“The mission of Da’wa makes it imperative that we should develop contacts with non-Muslims. The walls of hatred, alienation and prejudice which have remained standing for years have to be pulled down and human relationships have to be established without any axe to grind. We are obliged to forge contacts with them in various capacities for the advancement of many a worldly affair. We and non-Muslim brothers and sisters have been living together for years, mutual contacts have been of varied nature, and still we have not conveyed the message of truth to them from the religious point of view. For this It is necessary to be of service to them in trials and tribulations,  participate in their happy moments, to provide good counsel to them, and to win their confidence and good opinion. In this connection exchange of gifts will be immensely beneficial and effective…”

“It is reported that eminent religious scholars like Abu Maisara bin Maimoon, and Umar bin Sharjil (into them be Allah’s mercy) used to help Christian monks by giving them sadaqahath–ul–fitr. Scholars have declared that giving meat of Sacrifice to non-Muslims is permissible and in present circumstances, preferable and laudable. Whatever promotes pleasantness and rapport in mutual contacts, as long as the methodology employed is universally approved and well-known, should be pressed into service without let or hindrance.”

Author: H. ABDUR RAQEEB
Publisher: ISLAMIC FOUNDATION TRUST