Eid-e Milad-un-Nabi or Mawlid an-Nabi or Eid Milad is an auspicious occasion in which Muslims around the world commemorate the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The last Prophet, Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) was born in the 12th Rabi ul-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar.
Eid e Milad (12th Rabi ul-Awwal) is observed as a public holiday in many Muslim countries as it marks the birth anniversary of the last Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), founder of Islam, and upon whom the Holy Quran was revealed.
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Here are the details about the importance and history of this day.
Importance of the Month of Rabi-ul-Awwal
Rabi-ul-Awwal is the third month of the Islamic year, followed by the 2nd month of Safar and 1st month of Muharram. The literal meaning of Rabi is ‘the spring’ and Al-Awwal means ‘the first. So Rabi al-Awwal means ‘the first spring of the year’.
However, this meaning does not hold much importance in the contemporary context, as the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar where the seasons may differ from the month. Still, metaphorically, it is the symbol of joy and the blossom of hope. The key event that makes this month significant for the Muslim world is the birth anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Besides the birth of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), this month has a lot of significance because of some other occasions that took place during this month. This was the month in which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) started his journey of Hijrah. In addition, the holy Prophet built Masjid Quba (the first mosque in Islamic history) this month. Also, the first Jumma was held this month.
What is Eid Milad-un-Nabi?
Eid Milad-un-Nabi is also referred to as Mawlid or Mawlid-un-Nabi Sharif, Eid Milad, and Milad-un-Nabi. The significance of this month lies in the blessings of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Muslims all around the world celebrate this day with religious zeal and fervor.
They embellish streets, mosques, shrines, and residential areas with radiant lights. Sweets, food, and other dishes are also served to the celebrants on this auspicious occasion. Muslim offer prayers, sung poetry, and naats in the praise of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) on this day. It is believed that the listeners and reciters get divine rewards.
The primary aim behind the celebrations and joy is to remember and follow the character traits and teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Believers of the holy Prophet show their love and devotion to the Prophet by celebrating this day to the fullest. This significant day is started by offering Namaz and taking part in ritualistic customs.
The most important message given by Prophet Muhammad is the message of love, peace, mercy, sacrifice, human dignity, diversity, dialogue, and coexistence. By observing this occasion, Muslims get reminded of the messages of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
History of Eid-Milad un Nabi
The history of Eid Milad dates back to the time when the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing be upon him) came into this world in Makkah in 570 CE. However, Eid Mawlid gained popularity in the 8th century when Khalifa Harun-al-Rashid’s mother Al-Khizuran converted the house of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) into a prayer hall.
Although, then the day was observed differently than today. In the 11th century, Egypt’s leading clan used to celebrate the day of Mawlid. Moving forward to the 12th century, the custom of commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad was started in countries like Turkey, Morocco, Syria, and Spain. Later on, this religious festival becomes a day of celebration in the whole Muslim world.
What is 12th Rabi ul Awwal?
12 Rabi ul Awwal marks the birth of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It’s one of the auspicious days for Muslims to realize that Hazrat Muhammad (SAW) was sent for reformations. Therefore, they need to follow his reforms and teachings. It is a day of remembrance for all Muslims to spend their lives devotedly, according to the Sunnah of the beloved Prophet (PBUH). As it is a fact that success and progress in this world and the hereafter can only be achieved by following the teaching of the last Prophet.
Significance of Eid-Milad-un-Nabi
Eid-Milad-un-Nabi is the day to remember the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). On the birthday/Mawlid of the prophet Muhammad (SAW), Muslims make gatherings to do payers and to listen to the Sira (Life) of the prophet Muhammad. They also distribute food to people to bring happiness to the Ummah. Muslim parents narrate stories of the Prophet Muhammad’s life to their kids.
The main significance behind the commemorations of the birth anniversary of the prophet is to spread the message of Islam and educate the populous about the teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). It also aims to remind the Muslims about the character, his way of worshipping, and spending a successful life.
Alongside, Muslims decorate their homes, and mosques and donate to the poor. As charity and Zakat hold a special place in Islam and it is considered highly rewarding deed, especially on Eid Milad un Nabi.
Prayers on the Day of Eid-Milad-un-Nabi
On the day of 12 Rab-ul-Awal Muslims offer special prayers in mosques and countless Salawat (Durood Sharif) are sent upon Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Reciting Salawat on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), reciting the holy Quran, offering prayers, and donating to charity hold significant importance on this day.
Here is a translation of the verse where the Quran has stated the importance of sending Salawat to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
“Allah and His angels bless the Prophet. Believers invoke blessings and peace on him.” (Al-Ahzab: 33: 56)
How to Celebrate Eid Milad Un Nabi?
Since Eid Milad Un Nabi is a special festival, Muslims need to celebrate this day by remembering the teachings and sayings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Reciting Darud Sharif upon the Prophet (SAW) is the best way to celebrate this day. Alongside, Muslims need to commemorate this day by listening to the sunnah of the Prophet, reciting Quran, and doing good deeds.
Bottom Line
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