The hijra

Definition

The hijra refers to the migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This event marks a significant turning point in Islamic history, as it represents not only a physical journey but also the establishment of the first Muslim community and the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The hijra is considered a pivotal moment that symbolizes both escape from persecution and the foundation of a new community based on Islamic principles.
2. This migration is so important that it marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar, with 622 CE designated as year one AH (Anno Hegirae).
3. In Medina, Muhammad was able to form alliances with various tribes, which helped in the growth and consolidation of Islam as a political and social force.
4. The hijra also demonstrated Muhammad's leadership qualities, as he effectively transitioned from a prophet facing opposition to a political leader guiding a burgeoning community.
5. The events surrounding the hijra led to significant changes in Muslim practices and laws, as they adapted to their new environment and challenges.

Review Questions

• How did the hijra impact the development of early Islamic society in Medina?
  • The hijra allowed for the establishment of a strong Muslim community in Medina, where Muhammad could create an inclusive society that combined religious and political authority. This shift transformed Muslims from a persecuted minority into a cohesive group with its own governance. In Medina, new laws and practices emerged, fostering unity and helping to solidify Islam as a comprehensive way of life.
• What were some key challenges faced by Muhammad and his followers during the hijra, and how were they overcome?
  • During the hijra, Muhammad and his followers faced numerous challenges, including hostility from the Quraysh tribe and logistical difficulties in their escape from Mecca. They overcame these obstacles through careful planning, secretive travel routes, and forming alliances with sympathetic tribes along the way. The support from Medina’s inhabitants ultimately provided refuge and security for the early Muslim community.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the hijra for both Islamic civilization and global history.
  • The hijra had profound long-term implications for Islamic civilization as it laid the foundation for a structured Muslim community that would grow into powerful empires. It marked a transition from spiritual practice to organized governance, influencing subsequent Islamic law and societal norms. Globally, it contributed to shaping historical narratives around migration, identity formation, and religious communities, impacting how communities organize themselves in response to adversity.

Related terms

Medina: A city in present-day Saudi Arabia that became the first stronghold of the Muslim community after the hijra, where Muhammad established a supportive society for Muslims.

Quraysh: The powerful tribe in Mecca that opposed Muhammad and his followers, leading to their persecution and eventual migration during the hijra.

Ummah: The collective community of Muslims around the world, which was significantly solidified by the events following the hijra as Muslims united under a shared identity.