Qadiri Sufi followers mark Prophet's birthday in Erbil

 Shafaq News- Erbil

Dervishes and followers of the Qadiri Sufi order gathered at the Sayyid Abdullah Tekke in the village of Torq, southwest of Erbil, to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (Mawlid), continuing a tradition that has brought generations of worshippers together.

During the gathering, participants recite religious invocations (known as dhikr), and chant devotional praises of the Prophet. Dervishes also take part in ceremonies accompanied by frame drums and religious hymns.

The occasion includes a communal meal for worshippers and visitors who travel to Torq to join the celebration and seek blessings.

“These occasions go beyond their religious significance and also help strengthen social ties,” Zirk Kilan, one of the organizers, told Shafaq News.

The Qadiri order is among the most prominent Sufi orders in Iraq. It traces its origins to Sheikh Abdul Qadir al-Jilani, whose teachings gave rise to a tradition that remains active across the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI).

Erbil, KRI’s capital, also marks the Prophet's birthday each year through Mawlid celebrations in several parts of the city, where religious and community gatherings form part of the annual commemorations.

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