Why Know Your Hijri Birthday?
In Islamic Fiqh (jurisprudence), all age-related rulings are calculated using the Hijri lunar calendar, not the solar Gregorian one. Because the Hijri year is about 11 days shorter, you age slightly faster. For example:
- Zakat: The calculation of when Zakat becomes due (the Hawl) is strictly based on the passing of one Hijri year.
- Puberty (Bulugh): If physical signs do not appear, a person is considered an adult responsible for all Islamic duties at the age of 15 lunar years (which is roughly 14.5 solar years).
- Iddah: Waiting periods for widows and divorcees are calculated in lunar months.
The Importance of Jumu'ah
If you find that you were born on a Friday (Al Jumu'ah), this is a special blessing! Friday is the best day of the week, the day Adam (AS) was created, and a day containing an hour where all duas are accepted.