Getting Real with Halloween: It’s Not About Candy!
If your child asked to be baptized at Church because their entire class was doing it, would you let them?
What if they gave you a $10 incentive? Now would you agree?
Of course not.
As a Muslim, you’d never feel compelled to do any ritual outside of what Islam allows—especially not being Baptized, as it represents far more than just water.
Sure, baptism may seem like an extreme example, but the principle remains the same.
Just because everyone is doing it doesn’t make it right.
The same can be said for celebrating Halloween in Islam.
Parents struggle with this seemingly innocent holiday of dress-up and candy eating. The most common reason Muslim parents succumb to celebrating is not wanting their children to feel left out.
We all want our children to be happy and healthy. And if it makes them happy, then why not?
Because…
It’s wrong to celebrate a custom outside of what Allah has allowed, which falls into imitating the disbelievers.
- It’s wrong to go door to door begging for candy.
- And the worst is the origin of Halloween. Even if it’s not your intent to follow it based on what it means, you’re associating yourself with it by participating. This is directly against everything Islam stands for.
The Excitement of Halloween in Islam
If your child could pick anything from the grocery store, what would they choose?
99% of the time, children will choose candy. Naturally, it tastes good!
Nearly all of us would do the same if it weren’t for the harmful side effects. So, when Halloween comes up, there’s only one thing on a child’s mind – candy!
Children will beg you to let them go trick-or-treating; why? Free candy! This is the nature of children – they want to play and enjoy sweet treats.
Halloween gives children precisely what they want.
And that’s where parents come in. We are there to guide and support them to make better choices.
And as Muslim parents, this means choices that align with Islamic values.
Halloween Costumes in Islam
Dressing up is an excellent way for children to dive into their imagination and expand their creativity.
Chocolates and sweets are occasional lovely treats. There’s nothing intrinsically wrong with costumes or chocolate, and it’s all about timing.
Parental guidance allows for accommodating candy and play outside of Halloween. There are 364 other days to play, dress up and eat candy.
Choosing to do it during Halloween means choosing to celebrate Halloween, which means accepting the rituals and practices of paganism.
Three Alternatives to Halloween in Islam
- Set a playdate outside the Halloween festivities. They can dress in costumes and indulge in treats at a more convenient time, like on the weekend or school holiday.
- Load up on candy after Halloween finishes! All the best discounts happen after Halloween anyways.
- Pick a themed costume, and everyone can dress up. This can be a fun theme party for Eid.
Halloween Doesn’t Support A Good Muslim Character
Then, there’s the dark side to Halloween. Fake blood, skeletons, and demonic characters are not part of healthy character-building.
These are symbols of evil, and some are even representations of shaytan. So, to do this even outside of Halloween would not befit the characteristic of a Muslim.
The concept of Halloween is simple: you dress into a costume and go from door to door, asking for candy. In the statement “trick or treat,” there is an implication of a threat, but for the most part, that is not acted on. Some young adults do egg houses or wrap people’s property with toilet paper. However, that is an exception, with the excuse of “it’s allowed because it’s Halloween.”
Nonetheless, the act of celebrating Halloween entails that you must beg. Even if it’s an expected and well-established practice, it is still considered begging. In Islam, there is a specific criterion for those allowed to beg, which is not permitted outside of that. Those that beg must have a dire need – which is not the case during Halloween.
Begging is not lawful except…
Qabisa bin Mukhariq al-Hilali (RA) narrates: Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said: “Begging is not lawful except to one of three (people): a man who has become a guarantor for a payment, for whom begging is lawful till he gets it, after which he must stop begging; a man whose wealth has been destroyed by a calamity which has befallen him, for whom begging is lawful till he gets what will support life; and a man who has been struck by poverty, the genuineness of which is confirmed by three intelligent members of his people, so it is lawful for him to beg.” (Muslim Book 7, Hadith 114)
Abdullah bin Umar reports that as Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) was sitting on the pulpit and talking about Sadaqa and abstention from begging, he said: The upper hand is better than the lower one, the upper being the one which bestows and the lower one which begs. (Sahih Muslim 1033)
How can we ignore a guarantee for Jannah?
Thawban, the client of the Messenger of Allah (May peace be upon him), reports him as saying: “If anyone guarantees me that he will not beg from people, I will guarantee him Paradise. Thawban said: I (will not beg). He never asked anyone for anything.” ( Sunan Abi Dawud 1643)
Bottom Line – Halloween in Islam Isn’t Allowed
Halloween in Islam is not a matter that should be taken lightly. The origin of Halloween is based on shirk -associating partners with Allah.
“Halloween has its roots in the ancient, pre-Christian Celtic festival of Samhain, which was celebrated on the night of October 31. The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France, believed that the dead returned to earth on Samhain. On the sacred night, people gathered to light bonfires, offer sacrifices and pay homage to the dead.” History.com
Even if you don’t consider yourself “celebrating” Halloween, do you want to associate yourself with rituals that anger Allah? The issue of Halloween in Islam isn’t merely haunted houses and spooky masks. In accepting Halloween, we have directly rejected the first pillar of Islam – belief in Allah Alone. No amount of fun, candy, or peer pressure is worth risking Allah’s displeasure.
In hadith, we learn that there is only one sin that Allah will not forgive: associating partners with Him:
Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) report: A bedouin came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and asked him, “O Messenger of Allah, what are the two imperatives which lead to Jannah or Hell.” He (peace be upon him) replied, “He who dies without associating anything with Allah will enter Jannah, and he who dies associating partners with Allah will enter the Fire.” (Muslim – Riyad as-Salihin 414 )
Do what’s best for your children
Halloween in Islam makes it clear that it is a temptation we should stay far away from. Even if our children are excited about it, we, as God-conscious parents, should not be afraid to teach them better.
Wanting the best for our children is not always easy.
We still vaccinate them and give them medicine when they’re sick because we know it’s good for them. They may not like it now, but they will understand later it was all for their own good.
May Allah protect our children and keep them on the straight path always. Ameen.
![Understanding Islam: Delving Deeper into 0ther Beliefs and Practices Islam is not just a religion, but a comprehensive way of life that extends beyond the regular practice of prayers and fasting. In this blog, we venture beyond the common understanding of Islam to explore 'what is Islam other beliefs?' We delve into the multi-dimensional aspects of Islam, unpacking its spiritual, ethical, social, and legal systems, while also shedding light on its practices and beliefs that intersect with hope and inspiration. Belief in Islam: Beyond the Five Pillars Islam is commonly associated with its five pillars - the shahada (faith), salat (prayer), zakat (charity), sawm (fasting), and the Hajj (pilgrimage). However, the beliefs of Islam extend far beyond these core practices. A critical element of Islam is belief in the divine destiny or Qadr. According to a Hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari, Qadr encompasses both the good and the evil, contributing to a Muslim’s resilience and hope during challenging times. "...Everything is predetermined by Allah, even laziness and intelligence." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6614) In addition, Islam emphasizes the concept of Akhlaq, or good moral conduct. As illustrated in the Quran, "...do what is beautiful. Allah loves those who do what is beautiful." (Quran, 2:195). These teachings stir inspiration and encourage a morally grounded lifestyle. Practice of Islam: An All-Encompassing Way of Life Practice in Islam goes beyond religious rituals, encapsulating every aspect of daily life. It’s a holistic approach, incorporating aspects of ethics, spirituality, and societal interactions. From business ethics to family ties and environmental stewardship, all spheres of life are governed by the principles of Islam, fostering a harmonious existence for both the individual and the community. Islamic teachings inspire Muslims to continuously strive for growth, improvement and to contribute positively to society. An example can be found in the hadith: "The best people are those most beneficial to people" (Sahih Muslim 2588). Insha'Allah, such principles nurture a sense of hope and serve as a living testament to the universality and comprehensiveness of Islam. Further Understanding Islam While this post delves into some aspects of Islam beyond the commonly understood facets, there's more to learn. Here at IQRA Network, we invite you to further explore Islam's beliefs and practices, continuing on this journey of understanding, hope, and inspiration. More sections can be added to delve into the various sub-themes and topics that arise when exploring 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Social Aspects of Islam Islam is not just about a personal relationship with the divine but also connects Muslims socially and ethically. It promotes brotherhood and peace, with guidelines aimed at fostering respectful and caring relations within the community and beyond. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated, "None of you will truly believe until you love for your brother what you love for yourself." (Sahih al-Bukhari 13). Masha'Allah, this communal spirit reflects in the way Ramadan, Eid and other Islamic events bring Muslims together, inspiring harmony and fellowship. Islam also intersects with societal obligations, creating a sense of social justice. It stipulates rights and protection for every individual, regardless of their social or economic standing. As the Quran states, "...And do not deprive people of their due..." (Quran, 26:183). Therefore, Islam fosters a holistic approach to life, encouraging mutual respect, compassion, and fairness in every walk of life. Islam and Inner Peace Beyond its outward practices, Islam also emphasizes inner peace and tranquillity. It encourages mindfulness and peace, and a divine connection fosters contentment in followers. The Quran says, "Those who believe, their hearts find rest in Allah's remembrance. Isn't it in the remembrance of Allah that hearts find rest?" (Quran, 13:28). Thus, Islam provides a constant source of comfort, allowing Muslims to remain hopeful even in times of trial and tribulation. Moreover, the soul's purification is a crucial aspect of Islamic belief, and practices like Salah (prayer) and Zakat (charity) are tools for spiritual cleansing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Prayer is a light; charity is proof [of one's faith]..." (Sahih Muslim 1). Thus, these practices not only fulfill religious duties but also infuse a sense of peace and clarity, adding a broader dimension to 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Islam's Emphasis on Knowledge Islam encourages its followers to be seekers of knowledge. From learning about the universe, human behaviour, to the teachings within the Quran, the pursuit of knowledge is seen as a form of worship. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) imparted, "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim." (Sunan Ibn Majah 224). SubhanAllah, this teaching inspires hope, curiosity, and a lifelong commitment to understanding and growth. The Quran itself is seen as the primary source of knowledge, guiding Muslims in all aspects of life. The Quran states, "This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah" (Quran, 2:2). At IQRA Network, we understand how critical this guidance is, and through our various learning programs, we aim to help our students navigate through life's journey with wisdom and understanding. The Universality of Islam While born in the Arabian Peninsula, Islam's teachings are universal, transcending cultural, racial, and geographical boundaries. At its core, Islam propounds the belief in the oneness of God and the unity of mankind, exemplified by the annual Hajj pilgrimage where Muslims from around the world converge in Mecca in a display of global unity. Islam embraces cultural diversity and advocates for equality, affirming that no individual is superior over another except by virtue and piety. As emphasized in the Quran, "0 mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you." (Quran, 49:13). This principle of inclusivity and equality propels the message of unity, enriching the multilayered narrative of 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Islam and Environmental Stewardship Within the broad spectrum of Islamic teachings, there's also a distinct emphasis on environmental stewardship. Environmental rights are embedded in Islamic principles, implying the conservation, sustainable use, and equitable sharing of natural resources. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said: "The world is green and beautiful, and Allah has appointed you his stewards over it." (Sahih Muslim 1702). Alhamdulillah, these divine guidelines encourage responsible utilization, drawing a perfect balance between man and nature. The concept of "tawheed" or the oneness of God extends to the unity of nature, reminding Muslims of their duty towards the environment. This belief is backed by the Quran, which says: "...And there is no creature on [or within] the earth or bird that flies with its wings except [that they are] communities like you..." (Quran, 6:38). Consequently, respecting and caring for all living beings brings us a step closer to understanding 'what is Islam other beliefs?' The Role of Charity in Islam Within Islam, charity is more than a noble act; it's a fundamental pillar that shapes the believer's character and actions. Disbursing from one's wealth to support those in need creates a sense of community and solidarity. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: "Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity." (Tirmidhi Vol. 6, Book 45, Hadith 2487). This notion fuels the spirit of selflessness and mutual care. The significance of charity is further reinforced in the Quran: "The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills..." (Quran, 2:261). Thus, practicing charity in Islam manifests a commitment to safeguarding social justice and equality, contributing to this quest to understand 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Health and Hygiene in Islam Health and hygiene are integral parts of Islam. Muslims are encouraged to maintain a healthy body and mind to fully realize their potential and fulfill their religious and social responsibilities. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "There are two blessings which many people lose: (They are) health and free time for doing good." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6412). Insha'Allah, these teachings imbue the vital importance of health preservation, constituting a significant part of 'what is Islam other beliefs?'. Hygiene also holds a prominent place in Islamic teachings. Regular ablutions, cleanliness during prayer and the call for personal hygiene underline this emphasis. As the Quran states, "... Allah loves those who turn to Him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean." (Quran, 2:222). Thus, the coupling of health and hygiene reflects the comprehensive approach Islam adopts to ensure the well-being of its followers. Islam and Family Life Family occupies a central role in the social structure of Islam. Establishing harmonious family relations provides a secure and nurturing environment, promoting peace and stability. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "The best of you is the one who is best to his family..." (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3252). SubhanAllah, these teachings resonate with the values of love, respect, and care. The Quran also sheds light on the mutual rights and responsibilities of family members, contributing to a balanced family system. For instance, it emphasizes upon children's respect for parents, with the verse, "...do not say to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word." (Quran, 17:23). So, exploring 'what is Islam other beliefs?' unveils a comprehensive framework that guides individuals in fulfilling their familial roles effectively, creating a harmonious society. Women's Rights in Islam Contrary to popular misconceptions, Islam holds women in high esteem, offering them a balance of rights and responsibilities. The Quran highlights the importance of women's rights and their equal standing with men: "And their Lord responded to them, 'Never will I allow to be lost the work of [any] worker among you, whether male or female; you are of one another...'" (Quran, 3:195). Masha'Allah, Islam promotes equality, advocating for women's participation in various aspects of life, from religious to social and economic spheres. The Prophetic tradition also underlines the respect and kindness due to women. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught, "The best among you are those who are best to their wives." (Ibn Majah Vol. 3, Book 9, Hadith 1978). These teachings of equity and respect add another layer as we explore 'what is Islam other beliefs?'. Conclusion Providing a snapshot of 'what is Islam other beliefs?' uncovers a rich and comprehensive way of life that extends beyond prayer and fasting. Islam offers guidance on various aspects of life, encompassing belief systems and practices that inspire hope and promote spiritual, moral, and social well-being. It encourages peace, promotes knowledge and charity, respects diversity, advocates environmental stewardship, upholds family values, and emphasises health and hygiene. As we delve deeper into the teachings of Islam, we appreciate its universality and inclusiveness, recognizing how its practices nourish the mind, heart, and soul. Insha'Allah, as we study and reflect upon these teachings at IQRA Network, we navigate a path filled with wisdom, benefiting ourselves and those around us.](https://iqranetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Beliefs-and-Practices.png)
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