July 1, 2024
Global religious, spiritual and nonreligious observance information
The President's Committee on Religion, Spirituality and Nonreligious Diversity presents the global observance information for July 2024.
Ghambar Maidyoshem — Saturday, June 29, through Wednesday, July 3. Tradition: Zoroastrianism. Celebrates the creation of water, the sowing of the summer crop and the harvesting of grain.
First of Muharram, or Ra's al-Sanat Al Hijrivah — Sunday, July 7. Tradition: Islam. The first day of the first month of the Islamic year. This day commemorates the Hijra or "migration" of Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 C.E., where the first Islamic community was established. Begins at sundown.
Martyrdom of the Bab — Monday, July 8. Tradition: Baha'i. Anniversary of the martyrdom of the Bab, the forerunner of Baha'u'llah, in 1850. Work is suspended on this day. Begins at sundown.
Simplicity Day — Friday, July 12. Tradition: World Pantheist Movement. Commemorates the birth of Henry David Thoreau and his notion of simple living in harmony with nature.
Ashurah — Tuesday, July 16. Tradition: Islam. For Sunni Muslims, it is a voluntary fast day. Many important events are believed to have occurred on this day, such as Noah's leaving the Ark and the freedom and departure of the children of Israel from Egypt. For Shi'i Muslims, it is a time of mourning commemorating the martyrdom of Husain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, on the 10th day of the lunar month of Muharram.
Dharma Day — Sunday, July 21. Tradition: Buddhism. Commemorates the Buddha's first teaching following his enlightenment. The date and name of this Buddhist celebration varies significantly among cultures and communities.
Pioneer Day — Wednesday, July 24. Tradition: Latter Day Saints. Mormon observance of the arrival of Brigham Young at the site of Salt Lake City, Utah in 1847.
Lammas/Lughnasa — Wednesday, July 31. Tradition: Wicca/Paganism. The first harvest festival, celebrating the sacrifices of the Earth and the sun for the harvest and the diminishing strength of summer.
The President's Committee on Religious, Spiritual and Nonreligious Diversity welcomes those of all global religious, spiritual and nonreligious commitments. Further, we welcome any suggestions, questions or other comments. Please contact the committee's chair, David Yetter, at dyetter@k-state.edu.