I don’t really understand it myself, it seems like a non-religious holiday, but maybe not for a few people. How should I explain this?
Answer
In this counseling answer:
Regardless of his age, it’s important that you pay attention to his questions and answer them to the best of your ability.
Explain why Christians as well as non-religious people celebrate Christmas.
You might speak to his teacher so that he is not forced to or encouraged to join in any Christmas related activities.
Keep him educated in Islam.
Make a big deal about our of Eids.
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatulahi wa barakatuh,
This is something that comes up at some point or another for Muslim children, especially living in the West.
Some children struggle with it more than others. Perhaps it depends on their level of exposure to people who celebrate Christmas.
The way you should address it with your child will be largely dependent on their age. However, here are some things you can bring in to the discussion to assist their understanding:
Answer His Questions
Regardless of his age, it’s important that you pay attention to his questions and answer them to the best of your ability. Otherwise, he may feel inclined to ask his questions to those who will not be able to provide him with the most suitable answers.
Avoiding questions may increase curiosity further.
Explain Christmas in His Language
You can help your child by explaining very simply that according to Christians, Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Isa (Jesus). It is the way they celebrate and it’s okay for them to celebrate it. However, as Muslims, we do not celebrate Christmas.
We have great respect for Jesus. However, we don’t celebrate Christmas. Instead, our big celebrations each year are done during the two Eids.
Aside from this, even for Christians, the true understanding of Christmas as a celebration of Isa has gone astray; it has become more of a commercial event with the incorporation of pagan practices. This is why it doesn’t seem to come across as a religious holiday.
If he can grasp this simple understanding of what Christmas is, then he will be aware of things that he should not involve himself in at this time.
Talk to The Teacher
If he goes to a school that makes a big deal of Christmas, then you might speak to his teacher so that he is not forced to or encouraged to join in any Christmas related activities.
If they are not aware of this, he may be encouraged to engage or do so without the knowledge of what he’s doing which can lead to confusion in himself and even more questions.
Educate Him About Islam
In addition to this, make sure to keep him educated in Islam. You need to help him have a firm grip of his faith and not be lead astray by his peers. This will help him to feel satisfied and confident in his religion.
Make Eids Big Occasions
When it comes to Eids, make a big deal out of them. Make it the joyous occasion it should be and something to look forward to every year.
May Allah guide you and us all on the straight path and keep us firm in our faith. May He reward your efforts and concerns to educate your child in the way of Islam.
Salam,
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