Meaning of Rabi’ Al-Awwal: First spring.
Rabi Al-Awwal is the third month in the Islamic calendar, which consists of 12 months: Muharram, Safar, Rabi Al-Awwal, Rabi Al-Thani, Jamada Al-Awwal, Jamada Al-Thani, Rajab, Sha’ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhul Qa’dah and Dhul Hijjah.
Rabi Al-Awwal translates to ‘the first spring’, which makes reference to the new life growing from the ground during this month. In this month, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born in Makkah, and this is often celebrated with the Mawlid Al-Nabi.
Rabi Al-Awwal is expected to begin on 17 September and end on 15 October 2023.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born on a Monday, but with differences in opinion of the date. Some say he was born on the 12th of Rabi Al-Awwal, while others say it was the 17th. This is why fasting on Mondays is 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).’
It was also during Rabi Al-Awwal that the Hijrah (migration) took place from Makkah to Madina and also the death of the Prophet (PBUH).
His mother, Aaminah, saw light within her when she was pregnant with him. Also, the Prophet’s (PBUH) wet nurse, Halima Sa’diyah was blessed for many years after nursing him, in ways including that her frail donkey became faster and stronger than the others, and her goat produced more milk than what it would usually, which fed her whole family.
This shows the month of Rabi Al-Awwal to be a special month and should encourage us to learn more about the Prophet (PBUH), including his birth and his character, so that we may try to replicate his perfect character and behaviour.
The Prophet (PBUH) passed away in the month of Rabi Al-Awwal, in the 11th year of Islam. Having been ill for a few days beforehand, his family knew he was nearing death, but when he finally passed away, the Muslims were in great shock, with Umar (RA) denying his death.
Abu Bakr (RA) then said ‘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’. Here, he reminded the Muslims that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was just a Messenger of Allah (SWT) and that they should keep their faith strong by worshipping Allah (SWT) alone.
Giving charity at any time is very rewarding, including in Rabi Al-Awwal; The Prophet, upon him be peace, said: “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Al-Tirmidhi)
During Rabi Al-Awwal, try to increase other acts of worship like fasting, helping your neighbours, and reading the Qur’an., as well as giving charity. Donate to Muslim Aid this Rabi Al-Awwal to reap the rewards.
We are a faith-based British international charity that provides help to people who are victims of natural disasters or conflict or suffering from poverty, hunger, disease, homelessness, injustice, deprivation or lack of skills and economic opportunities.
© Copyright 2024. Muslim Aid. All Rights Reserved.
Charity CIO No. 1176462
Serving humanity since 1985.
