On Tuesday the 19th of November 2018, Muslims in many parts of the world will celebrate Mawlud-un- Nabi (Literaaly, Birth of the Prophet) commonly known as Gamo. This is a very important date to adherents of the Islamic faith.
Many Muslims gather in specific villages, towns or cities to commemorate what they regard as the most important date in the Islamic Calender. The gatherings are always spiritual with a sacred atmosphere of Islamic history and culture.
In many places, the recitations of the Holy Qur’an are completed many times and religious songs sang to the delight of thousands of people. But, perhaps, most importantly, scholars deliver speeches on the various aspects of the virtues and character of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (may peace and blessings of Allah be on him).
People consider this a very spiritual and sacred event and therefore a lot of food and drinks are served to the very many people who travel from far and wide to be part of the celebrations. They are then reminded of the virtues of the Holy Prophet which they are urged to emulate.
At this time of remembering and commemorating the birth of one considered by millions of people around the world as being the greatest human being to have ever walked on the surface of the earth, it is important to cultivate the virtues of sharing and caring which he was said to personify.
Among the virtues of the Holy Prophet (SAW) was forgiveness which he took to a whole new level when he forgave all the Mekkans who persecuted him and his companions. In that spirit; therefore, our country-folks are urged to emulate him and forgive and reconcile so that we will move ahead and leave the ugly past behind.
Happy Mawlud-un-Nabi!
