As Muslims celebrate mawlid al_nabi also known as milad un nabi or Eid-el milad, this Friday, Habibatullah Onakpa Abdallah of our News and Current Affairs Department writes on the significance of mawlid al-Nabi.
Mawlid al-Nabi, also known as milad un nabi or Eid-e-milad is a significant occasion that commemorates the birth of prophet Muhammad (peace upon him)
It is observed on the 12th day of Rabi al-Awwal the third month in the Islamic calendar.
Mawlid al-Nabi is a day to reflect on the life, teaching and legacy of prophet Muhammad who is considered the final prophet in the Abrahamic tradition.
The celebration is an opportunity for Muslims world wide to reconnect with their faith, strengthen their spiritual bond and follow the prophet’s principles of compassion, justice and unity.
Mawlid al-Nabi also brings Muslims together, world wide fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among them.
Muslims gather on this day to recite the Quran, particularly passages describing the prophet’s virtues and sing in praise of the Prophet.
Similarly scholars deliver sermons and lectures on the prophet life, emphasizing his qualities of mercy, compassion and justice.
In the same vein, many Muslims engage in charitable activities such as giving to the poor, and participating in community service.
Consequently mawlid al-Nabi is celebrated with diverse cultural traditions, including processions, traditional music and food sharing.
However, some Islamic scholar’s view mawlid al-Nabi as innovation ( bidia) not practiced by the prophet or his companions while others see it as a legitimate expression of love and gratitude towards the prophet.
In Nigeria, mawlid al-Nabi is celebrated with great enthusiasm, blending traditional and religious customs.
Muslims gather in mosques and community centers for special prayers and sermons focusing on the life and teaching of prophet Muhammad.
Devotees recite the Quran and sing poems that praise the prophet expressing love and admiration for him.
In some quotas, large procession are held in the streets with participants carrying banners and chanting praises of the prophet.
Traditional dishes are prepared as families and friends gather to share meals, emphasizing the values of generosity and community.
In Kogi State, Mawlid al-Nabi is a time for spiritual reflection, community bonding and celebration showcasing the diverse cultural heritage and devotion to Islamic tenets.
As we celebrate the twenty twenty five Mawlid al-Nabi we pray for peaceful co-existence among different religions groups in Kogi State as well as divine guidance for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo led administration as he pilots the affairs of the state to a greater height.
