Dr. Ali Gomaa, a member of the Council of Senior Scholars at Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, emphasized that the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal is an opportunity to remember the light of Prophethood and renew the meanings of love and following Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

He stressed that commemorating the Prophet’s birth should not be limited to expressions of happiness or words alone. Rather, it should be connected to action and adherence to the noble morals and values taught by the Prophet ﷺ.

In a post shared on his official Facebook page, Ali Gomaa said that Rabi’ al-Awwal is the month honored by the birth of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, explaining that commemorating this occasion should combine words with deeds, happiness with presence, and outward expressions with spiritual meaning.

Following the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ Through Action

Ali Gomaa explained that remembering the Prophet’s birth should encourage Muslims to embrace his example and work toward conveying the teachings he brought.

He cited the saying of the Prophet ﷺ:

“Convey from me, even if it is one verse.”

He also emphasized that expressing happiness over the Prophet’s birth should be accompanied by observing the limits established by God, following His commands, and avoiding the prohibitions against which the Prophet ﷺ warned.

According to Ali Gomaa, genuine love for the Prophet is reflected not only in words but also in the behavior and daily conduct of Muslims.

The Noble Character of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

The former Grand Mufti of Egypt highlighted the greatness of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in both his character and conduct.

He referred to the Quranic description:

“And indeed, you are of a great moral character.”

He also cited the statement of Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her:

“His character was the Quran.”

Ali Gomaa explained that anyone who wishes to understand the Prophet’s character should study the Holy Quran, because the Prophet ﷺ followed its commands, avoided its prohibitions and embodied the virtues it taught.

He stressed that the Quran should serve as a guiding example for Muslims in their everyday lives.

Rabi’ al-Awwal as a Beginning for Good Deeds

Ali Gomaa called on Muslims to make Rabi’ al-Awwal a new beginning filled with goodness and righteousness by increasing acts of charity, kindness and benevolence.

He cited the Quranic verse:

“And do good that you may succeed.”

He emphasized the importance of doing all forms of good and never underestimating even the smallest act of kindness.

The Prophet ﷺ taught Muslims not to belittle any good deed, including treating others kindly and meeting people with a cheerful face.

Kindness Toward Neighbors

Ali Gomaa also highlighted the importance of treating neighbors well and showing generosity toward them.

He referred to the Prophet’s guidance regarding food:

“Make its broth plentiful and take care of your neighbors.”

The teaching reflects the broader Islamic principle of kindness, generosity and consideration for others.

Turning Love for the Prophet ﷺ Into a Way of Life

Ali Gomaa concluded that Rabi’ al-Awwal should be a season of love, following the Prophet ﷺ, adhering to the Holy Quran, embracing noble character and increasing acts of goodness toward others.

He emphasized that true love for Prophet Muhammad ﷺ should go beyond words and celebrations, becoming a practical way of life reflected in a Muslim’s behavior, morals and relationships with those around him.

What is the significance of Rabi’ al-Awwal?
Rabi’ al-Awwal is associated with the birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and is an opportunity to remember his life, teachings and noble character.

What did Ali Gomaa say about celebrating the Prophet’s birth?
He emphasized that remembrance should be accompanied by good deeds, adherence to Islamic teachings and following the Prophet’s noble example.

How can Muslims follow the Prophet’s character?
By studying the Quran, observing its teachings, practicing kindness and adopting the noble morals exemplified by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

What good deeds are encouraged during Rabi’ al-Awwal?
Muslims are encouraged to increase acts of kindness, charity, generosity, good treatment of neighbors and other forms of beneficial conduct.