Menzuma " Ya Habibi Salamu 'Alaikum

Menzuma by Haji Mohamed Idris Siraj - "Ya Habibi Salamu 'Alaikum "

Menzuma is an Ethiopian Islamic Sufi devotional chant that contains remembrances of Allah (God), and praises of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). From Ethiopia to Russia, from Johannesburg to Indonesia. The Mawlid or the Milaad is being celebrated with great intensity and fervor. In these gatherings participants recall the Prophet's birth, his life story (sirah) and his great character are extolled, as Allah said in the Holy Qur'an:- "We sent you not but as a Mercy to all the worlds." (21:107).

Mosques are decorated with lights, streamers and banners and every night of Rabi` al-Awwal is filled with the chanting of Qur'an and the melodious recitation of Mawlid, praising the Prophet (Peace be upon him), and sending Salaams on him, as Allah's order: "O you who believe, pray on him with all respect" follows Allah's declaration that: "Allah and His angels are praying on the Prophet" (Holy Qur'an 33:56).

(Nourmedia, March 20, 2008)