The Islamic (Hijri) calendar follows the moon (lunar) cycle, so a year is about 354 days — eleven days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. That's why Ramadan and Eid "move" earlier each year. Allah states that the number of months is twelve, four of which are sacred. — Qur'an, At-Tawbah: 36.
Each month's name carries a beautiful meaning, often tied to old Arabian weather or customs. Knowing them helps a child feel connected to time in an Islamic way — not just memorizing names.
The 12 Hijri Months & their meanings
- Muharram 🌙 — "the forbidden/sacred". The sacred month that opens the year: Islamic new year & the Ashura fast.
- Safar — "empty". Not an unlucky month — a time to teach tawakkul.
- Rabi' al-Awwal — "first spring". The birth month of the Prophet ﷺ.
- Rabi' al-Akhir — "second spring". A quiet month to keep good habits (istiqamah).
- Jumada al-Awwal — "first frozen month". Learning to bravely stand for good.
- Jumada al-Akhir — "second frozen month". Remembering Abu Bakr As-Siddiq, the loyal friend.
- Rajab 🌙 — "to honor". Sacred; the Isra & Mi'raj.
- Sha'ban — "to scatter". Preparing for Ramadan; also mid-Sha'ban.
- Ramadan — "to burn (away sins)". The month of fasting & Laylatul Qadr.
- Shawwal — "to lift/raise". Eid al-Fitr & the six days of Shawwal.
- Dhul-Qa'dah 🌙 — "the one of rest" (a pause from war). Sacred; loving peace.
- Dhul-Hijjah 🌙 — "the one of Hajj". Sacred; first 10 days, Hajj & Eid al-Adha.
The four sacred months
The four honored months are Dhul-Qa'dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab (three in a row, one apart). In them, Muslims are encouraged to do more good and avoid wrongdoing all the more, since even sins weigh heavier.
Every month has its wisdom
Not every month has a festival — and that's by design. The "quiet" months like Rabi' al-Akhir, Jumada al-Awwal, and Jumada al-Akhir teach children that goodness doesn't wait for a big occasion. That's exactly where we train small, consistent daily deeds.
How to use this calendar with your child
- Mark the current month. Show which month we're in and what makes it special.
- One deed per month. Choose one good habit to keep all month long.
- Tell the meaning. A month's name sparks curiosity and sticks in memory.
See the full calendar with dates at Islamic Calendar, and the year-round sunnah fasting calendar.