25/12/2025
19th December 2025
Jumuʿah Reminder: The Ruling on Christmas in Islam
Alhamdulillah, all praise is for Allah who has perfected our dīn and granted us our own honoured days of celebration: Eid al‑Fiṭr and Eid al‑Aḍḥā.
As Muslims, we believe that ʿĪsā (Jesus) عليه السلام is a noble Prophet and Messenger of Allah, born miraculously without a father, but not the son of God nor part of any trinity. Christmas, however, is a religious festival built upon beliefs about ʿĪsā عليه السلام that contradict pure tawḥīd.
Our scholars explain that religious festivals are among the most distinct symbols of a faith, and that a Muslim is not permitted to celebrate, organise, or imitate non‑Muslim religious festivals such as Christmas. This includes treating Christmas as our own “ʿEid”, wearing its symbols, putting up its religious decorations, or joining its religious rituals and parties. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever imitates a people is one of them.”
At the same time, Islam commands us to be just, kind and respectful to neighbours, colleagues and family members of other faiths, to maintain good manners, fulfil trusts, and avoid harm. Where scholars differ on issues like offering neutral seasonal greetings, the safest path is to avoid any words or actions that appear to approve false beliefs, while still showing excellent character and courtesy.
As we approach this period, let every Muslim:
Renew commitment to tawḥīd and pride in the identity Allah has given us.
Avoid taking part in Christmas celebrations, parties, or religious symbols.
Show neighbours and colleagues the beauty of Islam through good character, honesty and kindness, without compromising our ʿaqīdah.
May Allah keep our hearts firm upon His religion, grant us understanding of His dīn, and make us callers to the truth through our words and our example. Āmīn.
