As a Muslim I do not have any problem at all in wishing someone Merry Christmas. Why can't we? As far as I am concerned Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus which is also our second most beloved prophet. SYAM
Jakarta
Do to others as you would want others to do to you. So, if a non-Muslim says "Happy Idul Fitri", you would appreciate it. Why should that be different to you greeting them on their special days?
It's about being courteous, it doesn't mean you are converting to their religion or believe what they believe. It is so sad this is even an issue you need to think about.
IAIN
Jakarta
This is indeed an issue that should be clarified by the Ulemas and experts of this area in this country, so that the same question will not come up again and again every year.
As a layman, I understand the hesitation Muslims have in wishing Merry Christmas because it somewhat touches the Tauhid side of religion which is very sensitive and also a principle.
Wishing "Merry Christmas" is considered by some as acknowledging that Jesus is God and not a prophet, as believed by Muslims. However, there is also some that are wishing it just as a courtesy and it has nothing to do with acknowledging the above.
There is one thing though that I would like to ask the writers, I stumbled across information that Dec. 25 is not really the date of birth of the Prophet Isa. If this is true, can we still wish it as if it were the celebration of the prophet that was born on that day?
Many of my friends and acquaintances are non-Muslims, and as a courtesy I usually send them best wishes on their important days. I believe that everything depends on niat (intention). HILDS
Jakarta
It was interesting to read the article. While I do not harbor any hatred for Christians as individuals I do not necessarily think that I should show solidarity with their false believes.
If I'm not mistaken the concept of X-mas originated somewhere in the middle ages or the 18th century and it has nothing to do with the birth of the prophet Jesus.
This should also give you some answers to your question why the prophet did not come across a situation of wishing someone "Merry Christmas".
Therefore, my advise to Muslims is that you respect your Christian colleagues for the human beings that they are but that does not require you to ratify their believes that are utterly false and have no solid basis.
FAZLY
Jakarta
This is a good article, and just to comment about the subject that all Muslims are prohibited from saying "Merry Christmas" to Christians. I am a Muslim and I have no issue with saying "Merry Christmas" to Christians. In addition to that we need to be aware that not all Muslims believe in the Hadith from Aisha.
MUHAMMED HUSSAIN
Jakarta
Reaction to Israeli Gaza strike -- Dec. 29, Online
Any Military has a contingency plan in case of conflict with their neighbor. Take Singapore for example, they have a war plan in case they need to fight against Indonesia, and Malaysia (although I think the effective time of it is about 6 hours due to the size of military), but does this mean that Singapore wants a war with Indonesia or Malaysia?
Probably not. Considering that Israel is way out there surrounded by perceived enemies, they are always ready to protect themselves against any and all threats. Good for them for showing that any attack on their citizens will be met harshly.
DAVID K.
Jakarta
Pak Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, please send TNI to Palestine to protect our Muslim brothers and Sisters. Take the lead in protecting and helping our Brothers and Sisters, who are in trouble.
The Arabs are too busy to even help their fellow Arabs. Let the world know that Indonesia has a say in the world. It is about time we Asian Muslims took the lead. If you do so, God-willing, God will bless Indonesia. Indonesia Raya!
KING CRIPPLER
Singapore
Violence can never be right. Injustice toward any group of peoples, nationalities or religions should be condemned. Many times we hear this said in the West and Arab nations, but we very rarely agree with the statements of our governments, which are not balanced and frequently unjust. I wish both sides wisdom and compassion, justice, and peace in the coming years.
JOHN STAFFORD
Jakarta
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