Navigating the Christmas Season

Abstract: The Christmas season presents unique challenges for Muslims living in Western societies, where festive celebrations often include the exchange of greetings and customs rooted in Christian traditions. This blog explores how Muslims can navigate the Christmas season with grace and wisdom, emphasizing the importance of preserving their Islamic faith and upholding tolerance towards those of different beliefs.

The central focus of this exploration is the assertion that Allah, the God of Islam, has a son, a belief that challenges the core principle of Islamic Monotheism. To address this challenge, the blog first establishes the foundational truth that Monotheism is humanity's default belief, firmly rooted in the Quran and Sunnah. The discussion then delves into the root causes of the shift from Monotheism to Polytheism, highlighting the significance of understanding Allah's attributes accurately.

The blog also examines the flawed perceptions that lead to the belief in Allah having a son, drawing a clear distinction between human motivations and divine attributes. Additionally, it addresses the misconception surrounding the doctrine of atonement, which contradicts Islamic beliefs in Allah's boundless mercy and forgiveness.

Furthermore, Allah's presence and location is explored, particularly in theological discussions among Ash'aris and Sufis. The blog emphasizes the need to return to the sources of Islamic teachings and understand Allah's transcendence to clarify misconceptions and prevent anthropomorphism.

To navigate the Christmas season gracefully, Muslims are encouraged to prioritize tolerance rooted in respectful coexistence rather than conformity. They should not feel compelled to apologize for their beliefs but instead engage in proactive education about Islam to foster understanding. Preemptive education is crucial, and Muslims are advised to use encounters with Christmas greetings as opportunities for respectful dialogue. Educating children about Islamic beliefs regarding Jesus is also highlighted as essential.

In conclusion, Muslims can uphold their beliefs while respecting those of others during the Christmas season by promoting understanding, mutual respect, and the preservation of Monotheism. This approach contributes to greater interfaith harmony and facilitates meaningful dialogue between faith communities.

Introduction:

The month of December can be a challenging time for Muslims living in the Western world. The overwhelming spectacle of Christmas celebrations, with its dazzling lights, festive music, bustling shopping centers, and the ubiquitous greeting of "Merry Christmas," can pose unique challenges for Muslims and their families, especially those with children attending public schools. This blog seeks guidance and support for Muslim individuals and communities navigating these pressures.

While Christmas is, for many Westerners, a time of customary celebrations, joyous seasons, and family gatherings marked by gift exchanges and shared meals, it delves much deeper into the belief system of Muslims who are concerned about their faith. The matter at hand extends beyond the realm of holiday celebrations. It delves into the very heart of Islamic faith and can affront Allah, as affirmed by an authentic Hadith. Consequently, this blog aims to illuminate the assertions put forth by those who associate a son with Allah, Glorified be He, while emphasizing His transcendence beyond such attributions.

In this forthcoming blog, we are about to embark on a journey of exploration that delves into the enigmatic claim that Allah, the God of Islam, has a son. This assertion has its origins not only in Christianity but also in the beliefs of polytheists who assert that angels are Allah's daughters, as well as certain sects of Jews who claim that Ezra is the son of Allah. These claims hold significant weight in Islamic theology. As we find ourselves amidst a season marked by festive celebrations, it is paramount to address how Muslims, both parents and children, along with individuals, can navigate this period with unwavering faith.

This blog endeavors to address this delicate issue, one deeply rooted in the core principles of Islam, with its foundation firmly laid upon the declaration: "La Ilaha Illa Allah, Muhammad Rasul Allah" (There is no god worthy of worship except Allah, and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah).

Laying the Groundwork: The Default Belief – Monotheism:

To embark on a journey of understanding the claim that Allah, the God of Islam, has a son, we must first establish a foundational truth deeply rooted in the Quran and Sunnah (the teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him). This truth is humanity's default belief, firmly grounded in Monotheism, not Polytheism. Let us explore the compelling evidence from our religious sources that unequivocally substantiates this principle:

1. Unity of Mankind: As we delve into the Quran, we find in verse 2:213 a profound statement that resonates with the belief in Monotheism. This verse not only acknowledges the unity of humanity but also implies that the default state of mankind is one of Monotheism. Ibn Abbas, a prominent Companion, elaborates on this concept, explaining that the people mentioned in this verse were upon Tawheed, which signifies Monotheism.
2. Ten Generations of Monotheism: Another compelling piece of evidence lies in the notion that between the times of Prophet Adam and Prophet Noah, there were ten generations of people, and remarkably, they all adhered to Monotheism. This remarkable continuity in belief reinforces the idea that Monotheism was humanity's inherent and natural inclination during this era.
3. The Natural Inclination (Fitrah): The Hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah, a trusted companion of the Prophet Muhammad, asserts that every child is born upon Al-Fitrah, which essentially means upon Islam and, by extension, Monotheism. This Hadith serves as a testament to the innate disposition of every human being—a disposition inherently inclined towards the belief in one God, which is the essence of Monotheism.
4. Innocence of Children of Polytheists: An intriguing aspect of this Monotheistic inclination is seen in the fate of the children of polytheists. According to the majority of Muslim theologians, if a child of polytheists were to pass away before reaching the age of puberty and before being exposed to the message of Monotheism, they would be considered among the dwellers of Jannah, or paradise. This underscores the inherent Monotheistic nature of the human soul, untouched by polytheistic influences.

As we delve deeper into Allah having a son, We must remember these foundational truths as we delve deeper into Allah having a son. The default belief of Monotheism within humanity is a pivotal backdrop against which we will explore the claims and perceptions that challenge this fundamental principle.

Let's build upon the understanding of why humanity, which initially adhered to Monotheism, eventually deviated towards polytheism. This divergence can be attributed to a multitude of factors, including:

1. Flawed Perception of Allah: A significant cause is the miscomprehension of Allah's divine essence, His names, attributes, and actions, which can lead to misconceptions and erroneous beliefs.
2. Erosion of Belief in the Hereafter: Weakened belief in the Hereafter can pave the way for materialism and self-centeredness to take root, diverting individuals from the path of Monotheism.
3. Following Ambiguous Parts of Revelation: Misinterpreting religious texts and scriptures can contribute to forming incorrect beliefs and ideologies.
4. Ancestral Influence: Many individuals unquestioningly follow their forefathers' spiritual traditions and beliefs, without critically examining their faith.
5. Peer Pressure: Social influences and pressures can sway individuals away from the path of Monotheism, especially when it conflicts with prevailing societal norms.

This blog will primarily focus on the fundamental cause of this deviation: Flawed Perception of Allah. While other factors, such as ancestral inheritance of spirituality and peer pressures, may play a role, the crux of the matter lies in the inaccurate understanding of Allah. This deficit in knowledge or the presence of misconceptions regarding Allah's essence and attributes can be pivotal in steering individuals away from Monotheism.

Hence, Islam emphasizes the utmost importance of acquiring accurate knowledge about Allah, and it encourages adherence to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah, as interpreted by the righteous predecessors. By addressing and rectifying this core issue, we aim to clarify the claims associated with attributing a son to Allah, thus reinforcing the foundations of Islamic Monotheism.

Preserving the Purity of Monotheism:

Having a flawed perception of Allah, which includes misunderstandings about His nature and attributes, can give rise to erroneous beliefs, such as the claim that He has a son. To steer clear of these misconceptions, acquiring accurate knowledge about Allah and comprehend His essence correctly becomes imperative.

The Wisdom of the Righteous Predecessors: Throughout Islamic history, the first three generations of Muslims played a pivotal role in emphasizing the significance of comprehending Allah's attributes and actions correctly. Their unwavering commitment to Monotheism and dedication to safeguarding the purity of belief laid a strong foundation for the Ummah.

Exemplary Scholars: Upholding Monotheism In our journey to explore the claims associated with attributing a son to Allah, we must draw inspiration from exemplary scholars who have dedicated their lives to preserving Monotheism and the correct perception of Allah.

The Significance of Historical Examples: Throughout Islamic history, numerous instances emphasize the importance of safeguarding Monotheism and understanding Allah's attributes accurately. One such instance is the renowned Hadith of Jibril, prompted by a critical incident involving Ma’bad Al-Juhani.

The Hadith of Jibril: The Hadith of Jibril stands as a cornerstone of Islamic tradition, underscoring the essence of faith and knowledge. This profound conversation between the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the archangel Gabriel (Jibril), appearing in human form, is celebrated for its comprehensive discussion of the pillars of Islam: faith, prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage. 

Of particular relevance to our discussion, this Hadith's trigger was Maabad Al-Juhani's denial of Al-Qadar—the divine concept of predestination. Al-Qadar comprises four levels: Allah's knowledge, His writing, His divine will, and the actual creation of events. These levels represent attributes of Allah, integral to Monotheism.

The gravity of Ma’bad Al-Juhani's denial lay in its challenge to the very attributes of Allah. It illuminated the profound importance of preserving a correct understanding of Allah's attributes and actions, serving as a testament to the early Muslim community's unwavering dedication to safeguarding Monotheism.

Exemplary Scholars:

Prominent scholars like Imam Malik and Imam Ahmed shine as beacons of guidance in this pursuit.

Imam Malik's Firm Stand: Imam Malik, renowned for his wisdom and scholarship, responded resolutely when questioned about Allah's attributes. His unwavering stance underscores his commitment to preserving the accurate perception of Allah, ensuring that Monotheism remained unaltered.

Imam Ahmed's Resilience: Imam Ahmed's unwavering stance against the notion of the Quran's creation exemplified his dedication to upholding the purity of Islamic belief. His firm opposition to any distortion of Allah's words reinforced the paramount importance of Monotheism.

By acknowledging the wisdom of these exemplary scholars and understanding their profound influence on the accurate perception of Allah, we navigate the claims associated with attributing a son to Allah with unwavering commitment to Monotheism.

Christian Perception of Allah:

Why would Allah need a son? This notion is flawed. It arises from the tendency to perceive Allah in human terms, a perspective that led Christians and polytheists to claim that angels are Allah's daughters and some sects of Jews to assert that Ezra is the son of Allah.

In a Human Context, Why Does a Human Need a Son?

In the context of humans, there are various motivations for having children, but it's crucial to differentiate between human needs and divine attributes:

1. Biological Drive: Humans have a biological urge to reproduce and pass on their genetic heritage, but Allah, being the Creator, has no such biological drive or need.
2. Emotional Fulfillment: Raising children brings emotional fulfillment to humans, but Allah is beyond human emotions and does not require offspring for emotional satisfaction.
3. Family Legacy: While humans may seek to continue their family lineage, Allah is eternal and does not rely on descendants to establish His legacy.
4. Companionship: Humans desire companionship from their children, but Allah is self-sufficient and transcends the need for companions.
5. Cultural and Social Expectations: Societal pressures may lead humans to have children, but societal expectations or norms do not influence Allah.
6. Care in Old Age: Some humans expect support in their old age, but Allah is not subject to aging or dependency.
7. Meaning and Purpose: Raising children gives humans a sense of purpose, but Allah's existence is beyond the need for purpose derived from progeny.
8. Educational and Career Goals: Parents may aspire to their children's success, but Allah is not dependent on His creation for His glory.
9. Contributing to Society: Humans hope their children will contribute to society, but Allah is the Creator and Sustainer of all.
10. Love and Affection: While humans cherish the love of children, Allah's love is perfect and unconditional, requiring no human-like affection.
11. Personal Growth: Parenting fosters personal growth, but Allah is eternally wise and does not require experiences for personal development.
12. Fulfilling Dreams: Parents may want their children to fulfill their dreams, but Allah's divine plan transcends human aspirations.

In essence, attributing human needs or motivations to Allah is a misunderstanding of His divine nature. Allah is beyond human limitations and desires, and His attributes are far beyond those of His creation.

Misconception: A Flawed Understanding of Allah's Attributes

Another significant reason that has led some Christians to assume the sonship of Allah is the doctrine of atonement. This doctrine suggests that someone must die for the forgiveness of human sins, and it revolves around the belief that Jesus, in his crucifixion, served as the sacrificial offering for humanity's transgressions. However, this doctrine poses a fundamental theological challenge from an Islamic perspective.

The Flawed Concept of Atonement: The doctrine of atonement raises crucial questions about the attributes of Allah, particularly those of repentance, forgiveness, and mercy. Islam firmly asserts that Allah, the Most Merciful and Forgiving, possesses attributes that transcend human comprehension. The concept of atonement suggests that Allah's mercy and forgiveness are conditional upon the sacrifice of an innocent human being—Jesus, in this case. Such a notion contradicts the core Islamic belief in Allah's boundless mercy and His ability to forgive all sins without the need for any intermediary or sacrifice.

The Merciful and Forgiving Allah: In Islam, Allah's attributes of mercy and forgiveness are absolute and independent of any human or divine sacrifice. Allah's mercy encompasses all creation, and His forgiveness is readily available to those who sincerely repent and seek His pardon. There is no requirement for an innocent life to be offered in exchange for forgiveness, as Allah's mercy is boundless, and His forgiveness is extended to those who turn to Him in repentance.

The Misconception Unveiled: The misconception that Allah's forgiveness is conditional upon the sacrifice of Jesus stems from a flawed perception of Allah's attributes. Islam teaches that Allah's attributes are perfect, and His mercy and forgiveness are beyond human limitations. To attribute the need for a divine sacrifice to secure forgiveness diminishes the greatness and perfection of Allah's attributes.

In exploring the claims associated with attributing a son to Allah, it becomes evident that these allegations often arise from misunderstandings and misconceptions about Allah's attributes, particularly His mercy and forgiveness. Islam emphasizes the need to have a correct understanding of Allah's attributes, which includes acknowledging His boundless mercy and His ability to forgive all sins without the need for any intermediary or sacrifice. By rectifying these misconceptions, we reinforce the foundations of Islamic Monotheism and the belief in the All-Merciful and Forgiving Allah.

Misconceptions Regarding Allah's Essence and Presence:

Another misconception that contributed to the Christian belief in Allah's potential occupation of physical bodies and entities within His created beings is the notion that Allah, as a spirit, dwelled within the flesh of Jesus, thereby justifying appellations like "good" or even "son." This belief has also made its way into theological discussions, particularly among Ash'aris and extreme Sufis, who grapple with the question of "Where is Allah?" This seemingly innocuous question has given rise to erroneous beliefs akin to those held by Christians who perceive Allah as a spirit devoid of a Divine Essence, consequently fostering the misconception that Allah may inhabit His created beings. To rectify such misunderstandings, it is imperative to reexamine the sources of Islamic teachings.

As previously emphasized, our primary sources are Allah's words and His Prophet's teachings, peace be upon him, which are universally recognized without doubt. Let us return the statements to their sources: "Allah is in the heavens" and "Allah exists without a place."

The Salaf assert, "Allah is above the heavens."

A question for the Salaf:

Q1: Did Allah say it in His Noble Quran?

A1: Yes, He did say it. He, the Most High, said, "Do you feel secure that He who [holds authority] in the heaven…" (Quran 67:16).

Q2: Did the Prophet of Allah, peace be upon him, say it?

A2: Yes, he did say it. The Prophet of Allah, peace be upon him, said, "Do you not trust me while I am a trusty man of the One in the heavens?" (Sahih al-Bukhari). And he also said, "Be merciful to those on the earth, and the One in the heavens will be merciful to you" (Sahih Muslim). These hadiths are authentic and well-known, as is the hadith of the slave girl in Sahih Muslim.

Hence, the Salaf adhere to what Allah and His Messenger have conveyed.

On the other hand, Ash’ari and Sufis do not make this assertion:

Q1: Did Allah say it in His Noble Quran?

A1: No.

Q2: Did the Prophet of Allah, peace be upon him, say it?

A2: No.

Therefore, the Ash’ari and Sufis do not rely on explicit statements from Allah or His Messenger regarding this matter.

Q3: So, who are their intellectual predecessors in this matter?

A3: Their intellectual predecessors are philosophers like Aristotle, who posited, "Allah is the All," and stated, "Allah is the Intellect, the Wise, and the Rational." According to Aristotle, Allah is an eternal essence, not a human entity. He is characterized by reason, love, and is not confined to a specific location. Aristotle believed that Allah's governance of existence is purposeful and deliberate, with a singular and uncompounded nature, as any multiplicity would entail the possibility of His non-existence.

Thus, Ash’ari and Sufis have drawn influence from the philosophical ideas of figures like Aristotle and Plato.

It is worth noting that "Aristotle" is considered one of the intellectual references in Sufism, as "al-Ghazali" affirmed.

In light of these considerations, it is essential to recognize that the truth is not limited to human perspectives. "Allah is in the heavens" should not be misconstrued to imply that He is contained within them. Rather, it signifies that Allah is exalted above His creation, transcending them in a manner beyond human comprehension. Delving into the specifics of how this transcendent existence operates is discouraged, as it may lead to anthropomorphism and misunderstandings of Allah's essence. By addressing these misconceptions and returning to the foundational sources of Islamic teachings, we can navigate through complex theological discussions and uphold the purity of Monotheism.

Navigating the Christmas Season with Grace: A Guide for Muslims

How should Muslims gracefully navigate the Christmas season without displaying hatred and animosity? Here are some steps to consider:

1. Understand the Value of Tolerance: Muslims need to recognize that tolerance manifests in how they interact with followers of other religions, even those whose beliefs may differ significantly from Islam. However, this does not mean compromising their own beliefs. Muslims are not obliged to return the "Merry Christmas" greeting or participate in Christmas-related activities such as gift exchanges or decorating Christmas trees to prove their tolerance. Tolerance should be rooted in respectful coexistence rather than conformity to another faith's customs.

2. Avoid Apologizing for Your Beliefs: As a Muslim, you should not feel compelled to apologize for or hide your faith during the Christmas season. Instead, take the opportunity to educate your Christian co-workers, neighbors, and family members about Islamic beliefs. One critical point to convey is that claiming Allah has a son is a direct insult to Allah in Islamic theology. Muslims should make it clear that their decision not to participate in Christmas celebrations is not meant as an insult but is based on their firmly held religious beliefs.

3. Prior Education is Key: To avoid uncomfortable situations during Christmas, engage in educational conversations about your faith with others well before the season begins. People are more receptive to learning about different belief systems when they are not amid celebrations or festivities. This proactive approach can help prevent misunderstandings and promote mutual respect.

4. Turn Greetings into Teaching Moments: Despite your prior efforts, you may still receive Christmas greetings or invitations to holiday events. Instead of ignoring them, take the opportunity to engage in a respectful and informative conversation. Politely explain once again why you cannot participate in such events and clarify the Islamic perspective on Jesus. Use these encounters as teaching moments to foster understanding between faiths.

5. Graceful Responses to Christmas Greetings: If you could not provide prior education about your beliefs before Christmas, consider responding to greetings with a standard greeting such as "How are you?" or "How is it going?" You can also use polite and neutral greetings like "Good evening" or "Good morning." At the very least, offering a warm smile can convey goodwill without compromising your religious principles.

6. Educate Your Children: It is crucial to educate your children about the Islamic belief system regarding Jesus. Share with them the Quranic narrative of the nativity of Jesus and teach them about the significance of Jesus in Islam. This will strengthen their faith and equip them to engage in meaningful conversations with their peers about religious differences.

In summary, Muslims can navigate the Christmas season gracefully by upholding their beliefs while respecting those of others. Tolerance should be rooted in understanding and mutual respect rather than superficial participation in customs that contradict Islamic teachings. Through proactive education and respectful conversations, Muslims can contribute to greater interfaith understanding and harmony during the holiday season.

Conclusion:

December often presents a unique set of challenges for Muslims living in Western societies. The pervasive atmosphere of Christmas celebrations, marked by vibrant decorations, cheerful music, and the ubiquitous "Merry Christmas" greeting, can sometimes place Muslim individuals and communities in delicate situations. In this blog, we have explored the complexities that Muslims may face during the Christmas season and offered guidance on handling these challenges with grace and wisdom.

While Christmas is a time of celebration and festivity for many, it touches upon fundamental aspects of Islamic faith, particularly the concept of Monotheism, which is central to the Islamic creed. The assertion that Allah, the God of Islam, has a son challenges this core belief and calls for a thoughtful response from Muslims. It is essential to remember that these discussions go beyond holiday festivities; they touch upon the very essence of Islamic faith and the honor of Allah, the Most High.

In this blog, we have embarked on a journey to understand the claims and perceptions surrounding the idea that Allah, the God of Islam, has a son. We have explored the foundations of Monotheism, delving into the default belief of humanity as Monotheistic, firmly rooted in the Quran and Sunnah. This foundational belief provides a strong backdrop against which we can assess and address claims that challenge Monotheism.

We have also examined the root causes of the shift from Monotheism to Polytheism, highlighting the significance of understanding Allah's attributes accurately. Flawed perceptions of Allah can lead to misunderstandings and erroneous beliefs, which in turn can contribute to the idea of Allah having a son.

Throughout this exploration, we have emphasized the importance of preserving the purity of Monotheism by acquiring accurate knowledge about Allah and comprehending His essence correctly. Exemplary scholars and historical examples have shown us the path to safeguarding Islamic belief and understanding Allah's attributes in their true essence.

Furthermore, we have discussed how the Christian perception of Allah having a son arises from a tendency to humanize divine attributes, leading to flawed conclusions. By differentiating between human needs and divine attributes, we have clarified the fallacy of attributing human motivations to Allah.

Additionally, we have addressed the misconception surrounding the doctrine of atonement, which implies that an innocent human sacrifice, such as the crucifixion of Jesus, is necessary to forgive sins. This doctrine challenges the Islamic belief in Allah's boundless mercy and forgiveness, highlighting the importance of accurately understanding Allah's attributes, particularly His attributes of mercy and forgiveness.

Lastly, we have examined the question of Allah's presence and location, a topic that has led to theological discussions among Ash'ari and Sufis. By returning to the sources of Islamic teachings and understanding the essence of Allah's transcendence, we have sought to clarify misconceptions and prevent anthropomorphism.

In navigating the Christmas season with grace and wisdom, Muslims must remember the value of tolerance, rooted in respectful coexistence rather than conformity. They should avoid apologizing for their beliefs and instead engage in educational conversations to foster understanding. Preemptive education is crucial, and Muslims should use encounters with Christmas greetings as opportunities for respectful dialogue. Educating children about Islamic beliefs regarding Jesus is also essential, equipping them to engage in meaningful conversations with peers of different faiths.

In conclusion, Muslims can gracefully navigate the Christmas season by upholding their beliefs while respecting those of others. By promoting understanding, mutual respect, and the preservation of Monotheism, Muslims can contribute to greater interfaith harmony during this holiday season and beyond.