Milad un Nabi

Milad un Nabi commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. It is used by people of the Muslim faith to discuss and celebrate his birth and teachings. The day is also known as Eid Milad-un-Nabi, Mawlid or Eid-e- Milad.

Who celebrates?

Muslims around the world.

How do people celebrate?

• It is celebrated with talks about the Prophet, and parents sharing stories with their children
• Families decorate their homes and share a celebratory feast
• Some may celebrate with a procession and large gatherings in the mosque.

What should I know?

• The Prophet Muhammad is the founder of Islam as well as a political and social leader
• The Prophet is an extremely sacred figure in Islam
• Some Muslims do not celebrate birthdays as there is no evidence that the Prophet Muhammed did
• Many Sunni Muslims celebrate this event on the 12th of the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-awwal while the Shia community celebrate on the 17th.

How can I support others?

• Be aware of cultural differences between different Muslim faiths and that not all Muslims follow the same religious path and traditions
• Ask people if they or their families will be celebrating
• Do not assume if someone’s family is Muslim that they will be celebrating
• Talk to your team about the religious representation among your volunteer, employee and service user population and if it’s representative of your area.

BBC: What is Milad un Nabi: https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/islam/holydays/miladunnabi.shtml

BBC Podcast: History of Islam: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p03qtyhx