The Mercy of Rabi Al Awwal

Rabi Al Awwal is the 3rd month in the Islamic calendar and can be translated into meaning ‘The First Spring’.  A number of iconic events are narrated to have taken place during this month which includes the birth and death of the blessed Prophet Muhammed (pbuh).

Significance of Rabi Al Awwal

Many Muslims consider Rabi Al Awwal as a significant month in the Islamic Calendar. It reminds them of the prophetic traditions and rituals of Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) and how he changed the world for the better guiding humanity to Islam and teaching us his sunnah.

‘’And we did not send you ﷺ except as a Mercy to the World’’ – Holy Quran 21:107

In the sub-continent of India and certain Arab countries like Egypt, the month starts with readings from the Qur’an, followed by discussion of the birth, life, message of the Prophet (pbuh) and poetry in his praise. Here in the UK many scholars and teachers use the first 12 days of Rabi Al Awwal to organise lectures and storytelling to educate the community about ﷺ love for helping others and how he was the voice for the most vulnerable. Families gather together, feasts are arranged, and food is served to invited guests.

The Prophet’s (pbuh) Mercy to Others

During his lifetime and during the spread of Islam, Muhammad ﷺ went to great lengths to inform and guide the people on the importance of helping others.  Even those whom we do not know or owe nothing to, the Prophet ﷺ emphasized the importance of helping in charity and in action. These lessons stand the test of time and are a guide for all mankind – particularly in today’s world where millions of people are sick, hungry or destitute. As we seek to better ourselves as Muslims, we can emulate his actions through his Sunnah by giving to others and helping those who are in desperate need.

What Good Deeds Can I Do?

1. The Prophet ﷺ was born on a Monday and we are told that ‘’ On it (Monday), I was born, and on it revelation was sent down to me – (Sahih Muslim) The month of Rabi Al Awwal is therefore a beautiful month to establish the habit of fasting on Mondays and follow in his footsteps.

2. Read the Holy Quran – To further your understanding of our beautiful religion and continue the actions that are pleasing to Allah (swt)

3.This Rabi Al Awwal, Muslim Aid will be focusing on our Global Ummah, Orphans and Widows, Water for All and Fighting Poverty. With our Days of Reward, you can automate your donation with these 4 incredible causes.

Some Muslims also try to draw closer to the Prophet (pbuh) by giving in Sadaqah to the people he prayed for ‘The best of men are the men of Yemen, belief is Yemeni and I am Yemeni’ – Ahmad

On the authority of Abu Hurairah (r.a) from the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), who said "Allah (swt) said: 'Spend (on charity), O son of Adam, and I shall spend on you.'

Written by Yusuf Kalam – Fundraising Manager