Rabi al-Awwal is a very important month in the Islamic calendar that Muslims all over the world observe and celebrate. It is the third month, which follows the month of Safar and takes place before the month of Rabi al-Thani. It is seen as significant by believers because of the Islamic historical events that happened during the month, which all involved the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Because the events involve the Prophet (pbuh), it is a month of celebration and commemoration of him and his devotion to Islam. Rabi al-Awwal encourages every Muslim to follow the Prophet’s (pbuh) example and mimic his character in everything they do. They should take the time to implement his level of devotion to Allah (SWT) and Islam by carrying out his Sunnah and studying his Seerah. Acts of worship and kindness are also pivotal in this month for believers to strengthen their faith and take on the Prophet’s (pbuh) nature.
The third month in the traditional Gregorian calendar starts the season of spring, and this is no different in the Islamic calendar. Rabi al-Awwal means the first spring in Arabic, and it marks the beginning of the season for Islam. The month reflects the same values as spring in the Gregorian calendar, which is all about starting fresh and transformation. Muslims spend the month transforming their spirituality by strengthening it, undergoing a spiritual rebirth and reflection.
How the Islamic Calendar Started
The Islamic calendar, known as the Hijri, is a lunar-based cycle that includes twelve months in a year. Although in most places the Gregorian calendar is used, the Hijri is essential for Islamic events and rituals. It is a timeline used by Muslims worldwide to keep up with religious observances and festivals.
Before Islam began, there were various calendar systems that were used on the Arabian Peninsula, with many places using the lunar or solar cycles to determine months in the year. However, with these different cycles being used, there were many clashes with important dates and with months in general. Due to this, the Islamic calendar was made after the migration- also known as the Hijrah- of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his followers in 622 CE. This migration is what made the first Ummah (Muslim community) and began the timeline that believers follow to this day. This is why the Islamic calendar is known as the Hijri to mark the time when the Prophet (pbuh) and his followers began Islam and the lunar calendar.
The Importance & Influence of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
To understand the significance of Rabi al-Awwal, you need to understand why the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is an important influence. He is the ultimate role model for a Muslim and a human, going above and beyond his duty as a Prophet. Muhammad (pbuh) went beyond delivering the revelations. He was an inspiring and transformative leader throughout his life and showcased exemplary character. The Prophet (pbuh) shaped Islam into what it is today and created a lasting legacy that still inspires the Muslims of today.
He was the final messenger of Allah (swt) with a mission to deliver the message of monotheism. Muhammad (pbuh) called people to worship the one true God, Allah (SWT) and guided them to live righteous lives. He was the Prophet (pbuh) who received the message of the Quran from Allah (SWT). On top of this, the Prophet (pbuh) was an advocate for peace and reconciliation, an inspiring role model for social justice and someone with unparalleled mercy and compassion. He was extremely devoted to Islam and Allah (SWT) throughout his life, and he encouraged everyone to create a society of equality, fairness and justice. Muhammad (pbuh) supported the weak and poor and treated everyone with respect. He was somebody every Muslim should be. This is why Rabi al-Awwal commemorates him and why Muslims try to emulate his character and devotion to Islam.
This is further shown in the following quotes:
Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:
“Muhammad is not the father of [any] one of your men, but [he is] the Messenger of Allah and the seal of the prophets. And ever is Allah, of all things, Knowing.” [Surah Al-Ahzab 33:40].
The Qur’an describes the Prophet (PBUH) as a “mercy to the worlds” [Surah Al-Anbiya 21:107]
The Significance of Rabi al-Awwal
The month of Rabi al-Awwal saw many important historical events in Islam, which is what makes the month sacred for Muslims all over the world. The significance of Rabi al-Awwal comes from the events that occurred involving the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). It is the month in the Islamic calendar that is dedicated to commemorating and celebrating the Prophet (pbuh) and all he did for Islam.
The Birth of Muhammad (PBUH)
One of the most important events that took place during this sacred month is the birth of Muhammad (pbuh), which is celebrated by all believers. He was born in Mecca, but the date of his birth isn’t exactly known because different scholars believe his birthday is on different days of Rabi al-Awwal. Even though they vary in date, it is only a variation of a few days.
The Passing of the Prophet (PBUH)
As well as Rabi al-Awwal being the month that the Prophet (pbuh) was born in, it is also the month in which he passed away. Due to this, the month isn’t only about celebrating Muhammad (pbuh), but it’s also about commemorating him and his devotion to Allah (swt). His death came as a huge shock to his companions, even though he had been ill for several days. It is a stark reminder to Muslims that they are only promised a few years on Earth, and it should be lived like the Prophet (pbuh) in devotion to Allah (swt). This commemoration encourages believers to strengthen their faith and connection to God (SWT) through following the Prophet’s (pbuh) example. They should spend time carrying out acts of worship and give to those less fortunate just like he did.
The Migration of the Prophet (PBUH)
Another key event that occurred in Rabi al-Awwal for the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is the migration of him and his followers. This is what shaped Islam into what it is today and started the Ummah because the Prophet (pbuh) and his followers travelled from Mecca to Medina to find a place to settle down where they could live and worship Allah (swt) freely. This event occurred in 622 CE and is a vital part of Islamic history.
This migration was made because Islam was a new faith in Mecca that was only embraced by a few people. However, because so many were against the message of Allah (swt), if Muhammad (pbuh) and his followers stayed, they wouldn’t be able to spread the word of Allah (swt). This is because believers were tortured, imprisoned and some even murdered, and the Prophet’s (pbuh) life was also in danger.
What Happens on the 12th Rabi al-Awwal?
The 12th of Rabi al-Awwal is the day that the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is believed to have been born on for Sunni Muslims. Different schools of thought have varying opinions on when the Prophet (pbuh) was born. Sunni schools of thought say it was the 12th of Rabi al-Awwal, while Shi’a schools of thought believe it was on the 17th day of the month. Even with this variation, the one thing every school of thought agrees with is that he was born on a Monday during this month. This is agreed upon because the Prophet (pbuh) reasoned why he used to fast on Mondays by saying:
“That is the day on which I was born and the day on which I received revelations.” [Muslim]
Giving Charity in Rabi al-Awwal
Giving charity in Rabi al-Awwal is a vital part of commemorating the Prophet (pbuh) and to earn reward from Allah (SWT). Muhammad (pbuh) treated everyone with respect and cared for those less fortunate. As this month is all about following his example, there’s no better time to make a donation to Your Impact and help those in desperate need in the most poverty-stricken areas.
