How to Pronounce hijrah

Meaning and Context

The Hijrah (هِجْرَة), meaning "migration" or "emigration," refers specifically to the pivotal journey of Prophet Muhammad and his early followers from Mecca to the city then known as Yathrib, later Medina, in the year 622 CE. This event, driven by intense persecution, is not merely a historical relocation but the foundational moment that established the first Muslim community (Ummah) and marked the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar, known as the Hijri calendar. The Hijrah represents a profound turning point in Islamic history, transitioning from a phase of passive endurance to one of community building and establishing the principles of a Muslim society. It is a central concept in Islamic studies, symbolizing faith (iman), sacrifice, and the pursuit of religious freedom. Beyond its singular historical context, the term "hijrah" has evolved into a powerful spiritual and theological concept, denoting any migration undertaken for the sake of preserving or strengthening one's faith, making it a recurring theme in discussions of religious journeys, Muslim identity, and the Middle Eastern heritage that shaped early Islamic civilization.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The primary term, "Hijrah," is a transliteration from the Arabic (هِجْرَة). The most common alternative spelling in English is "Hegira," derived from the medieval Latin transliteration. Other frequent variants include "Hijra" (dropping the 'h') and "Hijrat." A common typo or misspelling is "Hijrah" mistakenly written as "Hijrah" with an incorrect 'j' sound or "Hijra" without the final 'h,' though the latter is often accepted. It is important to distinguish the Islamic term "Hijrah" from the unrelated South Asian term "Hijra," which refers to a third-gender community. Capitalization is typically used when referring to the specific historical event of 622 CE (the Hijrah), while the lowercase "hijrah" may be used for the general concept of religious migration. Confusion also sometimes arises with the similar-sounding word "Hajj" (the pilgrimage to Mecca), but these are distinct concepts.

Example Sentences

The date of the Hijrah in 622 CE was later designated by Caliph Umar as the starting point for the Islamic lunar calendar.

Many contemporary Muslims reflect on the lessons of the Hijrah during the Islamic New Year, contemplating themes of perseverance and new beginnings.

Scholars of early Islam emphasize that the Hijrah was not a retreat but a strategic move to establish a societal model based on Islamic principles.

For some individuals today, leaving a place of religious oppression to live freely elsewhere is considered a personal hijrah, echoing the Prophet's journey.

The mosque built at the site of his arrival in Medina, known as Quba', holds great significance as a landmark of the Hijrah.

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