Islam is a universal religion that promotes brotherhood and peace among all nations and all religions. Unless swords are drawn at each other; the message of Islam remains that of spreading harmony and avoid aggression. However, when being friendly with non-believers amounts to subservience of Islam in front of other religions; there remains no room for such sociability.
Such is the case when Muslims try to prove themselves as open minded and enlightened nation by attending non-Islamic festivities and events like diwali, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. They try to promote peace by participating in the non-Islamic functions with great zeal. Let me tell you my brothers and sisters; this is not how you promote peace and brotherhood in the world.
Participating in Non-Islamic Festivals:
According to Islamic scholars, joining non-believers in their festivals and participating in those is an act of IMITATION. According to a Prophetic Tradition recorded in Sunan Abi Dawood,
“Whoever imitates people (nation) is one of them.”
Imitation includes dressing up like non Muslims and participating in their traditional and religious functions. According to scholars, it implies a Muslim’s desire to be like them. If a Muslim is inspired by the non-Islamic traditions and events of non-believers; he/she must seriously consider their level of faith.
Muslim Festivals:
Allah has provided Muslims with two yearly festivals called “Eidain”. The “Eid-ul-Fitr” comes after the completion of the holy month of Ramadan. Eid-ul-Fitr is just like a special treat from Allah Almighty for Muslims after the tough routine of fasting for an entire month. “Eid-ul-Adh’ha” is the tenth day of Zil-Hajj; the last month of Islamic calendar. It is celebrated in the memory of a historical event related to the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibraheem and Prophet Isma’eel (PBUT).
Allah has given these blessed days to Muslims for celebrations and supplications. These celebrations need to be humble, simple, and modest. Muslim celebrations have to be decent; they mustn’t imitate non-Muslims with music, dance, and wine.
Does Islam Forbid Muslims from having Good Relations with Non-Muslims?
This question may arise in the minds of readers. The answer is a big NO. Islam doesn’t forbid Muslims from enjoying brotherly relations with non-Muslims. Rather it is very much encouraged in our religion to live with other communities in peace.
The difference comes where Muslims indulge in the non-Islamic activities way too deep like attending their festivals and participating in their prayers.
Guidelines According to National Fatwa Committee for Islamic Religious Affairs:
Following are the guidelines to be followed in this regard:
The festival mustn’t include anything/act which is against Islamic faith; or is against Islamic law; or is against morality and ethics or is sensitive for Muslim community. For instance, Muslims must not attend festivals where there is mixed gathering of men and women; non-Islamic speeches are made, songs are sung, and slogans are raised; anti-Islamic activities are done; specific things are displayed or used like Cross, Christmas tree, holi colours/paints, and Halloween costumes etc.
In the end, I would like to suggest that Muslims must be proud of themselves, their religious teachings, and their festivals. We have what we needed; we do not need any other festivals. Instead of participating in non-Islamic events and functions, we must spend that time in some constructive task.
Take pride in whom you are as a Muslim; this is the key to success here and in the hereafter!
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