CELEBRATING DIWALI AND OTHER UN-ISLAMIC OCCASIONS.
As Muslims, we are profoundly conscious of our belief in pure Tawḥīd — the absolute Oneness of Allah Taʿālā. This fundamental principle obliges us to completely distance ourselves from all forms of religious practices and rituals that originate from other faith traditions, including Hinduism and Christianity.
Allah Taʿālā declares: إِنَّ الدِّينَ عِندَ اللَّهِ الْإِسْلَامُ “Indeed, the only religion acceptable to Allah is Islam.” (3:19)
In order to preserve our Īmān and uphold its sanctity, Islam prohibits imitation or participation in the religious customs of other religions. The Prophet ﷺ stated: “Whoever emulates a people is from among them.”
Festivals such as Diwali, Christmas, and similar celebrations are inherently associated with beliefs and rituals rooted in kufr (disbelief) and shirk (polytheism). As Muslims, our creed (Aqīdah) demands that we neither compromise our faith nor display complacency toward any practice that contradicts Islamic principles.
While Islam commands tolerance and coexistence with followers of other faiths, it does not sanction the veneration or glorification of their religious observances. Extending reverence (taʿẓīm) toward non-Islamic rituals or participating in their festivities endangers one’s Īmān. Allah Taʿālā has granted us the incomparable blessing of Islam; a comprehensive and perfect way of life. Consequently, imitating or participating in the religious observances of non-Muslims constitutes a serious violation of Islamic principles and poses a direct threat to one’s Īmān. The path to ultimate success, in both this world and the Hereafter, lies in loyalty to Allah, adherence to His Dīn, and emulation of the Sunnah of His Messenger ﷺ.
Undoubtedly, Muslims may experience emotional and social challenges in this regard, especially when interacting with non-Muslim relatives, colleagues, or friends. On one hand, Sharīʿah commands us to preserve our Īmān with utmost vigilance; on the other, it encourages us to maintain family ties and exhibit kindness and compassion. Striking this balance requires wisdom and steadfastness. A Muslim must make it known that while he harbours affection and goodwill toward others, his ultimate devotion and allegiance belong solely to his faith. One should thus sustain cordial relations without engaging in celebrations that contravene Islamic beliefs.
It is impermissible to greet Hindus with expressions such as “Happy Diwali” or Christians with “Merry Christmas,” or to use any equivalent phrases. Likewise, it is not permissible for Muslim businesses to market or promote products bearing greetings related to such festivals.
Complied for Al Huda education (Primary & Pre-schools) and Jaamia Madinatul Uloom (Secondary Institute)
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Darul Ifta Jaamia Madinatul Uloom (Marabella, Trinidad) دار الإفتاء جامعة مدينة العلوم
(Department of Islamic Jurisprudence for Guidance in Islamic law, Personal, Social and Business related matters)
Tel: 368-0010/683-9289 www.fatwa-tt.com Email:jmudarulifta@gmail.com
