Is Saying “Happy Birthday” Considered Shirk in Islam?

Understanding the Islamic Perspective on Birthday Wishes

Question: Is saying “Happy Birthday” considered shirk?

Answer: Simply saying “Happy Birthday” is not shirk because it does not involve anything associated with shirk. However, when someone says “Happy Christmas,” it does involve shirk to some extent because Christians believe that on Christmas Day, God’s son was born. Therefore, avoid saying “Happy Christmas.” While “Happy Birthday” should not be said either, congratulating someone on their birthday is not permissible.

Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah 

Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia  

Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail

Author: IslamicHelper

IslamicHelper

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