Fatwa #177721 December 2000Pakistan
Greeting People of the Book; accepting presents from them.
Question
1. Are we allowed to greet people of the book (Christians, Jews) when they have their festivals? 2. If we are allowed, how do we do that ? 3. Are we allowed to accept presents from them, in their festivals ? Jazakum Allahu khayaran
Answer
You can look for the answer on www.jamiat.org.za.
While it is permissible to accept gifts from non-Muslims, extreme precaution should be taken. For example, during their religious festivals, edibles are generally prayed on; to consume such food is Haraam. Therefore, as a matter of precaution all edibles given by non-Muslims during their festivals should not be consumed. It is also not permissible to participate in their functions and festivals. (Fataawa Abdul Hai pg. 482)
And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Mufti E.Desai
While it is permissible to accept gifts from non-Muslims, extreme precaution should be taken. For example, during their religious festivals, edibles are generally prayed on; to consume such food is Haraam. Therefore, as a matter of precaution all edibles given by non-Muslims during their festivals should not be consumed. It is also not permissible to participate in their functions and festivals. (Fataawa Abdul Hai pg. 482)
And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Mufti E.Desai