inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar urged Muslims to interpret the Islamic New Year, 1 Muharram 1448 Hijriah, not simply as a change of calendar, but as a momentum to transform themselves towards a better life.
Nasaruddin emphasized that the spirit of hijrah must be manifested through concrete actions that benefit society. According to him, hijrah does not only mean physical movement from one place to another, but also a spiritual and social transformation that encourages one to become a better person.
"The spirit of hijrah must be manifested in concrete actions that benefit the wider community. Hijrah is not simply a change of location, but a spiritual and social transformation toward a better person," he said on Wednesday (6/10/2026).
He explained that the spirit of hijrah can be reflected through concern for others, protecting the environment, and a commitment to bringing prosperity to society. He emphasized that the essence of religion is spreading compassion, not hatred or hostility.
According to him, the measure of a person's religiosity can be seen from the extent to which they cultivate love and concern for their fellow human beings. Therefore, he reminded people not to use religious teachings as a tool to divide society or the nation.
In addition to encouraging the public to reflect on themselves, he also highlighted the importance of strengthening the role of mosques in the modern era. Referring to the history of the establishment of the Hijri calendar during the reign of Caliph Umar ibn Khattab, he explained that the Prophet Muhammad's migration (hijrah) marked the beginning of a new civilization, supported by the mosque's extensive functions.
According to him, mosques should not only be places for ritual worship, but also serve as centers for education, deliberation, economic empowerment, and strengthening social solidarity.
"Mosques must continue to be centers of civilization that provide benefits to the community and strengthen unity and social awareness," he concluded.
Through the momentum of 1 Muharram, the Ministry of Religious Affairs invites the public to use the values of hijrah as inspiration to build a more harmonious, productive, and common-benefit life.
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