Rabi al-Awwal: The birth of the beloved

The blessed month of Rabi’ Al-Awwal is an important month in the Islamic Calendar as it marks the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). There are so many precious and beautiful aspects of the Sunnah of the blessed Prophet (PBUH) that we can benefit from and strive to embody all year round. For example, The Prophet (PBUH) was an orphan and looking after orphans is a highly rewarding Sunnah.

What is Rabi’ Al-Awwal?

Rabi’ Al-Awwal is the third month in the Islamic calendar and a significant time for Muslims, as it is the birth month of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who would change the course of humanity forever.

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) was born an orphan, in Makkah in 570 CE, and is described by Allah (SWT) as a mercy to the worlds:

“It was only as a mercy that We sent you (Prophet) to all people.” (Qur’an, 21:107)

It has been relayed that the Prophet (PBUH) was born on a Monday, but there remain differing opinions on the exact birth date of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Some suggest he (SAW) was born on the 12^th day of Rabi’ Al-Awwal.

Whilst it is not obligatory to fast on Mondays, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended it as part of his Sunnah:

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) was asked about fasting on Mondays, whereupon he said: “On it, I was born and on it, revelation was sent down to me.” (Muslim)

Why is Rabi’ Al-Awwal important to Muslims?

Unlike some other sacred months in the Islamic calendar, such as Dhul Hijjah and Ramadan, Rabi’ Al-Awwal is important, but there are not any specific or required acts of worship for Muslims during this blessed month.

Instead, Rabi’ Al-Awwal is another opportunity to reflect on the importance of our Prophet (PBUH) and the role he has played for Muslims for the expanse of Islamic history.

It is also the month in which the beloved Prophet (PBUH) passed away.

When is Rabi’ Al-Awwal?

This year, the month of Rabi’ Al-Awwal begins on Wednesday 4th September 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon.

The Islamic Hijri Calendar is based on the lunar calendar which consists of 12 lunar months. Each month begins when a new moon is sighted.

Rabi’ Al-Awwal is the third month in the Islamic calendar, after the sacred month of Muharram and Safar.

Rabi Al-Awwal or Rabi Ul-Awwal?

Rabi Al-Awwal is sometimes spelt as Rabi Ul-Awwal, but the correct spelling should be Rabi Al-Awwal, as ‘Al’ most closely resembles the Arabic spelling of the month.