Egypt’s Dar al-Iftaa, the government’s principal Islamic legal institution for issuing fatwas (non-binding religious edicts), has responded to controversy surrounding celebrating Christmas in Egypt, a majority Muslim country, coinciding with Coptic celebrations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Dar al-Iftaa clarified that the ruling on celebrating Christmas and the ruling on celebrating the New Year is “permissible”, as it is the day of the birth of Prophet Jesus Christ, son of Mary.
It is therefore acceptable under Islam due to includes social, religious and national purposes that are recognized by Sharia and customs.
Dar Al Iftaa added in an official fatwa on its website issued by the Grand Mufti Shawqi Allam that celebrating Christmas recognizes the miraculous birth of Prophet Jesus Christ, son of Mary, peace be upon him, who was immortalized by the Quran.
The institute stated in another Fatwa celebrating Christmas is permissible as Muslims believe in prophets as well.
