Q: A friend of mine is having a collection for money for Christmas gifts for orphans. I wanted to know if it is permissible for me to give the money or not.
A: Muslims should strictly avoid this. Nabi Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam said من تشبه بقوم فهو منهم (the one who emulates a people will be counted from amongst them (in the sight of Allah Ta’aala)). Hence, it is impermissible for Muslims to donate money towards purchasing Christmas gifts to be distributed on the occasion of Christmas. For further details refer to http://muftionline.co.za/node/4318
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Zakaria Makada
Checked & Approved:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)