COLOMBO : An age of hatred needs a return to mercy; a divided world needs the Prophet Muhammad’s message of justice, compassion and human dignity
Muslims remember the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) not only as a historic event, but as the beginning of a message that transformed hearts, societies and history.
As the Muslim world observes Milad Day, we must ask: Are we merely celebrating the Prophet’s birth, or living by his teachings?
In an age of hatred, intolerance, racism and violence, his message remains deeply relevant. He challenged injustice, upheld human dignity and taught that people should not be judged by race, colour, wealth or status. He showed that peace is not weakness, forgiveness is not surrender, and compassion is not defeat.
His care for the poor, orphaned, widowed and vulnerable remains an enduring example of social responsibility. He reminded us that faith must be reflected in good character and how we treat others.
This message has particular relevance to Sri Lanka, which has suffered from communal suspicion, racial prejudice and religious intolerance. We must not allow past wounds to reopen. Every community must reject extremism, challenge prejudice and protect the dignity and security of fellow citizens.
For Muslims, Milad Day should be a moment of introspection. Love for the Prophet must be demonstrated through honesty, kindness, justice and tolerance in our homes, workplaces, schools and communities.
If he taught compassion, we must show compassion. If he stood for justice, we must oppose injustice. If he respected human dignity, we must reject discrimination. If he preached peace, we must refuse hatred. If he forgave, we must learn forgiveness.
Milad should not be limited to speeches, decorations and ceremonies. The greatest tribute to the Prophet is how faithfully we live by his principles.
His legacy belongs to Muslims, but the values he embodied — mercy, justice, honesty, forgiveness and respect for human dignity — speak to all humanity.
As we commemorate Milad Day, let us move beyond celebration to reflection, words to action, and division to understanding.
The most meaningful way to remember the Prophet is to revive his character in our own lives.
In a world losing its way, his message reminds us that humanity cannot survive on hatred, justice cannot be selective, and peace begins when we see one another as fellow human beings.
Milad is not only a remembrance of the Prophet’s birth. It is a reminder of what humanity can become when mercy triumphs over hatred.
