Attending a birthday party

Q: I know birthdays are not halal but if a close person invites me, I need to go. So if I went to a birthday party where there is no music, only relatives and close friends, I will not eat the cake but it seems bad if I don't eat the food they ordered, so if I eat the food will it halal for me? Only to eat the food.

A: Birthday parties have no basis in Islam. This is a kuffaar tradition and custom and must be avoided. It is not permissible for one to attend such a function as he will be emulating the kuffaar. Therefore, you should try to explain to them that this is not permissible in Islam and it goes against the mubaarak teachings of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "The one who emulates a people will be counted from amongst them (in the sight of Allah Ta’ala). If you are unable to explain to them, then you should excuse yourself from attending such a function.

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

 

Answered by:

Mufti Zakaria Makada

Checked & Approved:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)