Q. I would like to find out if it is permissible to attend a Christian ‘thanksgiving’ and eat the food if it is Halaal? I have some relatives that are Christian and I’m invited, they told me that they are preparing Halaal food. If so, if the food is ‘blessed’ what then? I know we cannot eat from Hindus if they have prayers and for like Divali but I am uncertain about attending Christian functions!
A. Although the food may be halal, it would not be permissible to eat the food at the ‘Christian thanksgiving’, nor will it be permissible to attend it. Functions of this nature incorporate acts and teachings that are opposing to Islam. On almost all occasions, a Muslim who attends, is required to sit and listen to words of shirk in which Jesus (AS) is called as the lord, God or Son of God. Islam has prohibited its followers from visiting and being a part of such gatherings.
Whether the food is blessed or not, it will not be permissible to partake of it, seeing that it was prepared specifically for this function, which in reality, is totally un Islamic.
And Allah knows best.
Mufti Waseem Khan