He said Maulud should serve as a period for Muslims to reflect deeply on the Prophet’s life, conduct and teachings, rather than being limited to ceremonies and celebrations.
By Moses Okorie
A Kano-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ibrahim Isah-Makwarari, has called on Muslims to look beyond the celebration of Maulud and incorporate the teachings and exemplary life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) into their everyday activities.
Isah-Makwarari made the appeal in Kano on Tuesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during activities marking Maulud, popularly referred to as “Takutaha” in the state.
The cleric urged Muslims to uphold the virtues demonstrated by the Prophet, including tolerance, humility, peaceful coexistence, love, sacrifice and respect for others.
He said Maulud should serve as a period for Muslims to reflect deeply on the Prophet’s life, conduct and teachings, rather than being limited to ceremonies and celebrations.
NAN reports that Takutaha is observed on the 19th day of Rabi’u al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar, as part of activities commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The occasion is usually marked with Islamic lectures, visits, Qur’anic recitation, prayers and “Zikr”, or remembrance of Allah, in honor of the Prophet.
Isah-Makwarari explained that Muslims in Kano traditionally move around different parts of the city during the occasion, offering prayers and praising Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
He noted that the annual observance provided an important opportunity for Muslims to study and reflect on the Prophet’s character and the guidance he offered humanity.
According to him, the essence of Maulud is to show appreciation to Almighty Allah for sending Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as a guide to humanity on what is permissible and what is prohibited.
He therefore encouraged Muslims to demonstrate the lessons of the Prophet through their behavior and relationships with others, stressing that the values associated with Maulud should continue to influence their lives beyond the celebration.