Islamic Months in Order with Meanings and Significance

The Islamic months in order are:

1. Muharram
2. Safar
3. Rabiʽ al-Awwal
4. Rabiʽ al-Thani
5. Jumada al-Awwal
6. Jumada al-Thani
7. Rajab
8. Shaʽban
9. Ramadan
10. Shawwal
11. Dhul-Qaʽdah
12. Dhul-Hijjah

These twelve months make up the Islamic (Hijri) lunar calendar, which is about 354 or 355 days long, roughly 10–11 days shorter than the Gregorian solar calendar. Muslims use this calendar to mark religious events such as Ramadan, Hajj, and Eid celebrations.

Islamic Months in Order with Meanings and Significance

Below is a complete list of all 12 Islamic months, their meanings, and importance in Islamic history and daily life.

1. Muharram (المحرّم)

• Meaning: “Sacred” or “forbidden.”
• Significance: One of the four sacred months in Islam when fighting is prohibited.
• Notable Day: 10th Muharram (Ashura) — a day of fasting and remembrance, especially significant for both Sunni and Shia Muslims.

2. Safar (صفر)

• Meaning: “Empty” or “void.”
• Significance: Traditionally believed to be a month of trials, but Islam rejects such superstitions.
• Key Fact: Encourages believers to trust in Allah’s protection and not in omens.

3. Rabiʽ al-Awwal (ربيع الأول)

• Meaning: “The first spring.”
• Significance: The month of Prophet Muhammad’s birth (12th Rabiʽ al-Awwal).
• Key Event: Mawlid an-Nabi celebrations take place in many Muslim countries.

4. Rabiʽ al-Thani (ربيع الآخر)

• Meaning: “The second spring.”
• Significance: A peaceful month that continues from Rabiʽ al-Awwal.
• Key Event: Known for reflection and religious study.

5. Jumada al-Awwal (جمادى الأولى)

• Meaning: “The first dry month.”
• Significance: Refers to the dry season in Arabia.
• Historical Note: Several important early Islamic battles took place during this month.

6. Jumada al-Thani (جمادى الآخرة)

• Meaning: “The second dry month.”
• Significance: Continuation of Jumada al-Awwal.
• Key Fact: A time often associated with reflection and preparation before the sacred months return.

7. Rajab (رجب)

• Meaning: “To respect” or “to honor.”
• Significance: Another sacred month in which fighting is forbidden.
• Key Event: Isra and Mi’raj (Night Journey and Ascension of the Prophet) occurred in this month.

8. Shaʽban (شعبان)

• Meaning: “To separate” or “to disperse.”
• Significance: The month before Ramadan, used to prepare spiritually.
• Key Night: Laylat al-Bara’ah (15th Shaʽban) — the “Night of Forgiveness” for many Muslims.

9. Ramadan (رمضان)

• Meaning: “Burning heat.”
• Significance: The holiest month when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.
• Key Event: Revelation of the Qur’an began during this month.
• Ends with: Eid al-Fitr, a major celebration marking the end of fasting.

10. Shawwal (شوال)

• Meaning: “Raised” or “lifted.”
• Significance: Begins right after Ramadan.
• Key Event: Eid al-Fitr is celebrated on 1st Shawwal.
• Bonus Tip: Fasting six days of Shawwal is highly rewarded.

11. Dhul-Qaʽdah (ذو القعدة)

• Meaning: “The month of rest.”
• Significance: A sacred month of peace and rest before Hajj.
• Note: Fighting and warfare are prohibited during this time.

12. Dhul-Hijjah (ذو الحجة)

• Meaning: “The month of pilgrimage.”
• Significance: The Hajj (pilgrimage) takes place in this month.
• Key Days:
  • 8th–13th Dhul-Hijjah: Hajj rituals
  • 10th Dhul-Hijjah: Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice

FAQs

Also see: Complete List of Christianity Holidays

Final Thoughts

The Islamic months in order represent more than just timekeeping — they reflect a spiritual rhythm that connects Muslims worldwide through fasting, prayer, and reflection.
Each month carries its own lessons, encouraging believers to stay mindful, thankful, and steadfast in faith throughout the year.

Also see: List of the 12 Lunar Months