The first day of Rabīʿ al-Awwal 1447 AH will begin with the sighting of the new moon, expected around August 24 or 25, 2025. It is the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is widely recognized for its association with some of the most significant events in Islamic history.
Name and Origin
Rabīʿ al-Awwal means “the first spring.” The name originates from pre-Islamic times, when the Arab calendar was loosely aligned with the solar seasons. (Rabīʿ refers to “spring,” and al-Awwal means “the first,” distinguishing it from the next month, Rabīʿ al-Thānī, “the second spring.”)
Though the Islamic lunar calendar no longer aligns with the solar seasons, the traditional names have been preserved. The month carries no sacred or forbidden status, and it is not one of the four sacred months in which warfare is prohibited.
Religious Significance
According to the Qur’an and authentic hadith, there are no specific acts of worship legislated for Rabīʿ al-Awwal in terms of fasting, prayer, or other rituals exclusive to this month.
However, Rabīʿ al-Awwal holds a special place in the hearts of many Muslims because several key events in the life of the Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم occurred during this month.
Events from the Sīrah
- Birth of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم
The most widely reported opinion is that the Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم was born on 12 Rabīʿ al-Awwal, although some reports mention other dates within the same month. The exact day is not definitively established by authentic hadith. While the Qur’an and Sunnah do not legislate any special religious celebration for this event, many Muslims recognize this date as significant historically. - Hijrah (Migration) to Madinah
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم left Makkah in the month of Ṣafar and completed his migration to Madinah in Rabīʿ al-Awwal. He arrived at Qubā’, a suburb of Madinah, and stayed there for a few days. There he established Masjid Qubā, the first mosque built in Islam. - Establishment in Madinah
After entering Madinah proper, the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم began building Masjid al-Nabawī (the Prophet’s Mosque) and laid the foundations of the first Muslim community-state. The first Jumuʿah (Friday prayer) in Madinah was also held during this time. - Death of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم
The Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم passed away on 12 Rabīʿ al-Awwal, in the 11th year after Hijrah, at the age of 63. His illness had lasted for several days and began toward the end of Ṣafar.
Conclusion
Rabīʿ al-Awwal is a month filled with historical significance, especially regarding the life of the Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم. Though it carries no specific religious obligations, it serves as a powerful reminder of his example, his migration, and his establishment of a model Islamic society. It is a time for reflection, learning, and drawing closer to his teachings.
