Is Celebrating Birthdays Haram? | Halal Check Online

Q: Is Celebrating Birthdays Haram?

Scholars differ on birthdays: some consider them an imitation of non-Islamic custom or an innovation, while many permit a simple family celebration as a cultural custom with no religious meaning. On religious festivals like Christmas, most scholars say Muslims should not celebrate them as religious occasions, but many permit being kind to neighbours, attending family meals and exchanging gifts.

Also asked as: “Can Muslims celebrate birthdays?” · “Can Muslims celebrate Christmas?” · “Can Muslims celebrate Halloween?”

Birthdays

Scholars who object see birthdays as imitating others or adding a new "festival". Those who permit them say it is simply a custom, with no worship involved — like any family gathering — as long as nothing haram takes place.

Christmas, Halloween and other festivals

Islam has two festivals, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Most scholars advise not celebrating other religions' festivals as religious events. Views differ on greetings, office parties and family gatherings; many scholars in the West permit kindness and gift-giving to non-Muslim family, neighbours and colleagues.

For food at these times, check Christmas puddings (brandy), mince pies (suet) and Halloween sweets (gelatine) with the checker.

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Birthdays

Christmas, Halloween and other festivals

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