Understanding the Use of Gifts and Tasbih in Islamic Context

Gifts from Iran: Permissibility of Food, Clothing, and Tasbih in Islam

Question: People coming from Iran often bring gifts for their relatives and friends, including food items like dates, various types of candies, and other sweets, as well as scarves for girls. Does using these items fall under the category of shirk (associating partners with Allah)? Also, what is the ruling on using such a tasbih (prayer beads) for the remembrance of Allah?

Answer: From an Islamic perspective, there is no harm in accepting and using items related to food, clothing, or other permissible things as gifts, as long as they are halal (permissible). Therefore, if a Shia person offers something that is not prohibited by Sharia, it is permissible to accept it as a gift. However, it is important to ensure that the food items are not associated with any shirk or kufr (disbelief) beliefs. In other words, using permissible items is allowed and does not constitute shirk. Additionally, it is permissible to use a tasbih offered by a Shia for the remembrance of Allah. However, it is recommended to use one’s fingers for counting tasbih, as it is considered more virtuous.

 Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi (may Allah preserve him)

❪Jeddah Dawah Center, Hayy Al-Salamah – Saudi Arabia❫