Fatwas: Why the Hijri Year Starts with Muharram, Poverty vs Wealth, and Mocking Prayer

Dar Al-Ifta explains why the Hijri year begins with Muharram, clarifies poverty vs wealth on Judgment Day, and rules on mocking prayer and its seriousness.

  Sat , June 20 2026 / 05:11 PM Updated At: 2026-06-20 17:11:57

Why the Hijri Year Begins with Muharram

Dar Al-Ifta explained that the selection of Muharram as the beginning of the Hijri calendar came after consultations among the companions during the time of Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), when they agreed to adopt the Prophet’s migration (Hijrah) as the foundation of Islamic dating.

Although the Prophet’s migration took place in Rabi’ al-Awwal, Muharram was chosen because it represents the start of preparation for the Hijrah and comes right after the pilgrimage season, making it a symbolic beginning for a new Islamic year.

Poverty and Wealth on the Day of Judgment

Dar Al-Ifta emphasized that the true measure of superiority among people is not wealth or poverty, but righteousness and good deeds.

No Absolute Superiority of Poverty or Wealth

Poverty alone does not indicate virtue, nor does wealth alone indicate honor. A poor person may be patient or dissatisfied, while a wealthy person may be grateful or negligent.

Accountability in the Hereafter

People with wealth will be questioned about how they earned and spent it, which means there is no absolute preference for the poor over the rich.

The Ruling on Mocking Prayer in Inappropriate Clothing

Dar Al-Ifta warned against mocking or ridiculing the act of prayer, stating that it is a serious violation of Islamic teachings and an insult to sacred religious symbols.

Religious Severity

Such behavior is considered prohibited in Islam and goes against sound human nature, as it involves disrespect toward one of the greatest acts of worship.

Social Impact

These actions threaten social harmony and require both religious awareness and legal measures to limit their spread.

Hijri Calendar Months

The Hijri year consists of 12 months starting with Muharram and ending with Dhu al-Hijjah. Among them are the sacred months: Muharram, Rajab, Dhu al-Qi’dah, and Dhu al-Hijjah.

Key Conclusion

Dar Al-Ifta confirms that Islam is a religion based on justice, action, and righteousness, and that correct understanding of religious rulings helps preserve social balance and respect for sacred values.


Why does the Hijri year start with Muharram?

Because it symbolizes the preparation for the Hijrah and was chosen by the companions during Caliph Umar’s era.

Are the poor better than the rich on Judgment Day?

No, superiority is based on righteousness and good deeds, not wealth or poverty.

What is the ruling on mocking prayer?

It is strictly forbidden and considered a serious disrespect to Islamic worship.

How many months are in the Hijri calendar?

There are 12 months, starting with Muharram and ending with Dhu al-Hijjah.

What are the sacred months in Islam?

Muharram, Rajab, Dhu al-Qi’dah, and Dhu al-Hijjah.

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