The National Book Foundation in Islamabad organized a special event focusing on the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, titled “The Life of the Prophet in the Perspective of the 21st Century.” This event was held to mark the auspicious month of Eid Milad-un-Nabi and featured prominent scholars, intellectuals, and officials who explored the relevance of the Prophet’s teachings in contemporary times.
The event began with a recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a performance of naat by renowned singer Adnan Mehmood Awan, setting a spiritual tone for the gathering. The chief guest, Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Nadeem, an eminent educationist and Chairman of the National Rahmatul-lil-Alameen Khatam-un-Nabiyeen Authority, delivered the keynote address. He emphasized that while traditional biographical writing about the Prophet is important, it is now crucial to re-examine his life through the lens of the challenges and perspectives faced by people in the 21st century. He noted that the Prophet’s teachings, which provided guidance 1,400 years ago, remain fully relevant for modern society, addressing the fundamental questions of humanity across time.
Several distinguished guests, including Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mazhar—Director General of the National Language Promotion Department—alongside religious scholars Dr. Riaz Mahmood, Wahaj Ahmad, and Abu Bakr Ilyas, discussed the need to contextualize and communicate the Prophet’s wisdom in today’s world. They highlighted that Islam serves as a complete code of life, and the Prophet’s example should be shared in multiple languages to ensure its universal message reaches diverse audiences. The speakers collectively agreed that the legacy of the Prophet occupies a unique and unparalleled place among global figures, both in terms of knowledge and practical life guidance.
Dr. Kamran Jahangir, Managing Director of the National Book Foundation, expressed gratitude to the esteemed guests and participants, noting that the event was unique and insightful. He underscored the importance of regularly holding such gatherings to benefit society and called for the continued support of scholars and intellectuals. The event saw large attendance from writers and enthusiasts from Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The proceedings were skillfully moderated by Nazia Rehman and broadcast live by Aftab Ahmed and his team.
