Indonesian Clerics Debate Christmas Greeting Ruling

Differing Opinions on Interfaith Greetings

The question of whether Indonesian Muslims should greet Christians during Christmas has sparked a debate among religious scholars. Two prominent clerics, Habib Jafar and Ustaz Adi Hidayat (UAD), have presented divergent views on this matter. Habib Jafar, known for his tolerant stance, recently demonstrated this by greeting Pastor Brian Siawarta during Christmas 2023. He shared their encounter on social media, highlighting his tradition of visiting friends from other faiths during their religious celebrations.

Habib Jafar's Perspective on Christmas Greetings

Habib Jafar believes that wishing Christians a Merry Christmas is permissible. He grounds his opinion in Islamic teachings, referencing the Quranic story of Mary (Surat Maryam) where Muslims are encouraged to acknowledge the birth of Jesus Christ, considered a prophet in Islam. He also cites a hadith where Prophet Muhammad stood up as a sign of respect when a Jewish funeral procession passed by, demonstrating Islam's emphasis on respecting other faiths. Habib Jafar interprets these teachings as supporting the practice of greeting Christians during Christmas.

Ustaz Adi Hidayat's Caution on Religious Greetings

In contrast, Ustaz Adi Hidayat advises against Muslims greeting Christians during Christmas. While he acknowledges the importance of tolerance and respect for other religions, UAD emphasizes that certain boundaries should not be crossed. He warns that saying "Merry Christmas" could be seen as participating in or endorsing another religion's beliefs, particularly if it involves elements of worship or rituals different from Islamic practices. UAD stresses that Islamic tolerance should not compromise one's own religious identity.

Implications for Interfaith Relations in Indonesia

This debate between Habib Jafar and Ustaz Adi Hidayat reflects the broader discussions within Indonesia's diverse religious community about maintaining harmony while preserving religious integrity. Their differing opinions highlight the complexity of navigating interfaith relations in a country where religious tolerance is a cornerstone of social cohesion. The ongoing dialogue between various religious perspectives continues to shape how Indonesians approach interfaith interactions during religious celebrations.