Recent Questions & Answers
Q: Is divorce haram in Islam?
A: Divorce is legally permissible (halal) in Islam but disliked by Allah when done without valid reason.
Hadith Reference
"The most hated permissible thing (halal) to Allah is divorce."
— Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 2178 (Classed as hasan by al-Albani)
Qur'an on Divorce
"Divorce is twice. Then, either keep [her] in an acceptable manner or release [her] with good treatment..."
— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:229)
The Qur'an outlines a structured and fair process for divorce, emphasizing justice, patience, and kindness even at the point of separation.
For more details: Marriage and Divorce in Islam - Rights, Procedures & Responsibilities
Q: What is the ruling on celebrating birthdays in Islam?
A: Many scholars, especially from the Salafi and Deobandi traditions, hold that celebrating birthdays is not permissible. Their reasons include:
No Basis in the Sunnah:
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions never celebrated birthdays, not even the Prophet's own.
Imitating Non-Muslims:
"Whoever imitates a people is one of them."
— Abu Dawood, 4031
Bid'ah (Innovation):
They consider it a religious innovation (bid'ah) because it introduces a new practice into the religion without a basis in the Qur'an or Sunnah.
Some scholars and Muslims consider birthday celebrations permissible under specific conditions. They argue:
Cultural, Not Religious:
If birthdays are celebrated as a cultural or personal tradition (not a religious act), then it is not a bid'ah.
No Haram Elements:
The celebration must not include forbidden acts like free mixing, music, extravagance, or wastefulness.
Thankfulness to Allah:
Some use the day to thank Allah for life and reflect on their deeds.