Muslims around the world are observing Milad-Un-Nabi, meaning the ‘birth of the Prophet.’
This event occurs during the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month in the Islamic calendar, with the widely recognized date being the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal.
In Kashmir, this day falls on September 29, this year according to the Gregorian calendar.
The history of Eid Milad-un-Nabi is closely intertwined with the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
He was born in 570 CE in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and his teachings, practices, and the Quran are the foundations of the Islamic faith.
At the age of 40, around 610 CE, Prophet Muhammad experienced a divine encounter in a cave, where he received his first revelation from God through the angel Gabriel.
He began publicly preaching these revelations in 613, emphasizing the belief in the oneness of God, complete submission to Him, and his role as a prophet and messenger.
These revelations, known as Ayahs, make up the 6666 verses of the Quran, considered the ‘Word of God’ and the basis of Islamic faith.
Prophet Muhammad’s teachings and practices, as documented in the Hadith and Sira literature, also serve as crucial sources of Islamic law.
By the time of his passing, the majority of the Arabian Peninsula had embraced Islam, leading to a significant transformation in the region.
Eid Milad-un-Nabi gained popularity in the 8th century when Al-Khayzuran converted the Prophet’s home into a place of prayer.
In the 11th century, prominent clans in Egypt began celebrating Mawlid or Nabid with prayers and readings from the Holy Quran.
Initially, this holiday was exclusive to Shia Muslims, the governing clan of the region, and not open to the general public.
In subsequent centuries, other nations also adopted the practice of commemorating Eid-e-Milad, and over time, Sunni Muslims began observing this day as well.
Eid-e-Milad is marked by recalling the teachings of the Prophet, giving to the poor, and reflecting on his birth, life, and virtues.
Milad-un-Nabi holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide, offering a time for reflection on the life and teachings of the Prophet.