Prophet Muhammad (saw) - "saw" is an abbreviation for "sallallahu alayhi wa sallam" (صلى الله عليه وسلم), which means:
"May the blessings and peace of Allah be upon him."
This phrase is used as a sign of respect and reverence whenever mentioning the Prophet Muhammad's name.
Some key aspects of Prophet Muhammad's (saw) life:
*Early Life:*
- Born in Mecca, Arabia (570 CE)
- Orphaned at age 6
- Raised by his uncle, Abu Talib
*Prophethood:*
- Received first revelation from Allah through Angel Jibril (Gabriel) at age 40
- Preached Islam in Mecca and later in Medina
- Faced persecution, but remained steadfast
*Teachings:*
- Unity of God (Tawhid)
- Five Pillars of Islam
- Compassion, justice, and equality
- Importance of education and knowledge
*Miracles:*
- The Quran, considered a literary and spiritual miracle
- Splitting of the moon (Surah Al-Qamar)
- Water flowing from his fingers (Al-Mubahala)
*Legacy:*
- Founder of Islam
- Unifier of Arabia
- Inspirational leader and role model
*Characteristics:*
- Mercy, kindness, and humility
- Truthfulness and integrity
- Courage and perseverance
Prophet Muhammad (saw) is considered the final messenger of Allah, sent to guide humanity to the right path. His teachings and legacy continue to inspire millions worldwide.
In Islam, specifically among the Ahle Hadith (also known as Salafi) community, Eid Milad-un-Nabi is not widely celebrated or observed. Here's why:
1. *Lack of authentic evidence*: Ahle Hadith scholars argue that there is no authentic hadith (Prophetic tradition) or Quranic verse that supports the celebration of the Prophet's birthday.
2. *Innovation*: They consider Eid Milad-un-Nabi to be an innovation (bid'ah) in religion, which is discouraged in Islam.
3. *Focus on Sunnah*: Ahle Hadith followers emphasize adhering to the Prophet's teachings and practices (Sunnah) as recorded in authentic hadiths, rather than innovating new practices.
4. *Alternative commemorations*: Instead of celebrating Eid Milad-un-Nabi, Ahle Hadith Muslims may focus on other significant dates, such as:
- Hijrah (the Prophet's migration to Medina)
- Lailat al-Mi'raj (the Prophet's ascension to heaven)
- Lailat al-Bara'ah (the night of forgiveness)
5. *Respect and reverence*: Ahle Hadith Muslims still hold the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in high esteem and reverence, but express this through regular acts of worship, charity, and following his teachings.
