common religious and political framework through the Constitution of Medina, which laid out rights and responsibilities for all citizens, thus solidifying the foundation of the ummah.
• In what ways did the hijra impact the social and political dynamics of early Islam?
  • The hijra significantly transformed social and political dynamics within early Islam by enabling the establishment of a structured community led by Muhammad. It allowed Muslims to form alliances with local tribes and communities, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. Additionally, the Constitution of Medina served as an early example of governance that integrated religious principles with civic duties, setting precedents for future Islamic governance.
• Evaluate the long-term significance of the hijra in shaping Islamic identity and calendar practices.
  • The long-term significance of the hijra extends beyond its immediate historical context; it has shaped Islamic identity by representing resilience and commitment to faith in adversity. The establishment of 622 CE as year one in the Islamic calendar underscores its importance in marking not just a migration but also a new beginning for Muslims. This event has influenced various aspects of Islamic practice, including religious observances and communal celebrations, reinforcing a collective identity centered around shared history.

Related terms

Ummah: The term for the global community of Muslims, united by their faith and shared practices, that emerged following the hijra.

Medina:

The city to which Muhammad and his followers migrated, becoming a center for the early Muslim community and the site of significant developments in Islamic governance.

Quran:

The holy book of Islam, believed to be the word of God as revealed to Muhammad, which became foundational for the community established after the hijra.