The birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) is an occasion for Muslims to reflect on the life and teachings of one of the most important figures in our faith. Known as Mawlid al-Nabi, this blessed day offers a moment for us to come together as a family, community, and as individuals to remember the profound impact that the Prophet (PBUH) had on the world. The ways we celebrate may differ, but our goal remains the same: to increase our love for the Prophet and to follow his example in our daily lives. Here are five personal ways I like to celebrate and honour the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
1. Reflect on the Prophet’s Teachings
For me, one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate Mawlid is to spend time reflecting on the beautiful teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). His life was a model of patience, compassion, and unwavering faith. I like to revisit the Seerah, his life story, to remind myself of the values he embodied. Whether it’s through reading a book, watching a lecture, or simply discussing his teachings with family and friends, reflecting on the Seerah helps me reconnect with the essence of Islam and motivates me to improve myself.
2. Engage in Extra Worship and Sending Salawat
The day of the Prophet’s birth is a great time to engage in extra worship and remembrance. Personally, I try to increase my recitation of Salawat (sending blessings upon the Prophet). This simple but powerful act helps me feel closer to the Prophet (PBUH) and reminds me of the mercy he brought to this world. I also like to spend time in extra prayer and reading the Qur’an, asking Allah (SWT) to guide me in following the Prophet’s example in my daily life. After all, sending blessings upon him is one of the most beloved acts to Allah (SWT), and it brings peace to the heart.
3. Perform Acts of Kindness and Charity
Another beautiful way to honour the Prophet’s legacy is through acts of kindness and charity. The Prophet (PBUH) was known for his generosity, and I find it especially meaningful to give to those in need on this day. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, supporting a community initiative, or simply helping out a neighbour, every small act of kindness is a way to embody the Prophet’s compassion. For me, these acts not only honour his memory but also remind me of the importance of community and giving back.
4. Share the Day with Family and Friends
Celebrating with family and friends is something I cherish during Mawlid al-Nabi. I like to organise a small gathering where we share stories of the Prophet (PBUH) and reflect on his teachings. We might also read poetry in his honour or listen to nasheeds (Islamic songs) that praise the Prophet. These gatherings provide an opportunity to strengthen our bonds with each other and to reflect on the importance of unity and love in our community, values that the Prophet (PBUH) always encouraged.
5. Teach Children About the Prophet (PBUH)
Passing on the love of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to the next generation is incredibly important to me. On this special day, I make an effort to involve my children in learning about the life of the Prophet in fun and engaging ways. We might read a children’s book about his kindness, watch a short video that explains his teachings, or even do a craft activity that relates to his story. These small efforts help instil a sense of love and respect for the Prophet in their hearts, which I hope will stay with them throughout their lives.
Final Thoughts
Mawlid al-Nabi is more than just a day to celebrate—it’s a reminder of the immense blessings we have received through the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). By reflecting on his teachings, performing acts of kindness, and sharing the day with loved ones, we can deepen our connection to the Prophet and strengthen our faith. As we celebrate his birth, may Allah (SWT) guide us to follow in his footsteps and to live a life filled with compassion, mercy, and love for all of humanity.
May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and may we continue to honour his legacy in everything we do.