Question:
I have celebrated Christmas in the past since becoming Muslim by accepting presents and buying them for others with their money. My mother will be upset if I refuse this year. What is permissible and impermissible in terms of Christmas?
Answer:
Wa alaykum assalam wa rahmatu Allahi wa barakatu:
Inshallah buying and exchanging gifts is not forbidden by itself. However, it should not be accompanied by a belief in the heart that any Christians adhere to that contradicts sound Muslim belief, such as the divinity of Jesus or belief in the trinity.
Also, some aspects of Christmas, such as the Christmas tree has a history that is associated with paganism. So one must be wary of this while engaging these festivities.
Putting all of this aside, celebrating the birth of our master Jesus alayhi al-salam is ordained in the Quran and emanates from celebrating the birth of our master Muhammad salla allahu alayhi wa sallam. Therefore, inshallah the reward for being good to your non-Muslim family members and friends on the birth of Sayyidina Isa will be elevated when you also outwardly celebrate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad salla allahu alayhi wa sallam and spread news of his blessed birth salla allahu alayhi wa sallim to these same family members and acquaintances.
Wa alaykum assalam wa rahmatu Allahi wa barakatu,
Ali Hussain
