The miracles at the birth of the Prophet ﷺ are a favourite subject of Muslims who love him, but they must be told with care. This article separates what is established by the Qur’an and authentic Hadith from reports that scholars consider weak, so that our love for the Prophet ﷺ rests on sound knowledge.
The Year of the Elephant
The Prophet ﷺ was born in Makkah in the year that Abraha’s army came to destroy the Ka’bah, known as the Year of the Elephant. The Qur’an describes how Allah protected His House.
“Have you not considered how your Lord dealt with the companions of the elephant? Did He not make their plan go astray?”
Reference: Qur’an 105:1-2
Most historians, including Ibn Ishaq, place the birth in that year, and many say on a Monday in Rabi’ al-Awwal. The Prophet ﷺ was asked about fasting on Mondays and said: “That is the day on which I was born, and the day on which revelation came to me” (Sahih Muslim 1162).
Signs Mentioned in Reliable Sources
The Prophet ﷺ said: “I am the supplication of my father Ibrahim and the glad tidings of Isa, and my mother saw a light come out of her which lit the palaces of Syria” (Musnad Ahmad 17163, graded hasan by several scholars through its chains). The Qur’an also records the prayer of Ibrahim for a messenger from the descendants of Isma’il (Qur’an 2:129) and the glad tidings of Isa ؑ about a messenger named Ahmad (Qur’an 61:6).
Reports That Scholars Consider Weak
Many popular stories about the birth, such as the cracking of the palace of Kisra, the extinguishing of the Persian fire and the drying of Lake Sawa, appear in later books with weak chains, and several hadith scholars graded them as weak or unproven. A believer may mention them as historical narration with the note that they are not authentic proof, but he should not state them as certain facts. The Prophet ﷺ warned: “Whoever tells a lie about me deliberately, let him take his seat in the Fire” (Sahih al-Bukhari 110).
The Greatest Miracle of His Life
The Prophet’s greatest miracle is the Qur’an, which Allah has preserved (Qur’an 15:9). Allah also describes him as an orphan whom He sheltered and guided (Qur’an 93:6-7) and as a mercy to the worlds (Qur’an 21:107). His character is the best proof of his message: “You have in the Messenger of Allah an excellent example” (Qur’an 33:21).
Where Scholars Differ
Scholars differ on the exact date, with views of the 2nd, 8th, 9th or 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, and many astronomers and historians prefer the 9th. They also differ on holding a gathering for the Mawlid. Some scholars, such as Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqalani and al-Suyuti, permitted gatherings that consist of recitation, charity and remembrance of the Prophet’s biography. Others, including Ibn Taymiyyah and many later scholars, consider fixing an annual celebration an innovation, as it was not done by the Companions, though they stress love and respect for the Prophet ﷺ in every season. Both sides agree that one must not include forbidden acts or exaggerate his status beyond what Allah has stated (Sahih al-Bukhari 3445).
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Prophet ﷺ born?
In the Year of the Elephant, around 570 CE, on a Monday in Rabi’ al-Awwal.
Are the miracles at the birth of the Prophet all authentic?
No. Some are in reliable sources, and many popular reports are weak.
How can I show love for the Prophet ﷺ?
By following his Sunnah, sending blessings on him (Qur’an 33:56) and learning his life. Read about prophethood in Islam.
Conclusion
The miracles at the birth of the Prophet ﷺ remind us of Allah’s care for His final messenger, but we should rely only on sound narrations. Continue with the miraculous journeys of the Prophet’s life.
