Question:
Assalamualaikum,
I wanted to know if it’s permissible to wish someone “Happy birthday”. I stopped wishing a while back when I came to know its not liked and came to know that its disliked because its like us copying the Kafirs. I definitely don’t want to fall into this but have been confused about this issue as of late. Is it okay to receive the gifts on this day (like taking gift’s from your parents even though one doesn’t “celebrate”).
Also, what could be a way to reply politely to those who wish you birthday but you yourself don’t celebrate or wish anyone. And, is it true that if one eats the birthday cake or food of someone, their prayers of 40 day is invalid? I heard this one from a friend.
JazakAllah Khair!!
Answer:
wa `alaykum salam,
There is nothing wrong to wish someone “Happy birthday.” What is wrong is when people celebrate their own birthdays. The Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) never celebrated his own birthday but Muslims do and should celebrate his birth regularly. It is advisable to wish someone “Happy birthday,” uttering words such as, “I’m glad you were born. May Allah give you a long life filled with faith,” etc.
Imam Senad Agic
Head Imam (IABNA)
The Islamic Association of Bosniaks in North America
American Islamic Center – Chicago
