As a Muslim can you wish Merry Christmas?
According to Mufti Ibrahim Desai, the renowed Alim of Askimam,
As Muslims we are sensitive to our Aqaaid (beliefs) and Tauheed (Oneness of Allah) and abstain from whatever would contaminate our Imaan. It is strictly prohibited to wish non-Muslims “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Christmas” during Christmas.
It is also prohibited to take part in any act that is specifically related to Christmas celebration. In doing so there is fear of one losing his Imaan. (Allah Forbid).
Consider the following narration of ‘Abdullāh Ibn ‘Amr Radiyallāhu ‘Anhu:
“Whoever resides in the lands of the non-Arabs and then celebrates their religious occasions (Nairūz and Mahrajān) and emulates their practices and thereafter dies in such a condition, he shall be raised with them on the day of Qiyāmah.”
[1] السنن الكبرى للبيهقي (9/ 392) العلميةوأخبرنا أبو عبد الله الحافظ، ثنا أبو العباس محمد بن يعقوب، ثنا الحسن بن علي بن عفان، ثنا أبو أسامة، ثنا عوف، عن أبي المغيرة، عن عبد الله بن عمرو، قال: ” من بنى في بلاد الأعاجم فصنع نيروزهم ومهرجانهم وتشبه بهم حتى يموت وهو كذلك حشر معهم يوم القيامة “. وهكذا رواه يحيى بن سعيد، وابن أبي عدي، وغندر، وعبد الوهاب، عن عوف، عن أبي المغيرة، عن عبد الله بن عمرو من قوله.
Some scholars say that in dire circumstances,
If one says Merry Christmas with no intention of honouring the Christian holiday and the practices of Christian religion then one is not sinful however one should try to refrain from it.
Whilst we tolerate practices of diverse religions, it is prohibited to show reverence to believes and practices of Kufr. Thus scholars say it is not permissible to wish merry Christmas as that is an expression of reverence and joining them in the joy of Christmas.
How do Muslims respond to Merry Christmas?
You can smile and just say them have a good day. Remember it is the etiquette of a believer to spread Peace and harmony and show the best manner.
Also see – Do Muslims Celebrate Christmas?
