Muslims celebrate Mawlid

On February 14-15, Muslims celebrate Prophet Mohammed's birthday, Mawlid an-Nabi. One and a half billion people today are adherents of Islam. One in five inhabitants of the Earth believes that Prophet Mohammed is the last messenger of God. They draw the biggest inspiration and exhortation from his life path. According to Quran, Prophet Mohammed was sent to all humankind "as mercy for the worlds." (Quran 21:107).

As for Mawlid, one should note that during the life of the prophet, that day was not celebrated in any particular way. The date appeared in the Islamic calendar much later – after the spread of Islam in various countries and on different continents.

The All-Ukrainian Association of Social Organizations "Alraid" and the Spiritual Directorate of Muslims of Ukraine "Umma" report that the events dedicated to Mawlid will be held in the mosques of Luhansk, Donetsk and other cities of Ukraine.

The tradition to celebrate Mawlid appeared in the beginning of the seventh century.
For the Muslims, Prophet Mohammed is the model of the highest morality and culture. According to the Spiritual Directorate of Muslims of Ukraine, "Prophet Mohammed came into this world with a great and honorary mission, to call people to the Faith in the Only God." Events dedicated to Mawlid are held all across Ukraine.

The whole month of Rabi-al-Awal is used by the Muslims for their spiritual development – they organize meetings to talk about the life of the prophet and His high moral qualities, such as truthfulness, modesty, mercy, justice and generosity.

The believers read the Quran, songs glorifying God and His Messenger, prayers where they ask to grant the prophet even more majesty and honor, words glorifying Allah. They also organize lessons in religion and give alms.