When a baby is born, Muslims often say "Mabrouk!" which means congratulations. In addition to this, they also offer prayers (du'a) and ask for blessings upon the newborn and the parents.
Expressing Congratulations and Blessings
Here's a breakdown of common phrases and practices:
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Mabrouk (مبروك): This is the most common and straightforward way to say "congratulations" in Arabic. It's universally understood across different Arabic-speaking regions and within the Muslim community.
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BarakAllahu Lakuma/Laka/Laki (بارك الله لكما/لك/لكِ): This is a more religious expression, meaning "May Allah bless you (both)." The form changes depending on who you are addressing. "Lakuma" is used for addressing both parents, "Laka" is used for addressing the father, and "Laki" is used for addressing the mother. Often followed by a du'a (prayer) for the child and parents.
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Du'a (Prayer): Muslims often offer specific prayers for the newborn. These might include asking Allah to make the child righteous, healthy, and a source of joy for the family. Common du'as also express hopes for a long and fulfilling life for the child, guided by Islamic principles.
Examples of Prayers
- A simple prayer might be: "May Allah bless this child and make them a source of goodness."
- Another might be: "May Allah grant them a long and healthy life filled with faith and piety."
Common Practices
- Aqiqa: Many Muslims perform the 'Aqiqa, which involves sacrificing an animal (usually a sheep or goat) to celebrate the birth of the child. This is often followed by a feast shared with family and friends.
- Giving Charity: Some Muslims also choose to give charity in the name of the newborn.
- Whispering the Adhan (call to prayer): It's a common practice to whisper the Adhan into the newborn's right ear shortly after birth.
In essence, the birth of a child is considered a significant blessing in Islam, and Muslims express their joy and gratitude through congratulations, prayers, and acts of kindness.
