Prohibited Imitation of Non-Muslims

Author: Dr. Muhammad Zia-ur-Rahman Azmi (Rahimahullah)

Explanation of Prohibited Imitation:​

The imitation of non-Muslims that has been prohibited refers specifically to adopting their unique customs, religious innovations, and practices related to their religion and worship. This includes imitating their behavior in matters that are integral to their religious or cultural identity.

Examples of Prohibited Imitation:​

1. Shaving the Beard
2. Wearing the Zunar (Religious Belt or Thread):
   
   • This is a garment or belt traditionally worn by Jews, Magians, and Christians around their waists as a religious symbol.
3. Participation in Their Religious Festivals and Acts:
   
   • Celebrating their festivals and religious events or adopting customs specifically associated with their religious practices.
4. Grave Worship and Seeking Help from the Dead:
   
   • Performing acts of devotion at graves, circumambulating them, offering sacrifices in the name of the deceased, and seeking their assistance.
5. Use of Religious Symbols:
   
   • Ringing bells (naqus), venerating the cross, wearing it, displaying it in homes, or tattooing it on the body with the same reverence and beliefs that Christians hold about it.

Rulings on Imitation:​

The ruling on imitation varies based on the nature of the act:

1. Imitation Leading to Disbelief (Kufr):
   
   • Engaging in acts such as seeking help from the dead, venerating the cross, or adopting religious symbols out of reverence akin to non-Muslim beliefs can lead to kufr.
2. Imitation Considered Haram:
   
   • Acts such as shaving the beard or congratulating them on their religious festivals are considered haram but do not necessarily lead to kufr.

Examples of Varying Rulings:​

• Kufr:
  
  • Seeking help from the dead
  • Wearing or venerating the cross
• Haram (but not Kufr):
  
  • Shaving the beard
  • Participating in their religious celebrations
  • Congratulating them on their festivals

These distinctions are essential in understanding how Islamic teachings prevent Muslims from adopting practices that compromise their faith or blur the boundaries between Islam and other religions.

[Al-Lajnah Al-Daimah: Fatwa No. 4566]