Why Eid Milad un Nabi OR Mawlid un Nabi? Is this Bid'a or a Good ...

Why Should You Celebrate the Birthday of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) known as Eid Milad un Nabi OR Mawlid un Nabi (Peace be upon him)?

Islamic Supreme Council of www.iscc.ca Canadaand/ Jama’t Ahle Sunnat Canada 1 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

What is Eid Milad un Nabi( )? • This is also known as Mawlid-un-Nabi OR Mawlid Al Sharif OR Milad Sharif. • It’s an occasion when Muslims celebrate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Although, Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) is celebrated on 12th Rabi ul Awwal, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad ( ) but Muslims organize gatherings of Mawlid Sharif all around the year. • It has been very old Muslim tradition to organize gathering of Milad Sharif to thank Allah for His blessings and favours.

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What Takes Place in a Gathering of Mawlid (Meelad) Al Sharif? • Recitation from the holy Qur’an • Recitation of Naat (Madiha) of Rasool-ullah ( ) • Speeches by Ulema (scholars) on the life(Seerah) and the honours of Rasool-ullah ( ). • Dhikr of Allah. • Salat and Salaam (Salutation) on Rasool-ullah ( ) • Serving the guests with food. • Ending of the gathering on du’a. These are all good things that a Muslim should do in a gathering. Then, why some people who call themselves Muslims oppose Milad Sharif? There could be several reasons. It could be because of ignorance OR misguidance OR hidden jealousy for Allah’s Messenger 3 (Peace be upon him). Please read the next slides. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

Why it is called Eid? Those who oppose Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) object that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) prescribed for Muslims two Eids as mentioned in this Hadith, Anas bin Maalik (May Allah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) came to Madinah and the people had two days when they would play and have fun. He said, ‘What are these two days?’ They said, ‘We used to play and have fun on these days during the Jaahiliyyah (Days of Ignorance). The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, ‘Allah has given you something better than them, the day of (Eid) Adhaa and the day of (Eid) Fitr.’”[Sunan Abu Dawood ]

Where this 3rd Eid comes from? For answer, next slide please www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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Where this 3rd Eid comes from? This question is purely based upon the ignorance of Arabic language. You can pickup any Arabic - English dictionary and you will find the translation of birthday is “Eid Milad”. Since it is the birthday of Nabi (peace be upon him); therefore, it is called Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) For example, the birthday of Abdul Rahman in Arabic will be called “Eid Milad Abdul Rahman”. Therefore, Nabi’s birthday in Arabic will be called “Eid Milad un Nabi” (peace be upon him). It is not the issue of two Eids or three Eids. It is the linguistic issue that many people don’t know. Therefore, the question that needs to be answered is whether we should celebrate the birthday of our Prophet OR not? Please read the next slides for detailed analysiswww.iscc.ca and answer. and 5 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


Qur’an calls Prophets’ birthdays blessed days ُ ‫وت َويَ ْو َم يُ ْب َع‬ ُ ‫َو َس ََل ٌم َعلَ ْي ِه يَ ْو َم ُولِ َد َويَ ْو َم يَ ُم‬ ‫ث َحيًّا‬ So Peace on him (Yahya Alaihissalam) the day he was born, the day that he dies, and the day that he will be raised up to life (again)! (Surah Maryam, 15) ُ ‫وت َويَ ْو َم أُ ْب َع‬ ُّ ِ‫ي يَ ْو َم ُول‬ ُ ‫دت َويَ ْو َم أَ ُم‬ ‫ث َحيًّا‬ َّ َ‫َوالس َََّل ُم َعل‬ "So peace is on me (Eesa Alaihissalam) the day I was born, the day that I die, and the day that I shall be raised up to life (again)"! (Surah Maryam, 33) This proves that the birthdays of Prophets are declared blessed days by Allah and Prophets themselves. That is why prophets’ birthdays are very important and significant days. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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Celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday in Hadith Abu Qatada al-Ansari narrates in Sahih Muslim, Kitab as-siyam, that the Prophet (peace be upon him) was asked about the fast of Monday, and he answered: "That is the day that I was born and that is the day I received the prophethood.“ Every Monday, Abu Lahab in his grave is released from punishment because he freed his handmaid Thuwayba when she brought him the news of the Prophet's birth. (Bukhari, book of Nikah and Ibn Kathir’s Sirat al-Nabi Vol.1, p. 124, Mawlid al-Nabi p. 21, and al-Bidaya p. 272-273) This proves that even a condemned by Allah Kafir (Surah Lahab) gets a respite every Monday because he rejoiced the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), what then do you think of a servant who, all his life, was happy with Muhammad (peace be upon him),7 www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca and died as a Muslim?" www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Ijma (consensus) of Islamic Scholars on the Permissibility of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) The

Imam of Saudis and Salafis, Imam Ibn Taymiyyah writes, “Those who celebrate Eid Milad un Nabi through the love and respect of the Prophet [May Allah bless Him and grant Him peace], will be rewarded by Allah. He also writes, If someone celebrates Milad with the love and respect of Prophet [peace be upon him], he will have a “big reward”. He says that in Muslim communities, Milad-un-Nabi gatherings are only done with the respect and love of the Muslims for the Prophet [May Allah bless him and grant Him peace] (Majma` Fatawa Ibn Taymiyyah, Vol. 23, p. 163 & Iqtidaa’ us-siraat-il-Mustaqeem, page 294, 295, 297]



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The Ijma (consensus) of Islamic Scholars on the Permissibility of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) Allama Ibn Kathir in his book, Mawlid-ur-Rasool-ullah (Peace be upon him) writes, "The Night of the Prophet's birth is a magnificent, noble, blessed and holy night, a night of bliss for the believers, pure, radiant with lights, and of immeasurable price.“ (page 19) Imam Subki said, "When we were celebrating the Prophet's birthday, a great uns (familiarity) comes to our heart, and we feel something special.“ Imam Shawkani in his book al-Badr at-tali`, said, "It is permissible to celebrate the Prophet's birthday." He mentioned that Mullah Àli Qari held the same opinion in a book entitled alMawrid ar-Rawi fi al-Mawlid al-Nabawi, written specifically to www.iscc.ca and birthday. 9 support the celebration of the Prophet's www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Ijma (consensus) of Islamic Scholars on the Permissibility of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) Imam Suyuti in his book Husn al-maqsid fi àmal al-mawlid, p. 54 and 62, says: "The reason for gathering for tarawih prayers is Sunnah and qurba (to seek nearness to Allah)... and similarly we say that the reason for gathering to celebrate mawlid is mandub (recommended) and qurba and the intention to celebrate mawlid is mustahsana (excellent) without a doubt.“ Fatwa from Dr. Ìsa al-Mani` al-Humayri, Department of Awqaaf, Dubai, Office of Religious Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Dubai Administration of Ifta' and Research , UAE www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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The Ijma (consensus) of Islamic Scholars on the Permissibility of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) We find nowadays publications filled with lies and deception which mislead many Muslims into thinking negatively about the honorable Mawlid of the Prophet. These publications claim that to celebrate the Mawlid is an act of innovation that goes against Islam. This is far from the truth, and it is therefore necessary for those who can speak clearly to help clarify and reverse the doubts surrounding this most blessed day. It is with this humble intention that I present the following proofs in support of celebrating our beloved Prophet's birthday. For complete Fatwa, please visit, http://www.islamicsupremecouncil.com/eidmilad-fatwa-dawairshad-dubai.htm www.iscc.ca and 11 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


The Ijma (consensus) of Islamic Scholars on the Permissibility of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) The leader of all current Salafis, Sheikh Dr. Yousuf Al Qardawi says, some Muslims maintain that celebrating any Islamic occasion is forbidden; they consider celebrating occasions such as ….., the Prophet’s birthday and other Islamic occasions recorded in the Prophet’s biography, to be bidàh (innovation), which is a sign of going astray and, thus, a way to hellfire. But it is not absolutely so. However, there is nothing wrong in making use of such an occasion as the Prophet’s birthday to remember and remind people of the great personality of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), his honorable biography, and his true message that has been revealed to him by Allah Almighty as a mercy for the worlds. How can this be considered a bidàh? Dr. Qardawi’s complete Fatwa is posted at www.iscc.ca and 12 http://www.islamicsupremecouncil.com/qaradhawi.htm www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Ijma (consensus) of Islamic Scholars on the Permissibility of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) The founder of Jama’t Islami Pakistan and a very prominent leader of Salafi beliefs Maulana Abul A’la Maudoodi says, “Though, Islamic law has not declared the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) as EID, nor has it established any customary practice for its celebration, but if people consider it as EID, due to this being the day of arrival of the greatest Prophet (P.B.U.H) of Allah and the peerless saviour of the world, and observe it as a day on which the biggest blessing of Allah for mankind came into existence, then there is no harm either.” (Speech on 12th Rabi Al Awwal on All India Radio, March 30, 1942). www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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A brief history of formal celebration of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) The oldest source that mentions a public commemoration of the Mawlid is in Ibn Jubayr's (540-614) Rihal ("Travels"), p. 114-115: "This blessed place [the house of the Prophet] is opened, and all men enter it to derive blessing from it (mutabarrikin bihi), on every Monday of the month of Rabi` al-Awwal; for on that day and in that month was born the Prophet.“ The 7th-century historians Abul Àbbas al-Àzafi and his son Abul Qasim al-Àzafi wrote in their unpublished Kitab ad-durr almunazzam: "Pious pilgrims and prominent travelers testified that, on the day of the Mawlid in Makkah, no activities are undertaken, and nothing is sold or bought, except by the people who are busy visiting his noble birthplace, and rush to it. On this day the door of Ka`ba is www.iscc.ca and 14 opened and visited by the public." www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

A brief history of formal celebration of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) Ibn Battuta's Account of the Mawlid: The famous 8th-century historian Ibn Battuta relates in his Rihla, Vol. 1, p. 309 and 347, that on every Friday, after the salah, and on the birthday of the Prophet, the door of Ka`ba is opened by the head of the Banu Shayba, the doorkeepers of the Ka`ba, and that on the Mawlid, the Shafiì qadi (head judge) of Makkah, Najmuddin Muhammad Ibn al-Imam Muhyiddin al-Tabari, distributes food to the shurafa' (descendants of the Prophet and to all the other people of Makkah.



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A brief history of formal celebration of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) The following description consolidates eyewitness accounts by three 10th-century authorities: the historian Ibn huhayra from his alJami` al-latif fi fasl Makkah wa ahliha, p. 326; the hafiz Ibn Hajar al-Haytami from his Kitab al-Mawlid ash-Sharif al-Muàzzam, and the historian al-Nahrawali from al-I`lam bi-a`lam Bayt Allah alharam, p. 205. 

Each year on the 12th of Rabi` al-Awwal, after the salat al-Maghrib, the four qadis of Makkah (representing the Four Schools) and large groups of people including the fuqaha' (scholars) and fudala' (notables) of Makkah, shaykhs, zawiya teachers and their students, ru'asa' (magistrates), and mutaàmmamin (scholars) leave the mosque and set out collectively for a visit to the birthplace of the Prophet, shouting out dhikr and tahlil (LA ILAHA ILLALLAH). The houses on the route are illuminated with numerous lanterns and large candles, and a great many people are out. They all wear special clothes and they takewww.iscc.ca their children with them. and 16 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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A brief history of formal celebration of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) After reaching the birthplace, inside a special sermon for the occasion of the birthday of the Prophet is delivered, mentioning the miracles (karamat) that took place on that occasion. Hereafter the duà' for the Sultan (i.e. the Caliph), the Emir of Makkah, and the Shafiì qadi is performed and all pray humbly. Shortly before the salat al-Ìsha', the whole party returns from the birthplace of the Prophet to the Great Mosque, which is almost overcrowded, and all sit down in rows at the foot of the Maqam Ibrahim. In the mosque, a preacher first mentions the tahmid (AL HAMDULILLAH) and the tahlil, and once again the duà' for the Sultan, the Emir, and the Shafiì qadi is performed. After this the call for the Salat al-Ìsha' is made. After the salat, the crowd breaks up. A similar description is given by al-Diyarbakri (d. 960) in www.iscc.ca and 17 his Ta'rikh al-Khamis. www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) died on the same day. Why his death is not mourned on 12th Rabi Al Awwal? According to some traditions, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) passed away on 12th Rabi Al Awwal. It was indeed a very painful and sad occasion for the Sahabah. They were going to miss his physical company. As Qur’an describes that Prophet Muhammad ٌ ‫ك َمي‬ (peace upon him) had to taste the taste of death. ‫ون‬ َ ُ‫ِّت َوإِنَّهُم َّميِّت‬ َ َّ‫إِن‬ Truly thou wilt die (one day), and truly they (too) will die (one day). [az-Zumar 39:30]. However, not a single companion (Sahabi) ever believed that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) died as an ordinary person dies. They all believed and every Muslim must believe that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) listens our Darood and Salam and responds our Darood and Salam. Dead people www.iscc.ca and 18 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca do not listen or respond. Continues www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) died on the same day. Why his death is not mourned on 12th Rabi Al Awwal? Continue In the holy Qur’an Allah has forbidden to call Martyrs dead but Allah says they are alive and fed by Allah. A Muslim believes that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is superior than his followers and all the martyrs. He is alive in his grave. Here are some authentic Ahadith for your information. Anas b. Malik reported, Allah's Messenger (‫ )صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: The Prophets are alive in their graves and pray. (Bayhaqi, Hayatul Anmbiya, page 3) ‫ ْاْلَ ْنبِيَا ُء‬: ‫ال َرس ُْو ُل اﷲِ صلي هللا عليه وآله وسلم‬ ٍ ِ‫س ب ِْن َمال‬ َ َ‫ ق‬: ‫ک رضي هللا عنه قَا َل‬ ِ َ‫َع ْن أَن‬ www.iscc.ca and ‫صلُّ ْو َن‬ ‫أَحْ يَا ٌء ف‬ ُ‫ي قُب ُْو ِر ِه ْم ي‬19 َ ِ www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) died on the same day. Why his death is not mourned on 12th Rabi Al Awwal? ‫عن أبي الدرداء قال قال رسول هللا صلى هللا عليه وسلم أكثروا الصالة علي يوم الجمعة‬ ‫فإنه مشهود تشهده المالئكة وإن أحدا لن يصلي علي إال عرضت علي صالته حتى يفرغ‬ ‫منها قال قلت وبعد الموت قال وبعد الموت إن هللا حرم على األرض أن تأكل أجساد األنبياء‬ ‫فنبي هللا حي يرزق‬ Narated By AbudDarda: The Apostle of Allah (‫ )صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: Among the most excellent of your days is Friday; so invoke many blessings (Darood & Salam) on me that day, for your blessing will be submitted to me. They (the Companions) asked: Apostle of Allah, how can our blessing be submitted to you, when your body is decayed? He said: Allah has prohibited the earth from consuming the bodies of the Prophets. [Sunan Ibn Maja Volume 001: Hadith Number 1626:] www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) died on the same day. Why his death is not mourned on 12th Rabi Al Awwal? ْ‫ َما ِمن‬: ‫س ْو َل اﷲِ صلي هللا عليه وآله وسلم قَا َل‬ ُ ‫َعنْ أَبِي ُه َر ْي َرةَ رضي هللا عنه أَنَّ َر‬ ‫س َال َم‬ َّ ‫ َحتَّي أَ ُر َّد َعلَ ْي ِه ال‬،‫سلِّ ُم َعلَ َّي إِ َّال َر َّد اﷲُ َعلَ َّي ُر ْو ِحي‬ َ ُ‫أَ َح ٍد ي‬ Narated By AbuHurayrah: The Prophet (‫ )صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: If any one of you greets me, Allah returns my soul to me and I respond to the greeting. [Abu Dawud Book 004, Hadith Number 2036:]. Imam Jalal ud-din Suyuti (rah) said: The word "radda" means àla al-dawam," i.e. permanently, and not temporarily: in other words, Allah does not return the Ruh and take it back, then return it again and then take it back again, but He returned it to the Prophet permanently, and the Prophet is alive permanently. [AlHawi lil Fatawi, Vol.2, Page No.271-272]Imam al-Nawawi (rah) says of this hadith: ‫بإسناد صحيح‬ ‫ َدا ُو َد‬and ‫[ َر َواهُ أبُو‬Riyadh us Saliheen21 www.iscc.ca www.jamatahlesunnat.ca 1/255. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) died on the same day. Why his death is not mourned on 12th Rabi Al Awwal? ْ‫ َمن‬: ‫س ْو ُل اﷲِ صلي هللا عليه وآله وسلم‬ ُ ‫ قَا َل َر‬: ‫َع ِن ا ْب ِن ُع َم َر رضي اﷲ عنهما قَا َل‬ ‫ارنِي فِي َحيَاتِي‬ َ ‫َزا َر قَ ْب ِري بَ ْع ًد َم ْوتِي َک‬ َ ‫ان َک َمنْ َز‬ Narrated Abdullah Ibn Umar (RA): Allah's Messenger ( ‫صلى هللا عليه‬ ‫ )وسلم‬said: Whoever visits my grave after my death it is same he has visited me in my life. [Tibrani Volume 012: Hadith Number 406, Bayhaqi Shab ul Iman Volume 003: Hadith Number 489]

Therefore for a believer (Mo’min) Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is NOT dead. He is alive in his grave. He listens our Darood and Salam and responds to them. He lives in our Faith (Emaan). His Mercy is with us. Why should we mourn him? We www.iscc.ca and 22 are Muslim not Kafir. www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


Did the Companions (Sahabah) Celebrate Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him)?

The honourable Companions (Sahaba) of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) celebrated the birth and the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) every moment of their lives. Their sitting in the company of Prophet, seeing him, listening to him, praying behind him, talking to him, traveling with him, imitating him was their way of celebrating the Milad Sharif. Today’s Muslims (including those who appose Eid Milad un Nabi ) do not live like Sahabah. Therefore, we all need to be reminded again and again about the honours, the life and the message of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) is an occasion that reminds us the honours and life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).



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Did the Companions (Sahabah) OR Early Imams Celebrate Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him)? Yes, they celebrated the Milad Sharif. The only difference between their celebration and our celebration is that they celebrated everyday and every moment but we celebrate on occasions and events. If we live like Sahaba in all aspects of our lives then we would be celebrating Milad Sharif everyday. Our life style has become very different than Sahabah’s life style. We organize programs on certain occasions and events. In today’s world occasions and events are held for education and awareness. Even those who call Eid Milad un Nabi a Bid’a, they also organize programs and events which were never existed during the time of Nabi Alaihissalam and neither during the time of Companions and early Imams (May Allah be pleased with them). In some cases those events and programs never existed in the history of Muslims until recently. Lets review some of the Bid’a of those who call Eid Milad un Nabi a Bid’a. www.iscc.ca and 24 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca Continue Next Slide www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

Following practices were never carried out by Prophet nor his Companions. Why these practices are not called Bid’a? Bid’a Number 1 The only worldwide gathering of Muslims commanded by Allah and practiced by Prophet Muhammad and his companions (Peace be upon them) is Hajj. There is NO other international (worldwide) gathering of Muslims in Islam. In Pakistan and Bangladesh the annual “Tablighi Ijtima” attracts more Muslims than Hajj. When did the Prophet (Peace be upon him) OR his companions OR Muslim scholars organize the worldwide gatherings of Muslims in the name of Tableegh? Worldwide Tableeghi Ijtima was started few decades ago by the founder of the Tablighi Jama’t in India, Maulana Ilyas Gujrati. But Eid Milad un Nabi has 13 hundred years of history. Just like Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him), the Tableeghi Ijtima’ has a fixed annual date. People participate, pray and learn Islam in both gatherings. Why Tableeghi Ijtima www.iscc.ca and 25 is not a Bid’a but Eid Milad un Nabi is Bid’a? www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 2 In Pakistan (1970s) former Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto invited the Imam of Ka'ba to visit Pakistan. When Imam Ka'ba, a fierce opponent of Eid-Milad-un-Nabi, came Pakistan Muslims abandoned mosques and prayed Friday prayers in large stadiums behind him. Was there any precedence in Islam for such gatherings? Prophet (peace upon him) and his companions (Peace be upon them) never did such a thing. Never happened before in the history of Muslims that Muslims emptied mosques and prayed behind an Imam because he came from Saudi Arabia? That was definitely a new thing. It was a big Bid'a? Why no Fatwa was issued against the Imam of Ka’ba and all those who prayed behind www.iscc.ca and 26 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca him? www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 3 The scholars, Ulema and students of Dar-ul-Aloom Deoband (one of the oldest Islamic universities in India) celebrated the 100th anniversaries of the Dar Al Aloom Deoband. The 100th birthday of Dar-ul Aloom Deoband was celebrated under the leadership of a Hindu Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi. Did Prophet or his companions ever celebrate the anniversary of Masjid Al Quba, Masjid Al Nabawi, etc.? Talk about inviting a "Mushrikah" (pagan) to preside over the gathering of Ulema-eIslam. Wasn't that a Bid'a? It is obvious that the haters of Eid Milad un Nabi have more love and respect for their Dar Al Aloom and pagans than thewww.iscc.ca birthdayandof Prophet of Islam (Peace 27 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca be upon him). www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 4 Few years ago in UK, the Ahl-e-Hadith party held TOWHEEDO-SUNNAT conference and invited Imam Ka'ba and many other scholars. They do this every year. Did Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) or his noble companions (Peace be upon them) ever organized a program called TOWHEED-O-SUNNAT Conference and traveled to speak at a conference? Why Towheed-o-Sunnat conference can not be declared Bid’a? The Salafis (self appointed Ahle Hadith) commit more Bid’a and deny more Hadith than any other sect within Islam. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 5 On international political, economical, social issues Muslims organize rallies and processions. On religious issues and conflicts Muslims take out rallies and strikes. These rallies, processions and strikes are also organized by those who call Eid Milad un Nabi a Bid’a. Did Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), his companions OR the noble scholars of Islam ever took out rallies and banners and shouting slogans, burning flags, etc.. Aren’t these rallies Bid'a? The haters of Eid Milad un Nabi invite Muslims to attend their rallies. They say,” taking part in these rallies is Jihad and participants will be rewarded by Allah”. But if a rally to create awareness about our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) is www.iscc.ca and 29 organized, it becomes Bid’a. What a shame! www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 6 During 1970 elections in Pakistan Jamat Islami took out major processions in the name of Youm-e-Shawkat-e-Islam. This name itself undermines the religion of Islam. Everyday is Youm-eShawkat-e-Islam not when Jamat Islami contests elections. When did the Prophet and his companions organize Youm-e-Shawkat-eIslam? Wasn't that Bid'a? Did anybody issue Fatwa against those large processions? They were all done in the name of Islam. People were expected to get rewards from Allah for their contribution and participation. But participation in the procession of Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) is called Bid’a by the same people? No wonder thewww.iscc.ca followers of Abdullah Ibn Obai do and 30 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca exist in our times too. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 7 Saudi Arabia does celebrate Youm-ul-Watani (National Day of Saudi Arabia). Television stations telecast special programs, newspapers print special editions and private companies give their employees a day off. I have never seen any Saudi scholar’s fatwa against the celebration of Saudi National Day. But they are very quick in giving Fatwa against Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi. Did Prophet (Peace be upon him) OR his companions (May Allah be pleased with them) ever celebrated the establishment of the Islamic state of Madinah? Why the celebration of Saudi National Day this is not a Bid’a? www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 8

In North America, ISNA, ICNA, CAIR and many other Muslim organizations organize their annual conventions. In most cases people have to purchase tickets to listen to the speeches of various scholars. Isn't this entire setup a Bid'a? When did Prophet (Peace be upon him) OR his companions (Peace be upon them) OR scholars of Islam organize such conventions? Why people have to pay in order to listen to the speeches of the scholars of Islam? Where is the basis for this? Did Prophet (Peace be upon him) charge fee for his speeches? Any companion of the Prophet ever asked people to pay for a good cause first before he would deliver his speech? Off course not. Those noble people never did such things but it’s OK for the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi. Indeed, it’s a major Bid’a but they won’t call it Bid’a; otherwise, www.iscc.ca and 32 they have to close their shops. www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 9 The very concept of forming organizations such as Jama't Ahl-eHadith, Party of Salafis, Jama't Islami, WAMY, Rabita Aalm-eIslami, ISNA, ICNA, CAIR is a Bid'a. Neither Prophet nor his companions (Peace be upon them) ever formed organizations and named them. The only name for worldwide Muslim body is "Muslims". Only Allah divides people into tribes and nations for identification. These opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam) have divided the Ummah. What a worse Bid’a they have committed?



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The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 10 A Pakistani woman (Farhat Hashmi) who has now moved to Canada but still operates in Pakistan considers herself a scholar of Islam. She gives fatwa not only against Eid-Milad-un-Nabi but against many other Islamic traditions such as Qur’an Khawani, etc. I have a simple questions for Ms. Farhat Hashmi and her followers. Which female companions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) formed organizations like yours? Did any female companion of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) ever travelled for Tabligh. Where in the Qur’an OR Hadith OR in the tradition of Sahabah large female gatherings of Tabligh were held? Why a gathering of Milad Sharif is a bid’a and Ms. Hashmi’s innovations are not Bid’a? Did Hazrat Aisha or any other female companions of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) ever 34 www.iscc.ca and organized gatherings like www.iscc.ca Farhat Hashmi does? Never. www.jamatahlesunnat.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 11 When Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) , it was not divided in thirty volumes. Neither Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) nor his noble companions divided Qur’an into thirty volumes (siparah). Qur’an was divided into thirty volumes by the rulers and the scholars hundreds of years later for the convenience of HUFFAAZ (memorizers of the holy Qur’an). It helped HUFFAAZ in managing the recitation of the holy Qur’an in Taraweeh prayers in Ramadan. This new setup of Qur’an is not considered Bid’a but remembering the prophet in a gathering called Eid Milad un Nabi is considered Bid’a. Why? www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 12 There were no Rukoo mentioned in the Qur’an during the time of Prophet and his Companions. These Rukoo were added in Qur’an by the rulers and the scholars hundreds of years later to help Imams and HUFFAAZ in memorizing the verses of the Qur’an and provide better organization and management for reading Qur’an in regular daily prayers and Taraweeh prayers of Ramadan. Have you ever seen a Fatwa against making Rukoo in Qur’an?



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The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 13 During the time of Prophet (peace be upon him) there were no A’RAAB (Fatha/Kasrah/Dhamma / Zabar Zer Pesh) in the holy Qur’an. These were added in Qur’an by the command of a very ruthless and cruel Muslim ruler, Hajjaj Bin Yousuf. The A’RAAB were inserted in the Qur’an in order to help non-Arabs to read Qur’an correctly. Today, Arabs and non-Arabs both depend on these A’RAAB in order to read Qur’an correctly. These A’RAAB were an innovation. But if this innovation is removed from the Qur’an, the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) would not be able to read Qur’an correctly. They need A’raab in Qur’an which is an innovation in Qur’an but they do not want to organize the gatherings of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him). Does it make any sense? www.iscc.ca and 37 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 14 Today, in North America Muslim associations organize fundraising dinners for mosques, Islamic schools or for humanitarian purposes. They sell tickets and invite speakers. When Prophet or his companions (Peace be upon them) raised funds through fundraising dinners? When Prophet or his companions (Peace be upon them) sold $5, $25, $100, etc. food plates for a good cause. Isn't this all Bid'a? They organize these fundraising dinners which benefits them but the celebration of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) hurts them. An Urdu poet wrote; HAM AAH BHEE KARTAY HAIN TO HOJATAY HAIN BADNAAM WHO QATL BHEE KARDAYN TO CHARCHA NAHEE HOTA

Translation: If I just say “ouch” when pained I get defamed www.iscc.ca and 38 And they commit murders but no one objects to them www.jamatahlesunnat.ca www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Continue from the previous slide If celebrating the birthday of Prophet (peace upon him) is an innovation (Bid’a) because neither Prophet (peace upon him), nor his companions ever celebrated Prophet’s birthday, then why all other Bid’a (innovations) created by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi are not condemned? Why Salafis, Wahabees, Deobandis, Pervaizees, etc.. are practicing those Bid’a? Their Bid’a has no justification. Eid Milad un Nabi has basis in Qur’an, Hadith and in the Ijma’ of scholars.



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The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 15

Those who have visited the Rowdha-tun-Nabi (Peace be upon him) in Masjid Al Nabawi, Madinah Al Munawwarah, they know that the Saudi Imams (Mutawwas) do not allow anyone to raise hands in du’a while facing the Rowdha Sharif, Qabr Sharif of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Saudi Imams (Mutawwa) get very upset and force people to turn their backs towards Rowdha Sharif and face Qiblah during the Du’a. However, there is no verse in the Qur’an, neither in any Hadith, nor any Sahabi ever believed that for making Du’a one must face Qiblah. This is the Bid’a started recently by the Wahabi / Salafi Imams in the holy mosque. In the history of Islam no one was ever forced to turn towards Qiblah for du’a while standing in front of the Rowdah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). www.iscc.ca and 40 This is a recent start by www.jamatahlesunnat.ca Saudi Mutawwas. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 16 Rallies & Protests: Whenever there is an issue regarding Islam OR Muslim communities, Muslims take out rallies and protests. For example on the issue of Al Quds, Palestine, discrimination against Muslims in countries, etc.. Muslims organize rallies and protests. Did Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) OR his Companions ever organized such rallies and protests? Did the make banners? For example, when a KAFIR burns Qur’an OR publishes the cartoons of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) every Muslim protested and participated in rallies which we believe was a good thing but we also know that neither Prophet (Peace be upon him) nor his companions (May Allah be pleased with them) EVER took out such rallies and protests? Why people do not ask justification of such rallies in the Shari’a but they ask justification for Eid Milad un Nabi? If both are innovations www.iscc.ca why oneandis ok and the other is not ok? 41 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 17 Youm-e-Siddiq Akber and Youm-e-Farooq-e-Azam (May Allah be pleased with them). The biggest opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi who are Salafis, Wahabis and Deobandis every year organize large gatherings and processions on the death / martyrdom anniversaries of Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Umar Farooq (May Allah be pleased with them) in Pakistan and wherever they live. Is there any evidence of such gatherings and processions in the Qur’an, Hadith OR in the life of Sahaba? Such gatherings and processions were NEVER organized by Muslims but people do now. Why people do not ask justification of such gatherings and processions in the Shari’a but they ask justification for Eid Milad un Nabi? If both are innovations why one is ok and the other is not ok? www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 18 In Pakistan almost all Islamic parties invite people to participate in rallies in order to put pressure on the government to implement Islamic laws in Pakistan. People who participate in such rallies expect and Ulema give them assurances that Allah will reward them for their participation in such rallies. People participate in these rallies as it is a requirement of faith. Did Prophet Muhammad (peace upon him) OR his Companions ever took out rallies for the implementation of Islamic Shari’a OR they ever asked coming Muslims to take out rallies for Islam? There was no such concept during their time. But people invented this way because this is the way things workout today. If this innovation for Islam is permissible why Eid Milad un Nabi www.iscc.ca and 43 (Peace be upon him) is not permissible? www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Bid’a Number 19 (the most desirable Bid’a)

In Islam, for a Muslim, moving to a non-Muslim country from a Muslim country is allowed in three situations only. 1) When a Muslim is persecuted in his/her own Muslim country and facing dangers to his/her life. 2) When a Muslim wants to preach Islam in a non-Muslim country. In other words, you have to be a Muslim Missionary in order to settle in a non-Muslim country. 3) When a Muslim wants to get education which is not available in a Muslim country. Islam does not allow Muslims to leave Muslim countries and settle in non-Muslim countries except under the above mentioned three conditions. Neither Prophet (peace be upon him), nor any companion of Prophet (peace be upon him) migrated to non-Muslim countries for “better economic opportunities”. They migrated to non-Muslim countries the above mentioned 44three www.iscc.caunder and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca situations ONLY. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

The Bid’a (distortion) Committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) Continue from the previous slide However, one of the most widespread and desirable Bid’a committed by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) is to move western countries in order to find better life in the non-Muslim countries. In fact, the immigration to non-Muslim countries by the Muslims is so desirable and desperate Bid’a that Muslims pray to Allah to help them in committing this Bid’a. But from the same mouth some of them call Eid Milad un Nabi a Bid’a. What could be worse than this hypocrisy? Allah knows all hypocrites very well. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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The Biggest Deception • One of the biggest misconceptions of our time is that the Muslims look at the Imams and the clergy of Makkah and Madinah as the true and correct scholars of Islam. They believe whatever the Imams of Masjid Al Haraam and Masjid Al Nabawi Sharif say, “can not be wrong”. They are the Imams of the Holiest Mosques in the entire world. Since these Imams do call Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) a Bid’a; therefore, it must be a Bid’a. The Mufti of Saudi Arabia must be the most knowledgeable scholar. His Fatwa should be the most authentic. If this is the standard then let me draw your attention towards history. • During Fatimid period of history of Islam for almost two centuries, the grand Mufti and the main Imams of Masjid Al Haraam and Masjid Al Nabawi were Shi’a. If you would have been born during that time and if you were a Sunni Muslim would you have accepted their Fatwa? They were the Imams of Ka’ba and Masjid Al Nabawi Sharif. Continue Next Slide www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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The Biggest Deception •Ottomans (Sultanat-e-Usmania) ruled Makkah and Madinah and the most of the Muslim world for seven centuries. For seven centuries the Imams of Masjid Al Haraam and Masjid Al Nabawi Sharif used to organize, celebrate and lead the celebrations of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him). Eid Milad un Nabi has always been celebrated throughout the Arabian peninsula before becoming Saudi Arabia including Masjid Al Haraam and Masjid Al Nabawi Sharif. Please refer to earlier slides.

•In fact, the largest gathering of Eid Milad un Nabi (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam) used to be held in Masjid Al Haraam in Makkah. This practice was stopped after the WAHABI revolution in Saudi Arabia. If you would have been born during the Ottoman Empire, you would have seen the biggest celebration of Milad Sharif in Haram Al Makki and Madani. www.iscc.ca and 47 www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


The Biggest Deception • One of the most deceiving arguments presented by the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam) is that the National Days, formation of organizations and contesting elections are the matters of this world (Dunya). They are not part of the Sharia of Islam but those who celebrate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) they do it as a part of Islam and the Islamic Sharia. Therefore, Eid Milad un Nabi is Bid’a because Prophet did not make it a part of Islam. What a strange, deceiving and un-Islamic argument is this? – Holy Qur’an says; O believers enter into Islam completely and do not follow the footsteps of Shaitan, surely he is your clear-cut enemy. (Surah Al-Baqara, Ayah 208).

Continue on next slide www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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The Biggest Deception

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• It means for a believer there is not a single moment in life that can be outside of Islam OR Islamic Shari’a. We Muslim believe that all actions of a believer such as work, family time, sitting with friends, husband-wife relationships, sleeping, even exercising and playing are all part of Ibadah (worshipping of Allah) as long as the believer does it for the sake of Allah. – Qur’an says, “Say: Surely my prayer and my sacrifice and my life and my death are (all) for Allah, the Lord of the worlds” (The Cattle 6.162).

• It means for a Muslim every worldly or non-worldly deed must be for Allah. Does this mean that when the haters of Eid Milad un Nabi carryout their “worldly deeds” they do it for their own sake, not for Allah. Moreover, they consider all their actions (listed in earlier slides) to be rewarded by Allah. If their Bid’a are rewarded by Allah why Eid Milad www.iscc.ca 49 un Nabi will not be rewarded byandAllah? www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


The Biggest Deception

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• The ONLY reason we can find for the apposition of Eid Milad un Nabi (peace be upon him) is the hidden jealousy and animosity for Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and for his progeny. They do call themselves Muslims but, in fact, they are Khawrjees disguised as Muslims. Salafism, Wahabism, Qadyanism, Deobandism, Pervaizism, etc. are all modern forms of Khawarijism. If you can not separate Khawrji beliefs from Islamic beliefs, you need to sit down with someone who can explain this. We will be more than happy to help you. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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Conclusion • We MUST not deviate from our noble traditions if the governments change. Our traditions are based upon the holy Qur’an, the noble Sunnah of our Prophet (Peace be upon him) and the “Ijma” (consensus) of scholars of Islam. If the government in Saudi Arabia changes today then what happens to the opponents of Eid Milad un Nabi? Will they start celebrating? • Eid Milad un Nabi unites Muslims and the denial of Eid Milad un Nabi divides Muslims. The proof is in the 1300 years of Muslim history. When Muslims were together in celebrating the noble birthday of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), they were all united but when they started debating the permissibility of Eid Milad un Nabi, they got divided. It is not the celebration of Eid Milad un Nabi that divides Muslims. It is the denial of the Eid Milad un Nabi that divides Muslims. May Allah save us from misguidance. Ameen. www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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With the power of love raise every weak to the highest strength Enlighten the entire world with Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) name.

MUHAMMED May Peace and Blessings of Allah Be Upon Him “O Prophet (Muhammad)! Verily, We have sent you as witness, and a bearer of glad tidings, and a warner” Labbaika Ya Rasool ullah

Quwwat-e-Ishq Say Her Past Ko Balaa Karday Dehr Mayn Ism-e-Muhammad Say Ujala Karday www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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Thank you Please share it with others With prayers Prof. Imam Syed B. Soharwardy [email protected] Phone: 403-831-6330 OR 416-994-5467 Founder: Islamic Supreme Council of Canada www.iscc.ca and www.iscc.ca www.jamatahlesunnat.ca

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More Resources Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) MUBARAK Please read more articles and Fatawa from major Islamic institutions and scholars about the permissibility of Eid-Milad-un-Nabi (Peace be upon him) • http://islamicsupremecouncil.com/milad-un-nabi.htm Fatwa by Imam Jalaluddin Sayuti (May Allah be pleased with him) • http://islamicsupremecouncil.com/suyuti.htm. In refutation of the Fatwa of Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Baaz of Saudi Arabia • http://www.islamicsupremecouncil.com/fatwabinbaz.htm. Fatwa from Darul Ifta’ of United Arab Emirates, Dubai • http://www.islamicsupremecouncil.com/eidmilad-fatwa-dawa-irshad-dubai.htm Imam Zaid Shakir's Article on "The Blessed Mawlid" • http://www.zaytuna.org/seasonsjournal/seasons6/2-4Final_Mawlid.pdf Mawlid un Nabi: Conservative view http://www.nfie.com/mawlid2.htm Abdul Hakim Murad's Lecture on Mawlid and why it is being neglected in West http://www.halaltube.com/abdal-hakim-murad-supersession-and-intersession-of-mawlid Shaykh Sayyid Muhammad Al-Alawi Al-Maliki's lecture on Mawlid http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wi_78LzuIGE Fatwa from Dr. Yousuf Al Qaradhawi • http://www.islamicsupremecouncil.com/qaradhawi.htm A speech by Maulana Abul A’la Maudoodi on Eid Milad un Nabi (Peace be upon him) • http://www.islamicsupremecouncil.com/eidmeelad-maudoodi.htm A great article by Hazrat Allama Mufti Ahmed Yar Khan Sahib on Bid’a • http://www.islamicsupremecouncil.com/bid'a2.htm www.iscc.ca and www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


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For Salafis, Wahabis and Deobandis, who is more honourable? Muhammad (Peace be upon him) OR Someone Else? Why kissing this photo is permissible?

Why kissing the Holy Golden Grill (Rawdha AlSharif) of Prophet Muhammad is not permissible?

The reason is clear. The animosity for Nabi ( www.iscc.ca and their hearts but they won’t admit openly. www.jamatahlesunnat.ca


) is deep in 55