About The Book

Mawlid al-Barzanjī, authored by Imam Ja’far ibn al-Ḥasan al-Barzanjī in the 12th/18th century, is a classic which has been recited in gatherings in many parts of the Muslim world for centuries. describes the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and episodes from the story of his birth and early life. Crafted in elegant rhyming prose with occasional verses, this text is highly regarded for its articulation of the profound love and reverence that Muslims hold for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and provides both historical narrative and spiritual inspiration. The Mawlid of Imam al-Barzanjī is equally suitable for communal recitations and for personal reflection, emphasizing the enduring legacy and exemplary character of its subject.

This version of Mawlid al-Barzanji includes a new and improved edition of the complete Arabic text and a revised full English translation. Also included are an introduction and explanatory endnotes to provide context and enhance comprehension. These features are designed to guide readers to the sources of Imam al-Barzanjī’s quotations and allusions, and to facilitate a deeper understanding of the work’s historical and spiritual significance. The compilation not only serves the traditional purpose of making Mawlid celebrations joyful and beautiful but also provides a scholarly framework for appreciating the cultural and religious importance of the text. Its inclusion in academic and religious collections can offer insights into the ways in which the Prophet’s life, character and teachings continue to inspire and guide the Muslim community.

Muhammad Isa Waley has extensive expertise in translating and editing classical Islamic texts. His work is characterized by a commitment to conveying as far as possible the spiritual and poetic qualities of Mawlid al-Barzanji, making it accessible to English-speaking readers, whether Muslim or non-Muslim, while honoring its rich literary and devotional heritage.

About The Author

Imam Ja‘far al-Barzanji was born in 1101 AH/1690 CE in the holy city of Medina. His father was the lecturer at the Al-Ṣiddīq Mosque there, and was overseer of its charitable endowments (awqāf). Ja‘far’s great-grandfather, who hailed from Shahrazūr in Kurdish Iraq, spent years seeking knowledge in Hamadān, Baghdad, Damascus, Istanbul, and Cairo, before settling in Medina. Ja‘far studied first under his father and his father’s paternal uncle, and then under other scholars of Medina. Within a few years he had become recognised as a master of many religious sciences; but he became particularly well-known as a jurist (faqīh).

In 1159 AH/1746 Imam al-Barzanjī was appointed as imam and teacher in the Mosque of the Prophet in Medina. He attracted students from far and near thanks to his erudition, the excellence of his lectures, and his skill in debate. He taught the jurisprudence of all four Sunni schools (madhāhib), and was authorised to provide legal opinions (fatwā) according to them all. In addition, he authored several books. As for his spiritual eminence, Imam al-Barzanjī practiced worldly renunciation (zuhd) for over twenty years, while dressing the way other scholars did. He rose to become Muftī, the highest juridical authority, of the Shāfi‘īs in Medina, serving in that capacity until his death in 1179/1765-6.