Christmas, Santa Claus, and Interfaith Harmony: A Message of Respect and Shared Humanity.

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​Christmas, Santa Claus, and Interfaith Harmony: A Message of Respect and Shared Humanity.


In a world increasingly divided by misunderstandings, religion should become a bridge of peace rather than a wall of separation. One such opportunity for mutual respect and interfaith harmony arises during Christmas — a festival deeply cherished by Christians across the globe and respectfully acknowledged by Muslims as well.

Understanding Christmas



Christmas is one of the most significant religious festivals of Christianity, celebrated every year on 25th December. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ (Hazrat Isa, peace be upon him), whom Christians believe to be the Son of God and the Savior of mankind. Muslims, while rejecting the concept of divinity attributed to Jesus, revere him as one of the greatest prophets of God and hold his mother, Mary (Hazrat Maryam, peace be upon her), in the highest honor.


The word Christmas is derived from Christ and Mass, meaning a religious gathering in remembrance of Christ. The essence of Christmas revolves around love, compassion, sacrifice, forgiveness, and service to humanity — values that are universally shared by all divine religions.





Why Christmas Is Celebrated on 25 December



Historically, it is not definitively proven that Jesus Christ was born on 25 December. Early Christian communities later selected this date, possibly to align with existing winter festivals in the Roman world. However, the spiritual significance of Christmas transcends the exact date, focusing instead on its moral and humanitarian message.





Santa Claus: The Reality Behind the Myth



Santa Claus is not a religious figure nor a supernatural being. His origins trace back to Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian bishop from Myra (modern-day Turkey), renowned for his generosity, kindness, and secret charity toward the poor and children.


Over centuries, folklore, literature, and modern media transformed Saint Nicholas into the symbolic figure we know today — a cheerful man in red attire who brings gifts to children. This modern image, popularized in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially through Western art and advertising, represents generosity and joy, not religious belief.


From an Islamic perspective, Santa Claus is regarded as a cultural and fictional character, not a theological concept. While Muslims do not adopt this symbolism religiously, the values it represents — kindness, charity, and care for children — are deeply embedded in Islamic teachings.





Islamic Perspective on Christmas and Interfaith Respect



Islam teaches respect for all prophets, including Jesus (peace be upon him). While Muslims do not celebrate Christmas as a religious festival, Islam strongly emphasizes goodwill, justice, and peaceful coexistence with people of all faiths.


Participating in the joys of Christian neighbors, offering greetings, protecting their places of worship, and sharing in humanitarian values does not compromise Islamic beliefs. Rather, it reflects the Qur’anic principle of cooperation in goodness and righteousness.


Celebrating Together Without Losing Identity


Interfaith harmony does not mean theological compromise. It means:


  • Respecting each other’s beliefs
  • Sharing moments of happiness and grief
  • Standing together against hatred and injustice
  • Promoting peace, dialogue, and mutual understanding


Christmas, when approached with wisdom, becomes an opportunity to strengthen social bonds, not religious divisions.


Toward Interfaith Unity and Global Peace


In today’s interconnected world, Muslims and Christians must move beyond historical conflicts and focus on shared moral foundations — faith in God, human dignity, compassion, and social justice.


Participating in Christian happiness during Christmas — through respectful greetings, social solidarity, and humanitarian cooperation — contributes to a culture of peace and interfaith unity. This approach does not dilute faith; it elevates humanity.

Conclusion


Christmas is a time of joy for Christians and a moment of reflection for all people of conscience. Santa Claus, while fictional, symbolizes generosity and care. Islam, while doctrinally distinct, fully supports peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and kindness.


Interfaith harmony is not built by denying differences, but by honoring humanity above hatred. By standing together in joy, we build a future where faith becomes a source of unity rather than division.


Syed Ali Raza Naqvi Bukhari

Unity of Peace, Economic Reform, and Global Unity

Founder & Chairman of Tehreek Istehkam Pakistan, and the author of “Law of God” and “Social Democratic System.” Advocate for truth, social justice, and reform in all sectors of society.


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