On Assembling to Celebrate and Rejoice over the Birth of the Greatest Messenger ﷺ, with a Discussion of Its Legal Proofs and the Arguments of Those Who Forbid It.
This is an excellent book showing the many proofs of celebrating the Mawlid. Shaykh Ninowy is exhaustive in refuting the mindless excuses of those who don't seem to understand that loving Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) deeply is an integral part of the religion. Highly recommended for anyone who likes this sort of thing.
This book is excellent. It takes the concept of innovation, and using the celebration of the birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family), explains the concept of innovation and clarifies the confusions many people face. Through multiple examples, from both the Qur'an and authentic Sunna, it takes a logical approach to proving the permissibility of the Mawlid. I always think logical and never take anything without seeing some proof. This book does a great job and uses an approach I enjoy, tackling arguments point by point with proof. If you take this book with an open heart, and without ignorance, there is no reason to still consider the Mawlid, along with some other innovations, as being bad. Just because something is an innovation, it does not mean it is bad. There can be good and bad innovations, as clarified in this book.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone looking to further their knowledge and get rid of confusions regarding Bid'a (innovation) in Islam. Keep in mind that this book's writing is a bit higher level so it may not be recommended for beginners, but those looking to really progress in their knowledge, this is a must read.
As always, I cannot do justice to this books writing with my short review. Additionally, disclaimer: I am a student of the author, Shaykh Dr. Muhammad b. Yahya.
Remember: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The seeking of knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim." - Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 74.
This book is separated in to two segments which discusses the religious legality of the Mawlid celebration and counter arguments for those who claim it to be a reprehensible innovation.
The first part contains the treaties written by Imam Jalal ad-din Suyuti (d.1505), who is described to be one of the most profound scholars of his time and his scholarship recognised broadly by the Muslim community. Suyuti was named the Mujaddid (reviver) of the ninth Islamic century and claimed to be a Mujtahid.
The second part of this book is a treaties written by Sayyid Muhammad Ninowy who presents lucid proofs that should convince any objective opponent, and he rebuts every argument held dear by those who attack those commemorating the Mawlid.
The inclusion of Arabic quotes in the appendix is highly beneficial for referencing purposes. Shaykh Dr. Ninowy, known for his intellectual depth, is among the orthodox scholars whose classes I've a deep appreciation for. Fellow Muslims should definitely seek to benefit from his teachings.
This book solidified my beliefs that the Prophet's mawlid ﷺ is permissible to celebrate; it ended all doubts and nullified all fears and worries. The celebration of the Prophet's blessed birthday ﷺ is undoubtedly central to the traditional Islamic faith and this book is a beacon of light, illuminating the way through the obfuscating fog of present time, to those who seek more on their dīn.