When Was Muhammad Born?
Muhammad was born on April 22, 570 AD, but it is commonly celebrated on the 12th Rabi’ al-awwal (Islamic month). He is considered one of the most influential historical figures, revered as the Prophet of Islam. His teachings have shaped the lives of billions, and his birth has become a focal point for Muslims worldwide. This article delves deep into the date of his birth, its significance, and the standard practices and celebrations around this day.
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Quick Fact About Muhammad (PBUH)
| Full Name: | Muhammad ibn Abdullah |
| Relationship Status: | Married |
| Nick Name: | Al-Amin (The Trustworthy) |
| Date of Birth: | April 22, 570 AD |
| Age: | 62 |
| Height: | Information not publicly available |
| Net Worth: | Information not publicly available |
| Occupation: | Merchant | Prophet |
| Citizenship: | Meccan, Medinan |
| Depart this Life: | 632 AD |
Birth of the Prophet Muhammad
Muhammad was born into the Banu Hashim clan of the Quraysh tribe. His father, Abdullah, died before he was born, and his mother, Aminah, died when he was six. After becoming orphaned, Muhammad was raised by his paternal grandfather Abdul-Muttalib and later by his uncle Abu Talib.
At a young age, Muhammad worked as a merchant and shepherd. He married Khadija bint Khuwaylid at 25 and had six children with her. Muhammad often meditated and fasted in the mountains and, at age 40, started receiving revelations from God through the angel Gabriel. These revelations were later recorded as verses in the Quran.
Muhammad began preaching the messages he received in Mecca, calling people to worship only one God. He faced resistance and hostility from Meccan tribes who worshipped idols and persecuted his early followers. Muhammad migrated with his followers to Medina in 622 CE to escape persecution in an event known as the Hijra. It marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
In Medina, Muhammad established an Islamic state and continued preaching. His followers unified Arabia by conquering Mecca in 630 CE. Islam was firmly rooted across the Arabian Peninsula by his death in 632 CE at age 62.
The Significance of the Name Muhammad (PBUH)
The name “Muhammad” is of Arabic origin, and it means “praised” or “praiseworthy.” This name is deeply emblematic of Muslims’ respect and reverence for the Prophet. Throughout his life, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplified honesty, integrity, compassion, and unwavering faith, making him worthy of praise both in his time and for future generations. The name is a testament to his character and the admiration believers and even non-believers have for his moral standards and teachings.
Furthermore, mentioning the Prophet’s name, “PBUH” – “Peace Be Upon Him” – is a sign of respect and reverence. It is a common practice among Muslims to use this phrase or its equivalent in Arabic, “صلى الله عليه وسلم” (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam), whenever they refer to Prophet Muhammad. This practice underscores the deep love and esteem Muslims hold for their Prophet, perpetuating the spirit of the meaning of his name, “the praised one.”
Read More: When Was Jesus Born?
Common Practices and Celebrations
Milad un Nabi: Milad un Nabi means “birth of the prophet” and is the main celebration marking Muhammad’s birthday. Festivities include religious gatherings, recitation of poems praising Muhammad, feeding the poor, and decorating mosques.
Mawlid al-Nabi: Like Milad un Nabi, this celebration involves reciting parts of the Quran, singing religious songs, decorating streets and mosques, distributing food and charity, and holding large gatherings to honor Muhammad’s life and teachings.
Muhammad’s Birthday Holiday: Many Muslims worldwide observe a public holiday on or around Muhammad’s birthday. Community meals, festivals, fairs, and parades are everyday celebrations on this holiday.
Charity: Muslims often donate food, clothes, and money to the poor on Muhammad’s birthday to celebrate his life. Some mosques and households also cook and distribute food to their local communities.
Related FAQs About Muhammad (PBUH)
Conclusion:
Muhammad’s birthday holds great significance for Muslims worldwide as it marks the birth of the Prophet who founded Islam. While scholars debate the exact date, celebrations are held on the 12th of Rabi’ al-awwal to honor Muhammad’s life and legacy. These festivities connect Muslims across cultures through a shared love and reverence for the Prophet. Muhammad’s birth and early life laid the foundation for his influential work later of uniting Arabia under the banner of Islam and providing spiritual guidance to Muslims through the Quran and his teachings.
