The year 622 CE is crucial to Muslims because it marks the Hijrah, the emigration of Prophet Muhammad and his followers, and the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
The Significance of 622 CE
Following persecution in Mecca, Prophet Muhammad and his followers migrated to the nearby town of Yathrib, which was later renamed Medina. This historic journey in 622 CE is known as the Hijrah (sometimes spelled Hijra or Hejira).
The Hijrah: A Turning Point
The reference states that this migration in 622 C.E. "marks the 'hijrah' or 'emigration,' and the beginning of the Islamic calendar." This was not just a physical relocation; it was a pivotal moment that transformed the nascent Muslim community.
- Safety and Acceptance: Medina offered a safe haven for Muslims, where they were accepted and could practice their faith openly.
- Establishment of a Community: The Hijrah led to the formation of the first independent Muslim community, laying the groundwork for the Islamic state.
- Foundation of Medina: Yathrib was transformed into Medina, a model Islamic city based on principles of justice, brotherhood, and religious freedom (among the citizens of the state).
This event is so significant that it was chosen as the starting point for the Islamic calendar.
The Beginning of the Islamic Calendar
Unlike many calendars that start with the birth of a prophet or a mythological event, the Islamic calendar (known as the Hijri calendar, denoted as AH - Anno Hegirae, "in the year of the Hijrah") begins with the Hijrah itself. The first day of the first year (1 AH) corresponds to July 16, 622 CE.
This highlights the importance of the Hijrah as a foundational event in Islamic history and the development of the Muslim community.
Below is a simple breakdown:
| Year | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 622 CE | The Hijrah | Emigration of Muslims from Mecca |
| 622 CE | Calendar Start | Beginning of the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar |
In summary, the year 622 CE is profoundly important to Muslims because it represents the Hijrah, a transformative emigration that allowed Islam to flourish and establish itself, and it serves as the precise point from which the passage of time is measured in the Islamic calendar.
