The new moon for Muharram (First month of Islamic Calendar) was sighted on the 30th of Zul Hijjah i.e. Sunday the 3rd of November 2013, hence today, i.e. Monday happens to be the 1st of Muharram, New Year 1435.
Unlike other nations, Muslims all over the world do not celebrate the New Year instead it makes us sober such as we take time on this day to reflect on our lives particularly the last year, we remember our misdeeds and repent them, for the good deeds we thank Almighty Allah.
As Muslims, it’s very important to look back at our past deeds whether good or bad, that time has passed and it’s not coming back, with the life in this world so limited we must learn from the past, be grateful to our Lord for each and every second and focus on getting more close to Him such as move forward and follow the straight path (Siraate Mustaqim). The best way to satisfy our Lord, Allah Subhana Wa Ta’Ala is by prayers, preaching and practicing our religion, Islam.
Our Beloved Imam, the Promised Mehdi (a.s) said that:
"Makhluq (people created by Allah) looks at the (crescent moon) and rejoices. It should not rejoice. In fact, they should cry and feel sorry that life is being wasted and death is coming closer. Why do the people not curse (malamat) themselves? Why do they not repent?"
http://khalifatullahmehdi.info/Articles/English/How-to-Welcome-the-Islamic-New-Year.pdf
The month of Muharram is also known for two events such as the “Martyrdom of Our 2nd Caliph Hazrat Umar Farooq (r.a) on the 1st day , then on the 10th day of Muharram, the martyrdom of the grandson of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w), Hazrat Imam Hussain (r.a) his family and companions.
I really find this quote beautiful, turn to Allah before you return to Allah...
May Almighty Allah guide us to the straight path and help us during every aspect of our life, Aameen.
