Who Celebrated Mawlid First? A Look into Its History
Mawlid, also known as Eid Milad un Nabi, is the commemoration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Today, millions of Muslims around the world celebrate this occasion with gatherings, charity, and remembrance. But the question often asked is: who celebrated Mawlid first? Let’s explore its history, along with how the Prophet ﷺ and his companions expressed their love.
Early Generations
During the time of the Prophet ﷺ and his companions, there was no formal festival of Mawlid. However, the Prophet ﷺ himself showed gratitude for his birth by fasting on Mondays. When asked why, he replied: “That is the day on which I was born and the day on which I received revelation.” (Sahih Muslim).
The companions (Sahaba) expressed their love for the Prophet ﷺ in other ways—by following his Sunnah, sacrificing their wealth, spreading Islam, and living according to his teachings. This shows that love for the Prophet ﷺ was always alive in their actions, not only in words.
First Celebrations in Egypt
Historians mention that the Fatimid rulers in Egypt during the 11th century were the first to organize public gatherings for the Prophet’s birth anniversary. These events included Quran recitation, poetry, food distribution, and sermons.
Spread in the Muslim World
With time, Mawlid celebrations spread across the Muslim world. Some rulers held large programs with scholars and poets, while common people observed it through simple family gatherings, Quran recitation, and giving charity.
Scholarly Views
Many scholars throughout history have encouraged Mawlid as a way to increase love for the Prophet ﷺ. They celebrated it by arranging gatherings filled with Quran recitation, Durood, Seerat lectures, poetry, and charity for the poor. Scholars like Imam Jalaluddin Suyuti, Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani, and Imam al-Sakhawi wrote in support of Mawlid when celebrated with sincerity and good deeds.
The Best Way to Celebrate Today
The most authentic way to honor the Prophet ﷺ is to follow his Sunnah. Just as he fasted on Mondays, we too can fast, give charity, help others, and increase recitation of Quran and Durood. Celebrating Mawlid should not only be about lights and gatherings, but also about good deeds that reflect his teachings.
Lessons from Mawlid
Mawlid is a reminder to reflect on the life of the Prophet ﷺ. His mercy, honesty, kindness, and justice remain the real example to follow. The best way for Muslims today to celebrate is by reviving Sunnah in daily life, spreading love, helping the needy, and becoming ambassadors of his noble character.