Welcoming Rabi’ al-Awwal: How Should Muslims Honor the Prophet’s Birthday?
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
As the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal begins, attention turns to the best way to welcome this blessed month, which is associated with the birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and carries spiritual meanings that encourage Muslims to reflect on their lives and renew their connection with the Prophet’s noble example.
Sheikh Mohamed Kamal, Secretary of Fatwa at the Egyptian Dar Al-Ifta, explained that welcoming Rabi’ al-Awwal should not be limited to expressing happiness on the occasion. More importantly, Muslims should examine their conduct and seek to follow the Prophet’s character in both words and actions.
How Should Muslims Welcome Rabi’ al-Awwal?
Sheikh Mohamed Kamal emphasized that Muslims can welcome Rabi’ al-Awwal by renewing their love for Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. However, this love should not remain merely words; it should be demonstrated through following, obedience, and emulating his example.
He encouraged Muslims to ask themselves whether the Prophet’s teachings are reflected in their daily lives. Do their actions demonstrate honesty, trustworthiness, and good treatment of others? And would they be pleased if their deeds were presented before the Messenger of Allah ﷺ?
Love for the Prophet Means Following Him
Sheikh Mohamed Kamal cited the Quranic verse:
“Say, [O Muhammad], ‘If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you.’”
He also cited the Prophet’s saying:
“None of you truly believes until I am more beloved to him than his father, his child, and all people.”
True love for the Prophet ﷺ is therefore reflected in practical behavior, including following his teachings, observing his guidance, and adopting noble manners when dealing with others.
A Companion’s Story Shows the Meaning of Loving the Prophet ﷺ
Sheikh Mohamed Kamal also referred to the example of the Companions, who demonstrated their love for the Prophet ﷺ through their actions.
He mentioned the story of a man from the Ansar who was deeply attached to the Prophet ﷺ and feared that he would not be with him in Paradise.
The reassurance came through the Quranic verse:
“And whoever obeys Allah and the Messenger—they will be with those whom Allah has blessed: the prophets, the steadfast affirmers of truth, the martyrs, and the righteous. And excellent are those as companions.”
How Can Love Become Action?
The Secretary of Fatwa emphasized that Rabi’ al-Awwal is an opportunity to renew one’s relationship with the Prophet ﷺ by increasing prayers and peace upon him, reading his biography, and learning about his noble character and conduct.
He also stressed the importance of transforming love for the Prophet into everyday behavior through honesty, trustworthiness, mercy, and good treatment of others.
Recommended Acts During Rabi’ al-Awwal
Muslims can use Rabi’ al-Awwal as an opportunity for self-reflection and to practice deeds that demonstrate love for the Prophet ﷺ, including:
Sending Prayers Upon the Prophet ﷺ
Increase prayers and peace upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Reading the Prophet’s Biography
Learn about the life, character, teachings, and experiences of the Prophet ﷺ.
Following Noble Character
Turn lessons from the Prophet’s biography into practical behavior through honesty, trustworthiness, mercy, and kindness.
Self-Reflection
Examine whether one’s words and actions reflect the values and teachings brought by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
How should Muslims welcome Rabi’ al-Awwal?
By renewing their love for Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, reading his biography, sending prayers upon him, and following his noble character.
Is love for the Prophet expressed only through words?
No. True love is demonstrated through following his teachings, obedience, and emulating his conduct in everyday life.
What are the important acts during Rabi’ al-Awwal?
They include reading the Prophet’s biography, sending prayers upon him, reflecting on one’s behavior, and adopting good manners.
What is the connection between loving the Prophet and obedience?
Love for Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is connected to following his guidance and teachings, turning that love into practical behavior and conduct.
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
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
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
