Great moments in Muslim history: Hijra

622CE After persecution in Mecca, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) migrated to Medina. This migration (called Hijra in Arabic) marks the beginning of the Islamic era, and is considered to be the most significant event in the early history of Islam. It was this change of location that allowed the new Muslim community to survive and develop into an influential religion. The pivotal event also marks the start of the Muslim calendar.