As Muslims mark Prophet’s BirthdayProphet Mohammed epitomized tolerance and Justiec [Archives:2006/936/Culture]

Today, Monday 12 of Rabee' Awal, 1427 AH, 10 April, 2005, coincides with the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh). In Yemen, many functions were organized in different cities such as Say'oon and Sana'a in praise of the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh).

This year's celebration comes in the aftermaths of the Prophet cartoon crisis triggered by Danish newspaper Jylland Posten.

It is still a debatable issue whether to mark this day. However, the mainstream Muslims think that the day should be commemorated by offering charities and performing optional good works. It is also a great opportunity to seize the opportunity to educate ourselves and others about the great benefactor, the Messenger of Mercy and express love for him by following his footsteps.

Celebrating the great life of the Prophet (pbuh) will go a long way in uniting Muslims on the singular event that all of them will be proud of. So there is indeed a great benefit in these times when Muslims are in need of a unifying event in their history. There is nothing more significant for us and humanity than the coming of the mercy

The Prophet's tolerance with people around him:

Throughout his life, the Prophet showed an interest in each and every one, warned them about their mistakes and failings, and tried to educate them in all matters, from cleanliness to matters of faith. That compassionate, tolerant, understanding and patient attitude of his was the means by which many peoples' hearts warmed to Islam and developed a genuine love for the Prophet (pbuh). Allah describes this pleasing attitude adopted by the Prophet (pbuh) towards those around him in the Qur'an:

It is a mercy from Allah that you were gentle with them. If you had been rough or hard of heart, they would have scattered from around you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them (Surah Al 'Imran: 159)

In another verse, Allah told the Prophet (pbuh) how he should behave towards those around him:

We know best what they say. You are not a dictator over them. So remind, with the Qur'an, whoever fears My Threat. (Surah Qaf: 45)

The Prophet (pbuh) never pressured those around him to accept the religion, nor imposed conditions on them. Instead he always used the pleasantest ways to tell them about it. He always supported the community of the faithful with his strong conscience, and was a benefactor to them at all times. On account of these traits, the Prophet (pbuh) is described in many verses as “your companion.”” (Surah Saba': 46: Surat an-Najm: 2