Q: I am told that to celebrate thanking is ok bcuz we celebrating the past years harvest. So if this is my intention can I do it? Can I have friends over to celebrate as Dawah? (text from 480 area code)

A: ‘Monkey see monkey do’ is not a syndrome that rational people invoke upon the self.

A Muslim celebrates that which is in line with their religion. Thanksgiving is not a Muslim holiday. Muslims give thanks every day for the bounties Allah (SWT) has bestowed upon them. To limit giving ‘thanks’ to a given day or moment would be a mockery, regardless of how noble the intention or deed.

As Muslims, we are not denouncing the value of this holiday for our friends and neighbors. We support the good this nation represents and we must assist in areas that need greater reformation. Intellect demands that rational people evaluate the value of current holidays in relation to Islam and its core values. Noting that Eid has just passed, did you even consider taking out the time to invite people over for an Eid event and show them how we take part in our moments of celebration and worship. After all, Dawah is your aim, right?

In reality, the duty of a Muslim is to promote good at all times. To be active in the festivities of people that do not share your values is contrary to our religion. Abstain from habits that prove a contradiction to your spirituality.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.

p.s. (Permission has been granted to make the following comment from sender of question.) Based on the fact I know you personally, you have no harvest to really celebrate. You have not had a job for 2 years; you barely have an income, what harvest are you talking about??? Do you have some shares in gold mines? Oil companies? May Allah (SWT) give you success in all your matters, may He also help me and you to make good decisions in all our matters, Ameen.