The Bohra calendar, known among Dawoodi Bohra Muslims, is a lunar calendar that’s got its own way of marking the year, different from the regular January-to-December one most folks use. Now, the Bohra calendar, it follows the Islamic Hijri calendar, which started way back in 622 CE when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers moved from Mecca to Medina. This move marked the beginning of the Islamic year. So, with this calendar, the months and days don’t go by the sun, but rather by the moon.
Why the Moon, Not the Sun?
Well, you see, in the Bohra calendar, each month starts with the sighting of the new moon. That means, instead of 365 days like the regular calendar, it’s got about 354 or 355 days. So, you know, holidays and important dates keep shifting around the seasons! One year, a big day like Eid might fall in the summer, and the next time, it could be in the middle of winter.
Months of the Bohra Calendar
Now, the Bohra calendar’s months got their own names, and they go in a special order:
- Muharram
- Safar
- Rabi al-Awwal
- Rabi al-Thani
- Jumada al-Ula
- Jumada al-Akhirah
- Rajab
- Shaban
- Ramadan
- Shawwal
- Dhu al-Qadah
- Dhu al-Hijjah
Each of these months has its own significance. Some months are known for fasting, like Ramadan, where Bohras, along with other Muslims, fast from sunrise to sunset. Dhu al-Hijjah is another big one, with Eid ul-Adha happening during this month – a time when Bohra families gather, pray, and celebrate. It’s a time of joy and togetherness, all following this unique calendar.
Sunset to Sunset Days
Now, unlike what most of us are used to, where a new day starts at midnight, the Bohra calendar says a new day starts at sunset. So, imagine: one day ends, the sun goes down, and right there – a new day begins! This “sunset to sunset” tradition affects daily prayers, celebrations, and even fasting times, giving a special rhythm to life in the Bohra community.
Who Follows the Bohra Calendar?
The Bohra calendar is mainly followed by Dawoodi Bohras, a Shia Muslim group. This community keeps a strong bond with traditions, which are rooted in the Shia Fatimi way of Islam. The Bohras are scattered all over the world – you’ll find them in India, Pakistan, East Africa, and many other places. But no matter where they are, they stay connected to their roots through this calendar.
Important Days and Celebrations
There are many special days on the Bohra calendar:
- Milad al-Nabi: The birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This is a time for celebration and reflection on his teachings.
- Urs Mubarak: The commemoration of past leaders, or Da’is, within the Bohra community. These are moments to remember the guides and teachers who kept the faith strong.
- Laylat al-Qadr: A significant night during Ramadan where prayers and worship are particularly important.
And that’s just the start! There are events and gatherings all through the year. Bohra families take part in these, bringing the community closer together, even if they’re living far apart.
The Bohra Calendar in Modern Times
Even though it’s an ancient way of counting days, technology today has made it easy for Bohras to keep track of their dates and events. Many folks use Bohra calendar apps now, which help them plan ahead and keep up with the special days. Even if the moon might be a bit tricky to spot, these apps make sure you’re never missing an important date!
Conclusion
The Bohra calendar is more than just dates and days. It’s a whole way of life that connects the Bohra people to their past, their faith, and each other. With months named differently, days starting at sunset, and holidays moving around the seasons, this calendar sure has its unique rhythm. It’s a reminder of how traditions can keep a community close, even when they’re scattered across the globe.
Tags：[Bohra calendar, Islamic calendar, Dawoodi Bohra, Hijri calendar, Shia Muslim holidays]