The 12th of Rabi Al-Awwal

The 12^th of Rabi Al-Awwal is believed to be the day that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born. He was the son of Aaminah and was born in Makkah. There were many miracles surrounding his birth that suggested he was a Prophet. ‘The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) was asked about fasting on Mondays, whereupon he said: “On it, I was born and on it, the revelation was sent down to me” (Muslim).’ This is the reason why fasting on Mondays is important.

Miracles of the Birth of the Prophet (PBUH):

• His mother, Aaminah, saw a bright light in her when she was pregnant with him.
• His wet nurse, Halima Sa’diyah, was blessed when she took the Prophet (PBUH) in - her weak camel became strong, and her old and tired goat produced lots of milk.

How is this Day Observed?

The 12^th of Rabi Al-Awwal is sometimes celebrated with the Mawlid Al-Nabi by many Muslims around the world in the following ways:

• Feasts with family and friends.
• Coloured lights are hung up.
• Readings from the Seerah and biography of the Prophet (PBUH).

Rabi Al-Awwal

This is the third month in the Islamic calendar, and it marks the birth and death of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In the 11^th year of Islam, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) passed away after being unwell for a few days. Abu Bakr (RA) consoled the Muslims by saying: ‘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 month also marks the first Masjid being built. It was built by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Abu Bakr (RA) in Quba, a town near Yathrib, which is now known as Madina.

Giving Charity in Rabi Al-Awwal

Giving charity at any time is a good deed to help others for the sake of Allah (SWT). In a hadith, the Prophet, upon him, be peace, said: “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Al-Tirmidhi)

Donate to Muslim Aid

Reap the rewards of this month by donating to Muslim Aid this Rabi Awwal. Donate to our appeals that help those around the world, including those in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, and Somalia.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Allah, the Exalted, says, ‘Spend, O son of Adam, and I shall spend on you.’” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).