History and origins of the month of Safar

Following the holy month of Muharram, Muslims enter Safar, the second month of the Islamic Hijri calendar. While Safar is often associated with superstitions and perceived misfortune, Islamic teachings emphasize that it holds the same sanctity as other months within the Hijri calendar.

In 2026, Safar 1448 Hijriah is expected to begin around mid-July, with government and NU bodies projecting July 16, while Muhammadiyah sets it for July 15. During this month, Muslims are encouraged to perform good deeds, just as they are in other months, without believing in any specific luck or misfortune tied to Safar.

The word Safar originates from the Arabic root ṣafar. One interpretation suggests the name derives from the state of homes becoming empty (ṣifr) as men departed for trade or warfare after the sacred month of Muharram concluded. Another view links Safar to the color 'yellow' or 'empty,' possibly reflecting the arid conditions of the desert or dwindling food supplies.

This month's name was recognized by Arab societies long before the advent of Islam as part of their existing calendar system. Within Islam, Safar is considered a regular month, lacking the specific virtues attributed to Ramadan or the four sacred months: Dzulqa'dah, Dzulhijjah, Muharram, and Rajab.