The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar that marks the passage of time according to the cycles of the moon. It consists of 12 months, with each month carrying its own significance and historical importance. One such month is Safar, which has unfortunately been marred by false beliefs and superstitions that are contrary to the teachings of Islam.
**Understanding Safar: A Month of Islamic Calendar**
Safar is the second month of the Islamic calendar and is often misunderstood due to the superstitions that have become associated with it. In reality, Safar, like all other months in the Islamic calendar, is a neutral month in terms of its spiritual or religious significance. Islam firmly believes that no particular time or month carries inherent power or harm. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) rejected any notion of superstitions attached to Safar or any other month.
It was narrated by Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allaah (SWT) stated:
“[There is] no ‘Adwa [no contagious disease is conveyed without Allah’s permission], nor is there any bad omen [from birds], nor is there any Haamah [disease], nor is there any [bad omen in the month of] Safar…” (Sahih Bukhari 5707)
Hadhrat Jaabir (RA) has said that he heard the Prophet Muhammad(SAW) saying:
The descending of illness and evil superstition befalling in the month of Safar is untrue” (Muslim).
**Dispelling False Beliefs**
**1. Ill Omen and Bad Luck:** One of the false beliefs regarding Safar is that it is an unlucky month, full of bad omens. This idea contradicts the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the belief in Allah’s decree and the fact that events are under His control, not bound by the superstitions of certain months.
**2. Avoiding Travel and Marriages:** Another misconception is that it is considered inauspicious to travel or get married during Safar. However, there is no authentic evidence from the Quran or Hadith (Prophet’s sayings) that supports such claims. Muslims are encouraged to seek Allah’s blessings in all their endeavors, regardless of the month.
**3. Sickness and Afflictions:** Some people believe that illness and calamities are more likely to befall them during Safar. Islam teaches that trials and tribulations are a part of life, and they can occur at any time. It is important to have faith and patience in times of difficulty rather than attributing them to a specific month.
**4. Rituals for Protection:** Engaging in rituals or practices to protect oneself from the perceived negative effects of Safar contradicts the monotheistic principles of Islam. Muslims are instructed to place their trust in Allah alone and to avoid any acts of shirk (associating partners with Allah).
**Clarifying Islamic Teachings**
To maintain the purity of Islamic beliefs and practices, it is crucial to educate oneself and others about the true teachings of Islam regarding superstitions. The Quran and Hadith emphasize the importance of relying on Allah, seeking His guidance, and following the Sunnah (the way of the Prophet Muhammad) rather than giving in to unfounded beliefs and practices.
Safar is simply a month in the Islamic calendar and does not possess any intrinsic powers or ill effects. Islam encourages its followers to seek knowledge, understand the teachings of the faith, and reject superstitious beliefs. By doing so, Muslims can lead a life based on true faith, wisdom, and adherence to the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah.
