Mawlid celebrations, special flavor and unique style

Syrian people nation-wide celebrate today the birthday of Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) as is the case with the majority of the Arab and Islamic countries. However, celebrations in Syrian cities have a special flavor and unique style that gains the admiration of people all over the world.

Mawlid al-Nabi al-Sharif “Birth of the Prophet” is celebrated in the form of a carnival. Celebrations in Syrian cities  are held at homes and mosques which are usually well decorated on this occasion. Food, especially sweets, is distributed widely. Stories about the life of Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) are narrated and religious poetry is recited. One of the most popular poems recited during Mawlid is Qasida al-Burda Sharif, a poem composed in the 13th century in praise of the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him).

Children get special candies, chocolate and sweets on this occasion.  The people  celebrate the day with passion. The Souqs (markets) are  decorated with small, often green, banners bearing prayers and praise for the prophet (peace be upon him).  Sufi chanting sessions are held in mosques and other public and private places. At homes, people make and eat traditional desserts and distribute to their neighbors.

Mawlid is observed on the 12th Rabi’ al-awwal, the third month in the Islamic calendar. The history of this celebration goes back to the early days of Islam when some Muslims began to hold assemblies in which poetry and songs composed to praise the Prophet were recited and sung to the crowds.

The life of Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) and his message started with combating ignorance, raising the flag of science, education and civilization and concluded by the announcement of the human rights in life, freedom and equality.

K.Q.