What Should We Do on the 12th of Rabi‘ al-Awwal?
By Mufti Nazmul Islam Faruque
The 12th of Rabi‘ al-Awwal is a deeply meaningful day for Muslims because it is traditionally associated with the birth of the beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the Messenger of Allah and a mercy to all worlds. His blessed life transformed humanity from darkness to light, ignorance to knowledge, injustice to justice, and hatred to compassion. Therefore, remembering the Prophet ﷺ should not remain merely an emotional occasion; rather, it should inspire us to follow his teachings and bring his noble character into our daily lives.
Remembering the Prophet ﷺ with Love and Respect
The first responsibility of a Muslim is to develop sincere love for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Allah says:
«“Say, if you truly love Allah, then follow me; Allah will love you and forgive your sins.”
— Qur’an 3:31»
This verse teaches us that genuine love for Allah and His Messenger ﷺ is demonstrated through obedience and following the Sunnah. Therefore, on the 12th of Rabi‘ al-Awwal, we should renew our commitment to love, respect and follow the Prophet ﷺ.
Learning About His Life
One of the best ways to honour the Prophet ﷺ is to study his Seerah. We should learn about his childhood, his Prophethood, his patience, his struggles, his worship, his dealings with people, his leadership and his compassion.
The Qur’an describes him beautifully:
«“Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example for whoever has hope in Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah abundantly.”
— Qur’an 33:21»
His life is therefore not merely a historical story; it is a practical model for Muslims in every age.
Following His Sunnah
The most important expression of love for the Prophet ﷺ is following his Sunnah. We should try to bring his teachings into our homes, schools, workplaces and society.
We should establish regular prayer, speak truthfully, fulfil promises, maintain modesty, respect parents, care for neighbours, help the poor and forgive others. These were among the beautiful qualities taught and demonstrated by the Prophet ﷺ.
Sending Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ
We should frequently send blessings and peace upon the Prophet ﷺ. Allah says:
«“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O believers, invoke blessings upon him and greet him with peace.”
— Qur’an 33:56»
Therefore, increasing Salawat is a beautiful way to express our love and gratitude for the Messenger of Allah ﷺ.
Following His Noble Character
The Prophet ﷺ was a model of mercy, patience, forgiveness, humility and justice. Allah says:
«“And indeed, you possess an عظیم character.”
— Qur’an 68:4»
We should therefore ask ourselves: Do we forgive others? Do we speak gently? Do we treat our parents with kindness? Do we avoid hurting people? Do we stand for justice?
If remembering the Prophet ﷺ changes our character for the better, then our remembrance has produced a meaningful result.
Loving Humanity
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was sent as a mercy to the worlds. Allah says:
«“And We have not sent you except as a mercy to the worlds.”
— Qur’an 21:107»
His mercy extended to children, women, the elderly, the poor, neighbours and even those who opposed him. On this occasion, we should renew our commitment to compassion and humanitarian service.
We can help the poor, feed the hungry, visit the sick, support orphans, reconcile people and contribute to the welfare of society.
Teaching the Next Generation
Parents and teachers should use this occasion to teach children about the life and character of the Prophet ﷺ. Instead of presenting his life only as a historical narrative, we should help children understand how they can follow his example in everyday life.
They should learn how the Prophet ﷺ treated his parents, children, companions, neighbours and members of society.
Avoiding Disputes and Extremes
The remembrance of the Prophet ﷺ should bring Muslims closer together, not create arguments and hostility. Differences of scholarly opinion should be handled with knowledge, wisdom and respect.
The true spirit of loving the Prophet ﷺ is reflected in good character, unity, mutual respect and obedience to Allah and His Messenger ﷺ.
Making a Personal Commitment
The 12th of Rabi‘ al-Awwal can become a day of renewal. We can make a personal commitment to establish at least one Sunnah in our lives, improve our prayers, read the Seerah regularly, increase Salawat, improve our character and avoid sinful habits.
The greatest tribute to the Prophet ﷺ is not merely to speak about him, but to live according to the guidance he brought.
Conclusion
The 12th of Rabi‘ al-Awwal should remind us of the extraordinary mercy Allah bestowed upon humanity through His Messenger Muhammad ﷺ. His birth brought hope to a world overwhelmed by ignorance and injustice, while his message illuminated the path toward faith, morality and human dignity.
Therefore, our duty is not limited to celebrating or remembering a date. Our real responsibility is to revive the Prophet’s Sunnah in our lives, follow his noble character, send abundant Salawat upon him, study his Seerah and spread mercy, justice and goodness throughout society.
May Allah fill our hearts with sincere love for His beloved Messenger ﷺ and grant us the ability to follow his Sunnah faithfully until our last breath. Ameen.
Assistant super, Al Falah Dakhil Madrasah
Sonaimuri, Noakhali
nazmulislam19122@gmail.com
