Facts you should know about Mawlid al-Nabi: the birth of Prophet Muhammad(ﷺ)

There has certainly come to you a Messenger from among yourselves. Grievous to him is what you suffer; [he is] concerned over you and to the believers he is kind and merciful.

Born in Mecca in 570 CE:

Prophet Muhammad(ﷺ) was born in the year 570 CE in the city of Mecca, a center of trade and culture at the time, during the month of Rabi' Al-Awal on Monday.

He belonged to the Quraysh tribe. After the loss of his parents at an early age, he was lovingly cared for first by his grandfather, Abd al-mutalib, and then by his uncle, Abu Talib.

Despite going through hardships and being an orphan, he worked hard and grew up known for his remarkable integrity in trading and beyond. He gained the title "Al-Amin," which means "the Trustworthy."

The Year of the Elephant:

Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, was born in the Year of the Elephant, around 570 CE.

This year is famous for a significant event. Abraha, a ruler from Yemen, attempted to destroy the Kaaba in Mecca with an army that included elephants. However, his plan was miraculously foiled when a flock of birds, sent by Allah, dropped stones that wiped out the army. This event is mentioned in the Quran, highlighting its importance in Islamic history.

Miracles at His Birth:

The birth of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was marked by several amazing signs that showed the importance of this event. Here are some of the miracles reported:

Extinguishing the Persian Fire: The Persians had a sacred fire that had been burning for a thousand years, which they worshiped. When the Prophet (ﷺ) was born, this fire went out, signaling the end of false worship and the start of something new.

The collapse of Royal Balconies: In the palace of the Persian king Kisra, fourteen balconies collapsed on the night of the Prophet(ﷺ)’s birth.

Drying of Lake Sa’wah: The large Lake Sa’wah, which was important to the people of the region that was known as a city of evil-doers, dried up completely when the Prophet (ﷺ) was born.

Falling of Idols: Around the Kaaba in Mecca, idols fell to the ground and could not be put back up. This signified the end of idol worship in Arabia and the beginning of a new era of monotheism.

Shaking of the Throne Arch: The throne arch of the Persian king, Kisra, shook when the Prophet (ﷺ) was born.

A radiant light: His mother, Aminah radiya-Allah-anha, experienced no typical pregnancy pains and dreamt of a radiant light.

These signs were seen as clear indications of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)’s important role and the coming of a new era of guidance.