Chinese Lunisolar Calendar vs Islamic Lunar Calendar
Key Facts
Section titled “Key Facts”- The Chinese calendar is lunisolar.
- The Islamic calendar is purely lunar.
- The two systems operate on different astronomical principles.
Chinese Lunisolar System
Section titled “Chinese Lunisolar System”- Lunar months begin at astronomical new moons.
- Leap months inserted for solar alignment.
- Anchored to the winter solstice.
- Keeps seasons consistent.
Islamic Lunar System
Section titled “Islamic Lunar System”- 12 lunar months.
- No solar correction.
- Moves across seasons over time.
- Determined by lunar observation traditions.
Structural Difference
Section titled “Structural Difference”The Chinese system maintains agricultural alignment with seasons.
The Islamic calendar does not anchor to solar cycles.
Thus, the two systems are astronomically distinct.
For Chinese structure, see: The Origin of the Chinese Lunisolar Calendar