Mubarak: Understanding Eid-e-Milad-Un-Nabi in 2024

What is Eid-e-Milad-Un-Nabi?

Eid-e-Milad, also known as Eid Milad un Nabi, marks the birth and death anniversary of Prophet Mohammad (SAW), the last messenger of Allah. The event typically falls in Rabi’ al-awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar. In 2024, it will be celebrated from the evening of September 15 to the evening of September 16.

Date and Moon Sighting

Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar follows a lunar cycle, leading to varying dates each year. The observance of Eid-e-Milad broken down:

• The month of Rabi’ al-awwal will officially start on September 6, 2024.
• The specific day relies on moon sighting.

Significance of Eid-e-Milad-Un-Nabi

According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Muhammad was born in Mecca around 570 AD. The Shia and Sunni communities commemorate his birth on different dates: the former on the 17th and the latter on the 12th of Rabi’ al-awwal. The term ‘Mawlid’ refers to ‘birth’ in Arabic, reflecting both joy and mourning on this day. The first official observance of Eid Milad un Nabi occurred during the Fatimid Dynasty of Egypt, around 600 years after Prophet Muhammad’s death.

Modern Celebrations

This festival is particularly important for the Sufi and Barelvi sects, while others consider it controversial due to the lack of proof of earlier observance. Celebrations typically include:

• Wearing new garments
• Offering prayers
• Gathering with family and friends
• Parades narrating stories of Prophet Mohammad
• Gifting the less fortunate