what is maulid

Mawlid, also known as Eid Milad-un-Nabi, is an annual festival observed by many Muslims to celebrate the anniversary of Prophet Muhammads birth. It is commemorated on the 12th day of Rabi al-Awwal, the third month in the Islamic calendar. The celebration includes various activities such as prayer services, recitations of poetry and litanies, religious gatherings, and sharing food. In many predominantly Muslim countries, Mawlid al-Nabi is a major public holiday. However, some Muslims refuse to participate in this observance, feeling it is an innovation which places too much emphasis on the Prophet as human and distracts from the true divine source of revelation. Celebrations of the Mawlid in America and distinctly English forms of poetry, songs, and literature show the increasing importance of Mawlid al-Nabi amongst American Muslims.