Eid-e-Milad, also known as Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, is an important Islamic festival commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad, the last messenger of Allah. Celebrated by Muslims worldwide, this occasion is marked with prayers, gatherings, and expressions of reverence for the Prophet. The event is particularly significant in the Islamic calendar, serving as a reminder of the Prophet’s teachings and his impact on humanity.
Eid-e-Milad Date 2024
In 2024, Eid-e-Milad will be celebrated on September 16, 2024. The Islamic calendar is lunar, so the date changes each year, falling on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic year. While Sunni Muslims generally observe it on this day, some Shia Muslims may commemorate it on the 17th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, as per Islamic Relief Worldwide.
Eid-e-Milad History
“According to Islamic literature, the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday dates all the way back to the early Rashidun Caliphs and was started by the Fatimids. One group of Muslims accepts that the Prophet was born on the twelfth day of Rabi’ al-awwal in 570 CE,” as per a report by Business Standard. In the 13th century, this day evolved from a period of mourning into a celebration of the Prophet’s birth. This change marked a new way of honouring the Prophet’s life, emphasising his teachings and the inspiration he provided to the Muslim community.
It’s important to recognise that not all parts of the Muslim community observe this. Some believe that celebrating Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is not permissible in Islamic tradition, viewing it as a form of innovation (Bid’ah) that goes against the teachings of the Holy Quran.
“Muslims following the Salafi and Wahhabi schools of thought share this viewpoint, contending that the celebration of Eid-e-Milad or Mawlid is an innovation, as there is no historical evidence of such celebrations during the era of Prophet Mohammad or his appointed successors”, as per an Economic Times reports.
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Eid-e-Milad Significance
Eid-e-Milad holds profound significance for Muslims. It is a day to honour the life and legacy of the Prophet Muhammad, who is regarded as the last messenger of Allah. His teachings, enshrined in the Quran, continue to guide the daily lives of Muslims, influencing everything from personal conduct to societal norms.
On this day, Muslims remember the virtues of the Prophet, such as his compassion, humility, and wisdom. His efforts to spread the message of peace, equality, and justice are celebrated, with many believers using the occasion to renew their commitment to living according to Islamic principles.
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How Is Eid-e-Milad Celebrated
During Eid-e-Milad, Muslims celebrate by wearing new clothes, offering prayers, and exchanging greetings. They gather at mosques or dargahs to start the day with a morning prayer, followed by a procession through town where they share stories of the Prophet’s life and teachings from the Quran. Community feasts, giving to the poor, and evening prayers are also important parts of the celebration, bringing loved ones together to honour this special day.
Charitable acts, such as feeding the poor and helping those in need, are also an integral part of the celebrations. These acts of kindness reflect the Prophet’s message of empathy and social responsibility.
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