Global Celebrations Mark Birth Anniversary of Holy Prophet and Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq
The 17th of Rabi’ al-Awwal marks the start of a worldwide 10-day-long commemoration of the births of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his pure family) and Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (peace be upon him), with religious centers hosting festivities, prayers, and educational programs highlighting their messages of mercy, justice, and guidance.
Across the globe, Shia and other Muslim communities have begun the annual 10-day-period observances honoring the births of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his pure family) and Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (peace be upon him). Mosques, Husayniyyas, and religious centers are holding ceremonies featuring recitations, prayers, and devotional performances to celebrate the occasion and reinforce the teachings of the Messenger of God and Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).
According to Shia historical texts such as Bihar al-Anwar, Amali al-Saduq, and Hilyat al-Abrar, the birth of the Holy Prophet in 570 CE coincided with extraordinary signs, including a radiant light emanating from his forehead, the scent of musk, and natural phenomena perceived worldwide. Tradition holds that fourteen segments of the Iwan of Khosrow collapsed, the Lake of Saveh dried and turned to salt while its valley flowed with water, and the ever-burning fire temples of Persia extinguished on the night of his birth. The Prophet’s full name was Muhammad, his kunya Abu al-Qasim, his father Abdullah, and his mother Amina bint Wahb.
Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (peace be upon him), the sixth Shia Imam and the son of Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (peace be upon him) and Umm Farwah bint Qasim ibn Muhammad ibn Abu Bakr, was born on 17 Rabi’ al-Awwal, 83 A.H. He is honored with the kunya Abu Abdullah and the title “al-Sadiq,” reflecting his commitment to truthfulness and knowledge.
Global religious institutions, including offices associated with Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Sadiq Hussaini Shirazi, are coordinating events that range from spiritual lectures and religious education programs to communal prayers and celebratory gatherings. These initiatives aim to foster unity, reinforce Islamic identity, and impart the moral and spiritual lessons of the Prophet and Imam to younger generations.
