bilal

Once again we have come to that time of the year, the “SILLY SEASON” where people all over start behaving “SILLY”. Crime is suddenly on the increase, people are celebrating with drugs and drink and one has to be extra careful on the road as there are many drunk drivers especially during this time of the year.

Whilst Christians are in the merry of their year-end celebrations, a Muslim has to be very careful not to participate actively or passively in any of their celebrations.

In Surah Kaafiroon, Allah Ta’ala mentions;

لَكُمْ دِيْنُكُمْ وَلِيَ دِيْن

“For you is your religion (ways and culture) and for me is my religion (ways and culture)”

Allah Ta’ala has given us days of celebration i.e. the Days of Eid, the Day of Aashura, etc. We will celebrate on our days of celebration. We will dress in our best clothing and eat the best food on these days. Why then should we join the disbelievers in their days of celebration?

We should have absolutely no inclination towards their symbols and celebrations. A Muslim must not keep a Christmas tree in his home, or take pictures of his children with Santa Claus or even wish someone using the words “Merry Christmas”. These words and actions are extremely detrimental to our Imaan.

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam has said;

مَنْ كَثَّرَ سَوَادَ قَوْمٍ فَهُوَ مِنْهُمْ

“Who adds to the splendor of a nation is counted to be from them”

A Businessman must be careful not to advertise a “Christmas” or a “New Years” Sale, or give “Christmas gifts” to his customers, or sell items that are specific to Christianity like “Hot Cross Buns”.

Sometimes our staff may ask for an additional bonus during this time of the year. Make it known to them that we will give them a bonus during our Eid celebrations, not during the Christmas season as we do not align ourselves with these days.

There is no need for a Muslim to stay awake on the 31 December till midnight to see the change of the New Year or to enjoy the fireworks display. People suddenly lose their senses and start fighting with each other, throwing water, eggs, flour and food at one another. This indeed is not the behaviour of a Muslim.

Whilst people of other religions are involved in their celebrations and festivities, a Muslim must be extra careful to take care of his children and family during this time of the year. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam has advised us to stay at home. Our Home is our protection.

If we have to go out of the home for some reason, ensure we are clad correctly with our Islamic identity. Control our gaze and if per chance one has to come across any Christian symbol like a Christmas tree etc. recite the following dua;

رَضِيْتُ بِاللّٰهِ رَبًّا وَبِالْاِسْلَامِ دِيْنًا وَبِمُحَمَّدٍ (صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَ سَلَّمَ)رَسُوْلًاوَّ نَبِيًّا

I am happy with Allah Ta’ala as my Rabb, with Islam as my Deen and with Nabi Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam as my Nabi

May Allah Ta’ala protect us all and keep us steadfast on Imaan and bless us with death on Imaan. Aameen.