As Muslims around the world gather to celebrate the blessed occasion of the Maulid of Prophet Muhammad (SAWA), it is a time not only of remembrance and celebration, but also of reflection. This day reminds us that the Prophet did not come as a mere historical figure, confined to the sands of Arabia, but as a mercy, a guide, and a light to all of humanity and beyond. Allah Himself declares in the Qur’an: “And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds” (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:107). This profound verse sets the foundation of the Prophet’s mission: mercy. But mercy, in the Qur’anic sense, extends beyond mere kindness. It is compassion that uplifts, justice that restores dignity, and wisdom that guides societies toward harmony.
The Prophet Muhammad (SAWA) embodied mercy in his daily life. He forgave his enemies at the conquest of Makkah, declaring, “Go, for you are free.” He rose whenever the poor or needy came to him, sat with slaves, ate with the hungry, and extended his hand of kindness even to animals and the environment. His companions narrated that he never raised his hand in anger, except in defense of justice. He wept at the grave of his son, embraced orphans with tenderness, and cautioned believers never to overload their animals. Truly, he was the living embodiment of compassion.
His message dismantled centuries of tribal arrogance, racial discrimination, and oppression. He taught that all mankind is from Adam, and Adam was from dust. He has declared the equality of all human beings; Arab and non-Arab, black and white, rich and poor before Allah, the best being the most pious. His message empowered women with rights to inheritance, consent in marriage, and dignity in society at a time when daughters were buried alive. He prohibited usury, exploitation, and injustice, while encouraging charity, fairness, and mutual respect. His teachings remain a mercy for every age, including our modern complex time. The Prophet’s mercy was not limited to humans alone. He taught that a woman entered Hell for starving a cat, while a prostitute was forgiven for quenching a dog’s thirst. He urged believers to plant trees, conserve water, and treat the earth as a trust from Allah. Long before the age of environmental crisis, The Prophet of mercy, Muhammad (SAWA) showed humanity how to live in balance with creation.
Today’s world, torn by greed, conflict, and moral decadence, is in desperate need of this Prophetic mercy. Celebrating the Maulid which is the manifestation of love of the Holy Prophet, should not be a mere ritual of songs and gatherings. It must inspire us to embody his mercy in our lives; to forgive where hatred rules, to stand for justice where oppression prevails, and to care for the weak and voiceless where indifference dominates.
The Maulid is a celebration of light, love, and guidance. It is a reminder that Prophet Muhammad (SAWA) came as a universal mercy, not only for Muslims but for all peoples, all nations, and all creation. To honor him is to live his message: to be just, compassionate, and merciful in our dealings with one another. As we mark Maulid, let us pray to be among those who truly reflect the mercy of the Messenger of Allah in our hearts, homes, and societies.
Peace and blessings be upon our noble Prophet Muhammad and his pure progeny the Mercy to the worlds.
Resource Forum
Islamic Movement, Nigeria
Adanladi08@gmail.com
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