Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama'ah Mowlid History The basic earliest accounts for theobservance of Mawlid can be found in 8th century Mecca, whenthe house in which Prophet Muhammad was born was transformed into a place of prayerby Al-Khayzuran (mother of Harun al-Rashid, the fifth and most famous Abbasid caliph).[4]Thou ghpublic celebrations of the birth of Muhammad did not occur until four centuries after his death.The early celebrations included elements of Sufic influence, with animal sacrifices and torchlight processions along with public sermons and a feast.[5][6] The celebrations occurred during the day, in contrast to modern day observances, with the ruler playing a key role in the ceremonies.[7] Emphasis was given to the Ahl al-Bayt with presentation of sermons and recitations of the Qur'an. The event also featured the award of gifts to officials in order to bolstersupport for the ruling caliph.