10 things Muslims should avoid during Islamic New Year 1447 AH

As Muslims around the world enter the sacred month of Muharram and mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year 1447 AH, it’s not just a time for reflection and renewal — it’s also a time to steer clear of actions that may compromise the spiritual value of this holy period.

Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam in which certain behaviors are especially discouraged. The Hijri New Year is an opportunity to draw closer to Allah, strengthen our faith, and walk in the path of righteousness. To achieve this, here are 10 important things Muslims should avoid during this period:

1. Engaging in Sinful Acts

This includes lying, gossiping, cheating, backbiting, slander, and dishonesty. During Muharram — a sacred month — such acts are even more spiritually damaging. Muslims are urged to uphold the highest standards of character.

2. Neglecting Salah (Prayer)

Skipping obligatory prayers weakens the bond between a believer and Allah. As a new Hijri year begins, it’s essential to maintain consistency in daily prayers and even strive for extra prayers such as Tahajjud and Sunnah rakats.

3. Indulging in Worldly Celebrations

Unlike the Gregorian New Year, the Islamic New Year is not a festive occasion with parties, music, and fireworks. Muslims should avoid mimicking such celebrations and instead focus on dua (supplication), Qur’an recitation, and self-accountability.

4. Ignoring the History of Hijrah

The Islamic New Year is rooted in the profound story of the Hijrah (migration) of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Neglecting this historical lesson means missing the core purpose of the New Year. Muslims are encouraged to reflect on the themes of sacrifice, patience, and community building.

5. Disrespecting Ashura and Its Significance

The 10th of Muharram (Ashura) is a day of deep significance. Some may treat it as an ordinary day, or worse, misrepresent its purpose. Muslims should avoid misinformation and instead engage in recommended acts such as fasting and learning the authentic history of Ashura.

6. Participating in Innovations (Bid’ah)

Introducing or engaging in unverified religious innovations is discouraged. Acts such as excessive ritualism, invented mourning practices, or fabricated prayers without Quranic or Hadith backing should be avoided to preserve the purity of Islamic worship.

7. Spreading Misinformation on Social Media

In the digital age, many people unknowingly share unauthenticated hadiths or false historical claims about Muharram and Ashura. Before sharing religious content, Muslims must verify information from trusted Islamic scholars or authentic sources.

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8. Neglecting Fasting on Ashura

While fasting is not obligatory during Muharram, the Prophet (PBUH) recommended fasting on the 9th and 10th, or 10th and 11th of Muharram to distinguish from the Jewish tradition. Ignoring this act of worship means missing a great opportunity for spiritual reward.

9. Holding Grudges and Refusing Forgiveness

Islam encourages believers to forgive and seek reconciliation. Starting a new year while still harboring resentment, grudges, or refusing to seek or offer forgiveness hinders spiritual growth.

10. Wasting Time Without Purpose

The Islamic New Year calls for accountability, not aimlessness. Muslims should avoid idleness and strive to use their time wisely — reading Qur’an, learning, planning spiritually, or contributing positively to their families and communities.

Conclusion: Start 1447 AH with Conscious Faith

The Islamic New Year 1447 AH is more than a date — it’s a call to spiritual awareness. By avoiding these ten actions, Muslims can begin the year on a clean, sincere, and productive note. It’s a time to renew intentions, correct past mistakes, and commit to becoming better servants of Allah.