14th Rabi’ al-Awwal: Mawlid of Habib Noh bin Muhammad al-Habshiق

Bismi Llāhi r-Raḥmāni r-Raḥīm

The 14th of Rabi’ al-Awwal marks the blessed Mawlid of Habib Noh bin Muhammad al-Habshiق, a beloved saint whose light shines brightly in the heart of Singapore and beyond.

Known as the patron Saint of Malay sailors, Habib Noh’sق life was a testament to deep humility, unwavering love for Allah ﷻ and His Prophet ﷺ, and selfless service to all of creation.

His maqam on Mount Palmer in Singapore remains a sanctuary of peace and barakah, drawing seekers from many lands who come to feel the gentle warmth of his presence and to renew their hearts in his remembrance.

Habib Nohق was born in 1788, aboard a ship journeying from Palembang, Sumatra, towards Penang. Though his roots trace back to the blessed lands of Hadhramaut in Yemen, his arrival in Southeast Asia marked the beginning of a spiritual legacy that would forever transform the region.

From a young age, he displayed a natural inclination toward worship and remembrance, often retreating into moments of deep solitude and prayer. His early life was marked by devotion to the Qur’an and the teachings of the Prophet ﷺ, and he quickly became known for his purity of heart and his kindness to all.

A story often told by those who knew him recalls how Habib Nohق would spend entire nights on Mount Palmer, immersed in dhikr and supplication. It is said that his presence could soothe even the most troubled hearts, as if the very air around him was infused with the light of divine mercy.

Those who came seeking his counsel found in him not only wisdom but a warmth that felt like the embrace of a loving father. His simple and humble lifestyle only deepened the respect and love that surrounded him.

Habib Noh’sق compassion extended beyond humans to all living beings. There are accounts of him feeding stray animals and tending to the sick and poor without distinction or hesitation. His generosity was never showy, but always sincere, flowing naturally from a heart deeply connected to Allah ﷻ.

One such story tells of a time when a poor fisherman, struggling to support his family, was met by Habib Nohق who quietly gave him enough food to last through the hardest times. The fisherman later testified that this act saved his family and renewed his faith in the mercy of Allah ﷻ.

His love for the Holy Prophet ﷺ was the centre of his being. Habib Noh’sق gatherings were filled with Salawat and the recitation of the Qur’an, with many witnesses describing how his voice would tremble in emotion, tears flowing freely as he spoke of the Prophet’s ﷺ mercy and greatness.

It is said that his very life was a living Seerah, embodying the Sunnah in every action and word. His humility was profound; he never sought fame or followers but lived simply to serve Allah ﷻ and His creation.

During his time, Singapore was a place of great diversity and change. Habib Noh’sق presence became a unifying light for many communities. He welcomed people of all backgrounds, races, and religions, always treating them with kindness and respect.

His maqam today stands not only as a symbol of his spiritual stature but as a reminder of the power of love and humility to bridge divides.

Upon his passing in 1866, a remarkable event occurred. His coffin was said to be immovable, no matter how many tried to carry it, until someone remembered his wish to be buried on Mount Palmer.

There, his resting place was established, becoming a revered site visited by thousands seeking blessings and solace. In 1890, a mausoleum was built over his grave, and later, in 1903, Masjid Haji Muhammad Salleh was established nearby to serve as a centre for worship and community, continuing the legacy of spiritual light that Habib Nohق left behind.

Visitors to his maqam often speak of a peaceful calm that settles over them, as if the very air is thick with barakah. Many report experiences of spiritual renewal, relief from hardship, and an overwhelming sense of closeness to Allah ﷻ after spending time there.

Habib Nohق once said, “The heart that loves Allah ﷻ is never empty. It is filled with the light that darkness cannot touch.” His legacy invites us all to nurture such a heart, to serve others with sincerity, and to keep our gaze fixed on the Beloved ﷺ, who is the true source of all peace and mercy.

As we commemorate his Birthday, let us remember the lessons of his life. That greatness lies not in power or position, but in pure love, service, and humility.

May Allah ﷻ raise his station and bless all who follow in his footsteps.

May we be granted to sit in his company through the remembrance of his life and teachings.

Al-Fatiha.