hijrah: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

'Hegira' is the Latinized English spelling that has been traditional in Western writings. 'Hijrah' (or 'hijra') is a transliteration closer to the Arabic pronunciation and is preferred in modern academic and Islamic contexts.

In traditional English usage, it is a noun. However, in contemporary discourse, particularly within certain Islamic communities or extremist rhetoric, it can be verbed (e.g., 'to hijrah'). This is a specialized and recent usage.

It marks the transition of the early Muslim community from a persecuted minority in Mecca to a established, ruling community in Medina. This event established the first Muslim polity and is the epochal starting point of the Islamic lunar calendar.

Its core meaning is inherently religious. Metaphorical extensions (e.g., 'a personal hijrah to a new career') are possible but rare and always draw conscious analogy to the original religious concept of purposeful migration for a better state.

The emigration or migration of Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

Hijrah is usually formal, academic, religious in register.

Hijrah: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhɪdʒrə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhɪdʒrə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.