5)
Can we take part in non-Muslim celebrations only so that they might be
attracted to our celebrations and religion?
If what is referred to is accepting an invitation to a meal, for example, and there is
nothing involved that is forbidden in Islam, such as mixing of men and women, or foods
forbidden by Allaah such as wine and pork, or dancing and music and so on, and this
participation does not imply that one loves these kuffaar, then there is nothing wrong
with accepting their invitation. He should try to convey the message of Islam to them.
The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him, accepted the invitation of some
of the Jews. And Allaah knows best.
6)
What is the evidence on celebrating birthdays? Is it allowed in Islam?
The evidence in the Qur’aan and Sunnah indicates that celebrating birthdays is a
kind of bid’ah or innovation in religion. It is not permitted to accept invitations to
birthday celebrations, because this involves supporting and encouraging bid’ah.
According to saheeh reports, the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him,
said: “Whoever does something that is a not part of this matter of ours (i.e., Islam) will
have it rejected” (reported by Muslim in his Saheeh).
Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him, said, warning us against
following non-Muslims ways and traditions: “You would follow the ways of those who
came before you step by step, to such an extent that if they were to enter a lizard’s hole,
you would enter it too.” They said, “O Messenger of Allaah, (do you mean) the Jews and
Christians?” He said, “Who else?” (Reported by al-Bukhaari and Muslim). The Prophet,
peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him, also said: “Whoever imitates a people is one
of them.” (Fataawa Islamiyyah, 1/115)
7)`Is it permissible to allow a Christian wife to practice her religion in the home?
It is not permissible for a Muslim to allow his wife from among the People of the
Book to celebrate her festivals in his home, for the man is in charge of that woman and
she does not have the right to openly celebrate her festivals in his home, because of the
resulting effects of corruption, forbidden things and display of the symbols of kufr,
disbelief, in his home. He should keep his children from taking part in those innovated
festivals.
8)
Is it permissible to celebrate al-Mawlid or the Prophet’s Birthday?
Some Muslims commemorate Mawlid on the 12th day of Rabee’ al-Awwal each
Hijri year. However, celebrating the birthday of the Prophet , peace and blessings of
Allaah be upon him, is haraam, even by sending salaam (greetings) upon him and reading
soorahs from the Qur’aan during such celebrations, holding gatherings of dhikr. It is
haraam because this is a matter that has been innovated in the religion. The Prophet,
peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him, did not do this, neither did his successor.
“… And whatsoever the Messenger gives you, take it, and whatsoever he forbids you,
abstain from it…” [al-Hashr 59:7]
“… And let those who oppose the Messenger’s commandment beware, lest some fitnah
(disbelief, trials, afflictions, etc.) befall them, or a painful torment be inflicted on them.”
[al-Noor 24:63]
 |
 |
 |
 |