Arabic Months’ Names meaning

Arabic Months’ Names meaning

There are many names we hear and use regularly without always knowing their meanings. Among these are the names of the Arabic months in the Hijri calendar. Below are the reasons behind their naming, as mentioned in linguistic and historical sources, reflecting the conditions that prevailed when these names were first given.

Muharram

This month was named to signify its sacred status, as Arabs before Islam prohibited fighting during it.

Safar

It is believed that this month was named because Arab homes would become empty, as people left in search of livelihood, trade, or warfare.

Rabi’al-Awwal

This month was named because it coincided with the spring season when the names of the months were established.

Rabi’al-Akhar (also known as Rabi‘ al-Thani)

It was given this name because it also coincided with spring. Both names are linguistically correct in Arabic.

Jumada al-Awwal

This month was named because it coincided with winter, when water would freeze due to the cold weather.

Jumada al-Akhar (also known as Jumada al-Thaniyah)

It was named for the same reason, as it also fell during the cold season. Both names are considered correct in Arabic usage.

Rajab

This month was named because Arabs revered it and refrained from fighting. The word “Rajab” is associated with respect and reverence.

Sha’ban

It was named because Arabs would disperse during this time, setting out in different directions for war or in search of water after refraining from conflict during Rajab.

Ramadan

One of the most significant months in the Hijri calendar due to the obligation of fasting. It was named after ramda’, meaning intense heat, as it coincided with a period of extremely high temperatures.

Shawwal

This month was named for the time when the milk of camels would decrease and dry up.

Dhu al-Qa’dah

It was named because Arabs would sit back and abstain from fighting during this month, making it one of the sacred months.

Dhu al-Hijjah

This month was named because Arabs traditionally performed pilgrimage during it, and it remains the season of Hajj to this day.