Maunatul Islam New Zealand, the Islamic Centre in Mangere, celebrated Milad-un-nabi, the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on Friday, December 9, at Skipton Hall. The event witnessed the presence of more than 500 men and women of all ages observing the occasion.

The programme commenced at 6:30 p.m. with a Na’at recitation (poetries praising Prophet Muhammad, PBUH) by the students of Maunatul Islamic Centre. Hazrat Alama Hafiz Musa Patel, the Imam (head) from Lautoka Jame Mosque in Fiji, graced the occasion.

Chief Guest Hazrat Alama Hafiz Musa Patel addressing the crowd at the ceremony

Islam teaches tolerance, patience, love, and peace. The Holy Prophet of Islam and Allah’s messenger was born on 12 Rabi-ul-Awwal (the third month of the Islamic calendar). His birth took place in the city Mecca on a Monday in the year 571. The Muslim community across the globe celebrate this day by making extra prayers, reciting Quran and reciting Na’at Sharif.

“Nowadays, with so much hatred around the world, the celebration of such a religious occasion is extremely important, especially for youth,” Azad Sheikh, a member of the Maunatul Islamic Centre said.

“When our hearts become abodes for the love of the Prophet, the best of the creation, we will emulate his practice, which is an embodiment of love, sympathy, and peace. So the commemoration of the Prophet’s birthday should be cherished and maintained.”

On this occasion, celebrations and lectures all over the world deliver messages that shed light on different aspects of the Prophet’s life: his birth, childhood, youth, and adult life. The message serves as a beacon of light for the future generations so that they will live together in peace, fraternity, and solidarity.

On the first and 12th day of the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal (December 1 and 12, 2016), the Maunatul Islam Trust hosted congregational learning sessions at the Islamic Centre. The gathering present during meetings was taught about Islam and Sunnah— teachings of Prophet Muhammad.