ON THE DAY of Al-Ahzab, the Messenger ﷺ instructed the sahabah: “None of you should offer the ‘Asr prayer except at Banu Qurayza’s place.” As the time for ‘Asr approached, some companions found themselves on the way. They differed in how to interpret the Prophet’s ﷺ words.
One group said, “We will not pray until we reach Banu Qurayza,” taking the command literally and delaying the prayer—even if it meant missing the proper time. To them, the Prophet’s ﷺ words were to be obeyed precisely.
The other group reasoned that the instruction was meant to convey urgency, but not to delay the prayer past its time. So, they prayed on the way before continuing to Banu Qurayza.
When the incident was brought to the Prophet ﷺ, he did not criticise either group.
This hadith is profound. It shows that there is space for legitimate differences of opinion in our Deen. It also highlights a reason why differences arise.
One group took the Prophet’s ﷺ words literally, emphasising strict obedience to the letter of the law.
The other group sought to understand the intended meaning, considering the broader purpose behind the instruction, ie to consider the spirit of the law.
The Echo of This Difference Today
We see this same pattern of difference play out today—especially around topics like Mawlid (the celebration of the Messenger’s ﷺ birth).
Every year in Rabi’ al-Awwal, Muslims—especially in diverse communities in the West—find themselves at odds over this issue.
Just like at the time of the Prophet ﷺ, we have literalists who believe that celebrating the Prophet’s ﷺ birthday is a bid‘ah (innovation), since neither the Prophet ﷺ nor the Companions did so. They quote the hadith: “Whoever introduces into this matter of ours that which is not from it—it is rejected.” (Bukhari)
For them, introducing new forms of religious celebration is a deviation from authentic Islamic practice.
Others view the Mawlid as a means of expressing love for the Prophet ﷺ. They argue that remembering his life, teachings, and character is not an innovation in itself—provided it’s done within the bounds of Shari‘ah.
They may refer to the idea of “good innovation” (bid‘ah ḥasanah) and cite examples like Abu Bakr (ra) compiling the Qur’an into one book or Umar al Khattab (ra) organising taraweeh in congregation or using minarets for the adhan or adding tashkil (dots and vowel sounds) to the Quranic text, etc.
These were not done during the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime but were later accepted for their religious benefit.
Obviously, there are caveats and concerns about excess and cultural distortions. While Mawlid itself may not be wrong, its practice can be problematic. Many scholars who support Mawlid caution against excessive praise that resembles deification, fabricated stories, weak narrations, and un-Islamic activities like music, dancing, or mixed gatherings.
The debate is not about loving the Prophet ﷺ; it’s about how that love is shown and if certain ways of celebrating are allowed in Islam.
This tension—between scriptural literalism and reasoning/interpretation—is a recurring theme throughout Islamic history and fiqh.
Living the Messenger’s ﷺ Message Today
Regardless of where one stands on such debates, there’s something deeper to reflect on.
As mentioned in a previous post, loving the Prophet ﷺ isn’t just about rituals and outward appearance—it’s about following him, supporting his message and mission, and making his example relevant today. We don’t have the time or luxury to argue endlessly and tear each other apart.
Ask yourself: If the Prophet ﷺ were here today, witnessing Gaza, what would he do?
Abdullah ibn Umar (RA) reported: “I saw the Messenger of Allah ﷺ circling the Ka’bah and saying: ‘How pure you are, and how pure is your fragrance! How great you are, and how great is your sanctity! But by the One in Whose hand is the soul of Muhammad, the sanctity of the believer is greater to Allah than your sanctity—in his wealth, his life, and assuming nothing of him but good.’” (Ibn Mājah)
Are we truly living that message? Are we valuing the life, dignity, and sanctity of our fellow believers more than anything else? Are we embodying the Prophet’s ﷺ compassion, his justice, his urgency in responding to oppression and suffering?
Whether you support Mawlid or not, let’s not lose sight of the bigger picture: Our love for the Prophet ﷺ must translate into the right action, relevance, and service.
Let’s keep the focus not just on how we love him—but on how we live him.
Living For Islam 