Question:
In the marketplace, Christian workers such as sweepers and washroom cleaners often ask for ‘Eidi before their religious festivals. Shopkeepers typically give them 50 or 100 rupees. Is this act permissible in Islam?
Answer by:
Research Scholar: Dawood Ismail ḥafiẓahullāh
Scholar: Khidr Hayat ḥafiẓahullāh
❖ It is not permissible to give gifts to non-Muslims specifically on the occasion of their religious festivals.
✔ The correct approach is to clearly inform them that, according to Islamic teachings, it is not permissible to provide financial aid or gifts in connection with any religious celebration.
✔ However, if they are employees—such as cleaners, sweepers, or service providers—and the payment is being given:
— As part of their wages,
— Or as a bonus for their services,
then this is permissible and rightfully due to them. There is no Shar‘i objection to this, In shā’ Allāh.
In the marketplace, Christian workers such as sweepers and washroom cleaners often ask for ‘Eidi before their religious festivals. Shopkeepers typically give them 50 or 100 rupees. Is this act permissible in Islam?
Answer by:
Research Scholar: Dawood Ismail ḥafiẓahullāh
Scholar: Khidr Hayat ḥafiẓahullāh
✿ Ruling on Gifts During Non-Muslim Religious Festivals
❖ It is not permissible to give gifts to non-Muslims specifically on the occasion of their religious festivals.
✿ Clarification and Permissible Alternative
✔ The correct approach is to clearly inform them that, according to Islamic teachings, it is not permissible to provide financial aid or gifts in connection with any religious celebration.
✔ However, if they are employees—such as cleaners, sweepers, or service providers—and the payment is being given:
— As part of their wages,
— Or as a bonus for their services,
then this is permissible and rightfully due to them. There is no Shar‘i objection to this, In shā’ Allāh.
