Assalamu Alaikum:'Only 12 days till' Christmas!' the lights, the songs, and the commercials remind us, as Americans prepare to celebrate one of the country's most important holidays. A growing number of Americans scoff at the consistent commercialization of what is essentially a religious holiday. There are also those who argue that Christmas has little to do with Prophet Jesus, peace be upon him, and more to do with Santa Claus.While devout Christians continue to voice these criticisms, Muslims need to step back a little. Regardless of how the holiday is celebrated, the bottom line is that it is the major holiday of our neighbors. Islam stresses the duty of respecting the beliefs and traditions of others, especially the People of the Book, whose connection to Prophet Abraham links our three faith groups.This week at Sound Vision, find out why it's important to treat Christmas with respect, whether you're in America or you're in a Muslim majority country. And remember: respect is not agreement with the beliefs and ideas associated with something. It is simply recognition of the God-given right of all to choose their faith and our responsibility to respect their choice.While Hajjis are getting ready to leave for Makkah, Eid is also less than a month away falling most likely on January 9th and 10th.Muslims in Chicago, Atlanta and Toronto are presenting their communities the chance to offer their Eid-ul-Adha sacrifice in January to the local poor. Find out more about our duty to those living in poverty in America and abroad. Both programs can be found online at www.chicagomuslims.com and www.torontomuslims.com.If you would like to start a similar program in your city, please email us at info@soundvision.com. Please put "Eid sacrifice" in the subject line of the email.Peace Abdul Malik Mujahid //en.yabiladi.com/topics/muslims-and-christmas-44-880847-880847.html#msg-880847 Thu, 04 Jun 2026 15:02:49 +0200 Phorum 5.2.15