Bringing together Islamic communities around the world in celebration of the Prophet Muhammad, Mawlid al-Nabi (مَولِد النَبي) is a lesser known–yet very significant–Muslim holiday. It is a profound and joyous time, combining spiritual reflection, religious devotion, and communal celebrations, marked across the Muslim world by different cultural practices and religious beliefs. Let’s dive into our guide to Mawlid al-Nabi!

What is Mawlid al-Nabi?

The name of the holiday reveals its purpose. Mawlid al-nabi translates to “birthday of the Prophet.” This sacred occasion commemorates the birth of the esteemed Prophet Muhammad, a central figure in Islam. Muslims revere him as the recipient of Allah’s final testament to humanity, the Qur’an, and view him as the most significant messenger sent to guide mankind. Honoring the Prophet’s life allows Muslims to keep his memory alive and inspires them to follow his virtuous path. Given the religious significance, it may come as a surprise that Islamic teachings do not actually mandate a holiday to celebrate the Prophet’s life.

When is Mawlid al-Nabi?

The celebration falls on the 12th day of Rabi al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar. The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle (about 10-11 days shorter than the widely-used Gregorian calendar), so the date of Mawlid al-Nabi varies each year. In 2023, the holiday falls on Wednesday, September 27th. But, be ready to celebrate earlier! Festivities commence the night before, following the Muslim calendar’s tradition of holidays beginning at the previous day’s sunset.

Where is the holiday celebrated?

Most countries with majority Muslim populations across the Middle East, North Africa, and South/Southeast Asia celebrate Mawlid al-Nabi, but don’t assume that it’s celebrated by Muslims everywhere. For instance, in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, most people do not celebrate the occasion. It’s not even a public holiday and the day passes just like any other. What explains this variation in observance? Firstly, the holiday is not obligatory in Islamic teachings. Secondly, some Muslims consider the celebration to be an unnecessary innovation that places too much emphasis on the Prophet’s humanity rather than his divinity and revelation.

How do people celebrate?

From quiet devotion to colorful celebration, Mawlid al-Nabi covers a wide range of meaningful festivities. For example, Muslims take the opportunity to learn about the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad through lectures and speeches about his exemplary life and values. The Qur’an is recited and there are salawat prayer services.

Outside of religious study and prayer, you’ll find intimate gatherings in homes, speeches at local mosques, and grand festivities filling entire cities. Streets and mosques come alive with lights and stalls brimming with sweets that are handed out to passersby.

The celebrations also have unique cultural differences across countries. Singapore, for example, observes the holiday with a one-day festival that includes special “birthday parties” for underprivileged children and orphans. In Pakistan, the entire month of Rabi al-Awwal is dedicated to commemorating the Prophet’s birth month. Egypt boasts some of the largest and most vibrant celebrations, featuring Sufi dhikr poetry (dhikr being devotional worship in remembrance of Allah), games, and children indulging in toys and sweets. In Cairo’s Azhar Square, a remarkable celebration unfolds as over two million Muslims gather to partake in the festivities–an incredible birthday celebration.

What foods are served during Mawlid al-Nabi?

No celebration or birthday is complete without delicious food, and Mawlid al-Nabi is no exception. Across the countries that revel in this holiday, one can find stalls adorned with pastries and sweets, known as halawiyat. In the Middle East, these Mawlid sweets have the rich flavors of sesame seeds, pistachios, and an array of nuts. Two particular favorites that grace the festivities are Turkish delight and ma’amoul, a biscuit stuffed with nuts or date paste.