Mawlid al-Nabi (the Prophet’s birthday)

Question:

Why some people accept and some unaccept the celebration of the prophet (pbuh )? What is your opinion?

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

There is nothing in the Qur’aan to say that we should celebrate the Mawlid or birthday of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). The Prophet himself (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did not do this or command anyone to do it, either during his lifetime or after his death. Indeed, he told them not to exaggerate about him as the Christians had exaggerated about Jesus (upon whom be peace). He said: “Do not exaggerate about me as the Christians exaggerated about the son of Maryam. I am only a slave, so say, ‘The slave of Allaah and His Messenger.’” (Reported by al-Bukhaari). What has been reported is that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) made the day of his birth a day of worship, which is different to celebration. He was asked about fasting on Mondays, and he said: “That is the day on which I was born and the day on which I was entrusted with the Mission or when I was first given Revelation.” (Reported by Muslim, al-Nisaa’i and Abu Dawood).

Moreover, we know that the Sahaabah (may Allaah be pleased with them) were the people who loved the Prophet most. Was it reported that Abu Bakr, who was the closest of people to him and the one who loved him the most, celebrated the birthday of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)? Was it reported that ‘Umar, who ruled for twelve years, or ‘Uthmaan, did this? Was it reported that ‘Ali, his relative and foster son, did this? Was it reported that any of the Sahaabah did this? No, by Allaah! Is it because they were not aware of its importance, or did they not truly love the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)? No one would say such a thing except one who has gone astray and is leading others astray.

Did any of the imaams – Abu Haneefah, Maalik, al-Shaafi’i, Ahmad, al-Hasan al-Basri, Ibn Seereen – do this or command others to do it or say that it was good? By Allaah, no! It was not even mentioned during the first and best three centuries. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said in a saheeh hadeeth: “The best of mankind are my generation (or my century), then those who come after them, then those who come after them. Then there will come a people who will not care if their testimony comes before their oath or vice versa (i.e., they will not take such matter seriously).” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, Muslim and al-Tirmidhi). The celebration of the Prophet’s birthday appeared many centuries later, when many of the features of true religion had vanished and bid’ah had become widespread.

Thus this celebration became a sign of one’s love for the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)? But can it be possible that the Sahaabah, the imaams and the people of the best three centuries were unaware of it, and it was only those who came later who were aware of its importance?! What the Qur’aan tells us is that love of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is demonstrated by following the guidance he brought. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“Say (O Muhammad): ‘If you (really) love Allaah, then follow me, Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allaah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Say: ‘Obey Allaah and the Messenger.’ But if they turn away, then Allaah does not like the disbelievers.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:31-32]

The first aayah explains that love is just a claim, but the proof of sincerity is following what the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) brought. The second aayah reaffirms the importance and necessity of obeying Allaah and His Messenger. Hence Allaah ended the aayah with a very stern warning in which those who refuse to obey are described as kaafirs, and Allah does not love the disbelievers. We ask Allaah to keep us safe from that. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us of the danger of not obeying him, and the danger of adding to what he brought. The celebration of Mawlid or his birthday is indeed an addition to what he brought – as all the scholars agree. He said: “The best of speech is the Book of Allaah, and the best of guidance is the guidance of Muhammad. The most evil of things are those which are newly-invented (in religion), and every innovation is a going astray.” (Reported by Muslim and al-Nisaa’i).

We ask Allaah to protect us from bid’ah and to bless us by helping us to follow. Allaah knows best. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.

Islam Q&A
Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid

“Good innovation”

Question:

I know that practices like celebrating the Prophet's birthday and honoring the 27th of Rajab are innovations. However, there is a group of people who are arguing that they are good innovations and that such practices can be defended by the following hadîth: "Whoever starts in Islam a good practice (sunnah), he gets the reward of it and the reward of all those that act on it. And whosoever starts in Islam an evil practice (sunnah), he gets the evil of it and the evil of all those that act on it."

Answered by Sheikh Sâlim al-Qarnî

There is nothing in our religion that is known as a “good innovation” because the word innovation (bid`ah) in Islamic discourse means to introduce into the religion something that is alien to it. On the other hand, there is such a thing as a “good Sunnah” as mentioned in a hadîth that can be found in Sahîh Muslim.

Jarîr narrates:

Some desert Arabs clad in woolen clothes came to the Prophet (peace be upon him). He saw them in a sad plight as they had been in dire need. He exhorted the people to give charity, but they showed some reluctance until (signs) of anger could be seen on his face. Then a person from the Ansâr came with a purse full of silver. Then another person came forth and then others followed suit until signs of happiness could be seen on his face.

Thereupon the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever starts in Islam a good practice (sunnah hasanah) and is emulated by others in doing so will get the reward of it and the reward of all those who act upon it without their rewards being diminished in any respect. And whosoever starts in Islam an evil practice (sunnah sayyi’ah) and is emulated by others will bear the sin of it and the sin of all those who act on it without their burden being diminished in the least. [Sahîh Muslim: (1017)]

This is talking about the person who takes the initiative to do something that complies with Islamic teachings. Whoever does this will be engaging in a good Sunnah.

This is not referring to any sort of innovation. An innovation can never be good, because it is, by definition, something that contradicts with the religion. An innovation is something that neither the Prophet (peace be upon him) did nor the people who followed him.

Therefore, innovations would include observing the celebration of the Prophet’s birthday or engaging in special observances on the occasion of his night journey and ascension (al-isrâ’ wa al-mi`râj).

May Allah guide us all.

---------------------------------------------------------------

Answered by: Sheikh `Abd al-Rahmân al-`Ajlân
Professor at the Mecca Grand Mosque

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever starts in Islam a good practice (sunnah hasanah) and is emulated by others in doing so will get the reward of it and the reward of all those who act upon it without their rewards being diminished in any respect. And whosoever starts in Islam an evil practice (sunnah sayyi’ah) and is emulated by others will bear the sin of it and the sin of all those who act on it without their burden being diminished in the least. [Sahîh Muslim: (1017)]

A Muslim is obligated to preserve and uphold the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and to eschew innovations.

The meaning of “good Sunnah” in this hadîth – and Allah knows best – is to renew a Sunnah of our Prophet (peace be upon him) that has disappeared, been forgotten, or has become neglected.

It does not mean to initiate a new practice that has no basis in Islamic teachings. That would be an innovation.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever innovates something in this matter of ours that is not part of it, then it will be rejected.” [Sahîh al-Bukhârî and Sahîh Muslim]

And Allah knows best.

Who Really Loves the Messenger of Allah? (In the light of Mawlid Celebrations)

Source: As-Sunnah Bi-monthly Islamic Newsletter

The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was born in Makkah during the month of Rabe'i al-Awwal. Scholars differ regarding his exact birth-date but they all agree that it was on Monday, as is mentioned in an authentic Hadeeth.

Rabe'i al-Awwal sparks off the debate whether the 12th Rabe'i al-Awwal (the Prophet's assumed day of birth) should be celebrated or not. And if it is celebrated, then how should the celebrations be?

Celebrations are part of the complete religion (Deen), and thus complete guidance on the days and manner of celebration is found in the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of the Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).

Those who insist on celebrating Mawlid, claim that those who do not follow them in celebrating Mawlid, do not love the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).

In Islam, claims carry no weight in themselves, unless they are backed by Proofs. The stronger the Proof, the stronger the claim. Allah, the Exalted mentioned in the Qur'aan the claim of some of the misguided, who said: “None will enter Paradise, unless he be a Jew or a Christian” Allah questioned them, saying - “Produce your Proof (Burhaan) if you are truthful”. [Soorah al-Baqarah (2): 111]

Thus, this verse gives the principle of judging a claim. Furthermore, Allah explicitly points out to the acceptable proof (Burhaan), that justifies a claim. He said: “O Mankind! There has come to you a convincing proof (Burhaan - Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam)) from your Lord and We sent down to you a manifest light (this Qur'aan).” [Soorah an-Nisa (4): 174]

Consequently, Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is the Burhan (Proof) and the Criterion and thus every claim has to be supported with strong proofs from his Sunnah (Way).

Loving the Messenger of Allah - An Obligation:

Loving the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), is obligatory for every Muslim. It is the proof of one's Faith. A believer has to love him (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) more than everything else, as the Qur’aan says: “Say: If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your wives, your kindred, the wealth that you have gained, the commerce in which you fear a decline, and the dwelling in which you delight are dearer to you than Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and striving hard and fighting in His cause, then wait until Allah brings about His Decision (torment). And Allah guides not the people who are disobedient.”[Soorah At-Tawbah (9): 24]

Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “None of you truly believes until I am more beloved to him than his father, his child and all of mankind.” [Bukharee and Muslim]

Once, Umar Ibn Khattab (radhi allahu anhu), made a statement to Allah's Messenger: “O Messenger of Allah! You are more beloved to me than anything except my own self.” Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) remarked saying: “No, by the One in Whose Hand is my soul, not until I am more beloved to you than your own soul.” Umar (radhi allahu anhu) then declared his love for the Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) saying: “By Allah, now you are more beloved to me than my own soul.” Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) then informed him that he had the complete and correct faith.” [Saheeh Bukharee]

What is LOVE?

Love of Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) refers to complete submission to their orders and commandments. Allah says in the Qur'aan: “Say (O Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam)): 'If you truly love Allah then follow me, Allah will love you and forgive you your sins.” [Soorah al-Imraan (3): 31]

And Allah has described the hypocrites as disobedient to Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam): “They (hypocrites) say: “We have believed in Allah and in the Messenger and we obey’, then a party of them turn away thereafter, such are not believers.” [Soorah An-Nur (24): 47]

He also said: “But no, by your Lord, they can have no Faith, until they make you judge in all disputes between them and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission.” [Soorah an-Nisa (4): 65]

“The only saying of the faithful believers, when they are called to Allah (His Words: the Qur'aan) and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) to judge between them, is that they say: 'We hear and we obey'. It is such as these who will attain success.” [Soorah an-Noor (24): 51]

The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “All the people of my Ummah will enter Paradise except he who refuses.” The Companions (radhi allahu anhu) asked: 'Who refuses?' The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) explained: “He who obeys me will enter Paradise and he who disobeys me is as if he has denied me.” [Saheeh Bukharee]

Once, a companion of the Messenger of Allah approached him and said: “I love you more than I love my family and get restless to see you, I run to you to have a glimpse of you but when I am reminded of my own death and yours, I am distressed to think that you will be in the company of Prophets (alaihi as-salaam) in high Heavens and I, if admitted to Heaven, would not be able to approach you and would be deprived of your sight."

On this occasion Allah revealed the following verse: “And those who obey Allah and the Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), they will be in the company of those on whom Allah has bestowed His Grace, of the Prophet, the Siddiqun (those followers of the Prophet who were first and foremost to believe in them, like Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (radhi allahu anhu)), the martyrs, and the righteous. And how excellent these companions are!” [Soorah an-Nisa (4): 69]

The revelation of the verse, on the declaration (expressions) of love towards Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), indicates the importance of love and clarifies it's meaning in the true sense i.e. Obedience.

Thus, love of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) should be accompanied by total submission.. In other words, faith (in Allah) and obedience to Allah's Messenger are inseparable. Allah says:

“O you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and make not vain your deeds.” [(47): 33]

“He who obeys the Messenger has obeyed Allah” [(4): 80]

“Whatsoever the Messenger gives you take it and whatsoever he forbids you refrain from it.”[(59): 7]

Disobedience to Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is a sign of hypocrisy and disbelief.

Allah said: “Verily, those who disbelieve in Allah and His Messenger and wish to make a distinction between Allah and the Messenger saying, 'We believe in some but reject others' and wish to adopt a way in between. They are in truth disbelievers. And We have prepared for disbelievers a humiliating torment.” [Soorah an-Nisaa (4): 150]

“And let those who oppose the Messenger's commandments beware, lest some fitnah befall them or a painful torment be inflicted on them.” [Soorah Nur: 63]

Celebrating Mawlid – Is there any Proof?

The Celebration of Mawlid was introduced by the ruler of Irbil; Muzaffar ad-Din ibn Zain al-Din. He was assisted by Abdul Khattab Umar ibn Dihya, who composed a book al-Tanwir fi Maulid al-Siraj al-Munir, in an attempt to justify Mawlid celebrations. [Ibn Katheer, al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya, Vol.I3 pp.144-146]

Ibn Katheer has reported on the authority of al-Sabt about Ibn Dihya: "He used to defame the Muslims and belittle them. He would make additions in his report and exaggerate. So, the people gave up narrating traditions from him and falsified him. …" [Ibn Kathir, al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya, Vol.I3 pp.144-146]

Celebrating Mawlid (the Prophet's assumed birthday) has no origin from the Book and Sunnah, rather it is an innovation from the one, who was known for making additions and exaggerations in the Religion. A practice that came into existence 600 years, way past the time of the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), his Companions (radhi allahu anhu) and their followers, can never be a part of Islam because the religion of Islam is based upon the revelation from Allah. To introduce the celebration of Mawlid in the religion, one will have to break the seal of Allah, Who said: “This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed my Favor upon you and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” [Soorah al-Maidah (5):3]

Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was sent as a guide and warner. Allah says: “We have not sent you, but as a universal (Messenger) to men, giving them glad tidings, and warning them (against sins)” [as-Saba (33): 28]

And he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “There is nothing that will take you closer to Paradise but that I have enjoined it upon you, and there is nothing that will take you closer to Hell but that I have warned you from it.” [Musnad ash-Shafa'ee and others]

The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) never celebrated his birthday, nor did he instruct or order his Companions (radhi allahu anhu) to do so. If Mawlid was an expression of love or an act of drawing closer to Allah, then he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) would have certainly guided his Companions (radhi allahu anhu) to it. Thus, Mawlid is neither an act of righteousness, nor an expression of love for the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).

Those who loved the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) the most

The Best Generations - the Companions of Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), loved Allah’s Messenger to the highest degree. They were the most severe in obeying him, and reviving his Sunnah. They sacrificed their wealth and lives and fought bravely in Jihaad alongside with the Prophet, when Allah called upon them saying:

“O you who believe! Answer Allah and His Messenger, when he ((sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam)) calls you to that which gives you life …” [Soorah al-Anfal (8): 24]

They knew that they could loose their lives, or loose a limb or face pains and sufferings, yet this did not deter (discourage) them in the least, from responding to the call of the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). Thy kept going and fought to their last.

These true believers who responded to every call of the Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), did not express their love for Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) by celebrating his birthday.

It was not difficult for them to parade in the streets, distribute sweets, wave red and green flags, read poetry in praises of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), shout slogans, etc... Jihaad was no party or picnic time - it was putting everything at stake. If celebrating Mawlid was genuinely good or preferable then they would have been the first ones to do so. Celebrating Mawlid - Imitation of the Kuffar

Celebrating birthdays is an imitation of the Christians, resembling their tradition of celebrating the birthday of Prophet Jesus (alaihi as-salaam). However, a Muslim is commanded to be distinctively different from the non-believers. The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said:

“Be different from the Jews and the Christians.” [Saheeh al-Bukharee and Saheeh Muslim]

He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) also said: “Whoever imitates a people is one of them.” [Saheeh - Reported by Ahmad]

The Christian New Year starts from the Birthday of Jesus (alaihis-salaam) (exaggerating the status of Jesus (alaihi as-salaam), whereas the Islamic New year starts from the Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) from Makkah to Madinah. Narrated Sahl ibn Saad (radhi allahu anhu): “The Prophet's Companions (radhi allahu anhu) did not take as a starting date for the Muslim calendar, the day the Prophet of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) has been sent as a Messenger nor the day of his death, but the day of his arrival to Madinah.” [Sahaaeh al-Bukharee]

If Birthdays had any significance in Islam, then the Sahabah (radhi allahu anhu) would have surely commenced the Islamic Year from the Birth of Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).

The Sahabah (radhi allahu anhum) expressed their love to Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and obeyed him, when they initiated the Islamic Year from the Hijrah of Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).

Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had warned them from exaggeration, he said: “Do not exaggerate me, as the Christians exaggerated about the son of Maryam. I am only a slave, so say 'the slave of Allah and Messenger of Allah” [Saheeh Bukharee]

Thus, birthdays have no significance or merits in Islam and celebrating the Prophet's Birthday is an evil innovation resembling the Kuffar.

Celebrations in Islam are Legislated Religious Occasions.
Celebrations in Islam are legislated by Allah, and He has legislated only two days of celebration and joy; Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr that succeed the performance of two great pillars of Islam - Hajj and Fasting. Anas (radhi allahu anhu) narrated: “The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) came to Madinah and the people of Madinah had in Jahiliyah two days of play and amusement. So the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “I came to you and you had, in Jahiliyah two days of play and amusement. Indeed, Allah has replaced them for you by that which is better than them. The day of Nahr (Slaughtering) and the day of Fitr (Breaking Fast).”[Saheeh - Ahmad (3/103, 178, 235) Abo Dawood (1134)]

Apart from these two days no other day is to be taken as a celebration, because celebrations are truly religious occasions. Any addition to the religion is a Bid'ah (innovation). To formulate the Religion is exclusively the Right of Allah. Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said, “I warn you of the newly invented matters in the religion; and every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance and every misguidance is in the Hellfire.” [An-Nisa'ee]

And all innovations are rejected as he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “Whoever does an action, which we have not commanded then it must be rejected.” [Saheeh Muslim]

And: “Whosoever introduces in the religion of ours that which is not a part of it then it must be rejected.” [Ahmad]

Many great events took place during the life of Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam); like the victory of Badr, Hunain, al-Khandaq etc. The day when he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was granted Prophet-hood, his ascending to the heavens and his direct talk with Allah (al-Miraaj), his migration to Madinah, and the conquest of Makkah. All these events are of great significance in the Islamic history, BUT the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) never celebrated nor commanded his Sahabah (radhi allahu anhu) to celebrate any of these days. Rather, his approach was praying and thanking Allah in recognition for His Favor and Grace. The Etiquette of Celebration

The Etiquettes of Celebrations are very evident in the Sunnah of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). For example; the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), prescribed fasting on the day of Aashoorah - ‘the day when Allah saved Moosa (alaihi as-salaam) from drowning” [Saheeh Bukharee]

[NOTE - Here, too, Allah’s Messenger ordered the Muslims to fast two days (a day before or after Ashoorah), to differ from the practice of the Jews].

The Conquest of Makkah - the day of great victory for Muslims. Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) offered prayers of thanks to Allah - All Mighty - for this splendid victory. He did not make it a day of celebrations or processions.

Likewise, the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) never commemorated his birthday as a celebration or Eid. Instead, when he was asked about fasting on Mondays, he replied: “That is the day on which I was born and the day on which I was entrusted with the Mission or when I was first given Revelation.” [Saheeh Muslim]

In contrast, Mawlid is celebrated more like Carnivals, with processions, music, free-mixing of sexes, chanting slogans, parading on camels with Arabian costumes, etc. It does not bear resemblance to the manner in which significant days are commemorated in Islam.

False Beliefs and Practices related to Mawlid
Those who promote the celebration of Mawlid, agree themselves that it was not the practice of Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), and neither of his Companions. Moreover, they too consider it to be an innovation in the religion. BUT they try to justify their actions by vague arguments. They say:

Every innovation is evil

The saying that some Bid'ahs are good and not every Bid'ah is a sin is a clear misguidance. This saying is in complete opposition to the authentic Hadeeth ... “Every Bid'ah is a sin” [Abu Dawood]

He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) also said: “The best of guidance is the guidance of Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), the worst of affairs are Bid'ahs (the innovated ones), every Bid'ah is heresy and every heresy is going astray.” [Saheeh Muslim]

And: “Whoever does an action, which we have not commanded then it must be rejected.”[Saheeh Muslim]

Thus, every innovation in the religion, whether it be small or big, is a sin. But some justify innovations by misinterpreting the actions of the Sahabah (radhi allahu anhu).like … “When Umar (radhi allahu anhu) was the caliph, he collected the Muslims to pray in congregation for taraweeh prayers and said: “What a good Bid'ah this is.” [Saheeh Bukharee]

This statement has been misinterpreted. If it is read in the right context, it’s meaning is clear. The full narration reads: “When the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) first prayed taraweeh, the Muslims used to pray taraweeh individually in small groups, and then for three nights they prayed in a congregation behind the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and after this he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) stopped them from doing so by saying: “I feared that it would become an obligation upon you.”

The Statement of Imam Bukhaaree Concerning Innovations

Imaam Bukhaaree (rahimahullaah) said:

I met more than a thousand men amongst the people of knowledge from the people of al-Hijaaz, al-Makkah, al-Madinah, al-Koofah, al-Basrah, Waasit, Baghdaad, Shaam and Misr... and I never saw a single one of them differ with respect to the following matters...

... And they used to forbid and prevent [people] from the innovations - those that the Messenger and his Companions were not upon, due to His saying:

And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Allâh (i.e. this Qur'ân), and be not divided among yourselves[Soorah Aali Imraam 3:103]

and due to His saying:

If you obey him [the Messenger], you shall be on the right guidance [Soorah an-Noor 24:54]

[Reported by al-Laalikaa'ee (2/172-5), The Creed of Imaam Bukhaaree p.13,28 - al-Maktabah as-Salafiyyah Publications]

Notes

In the words of Imaam Bukhaaree is a clear indication that Muslim unity is to be attained by removing the innovations - and that is the unanimous understanding of the greatest of scholars of the noble ayah in question. Since it is the newly-invented matters (in the issues of belief, action and methodology) that have divided the hearts of the Muslims and set them against each other. Thus, in order for the hearts of the Muslims to unite and consequently, their word and rank, it is necessary for them to purify their beliefs, actions and methodologies from everything that was never taught by the Messenger and which was never acted upon by the Noble Companions (ra) - whilst humbly submitting to the Pure and Clear Sunnah. But this cannot be attained until the Muslims attend to the authentic and beneficial knowledge - that which has been left by the Messenger and which has been inherited by the Scholars after him, the Ahl ul-Hadeeth (the People of Authenticating the Narrations) and then to nurture themselves upon it. This issue was so clearly understood by the Companions of Allaah's Messenger and those after them, as will become evident by the narrations below.

The Messenger of Allaah said: “Every innovation is misguidance and going astray.” Reported by Abu Daawood, no.4607 and it is saheeh.

The Messenger also warned against the people of innovation, from befriending, supporting or taking from them saying: “Whoever innovates or accomodates an innovator then upon him is the curse of Allaah, His Angels and the whole of mankind.” Reported by Bukhaaree (12/41) and Muslim (9/140)

And in his footsteps, we find the Noble Companions and the Taabi’een after them warning from the danger of innovations upon the Ummah, its people and their unity.

Ibn Abbaas (d. 68H) said: “Indeed the most detestable of things to Allaah are the innovations.” Reported by al-Bayhaqee in as-Sunan al-Kubraa (4/316)

Ibn Umar (d. 84H) said: “Every innovation is misguidance, even if the people see it as something good.“ Reported by Abu Shaamah (no. 39)

Sufyaan ath-Thawree (d. 161H) said:“Innovation is more beloved to Iblees than sin, since a sin may be repented from but innovation is not repented from.” Reported by al-Laalikaa'ee (no. 238)

Al-Fudayl bin 'Iyaad (d. 187H) said: ”I met the best of people, all of them people of the Sunnah and they used to forbid from accompanying the people of innovation.” Reported by al-Laalikaa'ee (no.267)

Al-Hasan al-Basree (d. 110H) said: “Do not sit with the people of innovation and desires, nor argue with them, nor listen to them.” Reported by ad-Daarimee in his Sunan (1/121)

Ibraaheem bin Maysarah (d.132H) said: “Whoever honours an innovator has aided in the destruction of Islam.” Reported by al-Laalikaa'ee (1/139).

Sufyaan ath-Thawree (d. 161H) said: “Whoever listens to an innovator has left the protection of Allaah and is entrusted with the innovation.” Reported by Abu Nu'aym in al-Hilyah (7/26) and Ibn Battah (no.444).

Imaam Maalik (d. 179H) said: “How evil are the people of innovation, we do no give them salaam.” Reported by al-Baghawee in Sharh us-Sunnah (1/234).

Imaam ash-Shaafi'ee (d. 204H) said: “That a person meets Allaah with every sin except Shirk is better than meeting Him upon any one of the innovated beliefs.” Reported by al-Bayhaqee in al-I'tiqaad (p.158)

Al-Fudayl bin 'Iyaad (d. 187H) said: “Whoever sits with a person of innovation, then beware of him and whoever sits with a person of innovation has not been given wisdom. I love that there was fort of iron between me and a person of innovation. That I eat with a Jew and a Christian is more beloved to me than that I eat with a person of innovation.” Reported by al-Laalikaa'ee (no.1149)

Al-Layth bin Sa'd (d. 175H) said: “If I saw a person of desires (i.e. innovations) walking upon the water I would not accept from him." So Imaam as-Shaafi'ee then said: "He (al-Layth) has fallen short. If I saw him walking in the air I would not accept from him.” Reported by as-Suyooti in al-Amr bil 'Ittibaa wan-Nahee anil Ibtidaa'.

Ibn Hajr and Ibn Kathir on the Inventor of the Milad

As regards the celebration of the birthday of the Messenger (sallallahu 'alaihi wa sallam), the scholars have clearly stated that the person who first introduced this innovation (bid'a) was Muzaffar ad-Din ibn Zain al-Din, the ruler of Irbil. "He was a prodigal monarch. He commanded the scholars of his time to follow the conduct based on their own derivation and independent thinking (ijtihad), and that they should not follow any school of law of any master except their own. A group of scholars and a body of the servants inclined towards him. He used to celebrate the birthday of the first monarch to introduce this practice among the Muslims"[1]

He used to spend one hundred thousand (dirhams) on the celebration of the birthday of the Messenger (sallallahu 'alaihi wa sallam) every year.[2]

His assistant and helper in this innovation was Abdul Khattab Umar b. Dihya. "He was employed in the Maghrib, then travelled to Syria, then to Iraq, and then went to Irbil in 604 A.H. and found its monarch Muzaffar al-Din b. Zain al-Din who took keen interest in celebrating the birthday of the Messenger (sallallahu 'alaihi wa sallam). He composed a book for him al-Tanwir fi Maulid al-Siraj al-Munir and recited it to him. He rewarded him with one thousand dinars."[3]

Ibn Kathir has reported on the authority of al-Sabt about Ibn Dihya: "Ibn Unain used to defame the Muslims and disparage them. He would make additions in his report and exaggerate. So the people gave up narrating traditions from him and falsified him. Kamil was favouring him. When his conduct was disclosed to him, he withdrew Dar-al-Hadith from him and disgraced him."[4]

We give below the resume of Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani's comments on him: "He was a liar, lied frequently, and a fabricator. He often slandered the scholars and the jurists of the past, used evil toungue, self-conceited, lacked insight in religious matters, and looked down upon religion. This has been reported from al-Hafiz Diya. He further says: Ali b. al-Hussain Abul Ali al- Isbahan narrated to me - it is enough to mention his name as an authority - when Ibn Dihya came to us in Isbahan, he stayed with my father in the hospice. He honoured and respected him very much. One day he came to my father with a carpet. He kissed it and placed it before him saying, "I offered such and such thousand rak'ahs of prayer on this carpet, and recited the whole Qur'an in the Ka'ba." He said: My father took it, kissed it, placed it on his head, and accepted it from him with a great pleasure. At the end of the day an inhabitant of Isbafian came and began to talk to us. During his conversation he said by chance: The faqih of Maghrib who is staying with you has purchased a beautiful carpet today for such and such a price. Therupon my father ordered to bring the carpet. Seeing it the man said, "Yes by Allah, this is the same." My father kept silent, and the eyes of Ibn Dihya fell down.[5]

1. Ahmad b. Muhammad el-Misry, el-Qawl el-Mu'tamad fi 'amal al-Mawlid

2. Al-Dhahabi, Duwal al-Islam, Vol.11 p.102

3. Ibn Kathir, al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya, Vol.I3 pp.144-146

4. Ibid

5. Ibn Hajar el-Asqalani, Lisan al-Mizan, VoL 4 p.295

Did Ibn Katheer Author a Book Endorsing the Mawlid?

Source: Al-Qawal al-fasl fee al-Ihtifaal bi Mawlid Khayr al-Rusul (trans. Abu Rumaysah)

From ‘al-Qawal al-fasl fee al-Ihtifaal bi Mawlid Khayr al-Rusul’ (pg. 110+) of Shaykh Ismaa’eel al-Ansaaree:

As for the claim of the author of the letter published in the magazine ‘al-Mujtama’ (no.559), while listing the authors who considered the celebration of the Mawlid to be permissible and their works (concerning this), that the author of ‘Kashf al-Dhunoon fee Usaamee al-Kutub wa al-Funoon’ mentioned on page 319 that al-Haafidh ibn Katheer authored a number of treatise concerning the noble Mawlid. From amongst them: ‘Jaami al-Aathaar fee Mawlid al-Nabiyy al-Mukhtaar’ in three volumes, ‘al-Lafdh al-Raa’iq fee Mawlid Khayr al-Khalaa’iq’ and it is succinct. And his claim that ibn Fahd mentioned that ibn Katheer authored a book which he entitled, ‘Mawrid as-Saadee fee Mawlid al-Haadee.’ And his saying that al-Haafidh as-Sakhaawee had a book concerning the Mawlid entitled, ‘at-Tibr al-Masbook fee Dhail as-Sulook’ – then all of this is a grievous error having no basis for being correct.

As for ‘Jaami al-Aathaar fee Mawlid al-Nabiyy al-Mukhtaar’ then we looked up ‘Kashf al-Dhunoon’ to ascertain the truth of his words and we found it under the letter ‘jeem’ (pg.533) and the text is, ‘Jaami al-Aathaar fee Mawlid an-Nabiyy al-Mukhtaar of Shams ad-Deen Muhammad bin Naasir ad-Deen ad-Dimishqee, died in the year 842, being in three volumes commencing with the words, "all praise is due to Allaah Who displayed Muhammad as the most purest of the Universe…"

And we found under the letter ‘laam’ page 1559 the words, ‘al-Lafdh al-Raa’iq fee Mawlid Khayr al-Khalaa’iq’ a short booklet by al-Haafidh Shams ad-Deen Muhammad bin Naasir ad-Deen ad-Damishqee who died in the year 842.’

And we found under the letter ‘meem’ page. 1910 the words, ‘al-Haafidh as-Sakhaawee mentioned in his ‘Daw al-Laami’ a group who wrote concerning the Mawlid of the Prophet (sallallaahu `alaihi wasallam) from amongst them al-Haafidh… ibn Naasir ad-Deen ad-Damishqee who authored in this regards ‘Jaami al-Aathaar fee Mawlid an-Nabiyy al-Mukhtaar’ in three volumes and a booklet ‘al-Lafdh al-Raa’iq fee Mawlid Khayr al-Khalaa’iq’ and it is shorter than the one mentioned before it…’

As for ‘Mawrid as-Saadee fee Mawlid al-Haadee’ then the claim of the author of that article that ibn Fahd attributed it to ibn Katheer is without basis for ibn Fahd said in ‘Lahdh al-Alhaadh bi Dhail Tabaqaat al-Huffaadh’ (pg. 320-321) under the biography of ibn Naasir ad-Deen ad-Damishqee, ‘he authored, and some of them concerned the Mawlid of the Prophet (sallallaahu `alaihi wasallam) and it is ‘Jaami al-Aathaar fee Mawlid al-Mukhtaar’ in three volumes, and ‘Tawdeeh al-Mushtabah’… and ‘Mawrid as-Saadee fee Mawlid al-Haadee’…..’

And this which is mentioned by ibn Fahd is declared with certainty by as-Sakhaawee and ash-Shawkaanee….

So it becomes clear with all of this that the claims of the author of that article published in ‘al-Mujtama’ magazine has no basis.

Then what ibn Katheer mentions in the section on the Prophetic biography in his ‘Bidaayah wan Nihaayah’, and in his lengthy ‘Seerah’ and in the sections of ‘Ikhtisaar Seerah ar-Rasool’, and in his stand alone treatise on the Mawlid published with the tahqeeq of Salaah ad-Deen al-Manjad, and in his revision to the Mawlid of his shaykh Kamaal ad-Deen Abee Ma’aalee Muhammad bin Alee al-Ansaaree contained in the section detailing ‘Dalaa’il an-Nubuwwah’ in his ‘Bidaayah wan Nihaayah’ – he does not present anything in these concerning the celebration of the Mawlid of the Prophet (sallallaahu `alaihi wasallam) and neither of the evil practices that have occurred amongst the later generations with respect to the Mawlid. Therefore as long as the matter is like this then we cannot accept the claim of the author of that article.

[Note: and what Muhammad bin Alawee al-Maalikee vainly thinks in his work ‘al-Ihtifaal bi Mawlid an-Nabawiyy ash-Shareef’ (pg. 38) that the ‘Mawlid’ of al-Haafidh ibn Katheer is from those works that present celebrating the Mawlid of the Prophet is not correct.]

As for the saying of the author of that aricle that as-Sakhaawee authored a book about the Mawlid entitled ‘at-Tibr al-Masbook fee Dhail al-Sulook’ then this is also incorrect… as-Sakhaawee said in his autobiography contained in ‘Daw al-Laami li A’yaan al-Qarn at-Taasi’ (8/17) while listing his works, ‘and ‘at-Tibr al-Masbook fee Dhail alaa Taareekh al-Maqreezee as-Sulook’ containing the events and deaths (of scholars) since the year 45 to this day in 4 volumes’ so this is what as-Sakhaawee himself clarifies and it is clear that the subject matter of the book is not the Mawlid even though it may contain things connected to the Mawlid.

Ibn Taymiyyah on the Mawlid

By: Brother Abû Rumaysah

Ibn Taymiyyah says,

 "…because the Eeds are legislated laws from amongst the laws, so it is necessary to follow them, and not to innovate them, and the Prophet (SAW) had many lectures, treaties, and great events that happened on a number of (documented) days such as the Day of Badr, Hunain, al-Khandaq, the Conquest of Mecca, the occurrence of his hijrah, his entry to Madeenah…and none of this necessitated that these days be taken as days of Eed. Rather this sort of thing was done by the Christians who took the days in which great events happened to Jesus as eeds, or by the Jews. Indeed the Eed is a legislated law, so what Allaah legislates is followed, otherwise do not innovate in this religion that which is not part of it.

And like this is what some of the people have innovated, either in opposition to the Christian celebration of the birthday of Jesus, or out of love for the Prophet (SAW) and in honour of him. And Allaah will reward them for this love and ijtihaad, but NOT FOR THE BID’AH of taking the day of the birth of the Prophet (SAW) as an eed - this along with the difference of the people as to when he was born. For indeed this (celebration) was not done by the salaf, despite the existence of factors that would necessitate it and the lack of any factors that would prevent them from doing so if it were indeed good. And if this was genuinely good or preferable then the salaf, may Allaah be pleased with them, would have more right to doing so then us, for they had more severe love and honour of the Prophet (SAW) in following him, obeying him, and following his command, and reviving his sunnah inwardly and outwardly, and spreading that which he was sent with, and performing jihaad for this in the heart, with the hand and upon the tongue. So indeed this was the way of the Saabiqeen al-Awwaleen from the Muhajiroon and the Ansaar, and those that followed them in good.

And you will find the majority of these (who celebrate the birthday) in ardent desire of these sort of innovations - alongwith what they have of good intention and ijtihaad for which reward is hoped for - but you would find them feeble in following the command of the Messenger, that which they have been commanded to be eager and vigorous in, indeed they are of the position of one who adorns the Mushaf but does not read what is in it or reads what is in it but does not follow it. Or the position of one who decorates the mosques but does not pray in them, or prays in them rarely…

And know that from the actions are those that have some good in them, due to their including types of good actions and including evil actions such as innovation etc. So this action would be good with respect to what it includes of good and evil with respect to what it contains of turning away from the religion in it’s totality, as is the state of the hypocrites and faasiqeen. This has what has afflicted the majority of the ummah in the later times. So upon you is two manners (of rectification):

1. that your desire be to follow the sunnah inwardly and outwardly, with respect to yourself specifically and those that follow you, and you enjoin the good and forbid the evil.

2. that you call the people to the sunnah in accordance to ability, so if you were to see someone doing this (celebration) and he were to not leave it except for an evil greater than it, then do not call him to leaving the evil so that he may perform something more evil than this….[a page omitted in which he explains this principle]

So honouring the mawlid, and taking it as a festive season (mawsam) which some of the people have done, there is a great reward in it due to the good intention and the honouring of the Messenger (SAW) because of what I have previously stated to you - that it is possible that something be good for some of the people and be denounced/considered to be ugly by the strict believer. This is why it was said to Imaam Ahmad about some of the leaders, that he spent 1000 dirhams upon the mushaf or similar to this. So he replied, ‘leave them, for this is better than them spending it on gold (jewellery).’ This despite the fact that the madhhab of Imaam Ahmad was that it is abhorrent to decorate the mushafs, and some of the companions (of Ahmad) interpreted this to mean that the money was spent in renewing the pages and writing. But this is not the intent of Ahmad here, his intention here was that this action had a benefit in it, and it also contained corruption due to which it became abhorrent. But these people, if they did not do this, would have substituted this for a corruption that contained no good whatsoever, for example spending upon one of the books of evil…" [Iqtidaa Siraat al-Mustaqeem 2/618+ my copy has the tahqeeq of Shaykh Naasir al-Aql]

He says in another place of the same book, "there is no doubt that the one who practices these - i.e. the innovated festive seasons - either the mujtahid or muqallid will have the reward for his good intention and the what the action contains of legislated actions, and will be forgiven for what it contains of innovation if his ijtihaad or taqleed contains one of the excuses (that would lift this sin from him)…."

He continues: "But this does not prevent one from detesting and prohibiting it and to replace it with a legislated action containing no bid'ah.... Just as the Jews and Christians may find benefit in their worship because it is possible that their worship includes an aspect of what is legislated but this does not necessitate that you perform their actions of worship or you report their words because all of the innovations contain evil that outweighs their good, this due to the fact that if their good outweighed the evil then why would the Sharee'ah have disregarded it? So we depend upon the fact that it's sin is greater than it's benefit and this necessitates forbiddance."

He continues: "And I say: it's sin is removed from some of the people due to the reason of ijtihaad or other than it, as the sin of usury and alcohol (from dates) which has been differed about (by the salaf) is removed from the salaf (who allowed it), then despite this it is necessary to explain it's condition and not to follow those that considered it permissible.... So this is sufficient evidence in explaining that these innovations include corruptions of belief or condition contradicting what the Messenger (SAW) came with, and that what benefit they contain is marjooh (not to be relied upon) and it not correct to use for objection"

He continues: "As for what they contain - i.e. these innovated festive seasons such as the Mawlid - of benefit then they are opposed by what they contain of the corruption of innovations that outweigh the benefit, alongwith with what has preceded of the corruptions of belief and state - that the hearts become content with it at the expense of a large number of Sunnahs to the extent that you find that the elite and the general masses preserve this in a way that they do not preserve the Taraaweeh's or the five prayers...." mentioning many more cases.[al-Qawl al-Fasl (pg. 102) of Shaykh Ismaa’eel al-Ansaaree]

A number of points can be seen here:

1. ibn Taymiyyah regards the mawlid as a bid’ah which the strict believer is not allowed to follow.

2. he allows it only for those who would leave this bid’ah for a greater bid’ah.

3. he states that those practising this, either out of taqleed or ijtihaad, will get reward for their good intentions, but they will get no reward for their practising it.

4. that they will not get the burden of the sin of the innovation if their taqleed of ijtihaad contains the excuses that would life this from them.

THE ISLAMIC LEGAL VIEW-POINT ON CELEBRATING THE ANNIVERSARY BIRTHDAY (MAWLID) OF THE PROPHET (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)

By Abdul-Aziz Abdullah Bin Ba'z {Rahimahullah}

Download A copy of this treatise

In the Name of Allaah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Praise be to Allaah, and peace and blessings be unto his Apostle as well as unto the Apostle’s family, companions, and whomsoever was rightly guided by him.  And now to our topic:

 

The question is, quite often, broached by a lot of people about the Islamic legal view-point on celebrating the anniversary birthday ( Mawlid ) of the Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), keeping vigil in the meantime, and extending peace greeting to him, etc., such as what is quite often done on the feasts (Mawalid).

 

And the answer is that it is inadmissible to celebrate the anniversary birthday of the Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) nor that of anyone else, since it is one of the heretic evils brought about in religion, as the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be unto him) never did so, and neither did his true Caliphs, nor others of his companions- may Allaah be pleased with all of them- nor those who followed them with good faith in the pre-eminent centuries; let alone the fact that they were more versed in Sunnah, and more perfect that their descendants in revealing their affection to the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) as well as in observing his tradition.  It is established as valid that the Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: (If anyone introduces into this affair of ours anything which does not belong to it, it is rejected.)  In another tradition he said: (You must observe my own precepts [Sunnah], and the precepts of the Rightly Guided True Caliphs after me.  Let all of you abide by them, and cling stubbornly to them, and beware of novelties, since each novelty is a heresy, and each heresy is an error).  Both traditions involve a strong admonition against bringing about and acting on the strength of heresies.  Allaah – glory be to Him – says in His Glorious Quran:  (And so take what the Apostle assigns to you, and deny yourselves that which he withholds from you).  He-glory be to Him- also says: (then let those beware who withstand the Apostle’s order, lest some trial should befall them, or a grievous Penalty be inflicted on them). The Almighty – praise be to Him – also says: (Verily in the Apostle of Allaah ye have a good example for him who looketh unto Allaah and the Last Day, and remembereth Allaah much).  He says too:  (The vanguard [of Islam] the first of those who forsook [their homes] and of those who gave them aid, and [also] those who follow them in [all] good deeds, - well- pleased is Allaah with them, as are they with Him: for them hath He prepared Gardens under which rivers flow to dwell therein for ever:  that is the supreme Felicity). Allaah also says:  (This day I have perfected your religion for you Islam as your religion).  The verses to that effect are numerous.  To bring about such birthday celebrations (Mawalid) purports that Allaah-praise be to Him-has not yet completed the religion to this nation, and that the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did not announce what should be observed by the nation, till those later people came up, and introduced into the Religion of Allaah what Allaah has not sanctioned, on the pretence that this matter enables them to get close to the consent of Allaah, despite the fact that it, sure enough, involves a serious menace, and an opposition to Allaah-praise be to Him-as well as to His Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) at a time when the Almighty Allaah-glory be to Him- had perfected the religion for His human beings, and completed His favour upon them.  As also the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had fulfilled his plain true mission, and left no means leading to paradise, and keeping away from the Fire without being elucidated.  It is established as valid in the authentic Hadith (traditions) that ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Amr –may Allaah be pleased with both of them-passed on a report where in the Apostle of Allaah-peace be unto him-said : (Never was a Prophet sent out by Allaah without being assigned the task of guiding his people to the best of what he teaches them, and warning against the malice of what he teaches them)-Muslim transmitted it in his Sahih.  Consider the fact that our Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is, no doubt, the most distinguished, and the Seal of the prophets; let alone the fact of his precedence with respect to information and guidance.  If birthday celebrations (Mawalid) were considered religious, and sanctioned by Allaah –praise be to Him-the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) would have expounded the matter to the people, or done it himself in his lifetime; or his companions-may Allaah be pleased with them- would have performed it themselves at least.  Since celebrations such as these were never performed, it has become known that they have absolutely nothing to do with Islam.  The matter of such celebrations is rather one of the evil innovations against which the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) admonished his people, as it was demonstrated in the aforesaid traditions.  There are many other traditions to that effect, such as the saying of the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in the course of a Friday sermon:  (and now to our topic: the best speech is that of the Qur'an, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and the most wicked matter is that of heretic innovations, and each heresy is an error).  Imam Muslim transmitted it in his Sahih.

Verses and traditions about this matter are a great many.  A group of scholars has declared rejection of, and warning against such celebrations as these (Mawalid), in pursuance of the aforementioned evidences and their likes.  Some later scholars, however, were at variance with the others, and approved of such celebrations, provided they are free from such reprehensible actions as being immoderate in their view about the characteristics of the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and the company of men and women, and using musical instruments, and such other things as rejected by the immaculate Revelation, and still they held them to be good innovations.  The Islamic legal standard is to refer the case at issue among people to the Scripture (Quran) of Allaah and the precepts (Sunnah) of His Apostle Muhammad (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) Allaah-glory be to Him- also says: (O he who believe, obey Allaah, and obey the Apostle, and those charged with authority among you.  If ye differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allaah and his Apostle, if ye do believe in Allaah and the Last Day: That is best, and most suitable for final determination).  The Almighty also says: (Whatever it be wherein ye differ, the decision thereof is with Allaah).  We have referred this matter, to wit, Mawalid celebrations, to the Scripture of Allaah-glory be to Him- and found out that it enjoins on us the duty of obeying the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in what he brought forth, admonishes us against what he prohibited us from doing, and informs us that Allaah-glory be to Him- has perfected the religion for this nation.  Since this sort of celebration is not part of what the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did brought forth, it has nothing to do with the religion Allaah perfected for us, and enjoined us therein to obey the Apostle.  We have, too, referred the matter to the precepts (Sunnah) of the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and found therein that he never performed such a thing, nor enjoined on us to do it, and neither did his companions – may Allaah be pleased with them.  We have, thus, learned that such a matter has nothing whatsoever to do with religion, and that it is rather a kind of heretic innovations, and imitation of the people of the Scripture-Jews and Christians- in their festivals.  Such being the case, it becomes quite clear for any person possessed of the least power of mental perception, the desire to know the truth as well as being fair in seeking it, that birthday celebrations (Mawalid) have nothing to do with Islam; yet they are rather some kinds of heretic innovations that Allaah-glory be to Him- and His Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) enjoined us to abandon and to be cautious of.  Any sensible person should not be dazzled by the great number of people doing such a thing in all countries, since truth is not to be recognized through the numerousness of doers, but it is recognized through the Islamic legal evidences, as the Almighty Allaah says on Jews and Christians: (And they say: “None shall enter Paradise unless he be a Jew or Christian.”  …Those are their [vain] desires.  Say: “Produce your proof if ye are truthful).  The Almighty also says: (Wert thou to follow the common run of those on earth, they would lead thee away from the Way of Allaah).

 

Furthermore, most of these (Mawalid) –heretic as they are- are not quite free from other reprehensible actions, such as the company of men and women, use of songs and musical performances, drinking alcoholic beverages and narcotics as well as other evils.  Besides, there may occur what is more tremendous; that is, gross polytheism through exaggeration and exceeding the proper characteristics of the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) or those of others of holymen, as well as invoking him, appealing to him for aid, petitioning him, and believing that he is cognizant of the Unseen, and such other atheistic things as practiced by lots of people in the course of their celebrating the Mawlid of the Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and of others of the so-called holymen.  In the authentic hadith, the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: (Beware of exceeding the proper limits of religion; since people, earlier on, were perished with this matter).  He (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) also said: (Do not lavish praise on me, as did the Christians with the Son of Mariem.  Only I am a human being.  Say the Servant and the Apostle of Allaah).  Al-Bukhari excerpt it in his Sahih from the account of ‘Omar-may Allaah be pleased with him.  The remarkable and atonishing thing about the matter is that lots of people attend actively to these innovated celebrations and uphold them, while they fail to do what Allaah made incumbent upon them such as attending Friday and congregational prayers.  In spite of it, they pay no attention to them.  Neither do they think they had committed a gross vile deed.  This is due, beyond doubt, to weakness of faith and lack of discernment as well as to copiousness of various trespasses and sins reigning over the hearts.  May Allaah favour us and all Muslims with the grace of safety from these evils.  Among other things, some of them think that the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) attends the mawlid.  They, therefore, rise in honour of him with pin arms.  This is a sort of patent falsehood and the vilest ignorance, as the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) shall not rise out of his grave before the Day of Judgement, neither does he contact any human beings nor does he attend their meetings.  He is rather abiding in his grave until the Day of Judgement, with his soul quite settled with his Rub highly elevated in the Eternal Abode, as Allaah-glory be to Him- says in the Quranic Chapter “Al-Mu’minoun”: (After that, at length, ye will die.  Again, on the Day of Judgement, will ye be raised up).  The Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: (I am the first, whose grave will split on the Day of Judgement, and then I shall be the first intercessor, and the first to be granted the right of interceding).

 

This glorious verse in addition to the holy tradition, and all other verses and traditions to the same effect, all indicate that the Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and his likes of the dead will only rise out of their graves on the Day of Judgement.  This matter is incontrovertibly based on the consensus of Muslim scholars.  Every Muslim should, therefore, beware of such things, and be on his guard against such innovations of the ignorants and their likes as heresies and superstitions, for which Allaah has revealed no legitimization.  What a perfect helper and trustee Allaah is.  And there is no power and no strength save in Him.

 

As to praying for Allaah to bless his Apostle and grant him peace, it is the best of approaches and deeds of righteousness as the Almighty Allaah says: (Allaah and His Angels send blessings on the Prophet: O ye that believe! Send ye blessings on him, and salute him with all respect).  The Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) also said:  (Whoever sends blessings once on me, Allaah shall bless him the tenfold of it).  Such an act is licit at all times, and confirmed at the end of each prayer.  It is even imperative, according to a group of learned men, in the last Tashahud of each prayer, and a confirmed Sunnah on several occasions such as following the call-to-prayer, upon speaking of the Apostle (Peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and on Friday and Friday-nights according to so many a tradition (Hadith)

May Allaah grant us, along with all Muslims, success in comprehending his religion and maintenance of it.  May He, too, favour us all with sticking fast to the Sunnah and caution against the heresy.  Allaah is All-kind and Magnanimous, and may peace and blessing of Allaah be unto our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his companions.

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