Exploring the Names and Origins of Jumadal Akhirah Across the Muslim World

In our previous post, we introduced the arrival of Jumadal Akhirah 1446 AH. This month, like all Islamic months, carries deep historical and linguistic significance. Its name, variations, and the story behind it reflect the interconnectedness of the Muslim world’s linguistic and cultural heritage. Let’s explore the fascinating origins of the name “Jumada” and how this sixth month of the Hijri calendar is referred to across different regions.

The Meaning and Origin of “Jumada”

The term “Jumada” (جمادى) has its roots in Arabic and is linked to the winter season. In classical Arabic, “Jumada” refers to “dryness” or “parched ground,” which may initially seem counterintuitive for winter. However, in Arabia, the winter season often brought freezing temperatures rather than significant rainfall, leading to the land becoming hardened and dry. The connection to “freezing” or “solidification” reflects the climatic conditions during which these months were originally named.

The two Jumada months—Jumadal Ula (the first Jumada) and Jumadal Akhirah (the last Jumada)—carry this historical significance, reminding us of the seasonal cycles that influenced early Islamic culture.

Common Names of Jumadal Akhirah

1. Jumada al-Thani (جمادى الثانية)
   Widely used in the Arab world, this name means “the second Jumada,” indicating its position after Jumadal Ula.
2. Jumada al-Thaniya (جمادى الثانية)
   Another form of the same name, emphasizing its grammatical femininity in Arabic.
3. Jumadil Akhir / Akhirah (جماد الآخرة)
   Prevalent in South Asia, Malaysia, and Indonesia, this slightly adapted name aligns with local pronunciation practices.
4. Jumâdal Ukhrâ (جمادى الأخرى)
   Found in parts of South Asia, particularly in Urdu-speaking communities, this variation translates to “the other Jumada” or “the last Jumada,” emphasizing its sequential nature.
5. Urdu: جمادی الآخر
   Urdu-speaking communities refer to the month as “Jumadi-ul-Akhir,” written as جمادی الآخر. The meaning and origin remain consistent with the Arabic name.
6. Turkish: Cemâziyelâhir
   In Turkish, the month is called “Cemâziyelâhir,” written as Cemâziyelâhir in native script. This name reflects the Ottoman Islamic heritage, maintaining a close connection to Arabic terminology.
7. Jumada II (Romanized)
   Common in English-speaking contexts, this modern and simplified name makes the month accessible to a global audience.
8. Jamadi-ul-Akhir / Akhirah
   A popular transliteration in South Asia, influenced by Urdu and Persian.
9. Jumadi II / Jamadi II
   A shortened form often seen in bilingual Islamic calendars.

Bridging History, Language, and Community

The name Jumada is more than a label—it’s a linguistic artifact, rooted in historical realities that shaped the lives of early Muslim communities. Whether you refer to this month as جمادى الثانية, جمادى الأخرى, جمادی الآخر, or Cemâziyelâhir, the meanings converge in celebrating a shared heritage of faith, timekeeping, and culture.

What’s Next?

As Jumadal Akhirah approaches, stay tuned for our upcoming post featuring moon sighting reports and crescent moon photography for 1446 AH. Meanwhile, explore related resources on our website:

• Global Islamic Calendar for 2024 CE
• Umm al-Qura Calendar for 2024 CE

Let us welcome the arrival of this blessed month with reflection and gratitude. What does your community call this month, and what traditions do you observe? Share your thoughts in the comments below!