Mawlid or Mawlid al-Nabi al-Sharif Festival of Hui Ethnic Minority

The Mawlid or Mawlid al-Nabi al-Sharif (Arabic: مَولِد النَّبِي‎ mawlidu n-nabiyyi/回族圣纪节/圣忌节/冒路德节), meaning “Birth of the Prophet,” is a significant Islamic celebration commemorating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. This festival is particularly important among the Hui ethnic minority in China, who celebrate it with great devotion and reverence.

Mawlid al-Nabi: A Commemoration of Prophet Muhammad’s Birth

Origins and History

The celebration of Mawlid al-Nabi dates back to the early days of Islam, when some of the Tabi‘un (the generation after the companions of the Prophet) began holding sessions to recite poetry and songs in honor of Muhammad. These gatherings were meant to commemorate his life, teachings, and significance.

In Ottoman Empire, the event was formally declared an official holiday in 1588 under the name Mevlid Kandil. It was a time of joyous celebrations, including religious readings, communal gatherings, and various forms of entertainment that honored the Prophet’s legacy.

Date of Celebration

The observance of Mawlid takes place in Rabi’ al-awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar. While the 12th of Rabi’ al-awwal is recognized by most Sunni scholars, some Shi’a scholars mark the 17th as the accepted date for Muhammad’s birthday.

The Celebration Among the Hui Ethnic Minority

Hui Muslim Practices

For the Hui ethnic minority in China, Mawlid is a cherished occasion, celebrated with numerous cultural and religious practices. The Mawlid Festival serves as an expression of the Hui people’s deep connection to Islam and their devotion to Prophet Muhammad.

During the festival, Hui Muslims engage in prayers, recite the Quran, and participate in gatherings where they listen to religious sermons and poetry dedicated to the Prophet. The festival is also marked by family gatherings, feasts, and the exchange of gifts, reinforcing the sense of community.

Festivities and Traditions

The festival includes various customs such as:

• Recitations of Islamic poetry praising Prophet Muhammad’s virtues and deeds.

• Feasts and communal meals, often involving traditional Hui dishes.

• Charitable acts, where food and goods are distributed to those in need, reflecting the Prophet’s teachings on generosity and kindness.

• Public prayers and gatherings at local mosques where worshippers unite in devotion and reflection.

Mawlid: A Global Islamic Celebration

Global Significance

Mawlid is celebrated across many Muslim-majority countries, but its observance can differ based on cultural and regional traditions. It is recognized as a national holiday in most Muslim-majority nations, including Turkey, Egypt, Pakistan, and Indonesia. However, Saudi Arabia and Qatar do not officially celebrate Mawlid due to their adherence to Wahhabism and Salafism, which consider the practice of celebrating the Prophet’s birthday as an illicit religious innovation (bid’ah).

Wahhabism/Salafism and Mawlid

While many Muslims approve of Mawlid as a celebration of the Prophet’s life and legacy, the Wahhabi and Salafi interpretations of Islam reject the observance, labeling it an unlawful innovation. These denominations argue that the celebration does not have a basis in the teachings of the Prophet or the Quran.

Mawlid al-Nabi al-Sharif is not only a religious festival but also a celebration of community, unity, and devotion to Prophet Muhammad. For the Hui ethnic minority, it is an important occasion to reflect on their religious identity, strengthen their ties within the Muslim community, and honor the teachings of the Prophet. The festival stands as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual traditions that continue to thrive among Hui Muslims in China and around the world.