‘Religious holiday an opportune time to spread teachings of Prophet Muhammad’
To Muslims, it is the birth of this great leader who preached and taught his followers fundamental human rights, abolished slavery, honored everyone irrespective of race, color, creed, ethnicity, and origin. Dr Khalid Mahmood
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is an opportune time for families to spread the message of love, empathy, sacrifice and religious harmony to society.
As the day reminds Muslim families of Prophet Muhammad’s teachings, devotee Dr. Khalid Mahmood said it is important to celebrate the birth of this great leader, reformer, and the savior.
Dr Mahmood is a Consultant Pediatrician and Assistant Professor at the College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences at the Fiji National University where he teaches MBBS and master’s students in Pediatrics.
He is originally from Pakistan but called Fiji home ss he has lived here for the past 16 years.
“I am thankful to be part of a multicultural community where we can celebrate these public holidays together as one nation,” he said.
He said Muslims commemorate this day as an historic event when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) came to this world, who they follow and keep very close to them heart.
“To Muslims, it is the birth of this great leader who preached and taught his followers fundamental human rights, abolished slavery, honored everyone irrespective of race, color, creed, ethnicity, and origin.
“He uplifted social status of women and gave them property and inheritance rights. He had not only preached but also set the standard by living his own life as per tenants of the Holy Book Quran,” said Dr Mahmood.
COVID ssfety protocols
This year, celebrations would be limited for Dr Mahmood and his family because of COVID-19 restrictions.
He said while restrictions have eased, it was equally important to continue practicing COVID safety protocols.
Dr Mahmood plans to celebrate Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday at home with his family.
Celebration plans
His plans will include starting the day with special prayers and recitations of the Holy Book Quran and the Hadith Books (the books having description of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) sayings and practices).
“On this special day, special food and sweets are usually made. This food will be shared with neighbors, nearby family members and the needy as per allowance under COVID-19 restrictions.
“Additionally, there will be a seminar at the Hexagon Complex and Event Center in Nausori organised by Fiji Muslim League where local religious scholars would highlight important
Consultant Pediatrician and Assistant Professor at the College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences at the Fiji National University
aspects of Prophet Muhammad ‘s (PBUH) life,” said Dr Mahmood.
While Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is an important event for the muslim community, Dr Mahmood urges families to get vaccinated.
He also urges families to also give back to the community by donating generously and help fellow Fijians.
He said in this time of great difficulty where many have lost their jobs and are struggling to put the food on table, it is important to extend a helping hand.
Dr Mahmood wishes all Muslim families Fiji a blessed Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday.