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Islamic History
When did the Hijra start?
Explanation and memory cue
The Hijra, the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar and started in the 12th year of Prophethood (Nabawat) on the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal. This date is traditionally accepted as the start of the Hijri calendar year and is historically consistent with Islamic sources. The Prophet's birth also occurred in the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal, 53 years before the Hijra, on the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal, which is why this month is significant in Islamic history.