The Debate on Milad al-Nabi: A Celebration of the Prophet's Birthday

By Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi, New Age Islam 19 September 2024 Permissibility of Celebrating the Birthday of the Last Prophet Main Points 1. Some Muslims question the legitimacy of celebrating the birthday of the Prophet. 2. The argument that the twelfth of Rabi al-Awwal is not the Prophet's birth date and that such celebrations are unauthorized religious practices is incorrect. 3. This debate highlights the need for unity and understanding within the diverse Muslim community. 4. The essence of celebrating Milad al-Nabi lies in the spirit of love, reverence, and gratitude towards the Prophet, enriching the spiritual lives of those who partake in the festivities. 5. The endorsement of Mawlid celebrations has significant roots in Islamic law, with both the Quran and the Hadith playing pivotal roles. 6. The tradition of celebrating the Mawlid of various prophets dates back to ancient times, symbolizing reverence and honour. ----- During the sacred month of Milad al-Nabi [birthday of the Prophet], a disturbing trend emerges where certain Muslims from a particular sect propagate unfounded arguments questioning the legitimacy of celebrating the blessed occasion of Milad al-Nabi. It seems baffling that individuals who proclaim their faith through the recitation of the Kalima, brought to humanity by the Prophet himself, would raise objections towards commemorating the birth of the Prophet. Oftentimes, these dissenting voices claim that the twelfth of Rabi al-Awwal is not the Prophet's actual birth date, while others insist that partaking in such celebrations constitutes an unauthorized innovation in religious practices. Such assertions only serve to sow seeds of discord and confusion among the common Muslims, depriving them of the profound blessings that arise from honouring and rejoicing in the birth of the beloved Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him). This ongoing debate, sparked year after year during the sacred month, underscores the importance of fostering unity and understanding within the diverse Muslim community. It is essential to promote a culture of tolerance and respect, allowing individuals to observe and appreciate religious traditions in a manner that resonates with their beliefs. Ultimately, the essence of celebrating Milad al-Nabi lies not in the date or the method but in the spirit of love, reverence, and gratitude towards the Prophet, enriching the spiritual lives of those who partake in the festivities with faith and devotion. The revered birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was a momentous occasion that occurred on the 12th of Rabi al-Awwal. This significant date later came to be celebrated as Milad Day, commemorating the birth of the beloved Messenger of Allah. The historical accounts provided by Ibn Ishaq in his Sirah book, and Ibn Abi Shaybah in his book "Musannaf" shed light on the details surrounding this auspicious event. According to the narrations of Hazrat Jabir and Hazrat Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with them, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was born on Monday, the 12th of Rabi al-Awwal [the third Islamic month]. This date holds immense significance as it was not only the day of his birth but also the day he declared his prophethood. Furthermore, it was on this very date that he ascended to the heavens, embarked on the momentous journey of migration, and eventually passed away, marking the completion of his earthly mission. It is noteworthy that the majority of scholars uphold the view that these crucial events in the life of the Prophet occurred on the 12th of Rabi al-Awwal, emphasizing the special significance attached to this blessed day in Islamic history. (Ibn Kathir, Al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya, vol. 2, p. 260; Beirut/Sirah Ibn Hisham, vol. 1, p. 158, Egypt) The term “Milad al-Nabi” or “Mawlid al-Nabi” originates from Arabic and signifies “the birthday of the prophet." The endorsement of Mawlid celebrations has significant roots in Islamic law, with both the Quran and the Hadith playing pivotal roles. The tradition of celebrating the Mawlid of various prophets dates back to ancient times, symbolizing reverence and honour. A notable instance of divine approval is illustrated through the peace bestowed by God Almighty on the birthday and the day of passing of Prophet Yahya (peace be upon him). This divine acknowledgement underscores the sanctity and significance of commemorating the lives and teachings of the prophets as integral aspects of Islamic tradition. By acknowledging and celebrating these milestones in the lives of the prophets, believers establish a connection to the sacred essence of their teachings and draw inspiration from their exemplary lives. Through the observance of Mawlid, followers of Islam seek to emulate the values and principles embodied by the prophets, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual devotion within the community. As such, the celebration of Mawlid serves not only as a commemoration of the prophets but also as a means of strengthening faith and fostering a deeper connection to the divine teachings that guide the Islamic faith. Allah Almighty emphasizes the importance of peace upon the prophet Yahya in Surah Al-Maryam, Verse 15, illustrating the sanctity of his birth, death, and resurrection. "The peace is on Him (the prophet, Yahya) the day when he was born, the day when he will die, and the day when he will be raised alive." (Sura Al-Maryam, Verse 15) This divine gesture of sending peace upon Yahya serves as a foundation for the tradition of celebrating his birth, similar to how mainstream Muslims today commemorate the birthday of the last Prophet. Likewise, in Surah Al-Maryam, Verse 33, the Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him) is also mentioned as receiving peace on the day of his birth: "And the same peace on me the day I was born, the day I will die, and the day I will be raised alive." (Sura Al Maryam, Verse 33) Despite differing opinions on the celebration of such occasions in recent years, the consensus among mainstream Muslim scholars, jurists, and intellectuals has evolved to accept and embrace these commemorations as integral to the emotional and spiritual fabric of the Muslim community. The practice of honouring the prophet's birthday is not a divergence from established norms but a testament to the enduring faithfulness of contemporary Muslims to the Quranic teachings. Through blessings and prayers, Muslims express their devotion to the Prophet, mirroring the divine command to seek peace and blessings upon him, echoing the sentiment expressed in Surah Al-Ahzab, Verse 56. “Indeed, Allah confers blessing upon the Prophet and His angels [ask Him to do so]. O you who have believed, ask [Allah to confer] blessing upon him and ask [Allah to grant him] peace." [33: 56] The tradition of celebrating the birthday of the Prophet not only reinforces the bond between believers and the Prophet but also serves as an embodiment of the spiritual legacy handed down through generations in Islamic history, unifying the global Muslim community in reverence and celebration. The Milad al-Nabi is commemorated in diverse manners across the globe. It is a festive occasion where traditions vary significantly from one region to another. For instance, the day is marked by the distribution of delectable sweets, the construction of elaborate stages, and the lively participation of youth who don their finest attire to partake in processions by foot or on two-wheelers. These vibrant processions are bedecked with colourful flags, resonating with chants, and melodious recitals of Naats that invoke peace and bestow blessings upon the revered prophet (peace be upon him). The festive ambiance is characterized by jubilation and camaraderie as individuals engage in the exchange of gifts and the generous distribution of food to those in need. Moreover, mosques are adorned with illuminations, where congregants gather in multitude to offer prayers. Despite the divergent customs observed worldwide, the overarching objective remains constant—to contemplate the legacy, teachings, and ethical principles advocated by the revered prophet. In essence, the celebration of Milad al-Nabi exemplifies the adherence to the divine directive articulated in the Holy Quran as Muslims unite in commemorating "the days of Allah." Allah Almighty says, “And We certainly sent Moses with Our signs, [saying], "Bring out your people from darkness into the light and remind them of the days of Allah. “Indeed, in that are signs for everyone patient and grateful." (14:5) In this particular verse, it is noteworthy to mention that God Almighty issues a directive to the esteemed prophet Moses (peace be upon him) to actively engage his people in recalling and reflecting upon the significant moments that resonate with Allah Almighty's divine presence—commonly referred to as "the days of Allah." These are the moments in time when Allah Almighty generously bestows His blessings upon His creation or when monumental events unfold that display His magnificence. Such divine occurrences serve as pivotal reminders for humanity of the omnipotent power and infinite mercy of Allah. This profound insight is reiterated in the Holy Quran, reaffirming the importance of recognizing and cherishing these instances that epitomize Allah Almighty's boundless love and benevolence towards his beloved creation. Allah Almighty says, “And [recall, O Children of Israel], when Moses said to His people, "Remember the favour of Allah upon you when He saved you from the people of Pharaoh, who were afflicting you with the worst torment and were slaughtering your [newborn] sons and keeping your females alive. And in that was a great trial from your Lord." (14:6) The liberation of the people of Moses from Pharaoh can be understood as a symbolic representation of independence, celebrated by the Jews of Madinah on the 10th of Muharram through fasting as a gesture of gratitude for their deliverance. In a similar vein, the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) serves as another significant milestone, symbolizing independence and divine favour, as he led humanity out of the abyss of ignorance and tyranny into the enlightenment of guidance. The unequivocal truth now stands clear: for Muslims, the arrival of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is indeed a divine blessing and a day of special significance, deserving of commemoration and celebration as 'the day of Allah'. The reference to the prophet's birthday in the Qur'an is a profoundly elevated mention, drawing near to the angelic realm as described by God Almighty in the verse that states, "Indeed, there has come to you Light and a clear Book from Allah." [5: 15]. This verse, according to esteemed Qura'nic interpreters, symbolizes the advent of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), equating him with the concept of 'Light'. This Light, representing the Prophet's noble character and the guidance he brought, is seen as a pivotal moment in human history, marking the inception of a transformative era profoundly influenced by the Divine message of Islam and the teachings encapsulated in the Noble Qur'an. The birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is considered a beacon of enlightenment, heralding a profound shift in the spiritual and moral landscape of humanity, introducing an era filled with divine wisdom and compassion. This pivotal moment is believed to have ushered in a new epoch characterized by the dissemination of the message of Islam and the universal principles encapsulated within the Qur'an, guiding people towards righteousness and spiritual enlightenment. The mention of the Prophet's birth in the Qur'an serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of his mission and the enduring impact of his teachings on the hearts and minds of believers throughout history, illuminating the path towards ultimate truth and salvation. The legal status of the Mawlid al-Nabi, which commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), can also find support in the Quranic reference involving Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him). In this reference, Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him), known as Isa, son of Maryam (Mary), implored Allah during a supplication on behalf of his disciples. Allah says, “Isa, the son of Maryam (Jesus, the son of Mary) said: ‘O Allah, our Lord, send down to us from heaven the table spread (with bounties) so that (the day of its descent) becomes (‘Id) a festival day for us, and for our predecessors (as well as) successors, and that (the spread table) comes as a sign from You, and provide us with sustenance, and You are the Best Sustainer.’ (Surah Maidah: 114) This Quranic verse not only exemplifies a supplication from a respected prophet but also underscores the importance of divine blessings and provisions for believers. The relevance of this passage lies in its portrayal of a spiritual request that connects the past, present, and future believers through a shared celebration of divine generosity. By drawing parallels between this Quranic event and the practice of Milad al-Nabi, Muslims can find a strong foundation for honouring the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and perpetuating unity and gratitude among the Ummah (community). In the Quranic tradition, the day on which the heavenly table descended to mankind marked the inception of a joyous celebration known as Eid. This sacred occasion, which occurred during the time of the revered prophet Jesus (peace be upon him), serves as a commemoration for not only his contemporaries but also his preceding and succeeding generations. The scholars of Quranic exegesis have expounded upon this, affirming that the Eid observed by the successors of Hazrat Jesus encompasses all humanity until the end of time. It was a divine feast, a celestial banquet that brought people together in reverence and gratitude. If such a grand occasion was held in honour of a heavenly table of sustenance, then how much more should we honour and celebrate the advent of a beloved figure who was sent as a universal mercy? When one contemplates the arrival of someone destined to bring compassion and guidance to the entirety of creation, it beckons us to embrace the spirit of commemoration, to come together in unity and reflection. Thus, the annual observance of his legacy becomes a fitting tribute, a gesture of acknowledgement and appreciation for the profound impact of his teachings on humanity. So, let us pause and reflect on the significance of his benevolent presence in our lives, and in doing so, let us partake in the celebration of his enduring message of love and enlightenment. In order to thoroughly address any lingering uncertainties, it becomes essential to refer to the word of God Almighty. This reference is crucial for illustrating the legitimacy of the Mawlid celebration, emphasizing the significance of grounding any discussions or arguments in divine guidance. Allah Almighty says, “But call to mind the blessing of Allah upon you when you were enemies (one to another). Then He created the bond of love amongst your hearts, and by His blessing you became brothers." (3:103) “O Children of Ya‘qub (Jacob)! Recall those favours that I bestowed upon you and that I exalted you above all the people (of your age)." (2:47) “Say: ‘(All this) is due to the bounty and mercy of Allah (bestowed upon you through raising Muhammad [blessings and peace be upon him] as the exalted Messenger). So the Muslims should rejoice over it. This is far better than all that affluence and wealth that they amass.’ (Surah Yunus: 58) In the verses mentioned above, we are reminded by God Almighty to embrace and cherish His grace and mercy, which enrich our lives in countless ways. When we speak of grace, bounty, mercy, and favour, we are essentially referring to the profound impact and guidance brought upon us by the revered prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is through these divine blessings that we come to understand the immense value and significance of each favour bestowed upon us by Allah Almighty. From the simple act of our existence to the noble occasion of the prophet's arrival, every instance is a testament to the vast mercy of Allah. The advent of the prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stands as the pinnacle of divine mercy and favour, an event that warrants our deepest devotion and reverence in the observance of Mawlid. According to Imam Bukhari (may Allah be pleased with him), it is believed that not only Muslims but even non-Muslims who find joy in celebrating the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) will not face severe punishment on that day. This belief stems from a narration that suggests Abu Lahab, who was not a believer, will receive some leniency in Hell on Mondays due to his brief moment of happiness upon the Prophet's birth. Allegedly, when the Prophet was born, Abu Lahab expressed his joy and even released his slave. It is said that as a reward for his fleeting moment of happiness during the occasion of Milad al-Nabi, Abu Lahab will be granted water in Hell by a special dispensation. This tradition, found in Saheehul Bukhari Volume 2 on Page 764, serves as a reminder of the significance of expressing joy at the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), regardless of one's religious beliefs. The multitude of evidence we have presented unquestionably supports the commemoration of the prophets' birthdays. Respected classical, traditional, and contemporary scholars alike not only permit but also encourage and find merit in celebrating these occasions, viewing it as a commendable practice with spiritual rewards. They view it as a unifying force, fostering connections among diverse Muslim communities that may differ in belief systems but are united in their shared reverence for and observance of the Prophet's birthday (PBUH). Celebrating the birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is undoubtedly a deeply recommended and spiritually rewarding practice. However, on this significant occasion, it is crucial to address any objectionable aspects that might taint the purity of the celebration. Failure to do so could result in the loss of blessings associated with this auspicious event. It is essential to ensure that every aspect of the commemoration, whether it be through a Mahfil-e Milad or a Milad procession, mirrors the purity, refinement, and sanctity that characterized the life of the Holy Prophet. Neglecting these principles might not only render our efforts in vain but could also lead to displeasure from Allah and His Messenger. Therefore, upholding the sanctity and authenticity of this celebration is paramount in order to truly honour and reflect the joyous occasion of the birth of the Holy Prophet. It is crucial that every effort is exerted to preserve the purity of the environment by shielding it from myths and non-Shariah concepts. Additionally, it's essential to emphasize the significance of organizing gatherings on occasions like Milad for the betterment of society. These gatherings facilitate acts of charity and philanthropy in various forms, such as physical contributions, financial donations, intellectual endeavours, and spiritual pursuits, all aimed at pleasing Allah and the Beloved Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). This devotion should be driven purely by the desire for divine pleasure and spiritual fulfilment. According to the teachings of the blessed hadiths, it is not only imperative to send greetings and salutations to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) throughout the day but also to ensure that our actions reflect positively on his Ummah. The Prophet's joy is evoked by witnessing good deeds, while he expresses dismay upon witnessing evil actions. In light of this, the celebrations conducted in remembrance of the Prophet's birthday should be approached with utmost sincerity and honesty. Without these qualities, how can we expect the Prophet (peace be upon him) to be pleased with our commemorative events? Similarly, why would Allah Almighty bestow His favour upon ceremonies carried out in honour of His Beloved Prophet if they lack genuineness and pure intentions? This contemplation is indeed a significant matter for all believers. Merely indulging in large-scale charity, hosting grand processions, and expressing joy outwardly cannot guarantee honour and acceptance in the divine realm unless these actions are fuelled by inner purity and noble intentions. The fundamental prerequisites for our deeds to be accepted lie in harbouring genuine love and respect for the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him). This love and reverence form the very basis upon which the acceptability of all our endeavours hinges. Today, unfortunately, the Muslim Ummah finds itself divided into two groups with differing views on the celebration of Milad al-Nabi. On one side, there are those who vehemently reject this celebration, deeming it illegitimate, haram, and even heretical. Conversely, there exists another group that embraces the observance of Milad al-Nabi, albeit in ways that may be considered inappropriate. This stark dichotomy has led to a situation where the essence of Milad al-Nabi has been tarnished and distorted by the injection of non-Sharia elements. It is imperative for Muslims to navigate a path of moderation that steers clear of the extremist stances held by these two groups, finding a balanced approach that upholds the sanctity of Milad al-Nabi while refraining from indulging in excesses. The polarization caused by the emphasis on either Milad or Seerah has further exacerbated the rift among Muslims, with some solely focussing on the promotion of Milad and others advocating for Seerah while denouncing Milad. It is crucial to recognize the interconnectedness of Milad and Seerah, as they both serve as avenues to commemorate and honour the Holy Prophet. Rather than viewing Milad as a forbidden innovation or allowing it to be tainted by myths and unverified stories, a more nuanced perspective should be adopted. Embracing both Bayan-e-Milad and Bayan-e-Seerah as complementary means of celebrating the life of the Prophet can help in preserving the purity of the occasion while fulfilling the intended purpose of Milad. In essence, the celebration of Milad al-Nabi should not be condemned as illegitimate or blasphemous, nor should it be distorted by unfounded narratives and misinterpretations. Striking a harmonious balance between reverence for the Prophet's life and teachings is essential to fostering unity and understanding within the Muslim Ummah. To mark the birth of the Prophet (peace be upon him) with reverence and joy, according to the legal framework, it is considered completely permissible and even encouraged to partake in all appropriate and customary practices that express happiness and celebrate the Milad. This spiritual festivity involves a wide array of sacred acts that deepen the connection to the Prophet, including but not limited to organizing elaborate ceremonial events, meticulously conducting traditional rituals that honour the Prophet's teachings, actively participating in processions filled with the fragrance of Durood and Salam that epitomize respect and admiration, hosting Milad assemblies that embody unity and devotion, elegantly chanting the praises of the Prophet through heartfelt Naat or Qawwali performances, and graciously venerating the magnificence of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) in all its splendour. Engaging in profound discussions centred on these sacred themes is not only admirable and allowed within the tenets of the faith but also strongly recommended and even desired to deepen one's spiritual connection and understanding. Erroneously classifying these blessed gatherings as forbidden reflects a stark lack of comprehension, a resistant unwillingness to embrace the truth, and a misguided position founded on ignorance that fails to appreciate the significance and beauty of honouring and commemorating the Prophet (peace be upon him) with a spirit of love and devotion. ----- A regular Columnist with NewAgeIslam.com, Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi Dehlvi is a Classical Islamic scholar with a rich Sufi Madrasa background and expertise in English-Arabic-Urdu translation. Throughout his career, he has emerged as a prominent figure in the realm of Islamic scholarship, consistently contributing valuable insights and analysis on a wide range of crucial topics. Through his regular writings, he has delved into multifaceted subjects, including but not limited to deradicalization strategies, the promotion of moderation within Islamic teachings, counter-terrorism efforts, and the vital mission of combating Islamophobia. Moreover, he extensively addresses the urgent need to challenge radical ideologies through well-reasoned arguments and scholarly discourse. Beyond these critical issues, his work also encompasses in-depth discussions on human rights principles, the significance of safeguarding religious rights, and the profound exploration of Islamic mysticism. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/debating-islam/debate-milad-nabi-prophet-birthday/d/133231 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism