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A Comparison of Christian and Islamic Perspectives on Christmas


The birth of Jesus holds deep religious significance for Christians; however, Islam has its own
perspective on the miraculous birth of Isa (peace be upon him).This page will explore how
Christmas is viewed in Christianity and contrasts it with the Islamic understanding. It will also provide
clarity for Muslims and anyone interested in interfaith knowledge.

Christianity’s Belief on Christmas


Christians celebrate Christmas to commemorate the birth of Jesus, According to most
Christians:

  1. Christ is considered the Son of God.
  2. His birth is regarded as divine and miraculous.
  3. This celebration is a religious and festive occasion.

Visit our Christmas page to learn about Christian beliefs, traditions, and religious significance.

Islamic Perspective


Islam has certain basic principles that guide how Christmas beliefs are viewed

Isa (علیہ السلام) is not the Son of God


The Qur’an clarifies this in several verses: “Say: He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Eternal
Refuge. He did not beget, nor was He begotten.” (Qur’an 112)

  • Isa (علیہ السلام) is only a Messenger of Allah. Claiming divinity or that he is Allah’s Son is
    considered shirk (associating partners with Allah) in Islam.

Belief in Virgin Birth

  • Islam affirms the virgin birth of Isa (علیہ السلام):
    “Behold! The angels said: O Mary! Allah gives you glad tidings of a Word from Him,
    whose name will be the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary…” (Qur’an 3:45)
  • However, this miracle is a sign of Allah’s power, not evidence that Isa (علیہ السلام)
    himself is divine.

The Issue of Celebration

  • In Islam, celebrating anything is permissible only if it aligns with Shariah.
  • Since Christmas involves the belief that Isa (علیہ السلام) is the Son of God and is
    celebrated religiously based on that belief, it cannot be endorsed according to Islamic
    principles.
  • Therefore, Muslims are not permitted to celebrate Christmas as a religious event.

Islam’s Neutral View

Islam respects the beliefs of Christians and mentions their beliefs in the Qur’an.
However, according to Islamic teachings:

  1. Isa (علیہ السلام) is a Messenger of Allah, not divine.
  2. His birth was a miracle, but he is not the Son of God.
  3. Christmas, as a religious celebration, is not to be observed by Muslims.