RABIUL AWWAL - BIRTH AND DEMISE

The Holy Qur'an declares: "And we relate unto you from the incidents of the Prophets, that whereby we strengthen your heart, and in it has come to you the truth, advice and remembrance for the believers. "

Thus to discuss the life of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) would be a means of strengthening our hearts immensely. Indeed, one should continuously be discussing the noble traits and qualities of our beloved Master at all times.

The month of Rabiul Awwal also brings back to mind the incidents pertaining to the Beloved of Allah Ta'ala (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) . The month of Rabiul Awwal ushered in the noble and miraculous birth of the greatest of Allah's creation.

MIRACULOUS

His birth was indeed miraculous. During the delivery of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) a resplendent light appeared which brightened the east and west and what was between them. An earthquake shook the palace of the Zoroastrian emperor of Persia, bringing down structures and decorations. The religious fire which burned continuously for thousands of years in the temple of Persia was suddenly extinguished. The world was on the threshold of an unprecedented revolution which would first transform the Arabs from being the most downtrodden nation to becoming stars of guidance.

DIFFERENCE OF OPINION

Great differences of opinion exist regarding the actual date of the blessed birth of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) . Among the various views, most of the historians are of the opinion that the noble birth occurred on the eight of Rabiul Awwal , while some believe it was on the twelfth. Allama Zarqani (RA.) writes:

"The majority of the Muhadditheen (persons having authority on Hadith ) and historians are of the opinion that the noble birth of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) occurred on the eighth of Rabiul Awwal . This is the preferred view This has also been reported by Abdullah bin Abbas and Jubair bin Mut'im (RA.) . Allama Qutbuddin Qastalani has also adopted this view" (Zarkani-vol.l, pg.131 - from Seeratul Mustapha vol.1, pg.51) .' Nevertheless this month brings back the ecstasy and joy of the noble birth of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) . However, this month also brings back the pain and agony experienced by the Sahaba (radhiallahu anhum) upon the demise of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) . The historians are unanimous that the leader of all mankind left this temporary abode in the month of Rabiul Awwal .

On that fateful day the Sahaba (radhiallahu anhum) were deeply stricken with grief. Hazrath Usman (radhiallahu anhu) was totally dumbstruck. He remained sitting in one spot unable to say a word. Hazrath Ali (radhiallahu anhu) fell unconscious due to excessive weeping. The grief and agony of the beloved wives of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was beyond imagination Hazrath Umar (radhiallahu anhu) was so overcome with grief that he drew out his sword and declared: "I will behead whosoever says that Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) has passed away. He has merely gone to meet his Creator just as Moosa (alaihis salaam) had gone to the mountain to meet Allah Ta'ala."

It was only Hazrath Abu Bakr (radhiallahu anhu) who, despite the mountain of grief, maintained his composure and controlled the situation. Surely even if one sits today and ponders over that fateful day, the pain and grief is still experienced.

Hence any intention to celebrate the birthday of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) would be unimaginable and dispelled by the fact that the demise of the leader of mankind occurred in the same month.

CELEBRATE EVERYDAY

Indeed, every true lover of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) remembers and "celebrates" the noble birth everyday by excessively reciting durood, discussing the virtues and greatness of the Master of mankind and striving to revive the exemplary sunnah of the "Perfect Example."

Thus this is a time of mixed feelings. Therefore, while avoiding all customs not practised by Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) and the illustrious Sahaba (radhiallahu anhum) , this should be a time to ponder over the object and purpose of the birth of the greatest of all creation. It should be an opportunity to reflect on the mission of his prophethood with a firm resolution to enact and perpetuate this mission.

MISSION

Various verses of the Holy Qur'an as well as many Ahadith explain the mission of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) . Let us consider our position with regards to just three of these narrations. If we find that we are lacking, it is necessary for us to rectify ourselves and uphold the mission of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) . Just imagine the happiness and joy experienced by our beloved Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) when he is informed about the effort to keep his mission alive.

- Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is reported to have said: "I have been sent as a teacher."

Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) has taught the Ummah every aspect of Deen . How much have we learnt? It is thus necessary for us to acquaint ourselves with the beautiful teachings of our beloved Master (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) and teach it to our children, families and the Ummah at large.

- Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is reported to have said: "I have been sent to complete good character."

The exemplary character of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is a practical example for every person to follow. How much have we inculcated this wonderful character into our lives? This is also an extremely important matter wherein we lack greatly. Urgent attention has to be paid in this regard.

- Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is reported to have said: "I have been sent to destroy musical instruments."

Have we forsaken musical instruments totally? Or are we involved in what Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was sent to destroy? If the latter applies to us we should immediately repent and abandon listening to music - that which brings down the wrath of Allah Ta'ala. In fact may Allah Ta'ala protect us from opposing the very mission of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) .