The Mathematics of Lunar Age
If you live to be 65 years old in the Gregorian calendar, you are actually over 67 years old in the Islamic calendar. This mathematical reality means that when reading Islamic history, ages should be contextualized. For example, when the Prophet ï·º passed away at the age of 63, this was 63 lunar years, which equates to slightly over 61 solar years.
Does Islam Celebrate Birthdays?
While tracking one's age is necessary for calculating Zakat (which is due after one full Hijri year has passed on wealth) and determining the age of obligations, celebrating birthdays in the modern cultural sense is not a Sunnah practice. However, acknowledging the passing of time and making dua for a blessed life ahead is always a good practice.