As the Mawlid of Prophet Muhammad approaches, many Muslims become interested in the Islamic rulings related to customs traditionally practiced during the occasion.

Among these practices are reading books about the Prophet’s birth and listening to religious poetry and praise describing his life, virtues, character, and noble qualities.

Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta addressed questions concerning the ruling on reading Mawlid books and praising the Prophet, explaining that Muslims have practiced various forms of worship and remembrance while commemorating the occasion for centuries.

Ruling on Reading Mawlid Books

Dar Al-Ifta explained that reading books about the Prophet’s birth is not a modern practice.

Rather, it became known among Muslims centuries ago and appeared clearly in Muslim traditions during the fourth and fifth Islamic centuries.

Muslims would gather to listen to accounts of the Prophet’s birth, life, characteristics, and virtues, accompanied by remembrance of God, praise of the Prophet, and prayers and blessings upon him.

Scholarly Works on the Mawlid

Dar Al-Ifta noted that a number of prominent scholars and historians wrote about the Prophet’s birth and praised his virtues in their works.

Among those mentioned were Ibn al-Jawzi, Ibn Dihya, Ibn Kathir, Ibn Hajar, and Imam al-Suyuti, along with other scholars who addressed the subject and related rulings.

The institution stated that many scholars throughout history regarded reading Mawlid works as a recommended practice because of the meanings of love for the Prophet, learning about his life, and remembering his virtues, character, and qualities.

Did the Companions Celebrate the Prophet’s Mawlid?

One question often raised regarding the Mawlid is whether the Prophet’s Companions celebrated his birth in the same manner known in later centuries.

Dar Al-Ifta explained that the absence of a specific form of Mawlid celebration during the Companions’ era does not necessarily mean that expressing love for the Prophet is prohibited.

It emphasized that love for the Prophet is an essential obligation for Muslims.

Love for Prophet Muhammad

Dar Al-Ifta stressed that love for the Prophet is not merely an internal feeling.

Rather, its effects appear in a Muslim’s conduct, obedience, and commitment to following the guidance brought by the Prophet.

The institution explained that expressions of love can take different forms as long as they remain within what Islamic law permits, including remembering the Prophet’s life, sending blessings and peace upon him, and discussing his virtues, character, and qualities.

Gathering for the Remembrance of God

Dar Al-Ifta cited texts concerning Muslims gathering to remember God and recall His blessings.

Among them is a narration reported by Al-Tabarani in which the Prophet encountered a group of Companions sitting together and asked them why they had gathered.

They explained that they had gathered to remember God and praise Him for guiding them to Islam and blessing them with the mission of Prophet Muhammad.

The institution explained that the Prophet did not object to their gathering for remembrance. Rather, he told them that Gabriel had informed him that God was boasting of them before His angels.

Rejoicing in the Blessing of the Prophet’s Mission

Dar Al-Ifta used this narration to explain that remembering and rejoicing in God’s blessings, including the blessing of sending the Prophet, has a basis in Islamic tradition.

It also explained that the absence of a particular form of expressing this blessing during the Companions’ era does not necessarily prohibit an expression that remains within permissible Islamic principles.

Love for the Prophet Is an Obligation

Dar Al-Ifta emphasized that love for Prophet Muhammad is an obligation upon Muslims.

Among the clearest expressions of this love are following Islamic teachings, following the Prophet’s example, and frequently sending prayers and blessings upon him.

Love also includes learning about his life, virtues, manners, and noble characteristics and reflecting upon his guidance.

Is Reading Mawlid Books Permissible?

According to the explanation provided by Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta, reading books about the Mawlid, praising Prophet Muhammad, and remembering his life during gatherings of remembrance are forms of expressing love for him, provided that such gatherings remain free from practices that contradict Islamic law.

Such gatherings can provide an opportunity to learn about the Prophet’s life, reflect upon his character and virtues, strengthen attachment to his guidance, and follow his example.

What is the ruling on reading Mawlid books?

Dar Al-Ifta considers reading Mawlid books a form of expressing love for Prophet Muhammad when the gatherings remain free from prohibited practices.

Did the Companions celebrate the Mawlid?

There was no specific form of Mawlid celebration among the Companions like those practiced in later centuries. Dar Al-Ifta explains that this does not necessarily prohibit permissible expressions of love for the Prophet.

Is love for Prophet Muhammad obligatory?

Yes. Love for the Prophet is an obligation for Muslims and is expressed through following his example, adhering to his guidance, and sending prayers and blessings upon him.

Is praising the Prophet permissible?

Praising the Prophet and discussing his virtues and noble characteristics can be an expression of love, provided it remains within Islamic guidelines.

What is the purpose of reading Mawlid books?

They introduce Muslims to the Prophet’s life, virtues, character, and noble qualities while strengthening love for him and encouraging Muslims to follow his example.