5 Things to Do this Rabi' Al-Awwal

As the blessed month of Rabi' Al-Awwal arrives, it's a time to renew our commitment to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Rabi’ Al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar, marks the birth and passing of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It’s a time to reconnect with his legacy, reflect on his profound teachings, and feel the impact of his guidance in our lives.

Here are five simple yet impactful actions you can take to make the most of Rabi' Al Awwal:

1. Fast on Sunnah Days

Fasting is a practice beloved by Allah and recommended by the Prophet ﷺ. In Rabi' Al-Awwal, you can observe the Sunnah fasts on Mondays and Thursdays. These are the days when our deeds are presented to Allah, and fasting on them is a way to seek His pleasure and draw closer to Him. Additionally, fasting serves as a means of purifying the soul and reflecting on the life of the Prophet ﷺ.

“O Messenger of Allah, why do you fast on Mondays and Thursdays?” He said: “On Mondays and Thursdays Allah forgives every Muslim except two who have forsaken one another. He says: ‘Leave these two until they reconcile.’” (Ibn Majah)

2. Revise the Seerah

Rabi' Al-Awwal is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the Seerah—the life story of the Prophet ﷺ. Whether you’ve studied it before or are revisiting it, each time you engage with his life, you discover new lessons and wisdom. Reading or listening to the Seerah not only increases your knowledge but strengthens your love and connection to the Prophet ﷺ. Try dedicating a few minutes each day to this powerful reminder.

3. Revive a Sunnah

Reviving the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ is one of the best ways to honor his legacy. Whether it's the way he treated others, his manner of eating, or his daily practices of worship, there are countless Sunnahs that can be revived. Choose one to incorporate more consciously into your routine. Even the smallest acts, like beginning with "Bismillah" or making du'a when entering your home, can bring you closer to following his beautiful example.

4. Increase Salawat

Sending blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ (salawat) is an act of worship that holds immense reward. This month, make an extra effort to increase your salawat throughout the day, whether it's after your prayers, during your commute, or before going to sleep. It's a simple but powerful way to express your love for the Prophet ﷺ and seek Allah’s blessings in return.

“Whoever sends blessings upon me once, Allah will send blessings upon him tenfold and will erase from him ten misdeeds and raise him ten degrees in status.” (an-Nasaa’i)

5. Be Like the Ansaar

The Ansaar were the beloved companions of the Prophet ﷺ who opened their hearts and homes to the Muhajirun (migrants) when they arrived in Madinah. Their spirit of generosity, selflessness, and support for their community is an example for all of us. This Rabi' Al-Awwal, find ways to emulate the Ansaar—whether by supporting those in need, offering help to someone in your community, or simply being there for a friend. Even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.

Be the Ansaar for evacuees from Gaza and Sudan.

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Rabi' Al-Awwal is a month of remembrance, reflection, and action. By incorporating these practices into your life, you can strengthen your connection to the Prophet ﷺ and draw closer to Allah. Let this month be a reminder to live by his example and bring his teachings into every aspect of your life.

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