Q: Regarding birthdays in Islam. Many people say “special duaas for so and so person because it is his birthday today” without saying ‘happy birthday’ or celebrating in any way. Is this permissible?
A: One should refrain from this. Celebrating birthdays is a custom of the kuffaar. As Muslims, we are commanded to refrain from emulating the kuffaar as well as adopting their ways.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
عن ابن عمر قال قال رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم من تشبه بقوم فهو منهم (سنن أبي داود 2/559)
Answered by:
Mufti Zakaria Makada
Checked & Approved:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)