A New Year, A New Prayer: Why Christians Should Care About the Islamic New Year

While many of us continue with our routines, millions of Muslims around the world have just entered a new year - Muharram 1447 AH, the start of the Islamic calendar. Often unnoticed by Christians, this season is full of spiritual significance. For us, it’s an opportunity not for distance, but for prayer.

The Islamic New Year begins with Muharram, a sacred month marked not by celebration, but by reflection and mourning. For Shia Muslims especially, it leads up to Ashura - the 10th day of the month - which falls this year on Saturday, July 5.

Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of Muhammad, who was killed at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Across parts of the Middle East and South Asia, public processions and ceremonies express sorrow, grief and a longing for justice. It’s a time when millions reflect deeply on sacrifice and suffering.

Why Does This Matter for Christians?

Because Jesus meets us in places of sorrow and searching.

Ashura is full of questions the Gospel answers: Is there hope after grief? Is there justice for the broken? Is there peace that lasts?

Jesus - the Lamb who was slain, who bore the world’s injustice, offers not just answers but transformation. As Muslims mourn, we can pray that their longing leads them to the One who gave His life not just in tragedy, but for redemption.

In Genesis 17:20, God says of Ishmael:

“I have heard you. I will surely bless him.”

While the covenant passed through Isaac, God’s compassion for Ishmael’s descendants remains. Today, across the Muslim world, many are encountering Jesus - through dreams, Scripture, and quiet conversations. God is at work, and the Islamic New Year is a moment to join Him in prayer.

How You Can Join This Month

✅ Pray during Muharram - for seekers to meet Jesus as the Man of Sorrows who brings hope.

✅ Support the work of Arabic Media Ministries – discipling many new believers in the Arab world.     

✅ Share this post to invite others to pray intentionally this season.

A Simple Prayer

"Lord, as millions reflect on justice, sorrow and sacrifice, meet them with the truth of Jesus. Strengthen secret believers and raise up more workers for the harvest. Use us to love and intercede faithfully. Amen."

As this sacred season unfolds, let’s not miss the moment. Let’s pray boldly. Let’s love deeply. Let’s be part of what God is doing.

Because when people are searching, Jesus is ready to be found.