Rabi ul Awwal Hadith and its Importance

The sacred month of Rabi’ Al-Awwal is of immense importance for the followers of Islam. This month of the Islamic Calendar marks the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who was born when people were in a state of darkness and ignorance. The people were deviating from the path of Allah and worshiping different deities. The birth of the Prophet (peace be upon him) brought the message of truth and the oneness of Allah. There are many Rabi ul Awwal Hadiths that most people follow to truly honor Prophet Mohammad.

Which month is Rabi’ Al-Awwal?

Of the 12 months of the Islamic calendar, Rabi’ Al-Awwal is the third month and a significant time for Muslims. It comes after the sacred month of Muharram and Safar. This month marks the birth month of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who would change the course of humanity forever.

Prophet Allah’s Messenger was born an orphan, in Makkah in 570 CE, and is described by Allah in the holy Quran as a mercy to the world.

There have been different thoughts regarding Prophet's birth date. Most believe that he was born on a Monday, while some suggest he was born on the 12th day of Rabi’ Al-Awwal. Hence, it is recommended to fast on Mondays, though it is not obligatory.

Importance of Rabi’ Al Awwal for Muslims?

Although the month of Rabi Al Awwal is one of the sacred months in the Islamic calendar, like Dhul Hijjah and Ramadan, Rabi’ Al-Awwal. But there are not any specific or required acts of worship for Muslims during this blessed month. Rather, the month of Rabi Al-Awwal is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of our Prophet (PBUH) and the role he has played for Muslims in the expanse of Islamic history.

This month, the beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) passed away. Also, one inherits numerous goodnesses from the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The month of Rabi’ Al-Awwal provides an opportunity to reflect and take stock of the lessons we can derive from his precious life. To take make the most of this time, Muslims around the world should perform the following acts.

Remembering the inheritance of the Prophet 

The birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the beginning of Islam changed the course of history. Almighty Allah guided humanity through his messenger the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the best of creation, to revolutionize the rights of women and oppressive structures within society. His impact during his lifetime created good foundations for the rest of the time.

Learn from the life of the Prophet 

The Seerah or the life story of the Prophet (peace be upon him) has incredible value. It provides the prospect to learn from how the Prophet guided us through both momentous challenges and blessings. Most importantly, it also situates much of the revelation offered to the Prophet by Allah (SWT). There is no better to begin learning from the life of the Prophet than the month of his birth

Reminisce the Sunnah of the Prophet 

There are many cherished and exquisite Sunnah of the blessed prophet (peace be upon him) that we can benefit from and strive to embody all year round.

Few of the Sunnah of the Prophet have been integrated by scholars through their Hadiths. Some of the Rabi ul Awwal Hadiths are:

“I and the one who cares for an orphan will be together in Paradise like this” and he (SAW) held his two fingers together to illustrate. (Bukhari)

This hadith by Bukari asks one to look after orphans. As the holy Prophet (peace be upon him) was born also born an orphan

“The deeds are presented on Monday and Thursday. Thus, I love for my deeds to be presented while I am fasting.” (Tirmidhi)

According to this saying by Tirmidhi Mondays and Thursdays are the days of Sunnah. It is recommended to fast these days.

On the day of Qiyamah, the person closest to me will be the one who has sent the most Durood unto me.” (Tirmidhi)

This Hadith says that loving the right people bring mankind to the right place on the Day of Judgment. The primary essence of this Hadith is to focus on not just what we do, but where we give our heart. If our heart is pure despite being sinful people, we will be in the best of the company on the Day of Judgment. 

Rabi’ Al-Awwal is indeed the chosen month of Allah. As he chose to send his beloved messenger for the upliftment of mankind in this month. All should practice and learn from the journey of the Prophet (peace be upon him) as also stated in various Rabi ul Awwal Hadiths.