In a spiritual and festive atmosphere, the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) inaugurated the temporary exhibition “Light of Guidance” on the occasion of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. Organized in collaboration with the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo, the exhibition runs for two months in the Egyptian Textile Hall. It highlights the Islamic heritage linked to the Prophet’s life and showcases rare artifacts symbolizing reverence and love for the Prophet (PBUH).
The opening was attended by leading cultural and academic figures, including Dr. El-Tayeb Abbas, Prof. Ahmed Siam, Director of the Museum of Islamic Art, Dr. Nashwa Gaber, Deputy CEO for Archaeological Affairs, Dr. Osama Talaat, Head of the National Library and Archives, Dr. Ashraf Aboul-Yazid, Head of the Central Administration of Specialized Museums, and Dr. Diaa Zaharan, Head of Islamic and Coptic Antiquities. Also present were Dr. Gehan Atef, Director of the Coptic Museum, Prof. Ola El-Aguizy of Cairo University, Prof. Shahira Mahrez of Helwan University, as well as ambassadors and cultural dignitaries.
In his remarks, Dr. El-Tayeb Abbas described the exhibition as “a spiritual and cultural window that highlights the luminous values of the Prophet’s life, fostering pride in Islamic identity and deepening awareness of its universal message of compassion.”
Prof. Ahmed Siam emphasized that the exhibition offers more than historical artifacts, stating: “These rare objects reflect the enduring devotion of Muslims to the Prophet throughout history, and provide an opportunity to strengthen the younger generation’s awareness of Islamic heritage and Egypt’s pioneering role in preserving it.”
Dr. Ashraf Aboul-Yazid added that “Light of Guidance” demonstrates NMEC’s pioneering role in enriching the cultural scene by combining rare Islamic treasures with educational and artistic activities, building bridges with diverse audiences.
Dr. Nashwa Gaber noted that the exhibition features 24 rare artifacts, including ceramic tiles inscribed with the names of the Rashidun Caliphs and the Prophet’s name, devotional plaques, a carved ostrich egg inscribed “Be my intercessor, O Messenger of God”, manuscripts of Dalā’il al-Khayrāt, parts of the Kaaba and Prophet’s tomb coverings, as well as inscribed candlesticks, decorative wooden screens, and the ornate “Gate of Repentance” cloth.
Cultural and Educational Program
Alongside the exhibition, visitors enjoyed Sufi chanting, a traditional tanoura performance in cooperation with the General Authority for Cultural Palaces, and traditional mawlid sweets.
The event also launched the “My Doll” (Arousti) exhibition, showcasing creative works from NMEC’s Summer School of Arts, featuring puppet designs inspired by Egypt’s folk traditions linked to the Prophet’s birthday.
The museum’s Education Department organized hands-on workshops for children and adults, including “The Horse and the Doll”, “The Aragoz Puppet”, and “Mawlid Collage”. These workshops allowed participants to design and craft traditional mawlid icons using varied materials.
By blending rare Islamic artifacts with artistic performances and educational workshops, “Light of Guidance” offers a holistic cultural and spiritual journey at NMEC, reflecting the Prophet’s legacy and the enduring love of Muslims for him across the centuries.
Follow the latest news on Google News
