Mawlid Al Nabi
Birthday of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH)
About the Celebration
Mawlid Al Nabi (translates to birthday of the Prophet) is an Islamic holiday celebrated by many Muslims around the world, except those of the conservative sects. This day is used to celebrate the birth of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), the founder of Islam.
Rabi Al Awwal
The Mawlid is celebrated in Rabi Al Awwal, the third of the Islamic months. Sunni Muslims celebrate on the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal, while Shia Muslims celebrate on the 17th.
Activities Include:
On the Mawlid, huge processions are held on the streets. In celebration, mosques are decorated and banners are held up. Food and candy are handed out to people of all ages.
Some Muslims spend the Mawlid praying and reading the Qur'an. As well, charity work is usually done on mawlid. Food is handed out to the poor and money is donated.
Family gatherings on the Mawlid are very common. The holiday is spent with family and close friends. These types of gatherings usually lead to feasts.
Significance of this Day
Mawlid Al-Nabi is celebrated to display love, honour and respect to the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH).