Hijrah was a momentous event in the history of Islam. It marked the transition of Islam from a private faith to life- transforming vision affecting both moral and social reform. Thanks to its decisive nature, Caliph `Umar chose Hijrah to mark the Islamic Calendar.

In other words, Islam in Makkah remained a private affair. In Madinah, it became instrumental in affecting social and political reform.

Muslims in Makkah were a persecuted minority. In Madinah, they soon emerged to become a power to assert and affirm and capable of defending themselves against the aggressors.

Islam began a new era of embarking on its vision of influencing and shaping the course of world history.

The Prophet’s mosque became the lighthouse from which emanated the life of Islam, mentoring world leaders. Thanks to their efforts the message of Islam spread to the far corners of the world.

`Umar and the companions, therefore, had a foresight into the historical role of Hijrah when they commemorated the event by marking the Islamic Calendar. I pray to Allah to inspire us all by rereading our history to shape our present and future, accordingly.

Almighty Allah knows best.