PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and First Lady Arya Ali along with other officials of the government are expected to attend the Anna Catherina Islamic Complex (ACIC), West Coast Demerara today in observance of Youman Nabi.

This was confirmed by Imam of Meten Meer Zorg (East) Masjid, Halim Khan.
Khan told the Guyana Chronicle that Muslims countrywide observe Eid Milad-un-Nabi or Youman Nabi to underscore the struggles for justice, peace and equality, while reflecting on the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad.

Most masjids the Imam explained organise Youman Nabi functions and deliberate on the importance of the Prophet’s message in today’s society.

The prophet’s message of peace, Khan added, is particularly relevant today as humility and kindness are needed in society.
Khan noted that over 1400 years ago, God Almighty sent Prophet Muhammad and in a period of 23 years, he was able to change the conditions of his society which were similar in almost every respect to the one Guyanese are currently living in.

“He did this with the message of the Quran and his beautiful conduct of living. Each year, Muslims all over the world celebrate with joy, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad and this celebration of the Prophet’s birthday is known to Muslims as Eid Milad un-Nabi or Youman Nabi,” Khan said.
Emphasising that generations of nations are preserved by the teachings of Muhammad, Khan said the establishment of progressive nations and successful people are a result of adherence to the guidance of Prophet Muhammad.

He explained that the earliest observation of the Prophet’s birth as a holy day was arranged privately, somewhere in the late 12th century.
“The only difference from before was that there was an increased number of visitors to the Mawlid house (Birthplace of the Prophet) that was open for the whole day specifically for this celebration. This particular event took place on Monday, Rabi’i, which is commonly known as the third month of the Islamic calendar that is associated with the beginning of spring,” he explained.

Further, he said the Holy Prophet preached mutual understanding, respect and compassion, kindness and love towards others.
“These virtues strengthen human relations and foster happy households, happy families and happy communities,” Khan underscored.