Celebrating Valentine’s Day

Reference: Written by Muhammad Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen on 5th Dhul-Qi’dah, 1420 Hijree (approximately corresponding to Friday 11th February, 2000)

Question: In recent times, the celebration of Valentine’s Day has become widespread, especially amongst female students, and [it is worth noting] it is from amongst the celebrations of the Christians. [Also], the attire is completely red [in colour] – [from] the clothing and the shoes, and they exchange red flowers [with one another].

We hope from your eminence that you make clear [for us] the ruling on celebrating the likes of this celebration, and what is your guidance for the Muslims in matters such as these, and may Allaah protect and preserve you.

Response: In the Name of Allaah, the All-Compassionate, the All Merciful

as-Salaam ’Alaykum wa Rahmatullaahi wa Barakaatuhu.

Celebrating Valentine’s Day is not permissible for [a number of] reasons:

Firstly: It is an innovated celebration, that has no basis in the Sharee’ah;

Secondly: It calls to love and passion;

Thirdly: It calls to the preoccupation of the heart in the likes of these trivial matters, contrary to the guidance of the righteous predecessors – may Allaah be pleased with them.

So it is not permissible to initiate anything on this day from the rituals of the celebration [of Valentine’s Day] – whether it is food, drinks, clothing, [exchanging of] gifts or other than that.

And it is incumbent upon the Muslim to be proud of his religion, and that he does not blindly follow every crier [to misguidance].

I ask Allaah Ta’aala that he protects the Muslims from all trials and tribulations – those that are apparent, and those that are hidden, and that He protects us with His Guidance and His Success.