Mawlid al Nabi or The Prophet’s Birthday
On this day, many Muslims celebrate the birth of the Muslim prophet Muhammad, leader of Islam.
On this day, many Muslims celebrate the birth of the Muslim prophet Muhammad, leader of Islam.
Lauren Embling
Reviewer URLNames: Mawlid al-Nabi, Mawlid, The Prophet’s Birthday, Maulidur Rasul, Milad-un-Nabi
Pronunciation: MO-lid al NAH-bee
On this day, many Muslims celebrate the birth of the Muslim prophet Muhammad, leader of Islam.
Origin
It was predicted when he was just a child that Muhammad would one day be recognized as a prophet. When he was 40, the angel Gabriel appeared to Muhammad and revealed scripture that would be the foundation for the Qurʾān, the sacred scripture of Islam.
When is it observed
Mawlid al-Nabi is typically celebrated by Shiite Muslims on the 17th day of the third month of the Islamic calendar.
Who observes this holiday
Shiite Muslims observe the prophet’s birthday on this day.
Traditions
Around the world, some Muslims celebrate this day by attending parades, decorating their homes, businesses and mosques, and donating items to charity. Others share the belief that celebrating birthdays goes against Islamic law and may simply read the Qurʾān to honor the anniversary.
About Muhammad
Muhammad (SAW), referred to the Prophet by Muslims, lived from 570-632 CE. According to Islamic tradition, as a boy Muhammad was recognized as a future prophet by a Christian monk. At age 40, the angel Gabriel appeared to Muhammad, and revealed to him verses of the Qurʾān, the sacred scripture of Islam. He continues to receive such revelations, and over time begins to preach what he has learned. He and his followers are not universally accepted, but eventually Muhammad experiences a miraculous night journey to Jerusalem to pray with Abraham and other prophets, before he ascends to heaven and receives the 5 daily prayers of Islam from God. Muhammad and his followers were met with resistance from other tribes and battled them for many years, until he returned to Mecca and took over in 630, giving amnesty to those who had previously opposed him. When he died, there was no plan for succession in place, which created confusion as to who would succeed him as leader of Islam.