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Hegira: meaning, definitions and examples

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hegira

 

[ həˈdʒɪrə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

historical migration

Hegira refers to the migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD, which marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. This event is significant in Islamic history and symbolizes the establishment of the first Muslim community. The term has also come to represent any significant departure or migration, often under duress or compulsion. In broader usage, it can denote a journey to a safer or more favorable place, often in the context of conflict or persecution.

Synonyms

departure, exodus, flight, migration

Examples of usage

  • The Hegira symbolizes the start of a new era for Muslims.
  • Many sought a hegira to escape the violence of war.
  • The group's hegira led them to a more peaceful region.

Translations

Translations of the word "hegira" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hegira

🇮🇳 हेजिरा

🇩🇪 Hedschra

🇮🇩 hegira

🇺🇦 хіджра

🇵🇱 hegira

🇯🇵 ヒジュラ

🇫🇷 hégire

🇪🇸 hegira

🇹🇷 hicret

🇰🇷 헤지라

🇸🇦 هجرة

🇨🇿 hijra

🇸🇰 hijra

🇨🇳 希吉拉

🇸🇮 hegira

🇮🇸 hegira

🇰🇿 хиджра

🇬🇪 ჰიჯრა

🇦🇿 hecira

🇲🇽 hegira

Etymology

The term 'Hegira' originates from the Arabic word 'Hijrah', which means 'migration' or 'departure'. It specifically refers to the Prophet Muhammad's journey, which was not only a physical relocation but also a pivotal moment in the formation of the Muslim community. Following this event, the Islamic calendar was established, counting years from the Hegira as Year One, marking its importance in Islamic tradition. The term has since evolved in usage, often applied to other migrations or escapes from persecution in a broader context. The historical significance resonates in both religious and secular discussions, reflecting how migrations can shape societies.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,710, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.