Question
Is it permissible to hang Christmas décor in my shop to lure customers and make them feel at home during the festive season?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.
Islam is averse to any type of Mushabahah (imitation) with the Kuffaar, more so in issues related to their religious elements.
Rasulullāh Sallallāhu Alayhi Wa Sallam has mentioned:
مَنْ تَشَبَّهَ بِقَوْمٍ فَهُوَ مِنْهُمْ
“One who imitates a nation will be from amongst them.”
On many occasions, Rasulullāh Sallallāhu Alayhi Wa Sallam prevented his companions from certain actions due to the mere fact that such actions were prevalent in other religions. Hence, carrying out such actions would lead to imitating them.
Shari’ah has laid such emphasis on distancing ourselves from the traits of other religions that at times, due to this reason, it prohibits certain actions that would be permissible or preferable under general circumstances. Therefore, the very act of purchasing such decor in the festive season is highly inappropriate and hanging the same décor is highly disliked.
At such a time, when the environment is saturated with decorations, advertisements and posters propagating the message of the Kuffār, we as Muslims should not shy away from showing our identity and should refuse to adopt the ways of the Kuffaar. Politely let your enquiring non-Muslim clientele know that you are bound by religious restrictions and cannot put up such décor.
We understand your intention of luring customers and making the most of these festive days, especially in light of the recent economic conditions. However, the method you wish to adopt is inappropriate. You may manage to multiply and increase your sales, yet they will be devoid of Barakah (blessings).
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Checked and Approved by
Mufti Nabeel Valli
Darul Iftaa Mahmudiyyah
Lusaka, Zambia