Question:
Is it permissible for Muslim men and women to attend birthday/anniversary party or buy a gift for the occasion, especially if it is for a family member?
Answer:
Assalamu Alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh
Thank you for your question.
In general, there is no virtue in engaging in such celebrations nor is there any sin if such events are not celebrated.
In some of these celebrations, there is imitation to the actions and beliefs of disbelievers, which is detrimental to one’s religion.
Celebrating birthdays and or anniversaries may be allowed if the following conditions are strictly taken into consideration:
• One has no intention of imitating the disbelievers.
• All islamicaly prohibited acts are prevented during the celebrations such as music, imitation of non-muslim acts, dance, intermingling of genders, wine etc.
• One does not believe or intend it to be an established Islamic practice.
• One does not believe it to be binding or necessary.
• One does not look down upon someone who does not participate or engage in such celebrations
The following concept is referenced to Fatawa Raḥīmiyyah, ‘If one takes this occasion as an opportunity to thank Allāh Almighty and express gratitude for being blessed with another year in one’s life then there is nothing wrong with that’.
And Allah knows best.
Answered by Shaykh Yusuf Badat
Hadith of the Day Imam
Imam of the Islamic Foundation of Toronto and Director of Mathabah Institute
Since You’re Here… we have a small favour to ask.
In these extraordinary times, millions rely on HOTD for daily uplifting & inspiring content. Established since 2009 and with your kind support we’ve seen readers elevate their Imaan & strive for better on a daily basis. We’re committed to keeping our content freely available and open for all readers. Every contribution, however big or small, makes a difference and help us spread knowledge to millions daily
HOTD is something special, it’s a place where people can come to be inspired, to renew their faith, to learn and share knowledge, to fall in love with our faith and also our Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family).
All content on HOTD is free. We believe what we do in this life builds for the next one and we work tirelessly with the aim to please Allah and inspire the global Muslim community as
well as providing information and inspiration for anyone interested in Islam. We simply cannot do this without your support and your support helps us continue our services.
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. You can support HOTD and help sustain our future. Support Hadith of the Day and make a one-off donation or give regularly from as little as £10 a month Jazak’Allah Khayr – whatever you donate will come back to benefit you Insha’Allah as whatever is spent in the way of Allah is an investment in the future and the next life. Thank you.
