For many, the new year signifies new beginnings and a chance for a lifestyle reset. For many Muslims, however, there is confusion regarding how we should respond to the modern-day new year greetings and celebrations. In this insightful episode, Shaykh Hamza broadens the discussion with insights from great scholars of the past, such as Imam al-Juwayni, on the importance of time-keeping and calendars. Reflecting on the orderly motions of the sun and the moon allows us to see God's mercy and wisdom in providing us with a means, through these celestial bodies, to measure time and regulate both our worldly and devotional affairs. For the believer, the new year brings opportunities for expressing gratitude to our Creator, sharing our blessings, and doing other good work. In that spirit, can we say, “Happy New Year”?

About the Sacred Text Messages podcast:

In this age of material excess and spiritual privation, grounding ourselves in divine guidance has never been more critical. The Sacred Text Messages podcast with Shaykh Hamza Yusuf provides an antidote to the modern madness by reconnecting us with God and His Messenger ﷺ. Listen to timeless wisdoms from sacred sources and rediscover Truth, Goodness, and Beauty.

Read more about Hamza Yusuf. Visit us online at Sandala.org.