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The Celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday: Its Importance to Moroccans and the Traditions of Figuig
For centuries, Moroccans have celebrated the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), attaching special significance to this religious occasion, which has become one of the most important annual celebrations in Morocco. This blessed day serves as an opportunity to exalt the Prophet, recalling his virtues and wisdom. It is also a moment to strengthen the spiritual bonds that unite Moroccans with the prophetic mission.
Muslims around the world commemorate the Prophet’s birthday, but in Morocco, the celebration takes on a unique character enriched by ancient traditions that reflect the country’s rich religious and cultural history. Government institutions and offices close for two days to allow everyone to participate in this significant event, giving it an importance comparable to that of the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
The earliest celebrations of the Prophet’s birthday in Morocco date back to 1250 CE, during the reign of the Almohad caliph Al-Murtada, who organized a festive evening in Marrakech. This practice quickly became an integral part of Moroccan traditions, with celebrations spreading across cities and villages, marked by religious nights dedicated to the recitation of the Quran and poems praising the Prophet, such as the famous poem “Al-Burdah” composed by Imam Al- Boussayri.
The celebration of the Prophet’s birthday is also linked to ancient Ottoman traditions that have spread to Morocco, like the “Candle Procession” that departs from the shrine of Sidi Abdullah Ben Hassoun in Salé. This tradition, inspired by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour from the Ottoman city of Istanbul, has now evolved into a festival that parades through the streets, accompanied by religious chants and folk celebrations.
With the arrival of the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal each year, Moroccans begin preparations to celebrate the birth of the best of mankind. These celebrations are filled with joy and piety, as mosques and zāwiyas are adorned with lights and religious songs resound in the streets and homes. This occasion presents an opportunity to reflect on the life of the Prophet and to apply his teachings in daily life, while also drawing closer to God through prayer and supplication
Figuig’s Traditions in Celebrating the Prophet’s Birthday
In the city of Figuig, located in eastern Morocco, the anniversary of the Prophet holds special significance and is marked by ancient celebratory rituals passed down through generations. These celebrations are preceded by home preparations, where families clean their houses and perfume them with premium incense, which symbolizes purity and spirituality. The incense is used to fragrance homes and mosques, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and inner peace.
On the morning of the Prophet’s birthday, the residents of Figuig wake up before dawn to perform the Fajr prayer, then gather to recite praises and engage in communal dhikr in mosques and zāwiyas. The poems “Al-Burdah” and “Al-Hamziyya” by Imam Al-Boussayri are among the most frequently recited during this occasion, often sung by both young and old in love and reverence for the beloved Prophet. Traditional new clothing is worn on this day, with families making an effort to dress in their finest, particularly for children, who are often given new outfits specifically prepared for this event.
Traditional dishes also play a significant role in the celebrations of Figuig. Among the foods prepared is “’Aṣīda,” a traditional Moroccan dish enjoyed during special occasions such as the Prophet’s birthday. Along with the ’Aṣīda, popular sweets based primarily on honey, which symbolizes purity and spiritual sweetness, are also served.
The celebrations in Figuig additionally involve visits to zāwiyas, where people gather to recite prayers and invocations. These visits are believed to carry blessings, bringing goodness and prosperity to the visitors. Moreover, lighting incense in homes and mosques is a fundamental tradition during these festivities, as the scent of oud permeates the air, adding a spiritual and beautiful touch to the occasion.
