Mawlid Un Nabi Begins

Mawlid Un Nabi History

Mawlid Un Nabi, also known as Prophet Muhammad's birthday, is an annual observance held to honor the life and teachings of the founder of Islam. The event is marked by various customs and rituals across the Muslim world, which often include religious lectures, devotional poetry readings, and community gatherings. Though the practices and intensity of celebration may vary from one region to another, the primary focus remains to commemorate the Prophet's spiritual influence and wisdom, while upholding the values of compassion, unity, and tolerance.

The idea of observing Mawlid Un Nabi dates back to the 11th or 12th century, with the Fatimid dynasty in Egypt being credited as the first to establish it as an official event. In the United Kingdom, the Muslim population from diverse cultural backgrounds has been instrumental in fostering communal harmony and understanding by initiating various events and gatherings on this occasion. Cultural societies, mosques, and Islamic centers contribute toward generating community awareness and educating the larger public on the essence of Mawlid Un Nabi and its significance through exhibitions, conferences, and lectures that bridge the gap between the different faiths residing in the UK.

In the United Kingdom, Mawlid Un Nabi is observed by Muslim communities through a myriad of events, such as street processions, fundraisers for charitable causes, and communal iftars (breaking of fast) for the local population regardless of their religious affiliation. These efforts embody the spirit of universal love and kindness promoted by Prophet Muhammad and bring people closer in times of increasing divisiveness. Mawlid Un Nabi is typically observed during the month of Rabi' al-Awwal, the third month in the Islamic lunar calendar. In the United Kingdom, this date varies based on the sighting of the moon. Still, it is usually between October and December according to the Gregorian calendar. It offers an opportunity for Muslims and the larger community to come together to celebrate love, compassion, and unity.

Mawlid Un Nabi Begins facts

• Muhammad was born in Mecca to Abdullah ibn Al Muttalib, the son of the chief of the Quraysh, and Aminah bint Wahab, a member of the Banu Zuhrah tribe. His mother, Aminah, is a descendent of Abraham through his son Ismail.
• Muhammad was born on the Year of the Elephant, which is named after the year on which Aksumite king Abraha tried to destroy Mecca with an army of his elephants. Tradition dictates that the army was destroyed by birds carrying small stones, which they threw on the elephants.
• The Ottomans declared it an official holiday in 1588 and the first public celebrations included feasting, giving to the poor and reciting poetry.
• Today, approximately 5% of the UK's population is Muslim.
• The Mawlid event typically promotes peace, tolerance, and unity among the Muslims and aims to educate the younger generation about the life and teachings of the Prophet.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Mawlid Un Nabi Begins

Top things to do in the UK for Mawlid Un Nabi

• Watch the Omar series to learn more about the times of Muhammad. Although it does not show Muhammad directly out of Muslim's respect for him, it shows all his companions and the lives they led.
• Study the Quran or the Hadith (teachings of Muhammad) to learn more about the Prophet Muhammad.
• Families often come together to celebrate Mawlid Un Nabi by honoring the Prophet's life and teachings. This can involve sharing meals, reciting prayers, and discussing the significance of Prophet Muhammad's message.
• Many organizations and Islamic centers organize conferences and seminars to educate people about the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad. These events often feature renowned scholars and speakers.