Rabi’ al-Awwal: Recommended Acts, Fasting, and Supplications for the Prophet’s Birthday
As Rabi’ al-Awwal begins, Muslims reflect on the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ life and character, recommended acts, fasting on the day of his birth, and special supplications
The Egyptian Dar Al-Ifta announced that Friday, August 14, 2026, marks the beginning of Rabi’ al-Awwal 1448 AH after observing the new moon. Accordingly, the Prophet’s Birthday is expected to be observed on August 25 this year.
The month of Rabi’ al-Awwal holds special significance for many Muslims because it is associated with the birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and provides an opportunity to reflect on his life, character, teachings, and noble example.
Recommended Acts in Rabi’ al-Awwal
Dr. Ali Gomaa, former Grand Mufti of Egypt and a member of Al-Azhar’s Council of Senior Scholars, explained that commemorating the Prophet’s Birthday should be accompanied by both words and actions.
He emphasized that true joy in remembering the Prophet ﷺ should be reflected in following his teachings, observing his commands, avoiding what he prohibited, and spreading the values he taught.
He also highlighted the importance of conveying the Prophet’s message, referring to his saying: “Convey from me, even if it is one verse.”
Following the Prophet’s Character
Dr. Ali Gomaa pointed to the Prophet’s noble character, both outwardly and inwardly, and cited the Quranic description:
“And indeed, you are of a great moral character.”
He also referred to the statement of Lady Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, describing the Prophet’s character as being in accordance with the Quran.
Accordingly, the Quran can serve as a guide for Muslims throughout Rabi’ al-Awwal, encouraging them to practice good deeds and make the month a starting point for positive change.
Is Fasting on the Prophet’s Birthday Permissible?
Dr. Ahmed Wasem, Secretary of Fatwa at the Egyptian Dar Al-Ifta, explained that the Prophet ﷺ used to fast on Mondays.
When he was asked about the reason for fasting on Monday, he said:
“That is the day on which I was born.”
Based on this narration, fasting on Monday as an act of gratitude is an established practice associated with the Prophet ﷺ. Therefore, those asking whether fasting on the day commemorating the Prophet’s birth is an innovation may consider the Prophet’s practice of fasting on Mondays as relevant evidence.
Supplications for the Prophet’s Birthday
Among the supplications mentioned for this occasion are prayers asking Allah to bless and send peace upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, grant lawful and blessed provision, protect Muslims from what is forbidden, fulfill their needs, and grant them goodness in this life and the Hereafter.
Supplication for Blessings and Peace
O Allah, send Your blessings and peace upon Your servant, Prophet, and beloved, our master Muhammad, and upon his family and his brothers. Grant us through them Your pleasure and make us among those who follow his noble example. Ameen.
Supplication for Lawful Provision
O Allah, bless our master Muhammad and the family of our master Muhammad. Grant us from Your lawful, pure, and blessed provision that which protects us from having to ask anyone among Your creation. Make the path to it easy for us, without hardship, exhaustion, obligation, or burden. Keep us away from what is unlawful wherever it may be, and grant us the ability to seek only what pleases You, O Most Merciful of the merciful.
Supplication for Relief and Fulfillment of Needs
O Allah, send blessings upon our master Muhammad, blessings through which You save us from all calamities and afflictions, relieve us from all hardships, fulfill all our needs, purify us from all sins, raise us to the highest ranks with You, and bring us to the highest goals of goodness in this life and after death, O Lord of the worlds.
What is Rabi’ al-Awwal?
Rabi’ al-Awwal is the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is associated with the birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
When is the Prophet’s Birthday in 2026?
According to the information provided by the Egyptian Dar Al-Ifta, the Prophet’s Birthday is expected to be observed on August 25, 2026.
Is fasting on the Prophet’s Birthday permissible?
The Prophet ﷺ used to fast on Mondays and explained that Monday was the day on which he was born.
What are the recommended acts in Rabi’ al-Awwal?
Among the emphasized acts are following the Prophet’s teachings, practicing good deeds, remembering his noble character, and spreading beneficial knowledge.
What supplications can be recited?
Muslims may supplicate to Allah for blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ, lawful provision, forgiveness, relief from hardship, fulfillment of needs, and goodness in this life and the Hereafter.
Learn the authentic dua for leaving home, including the supplication for relying on Allah and seeking protection from misguidance, injustice, and wrongdoing.
Learn how to make dua during sujood, what to say before supplication, and the most authentic duas reported from the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Learn how to welcome Rabi’ al-Awwal by renewing love for Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, following his character, reading his biography, and sending prayers upon him
Egypt’s Awqaf Ministry will open 14 mosques on Friday, August 14, 2026, as part of its ongoing efforts to build, renovate, maintain, and develop mosques across the country
