It was in this month that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born in Makkah, and many Muslims celebrate this. While most Muslims believe that the Prophet (PBUH) was born on the 12^th day of this month, there is a difference of opinion with regards to this, as some say it was the 17^th, but it is agreed that he was born on a Monday. This month is also said to mark Prophet Muhammad’s journey from Makkah to Medina, known as the Hijrah, as well as his death.

Unlike Ramadan or other months, there are no requirements or recommendations to fast, pray or complete specific acts, but the events that took place in this month make it blessed, which encourage good deeds.

There were several miracles around the birth of the prophet (PBUH), including that his mother, Aaminah, saw light within her when she was pregnant with him, and when his wet nurse, Halima al Sa’diyah, took the prophet to nurse him and was blessed for several years afterwards. This sacred month acts as a reminder of the birth and life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and prompts us to learn more about his character, which as Muslims, we should strive to replicate. In this month, many Muslims study the Seerah, which is the biography of the prophet’s life, and this can be a means of feeling closer to the prophet, and understanding him better, who was the best of creation.

The migration, known as the Hijrah, was also a very significant event that occurred in the month of Rabi ul Awwal. This journey was from Makkah to Yathrib, which is known today as Medina. This was important for the Muslims at the time as it united them and was the beginning of a new life and the growth of Islam.

The prophet’s death also occurred in this month in the 11^th year of Islam, and despite being ill for a number of days, his death came as a shock to the Muslims. Many were in disbelief, including Umar, the companion of the prophet, who threatened to hurt anyone who claimed that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had passed away. In this situation, Muslims can look to Abu Bakr’s words to seek solace: ‘O people! If it was Muhammad whom you worshipped, then know that he is dead. But if it is Allah (SWT) whom you worshipped, then know that He does not die’. This reinforces the belief in one true God, who has no partners or associates, and reminds Muslims that our death is inevitable, which should motivate us to spend our lives wisely in seeking Allah’s pleasure.

This Rabi ul Awwal in 2022, try to follow the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and learn more about his life, including his sacrifices for Muslims and his beautiful character. In this month, you may choose to increase your Quran recitation, make dua, or follow the prophetic teachings of the prophet (PBUH), like visiting neighbours, helping the sick, and smiling more, all of which will strengthen your faith and closeness to Allah (SWT), Insha’Allah. Giving charity to the poor and needy in this month can also bring great reward, as it was a regular practice of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the importance of charity is shown through Zakat being a pillar of Islam. Use this month to be grateful to Allah (SWT) for our blessings and continue any good deeds throughout the year to seek Allah’s pleasure, such as giving voluntary charity. By following the teachings and practices of the prophet (PBUH), we can become closer to him, strengthen our faith, and better ourselves.