What does Christmas mean for Muslims in America?
Blessings,
For Muslims who live in America and elsewhere, where they are in the minority and surrounded by Christians, what does Christmas mean to a Muslim?
For one, we should not forget that Christians are ‘Children of the Book’, just as we are. The fact that Christianity being older than Islam does have some significance, also. I have lived amongst Christians all my life. So, what does Christmas mean to me?
Christmas, being a time when the followers of Jesus Christ, as their Lord and Savior [He was also prophet] celebrate his birth. Although, Christmas replaced an old pagan holiday, the winter solstice, [this may have been done for slower winter economic reasons], they have a joyful time by visiting family, singing, sharing gifts, dinner and is a merry occasion for them.
With all of this around you, it is hard not to share their feelings of celebrating the one G~d, for which they believe.
You can think multicultural about his and think of a Christian living in a majority Islamic country and enjoying the Eid as your neighbor.
Some questions answered:
Q: What should I say if a Christian says, ‘Merry Christmas’ to me?
A: You should wish him a ‘Merry Christmas’ back. Why? It is his holiday and he is just expressing his joyous feelings to you. Think multicultural again and imagine a Muslim saying, ‘Happy Ramadan’ to a non-Muslim in his Islamic country. Just do not say anything negative about this type of ethnic greeting. It is fine to wish a person of a different religion reciprocal greetings.
Q: Can I join in a party or other Christian celebration?
A: Sure. Think of yourself visiting an Amazon tribe and just so happens, it is their day to celebrate one of their festivals. If you refused, they may take it as an insult and you are in their land. So, when in Rome…
Q: Can I invite a Christian to celebrate Eid?
A: Of course. And don’t forget the Eid al-Mubahila.
So, you see, one’s religion can be shared with others. Just because one does not believe in another religion does not mean you cannot enjoy the occasion with a neighbor.
Blessings to all,
And to all, peace.
-Imam