Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW is a commemoration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, which is one of the important moments in the Islamic calendar. This commemoration is not only to remember history, but also to deepen our love and respect for the Prophet Muhammad. In the Qur’an, Allah SWT says: “Indeed, there is in the Messenger of Allah a good example for you, for those who hope for the mercy of Allah and the Last Day, and who remember Allah much.” (QS. Al-Ahzab: 21). This verse confirms that the Prophet is the best example for mankind.
But what are the origins of this celebration, and how has it evolved over time? Let’s trace its history.
The Origin of the Prophet’s Maulid
The history of the commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday can be traced back to the Fatimid dynasty in Egypt in the 10th century AD. The Fatimid dynasty, who were Ismaili Shia, started the tradition of celebrating the Prophet’s birthday as part of their religious festivities. This commemoration was initially localized and did not spread widely among other Muslims at that time.
The tradition of the Prophet’s birthday began to flourish and spread to various regions when Sultan Salahuddin Al-Ayyubi (1137-1193 CE), a Sunni leader, popularized the celebration of the Prophet’s birthday with the aim of strengthening the religious spirit and unity of Muslims in the face of the Crusades. Salahuddin Al-Ayyubi saw the Prophet’s birthday as a way to inspire and motivate Muslims by remembering the example and courage of the Prophet.
Read also: Reflection on Prophet’s Birthday, Becoming People with Moral Social Empathy
The Development of the Prophet’s Birthday in the Islamic World
Over time, the commemoration of the Prophet’s birthday became increasingly popular among Muslims in various parts of the world. In the 12th and 13th centuries AD, the celebration of the Prophet’s birthday began to become a tradition adopted by various Islamic kingdoms and sultanates, both in the Arab world, North Africa, and the Southeast Asian region.
In the archipelago, the commemoration of the Prophet’s birthday was introduced by Muslim scholars and traders from the Middle East and India. During the time of the Demak Sultanate and other Islamic kingdoms in Java, the commemoration of the Prophet’s birthday was used as an important moment to teach Islamic values to the wider community. One well-known tradition is “Sekaten,” which is part of the commemoration of the Prophet’s birthday in the Sultanates of Yogyakarta and Surakarta, where the event is filled with various religious and cultural activities.
Controversy and Different Approaches to Celebrating the Prophet’s Maulid
Although the Prophet’s birthday has become a very common tradition in many Muslim countries, the celebration is not free from controversy. Some scholars argue that the commemoration of the Prophet’s birthday has no basis in the teachings of Islam as taught by the Prophet and his companions. They argue that it is a bid’ah (innovation in religion) that is not in accordance with the sunnah.
However, many other scholars argue that the commemoration of the Prophet’s birthday is a legitimate way to express love and respect for the Prophet. They emphasize that as long as this commemoration is done in a way that does not contradict Islamic principles, such as reading the Prophet’s biography, performing salutations, and increasing good deeds, then this celebration can bring spiritual benefits to Muslims. The Prophet also said: “Whoever loves my sunnah loves me, and whoever loves me will be with me in Paradise.” (HR. Tirmidhi).
Read also: Maulid Nabi and Reflection as a Statesman
Maulid Nabi in Indonesia
In Indonesia, the commemoration of the Prophet’s birthday has become a tradition that is deeply embedded in the lives of Muslims. Every year, this celebration is held in various ways, from recitations, religious lectures, to parades and social activities. In some regions, Maulid Nabi is also characterized by unique traditions, such as Grebeg Maulud in Yogyakarta, where food and crops are paraded as a form of gratitude to Allah SWT.
The Prophet’s birthday is also often used as a momentum to strengthen ukhuwah (brotherhood) and remind us of the noble teachings brought by the Prophet. This commemoration is a means to spread kindness, strengthen the relationship, and invite people to get closer to Allah SWT.
Exemplifying the Prophet’s Moral of Social Empathy and Sharing Through Almsgiving
The history of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday shows how this commemoration has evolved from a local tradition into an important part of the culture and life of Muslims in various parts of the world. In commemorating the Prophet’s birthday, we are invited to emulate the Prophet Muhammad, especially in terms of morals and social empathy. Just as he always showed compassion and concern for others, we are also reminded to apply these values in our daily lives.
One concrete form of emulating the Prophet is by sharing with those in need through charity. Allah SWT says in the Qur’an: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed that grows seven ears; in each ear a hundred seeds. Allah multiplies (the reward) for whom He wills. And Allah is All-Wide (in bounty) and All-Knowing.” (QS. Al-Baqarah: 261).
Let us use this moment of the Prophet’s birthday to share our sustenance and happiness with others. By giving alms through trusted institutions such as Dompet Dhuafa, we not only help those in need, but also instill the values of social empathy in us, as taught by the Prophet Muhammad.
As part of the commitment to emulate the Prophet Muhammad, Sahabat can also participate in various Dompet Dhuafa programs that focus on health, education, and economic empowerment for the poor. By giving alms through Dompet Dhuafa, Sahabat participates in spreading kindness and social care, and helping those in need to achieve a better life. May we all continue to learn from the Prophet’s example and apply it in every step of our lives.
