As the calendar pages turn to the evening of Friday, July 5, 2024, at precisely 6:57 PM EDT, the skies will host the new Moon phase, where the Moon finds itself nestled between the Earth and the Sun, hidden from our view on Earth. This celestial event also heralds the commencement of new months across various lunisolar calendars. The sixth month of the Chinese year of the Dragon begins on Saturday, July 6. The same sunset will usher in the Hebrew month of Tammuz. For Islamic communities, the months generally begin with the first glimpse of the waxing crescent Moon, but many now align with the Umm al-Qura Calendar of Saudi Arabia, which adopts astronomical calculations for a more systematic onset of months. Accordingly, the evening of Saturday, July 6, will likely signify the start of Al-Hijra, the Islamic New Year, and usher in the month of Muharram, as per this calendar. However, it’s worth noting that the exact start of Muharram may still be adjusted by Saudi religious authorities following the actual moon sighting. Al-Hijra is celebrated as a public holiday in numerous Muslim nations, with customs usually involving a peaceful day infused with expressions of thankfulness. The month of Muharram is also regarded as one of the four sacred months where warfare is considered taboo.
When will the next Strawberry Moon occur?
The next Strawberry Moon will occur on Friday, July 5, 2024.
What time will the new Moon phase start?
The new Moon phase will start at 6:57 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
Why is it called the Strawberry Moon?
The Strawberry Moon is a term used for the full Moon in June or the last full Moon of spring. The name is not related to the color but traditionally corresponds to the season of harvesting strawberries in parts of North America.
What is the significance of the new Moon in lunisolar calendars?
In lunisolar calendars, the new Moon marks the beginning of a new month. This phase is important for several cultural and religious observances around the world.
How do Islamic calendars determine the start of a new month?
Islamic calendars traditionally depend on the sighting of the waxing crescent Moon. However, many Muslim communities now also use the Umm al-Qura Calendar of Saudi Arabia, which relies on astronomical calculations for more predictable month starts.
What is Al-Hijra?
Al-Hijra is the Islamic New Year, marking the beginning of the month of Muharram. It’s a public holiday in many Muslim countries and is often observed with quiet reflection and gratitude.
Is Muharram a sacred month?
Yes, Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam during which warfare is traditionally prohibited.
