Some persons possess a Qadam-i-Rasul, or footstep of the Prophet. This is a stone with the impression of a footstep on it. It is a sacred thing and on this day the place in which it is kept is elegantly decorated. When a company has assembled, some persons appointed for the purpose, repeat the story of the birth, miracles and death of the Prophet. Portions of the Quran are read and the Darud is said.[254] In Madras, and in some other parts, it is more customary to keep this day, not as the anniversary of the death of the Prophet, but as the "'Jashn-i-milad-i-Sharif," the "Feast of the noble birth." The practical duties are the same. Instead of the Qadam-i-Rasul, the Asar-i-Sharif is exhibited. This is supposed to be a real portion of the hair of the Prophet's beard and moustache. It is said to possess {246} the miraculous property of growing again when a portion is broken off. On this day it is put into rose water which those present then drink and rub on their eyes. Great virtue is attached to this proceeding. In the Asar Khana, or house in which this hair is kept Fatihas, Daruds, &c., are repeated. The observance of this festival is neither wajib nor sunnat, but mustahab. It is generally kept, and it is a very rare thing to meet a person who does not believe in the miraculous growth of the Asar-i-Sharif. 4. SHAB BARAT.--This feast, the name of which signifies the "night of the record," is held on the fourteenth day of the month Sh'aban. The 'Arfa, or vigil is kept on the preceding day.[255] It is commonly but erroneously called Shab-i-Barat.