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Religious greetings and gatherings

Can Muslims greet non-Muslims with the greetings of their own religions, or even participate in religious festivals?

April 2, 2020

Can Muslims greet non-Muslims with the greetings of their own religions, or even participate in religious festivals?

In the spirit of demonstrating inclusivity in a pluralistic society and appreciating the cultural, social and ideological differences that exist between human beings (Quran 49:13), it is permissible to greet non-Muslims with the greetings of their own religions, such as ‘Merry Christmas’ or ‘Namasate’. Moreover, there is no evidence in the Quran or sunna of the Prophet to suggest otherwise. It is also permissible to attend religious, social and cultural gatherings of non-Muslims provided the gatherings are not indecent and immoral. The onus is on the responsible believer to discern the decency of a given gathering.