ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Hilya

Hilya is a special kind of Islamic art that depicts the physical and spiritual traits of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It usually consists of a circular frame with various design elements such as floral patterns or calligraphy, and inside the frame, there is a description of the Prophet's features.

Now, imagine you want to draw a picture of your favorite superhero. You might draw their costume, their face, and any special things that make them unique. Hilya is similar, but instead of a superhero, it's about Prophet Muhammad.

In Hilya, people describe his physical appearance and character traits as a way of commemorating and honoring him. The description might include things like his hair and eye color, his height, and how he spoke to people. Some Hilyas even include verses from Islamic scripture that talk about Prophet Muhammad's importance.

In Islamic tradition, Hilya is a way to show love and respect for Prophet Muhammad. People might keep Hilyas in their homes or wear them as jewelry to remind themselves of his teachings and to feel closer to Allah. It's also considered a form of prayer and meditation, as people reflect on Prophet Muhammad's virtues and try to emulate them in their own lives.

So, just like how you might draw a picture of your favorite superhero to honor them, Hilya is an art form that honors the Prophet Muhammad in Islamic tradition.