A major Mawlid al-Nabi (birth of Prophet Muhammad) gathering in Istanbul on Sunday brought together scholars, activists, and representatives from across the Muslim world, who delivered strong messages emphasizing unity, solidarity, and shared responsibility in the face of ongoing regional and global challenges.

The event, organized by the Prophet Lovers Foundation (Peygamber Sevdalıları Vakfı) under the theme “Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), the Leader of Unity and Salvation,” attracted tens of thousands of participants. Speakers highlighted both the spiritual and social importance of unity within the Muslim Ummah, while also addressing pressing contemporary issues.

Participants pointed to the difficulties facing Muslim communities worldwide, including conflict, humanitarian crises, and political instability, stressing the importance of strengthening a collective sense of identity and purpose.

Among the prominent speakers were Dr. Tayseer Suleiman from Jerusalem, Dr. İsam Telime of Al-Azhar, Dr. Azzam el-Ayyubi, and Muhammed Zaki Hussain, president of the Al-Ummah Foundation.

Tayseer Suleiman

Dr. Tayseer Suleiman described the gathering as a powerful expression of unity and resilience, noting that Muslims in various regions are facing increasing challenges. He emphasized that such events go beyond commemoration, serving as a reminder of the importance of standing together and supporting one another.

Highlighting the situation in Palestine, Suleiman called for continued global awareness and solidarity, underlining the need for sustained international engagement with ongoing humanitarian and political developments.

İsam Telime

Dr. İsam Telime drew attention to the deep-rooted love for Prophet Muhammad in Türkiye, stating that the large turnout at the event reflected a strong and enduring connection to religious values. He noted that commemorating the Prophet is not only about remembrance but also about living according to his teachings and principles.

Telime stressed the importance of preserving this connection across generations, emphasizing that shared values play a crucial role in maintaining unity and social cohesion.

Azzam el-Ayyubi

Dr. Azzam el-Ayyubi focused on the broader global context, describing a world marked by conflict, uncertainty, and division. He underlined that the message of Prophet Muhammad continues to offer guidance and a path toward peace and stability.

Ayyubi called for renewed efforts to apply these values in addressing both regional and global challenges, highlighting the need for dialogue, understanding, and cooperation.

Muhammed Zaki Hussain

Muhammed Zaki Hussain emphasized the importance of educational and community initiatives in keeping the teachings of the Prophet alive. He said that events like this play a key role in strengthening awareness and ensuring that future generations remain connected to their religious and cultural heritage.

Hussain noted that sustaining this connection requires ongoing efforts through programs, discussions, and active participation within communities.

A Platform for Dialogue and Cooperation

Organizers said the event was designed not only as a religious gathering but also as a platform for reflection and dialogue on the state of the Muslim world. They highlighted the importance of building stronger connections between communities and encouraging cooperation across borders.

The Istanbul gathering is part of a wider series of Mawlid events held throughout Türkiye, reflecting a longstanding tradition of public participation and engagement.

As regional tensions and humanitarian challenges continue, participants consistently emphasized that unity, solidarity, and collective action remain essential for addressing shared concerns and strengthening ties across the global Muslim community. (ILKHA)