Mawlid al-Nabi, also known as Milad un-Nabi, commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad and is observed by many Muslim communities around the world.
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Muslims regard Prophet Muhammad as the final prophet in a line of prophets that includes Abraham (Ibrahim), Moses (Musa) and Jesus (Isa). This reflects Islam’s place within the Abrahamic family of faiths, alongside Judaism and Christianity.
There is diversity within Muslim communities in how, and whether, Mawlid is observed. Some Muslims do not observe Mawlid as a religious occasion, while others regard it as an important opportunity to learn about and reflect on the Prophet Muhammad’s life, character and teachings. Many Sunni Muslims associate the occasion with 12 Rabi al-Awwal (26 August in 2026), in the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar, while many Shia Muslims commemorate the Prophet’s birth on 17 Rabi al-Awwal (31 August in 2026). As the Islamic calendar is lunar, Gregorian dates may vary according to local moon-sighting practices and the calendar followed by each community.
For Muslims who observe Mawlid, it is an opportunity to reflect on the life, teachings and example of the Prophet Muhammad. Practices vary across communities and cultures. In Australia, observances may include community or family gatherings, Qur’an recitation, prayers, talks about the Prophet’s life and character, devotional poetry or songs, children’s educational activities, charitable activities and shared meals. Some communities hold large gatherings in mosques or community spaces, while others observe the occasion privately at home or with family.
Recognising Mawlid in education settings provides an opportunity to acknowledge an important religious and cultural occasion for Muslim students and staff who observe it. It can also support inclusive and respectful education environments, promote understanding of the diversity of beliefs and practices within Muslim communities, and encourage reflection on values such as compassion, generosity, humility, service and community. Schools and education providers can support their communities by being aware of the different ways Mawlid may be observed, accommodating religious or community commitments where appropriate, and fostering respectful understanding of diversity within Muslim communities.