By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Türkiye is marking Mawlid al-Nabi, commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad, with religious programmes centred on his teachings on justice, compassion, unity and good character.

The occasion, known in Türkiye as Mevlid Kandili, will be observed from the evening of Monday, August 24, to the morning of August 25. This year’s commemoration marks what is described as the 1,501st anniversary of the Prophet’s birth and is being held under the theme, “Our Prophet and Good Morality.”

The Turkish Presidency of Religious Affairs is organising programmes in Türkiye and abroad as part of Mawlid al-Nabi Week. The activities include religious gatherings, commemorative events, sermons, and radio and television broadcasts highlighting the Prophet’s moral teachings.

Hüseyin Arı, an expert at the High Board of Religious Affairs, told Anadolu Agency that Mawlid has been observed by Muslim communities for centuries with devotion, gratitude and enthusiasm.

He noted that celebrations in Türkiye traditionally include recitations of Suleyman Celebi’s famous Mawlid poem, Vesiletü’n Necat (The Means of Salvation), alongside sermons and religious talks on the Prophet’s exemplary character.

According to Arı, Mawlid should not be seen simply as the remembrance of a historical event, but as an opportunity for Muslims to reflect on the principles and values taught by Prophet Muhammad.

He said the Prophet’s emphasis on justice, compassion and morality remains important in a world facing weakening social bonds, violence, anger and growing self-interest.

Arı also highlighted the Prophet’s teachings on Muslim unity and brotherhood, particularly in relation to people facing conflict and oppression around the world. He said Muslims can respond to such challenges by standing together around the Prophet’s teachings and moral values.

He stressed that good morality goes beyond personal behaviour, extending to family relationships, dealings with neighbours, professional conduct, social responsibility and interactions with people generally.

The Presidency of Religious Affairs said its Mawlid programmes are aimed at strengthening awareness of the close relationship between faith, worship and good character.

“Embracing the good morality of the Prophet and reestablishing the inseparable bond between faith, worship and morality is an unavoidable responsibility for Muslims,” Arı said.

He added that following Prophet Muhammad’s exemplary character can offer guidance in addressing the spiritual and moral challenges confronting people in the modern world.

Source: Daily Sabah