Understanding Christmas (more precisely, the celebration of the Prophet Jesus's birth) in Muslim cultural tradition is a complex and multifaceted issue, touching on theological, social, and historical aspects. It is important to differentiate between two concepts right from the start: the attitude towards Jesus (Isa) in Islam and participation in the celebration of Christian Christmas on December 25th (or January 7th). The former has deep roots in Islamic tradition, while the latter is a subject of debate in the modern Muslim world. 1. Jesus (Isa) in Islam: revered prophet, but not the Son of God In Islam, Jesus (Arabic: Isa ibn Maryam — "Jesus, son of Mary") is one of the greatest prophets (nabi) and messengers (rasul) of Allah, who preceded Muhammad. The Quran dedicates entire suras (chapters) to him, such as the sura "Maryam" (Mary). His birth is described as a miracle: he was born to Virgin Mary (Mary) by the will of Allah without a father. This is a sign to all worlds. His mission is to confirm the Torah (Taurat) and announce a new Law (Injil — Gospel). He performed miracles (healing, reviving birds from clay) with the permission of Allah. Key distinction: Islam categorically rejects the idea of the divinity of Jesus, the Trinity, and crucifixion (according to Islamic belief, Jesus was raised to heaven alive, and another person was crucified). Thus, the dogma of the Incarnation of God in human form, lying at the foundation of Christian Christmas, is absent in Islam. 2. Absence of the "Birthday of Jesus" in the Islamic calendar Unlike Christianity, there is no established religious holiday in Islam celebrating the birth of Prophet Jesus. The main holidays (Id al-Fitr and Id al-Adha) are associated with the end of Ramadan and the pilgrimage to Mecca. Moreover, the observance of a birthday (mawlid) as such is a late practice. The celebration of Mawlid an-Nabawi (the birthday of Prophet Muhammad) became celebrated only centuries after his death and is rec ... Read more