Spring is in the air; it is the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal. We are surrounded by the freshness and fragrance of new blooms and we will shortly witness the brightness of the full moon. The earth is bringing forth its bounties in celebration.

During the reign of the Fatemi Imams in Egypt from the years 969 A.D. to 1132 A.D, the city of Al-Moizziyat-al-Qahera was a scene of great rejoicing on Milad-un-Nabi. Thousands of dirhams were given to the needy, as many as three hundred copper platters filled with sweetmeats were distributed to officials in the administration. A majestic procession was organized. The Imam (AS) presided at an observation site specially constructed for him. The Chief Justice led the procession towards Al-Jame-Al Azhar: present in the procession were the Duat, reciters of the Quran, the speakers and the imams of the masjids in Cairo amongst others. On reaching their destination, they all seated themselves to listen to a recitation of the Quran. Thereafter they were called into the observation area. At that time, Sahib al baab and the Waali of Qahera with their respective armies kept the masses back from the roads that had been swept, cleaned and sprinkled with yellow sand for the occasion. When the procession had gathered below, a window was opened so that the Imam (AS) could grant them the honour of deedar mubarak. Another window was opened by an ustaaz who gestured with his sleeve and reciprocated the salaam on behalf of the Imam (AS). This was followed by another recitation of Quran and praises and zikr of Rasulallah (SAW). At the end of the celebration the ustaaz gestured with his hand once again and closed the windows. The people dispersed towards their homes their hearts filled with barakaat.