Q: Is it permissible for Muslims to celebrate the Mawlid (the Prophet's Birthday) in the Masjid (mosque) on the 12th of Rabi' AlAwwal? Note that we celebrate this event at night only without busying ourselves during the day to remember the Sirah (the Prophet's biography). However, when we disputed over this act, some said it is a good Bid`ah (innovation in religion) and others see it bad Bid`ah.
A: It is not for the Muslims to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet's or any one elses on the night of 12th of Rabi' AlAwwal, or on other day. Celebrating Birthdays of pious people is a Bid`ah. This is because the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) who conveyed the message of Allah and explained the principles of Shari`ah did not celebrate his birthday during his lifetime, or order anyone to do so. Nor did his Sahabah (Companions), the Rightly Guided Caliphs, or the Muslims of the earlier and best generations do so. This makes it absolutely clear that it is a Bid`ah.
Whoever introduces something into this affair of ours that is not of it, it is to be rejected.
Whoever performs an act which is not in accordance with our command, it is to be rejected.
Then, the best speech is that embodied in the Book of Allah and the best guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad. The most evil of affairs are their innovations; and every innovation leads to misguidance.
Instead of celebrating the Mawlid, the schools and Masjids should teach the reports of the Prophet's birth when delivering Sirah lessons. Muslims should know the life of the Prophet (peace be upon him) during Jahiliyyah (preIslamic time of ignorance) and Islam. Thus, there is no need to create an event that has not been prescribed by Allah or His Messenger (peace be upon him) and has no legal evidence to support it.
Allah is the one sought for help. May Allah grant all Muslims guidance and success in being cautious of Bid`ahs and abide by the Sunnah alone.