As we find ourselves approaching the third month of the Islamic Hijri Calendar, the month of Rabiul Awwal, it is the perfect time to explore and understand the significance of this beautiful month.
The meaning of Rabiul Awwal in literal terms means “the first [month] or beginning of spring”, referring to its position in the pre-Islamic Arabian calendar, and is followed by the sacred month of Muharram and Safar.
Although Rabiul Awwal isn’t known to be one of the sacred months like Muharram or Ramadan, it is marked significantly as it is the month in which our beloved Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. was born, giving Muslims yet another opportunity to reflect on the gravity of our Prophet S.A.W. and the role that he played.
The celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. is also known as Eid Milad Un Nabi by many, an opportunity to reflect on the life and teachings of our Prophet S.A.W., remembering his wisdom and devotion to Allah.
The birth of the Prophet Muhammad PBUH (Peace be Upon Him) took place in Makkah in 570 CE. It has been narrated that he S.A.W. was born on a Monday, but the exact birthdate remains to differ. The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. was sent down to us as a mercy to mankind.
“We have sent you ‘O Prophet’ only as a mercy for the whole world.” [Quran 21:107]
There are countless ways in which we can learn from and adapt to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. and gain reward. The month of Rabiul Awwal provides us with the perfect opportunity to do this.
The Prophet S.A.W. was the best of Mankind. He worked to eradicate oppressive structures and believed in equality, revolutionising the rights of women within society. The impact he, S.A.W. made throughout his lifetime created a foundation of good for his Ummah to follow.
What better way to learn more about the life of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. than to read the Seerah (life story) of him, S.A.W., and increase your knowledge around how he navigated through hardships and blessings.
Increasing in Salawat means to send blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. This has been encouraged to earn rewards and attain forgiveness of our sins.
Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! you also should invoke blessings on him and salute him with the salutation of peace. [Quran 33.57]
The significance of Rabiul Awwal is not only a reflection into the historical events that lie within the month, but it also holds an influence on Muslims to cherish its lessons and strive to practice the righteous qualities taught by our Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.
The Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. is the perfect guidance for Muslims to follow and benefit on a day to day, all year round.
Below are a couple of Sunnah that can be integrated into your daily life starting this Rabiul Awwal. Even though there aren’t specific hadith on Rabiul Awwal, we have highlighted various hadith to inspire you to follow our Prophet S.A.W.
Fasting on a Monday is not obligatory but remains a Sunnah of the Prophet S.A.W. as he used to fast on that day.
The Messenger of Allah was asked about fasting on Mondays, whereupon he said: “On it, I was born and on it, revelation was sent down to me” [Muslim].
The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. said, “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, should not hurt his neighbour and whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, should serve his guests generously and whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, should speak what is good or keep silent.” [Bukhari]
One of the most important Islamic ways of life is to adhere to showing gratitude and practicing patience. The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. said, “Whoever does not thank people has not thanked Allah.” [Al-Albani]
The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. said, “How excellent the affairs of the believer! His affair, all of it, is good for him, and this is not the case with anyone except the believer. If prosperity comes to him, he is thankful, and if adversity falls on him, he perseveres patiently. So, it is all good for him.” [Muslim]
“The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. was the most generous of all the people, and he used to become more generous in Ramadan when Gabriel met him. Gabriel used to meet him every night during Ramadan to revise the Quran with him. The Messenger of Allah then used to be more generous than the fast wind.” [Bukhari]
Allah says in the Quran, “Verily you have in the Prophet of Allah an excellent model, for him who fears Allah and the Last Day and who remembers Allah much.” [Quran 33.22].
What better way to walk the way of life than to follow the path of our beloved Prophet S.A.W. to earn the highest reward and attain the pleasure of Allah.
Rabiul Awwal is the perfect month to follow one of the best practices of our Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. by giving to charity.
Consider making a donation to Global Ehsaan Relief today and help make a difference to those in need, or join our Monthly Giving Programme, which gives you the opportunity to give every month, helping to bring a positive impact to the lives of those in need.
As taught by the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W., the best of our deeds is those that are done consistently even if they are small.
“Take up good deeds only as much as you are able, for the best deeds are those done regularly even if they are few.” [Ibn Majah]
