Rabi‘ al-Awwal, the month of the holy Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), is here again. This year, Muslims in Nigeria and across the world will celebrate the Prophet’s birth on Thursday, September 4, 2025. For many, the joy of the occasion extends beyond the month itself, reflecting the depth of love and devotion they feel for the Messenger of Allah.
The month of Rabi‘ al-Awwal holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims. It is the time in which the Prophet (SAW), the final Messenger of Allah, was born — an event that symbolized the dawn of mercy, guidance, and light after an age of ignorance. Over the centuries, Muslims have found various ways to honor this sacred month. For some, it is a period of quiet spiritual reflection; for others, it is a time of communal festivity and elaborate celebrations. But at its heart, the observance remains deeply rooted in faith, gratitude, and reverence.
The Significance of Celebrating the Month of the Prophet (SAW)
(1) COMMEMORATION OF HIS BIRTH
The Prophet’s birth is considered a divine blessing for humanity. The Qur’an describes him as a “mercy to the worlds” (Qur’an 21:107). Reflecting on his arrival reminds Muslims of the gift of guidance Allah granted them through him.
(2) RENEWAL OF LOVE AND DEVOTION
The Prophet (SAW) taught: “None of you truly believes until I am more beloved to him than his father, his child, and all people.” (Bukhari & Muslim). The month provides a chance for Muslims to deepen this love through sending blessings (salawat), learning his seerah (biography), and remembering his noble qualities.
(3) REVIVING THE SUNNAH
Lectures, recitations, and sermons during this period highlight the Prophet’s teachings and character. They inspire Muslims to revive Sunnah practices in everyday life — from honesty and humility to generosity and compassion.
(4) EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE TO ALLAH
The Prophet himself marked his birthday by fasting on Mondays, saying: “That was the day I was born.” (Muslim). Following this example, Muslims use the month to express gratitude to Allah for sending him as a guide.
(5) UNITY AND COMMUNAL SPIRIT
Community gatherings in remembrance of the Prophet strengthen bonds of brotherhood and unity. They serve as a reminder that the Prophet’s message was not for individuals alone, but for building a just and compassionate society.
(6) CHARITY AND GOOD DEEDS
Inspired by the Prophet’s generosity, Muslims often increase charitable acts during Rabi‘ al-Awwal — feeding the hungry, supporting the needy, and extending kindness to others. In this way, his legacy of service to humanity continues.
WHY SOME MUSLIMS CELEBRATE IT IN A BIG WAY
While some Muslims prefer quiet reflection, others mark the Prophet’s birth with grandeur and joy. Their approach is shaped by several factors:
(1) Deep Emotional Attachment – For many, the Prophet (SAW) is the most beloved of human beings. Expressing that love openly — with poetry (qasidas), processions, decorations, and communal feasts — is a natural outpouring of devotion.
(2) Cultural and Historical Tradition – Across the Muslim world — from Egypt and Turkey to Nigeria, Pakistan, and Indonesia — grand Mawlid celebrations have been part of Islamic heritage for centuries. They preserve cultural identity while keeping the Prophet’s memory alive.
(3) Educational Opportunities – Mass gatherings allow scholars to share the Prophet’s life and teachings with wide audiences. For many, the celebrations are more than festive occasions; they are powerful learning platforms.
(4) Public Gratitude to Allah – Just as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are public expressions of joy, many view the Prophet’s birth as an event deserving of communal thanksgiving.
(5) Spiritual Motivation – Grand celebrations often uplift hearts, energize communities, and remind people of the Prophet’s timeless example, especially in times of moral decline.
The celebration of the month of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is more than festivity. It is about remembering his mission, reviving his teachings, and deepening love for him as the Messenger of Allah. Some honor the month through quiet acts of worship and reflection, while others choose colorful and elaborate community celebrations.
Whatever the form, the essence remains the same: to honor the Prophet (SAW), to thank Allah for His gift, and to recommit ourselves to living by the Prophet’s timeless example of mercy, justice, and compassion.
