The
Prophet was born on the twelfth day of Rabi-ul-Awwal, the third
month of the Muslim year. His death anniversary also falls on the
same day, the word 'barah' standing for the twelve days of the Prophet's
sickness.
During these days, sermons are delivered in mosques by learned men,
focussing on the life and noble deeds of the Prophet.
In
some parts of the country, a ceremony known as 'sandal 'rite is
performed over the symbolic footprints of the Prophet engraved
in stone. A representation of 'buraq', a horse on which the Prophet
is believed to have ascended to heaven , is kept near the footprints
and anointed with sandal paste or scented powder, and the house
and casket containing these are elaborately decorated.
Elegies
or 'marsiyas' are sung in memory of the last days of the Prophet.
The twelfth day or the Urs proper is observed quietly, in prayers
and alms-giving.
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