Determining age based on the Islamic lunar calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, necessitates a specific computation method. Unlike the solar-based Gregorian calendar, the Hijri calendar consists of approximately 354 or 355 days divided into 12 lunar months. Calculating an individuals age according to this system requires accounting for the difference in the number of days per year between the two calendar systems. For example, an individual born in the year 1420 AH will have a different age compared to someone born in 1999 CE, even though the time elapsed may be equivalent based on the Gregorian calculation.
The significance of accurately converting dates between the Gregorian and Hijri calendars lies in its relevance to Islamic religious observances, legal matters, and historical studies. The Islamic calendar dictates the timing of major events such as Ramadan, Eid al-Adha, and other important religious holidays. Furthermore, within certain Islamic legal systems and genealogical records, age determination according to the Hijri calendar holds particular importance. Accurate age determination also facilitates the study and understanding of historical Islamic texts and events, where dates are predominantly recorded using the Hijri system.