My goal is to present the familiarity of Islam to my fellow Americans, but some instances require highlighting differences.
In Islam, we are taught to think and to research. We are told to make our decisions based on careful consideration, and to always seek the best path in all matters.
The people we should aspire to be are the ones mentioned in the Quran:
“Those who remember God, standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and think deeply about the creation of the heavens and the earth…..” (Quran 3:191)
And when we act it should be with knowledge:
“And do not follow that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart – about all those [one] will be questioned.” (Quran 17:36)
So, when we are presented with a recurring celebration, such as Halloween, it is a good idea to take a deeper look at it before jumping on the bandwagon.
What I find when I research the origins and history of Halloween*, is that its foundations are not in line with what I am striving for in this life. I don’t see how it will help me get any closer to my Maker, or fulfill the purpose for which we were created.
While one may argue, “it’s just for fun”, “it’s not really based on any meaning anymore, “there’s no harm in it” – For me, those are not strong enough arguments. I could argue back, saying that I am not doing any harm by not celebrating it or partaking in it, either.
Although it may not be practiced with the intentions and meanings it once held, there are still practices which do not fit well with my way of life, such as begging (trick or treat) and making fun of the dead and death (think mummies and ghouls – lawns “adorned” with bloody heads and skeletons).
My children are free to play dress up and eat candy now and then, but they don’t need to on a day that is based on a conglomeration of pagan rituals and superstitions.
In my very sincere opinion, I am deeply saddened for the Muslims in our day, who have departed from the path of thinking and learning and who have embarked upon the path of blindly following others by celebrating Halloween and in many other matters. We have been urged to be careful of whose footsteps we walk in:
“…do not exceed limits in your religion beyond the truth and do not follow the inclinations of a people who had gone astray before; who misled many and have strayed from the sound path.” (Quran 5:77)
Islam provides me a sweetness sweeter than a million nights of candy: The sweetness of faith, the sweetness of knowing where we come from, where we are going – The sweetness of following the generous guidance of the Owner of all things and His help. I’m so grateful for that and I seek God’s protection from ever passing it up for a momentary thrill or to “fit in”.
*You can learn more here: http://www.history.com/topics/halloween/history-of-halloween
The Muslim Next Door 
Just remarkable how when Allah decides to use someone he can pick and choose so easily we would think many times before asking a nonmuslim to accept Islam first and then teach them kmowledge to preach..SubhaanAllah one becoming Muslim and then being rightly guided without any visible hand eye coordination just the direct guidance from Allah himself is in itself a miracle I absolutely enjoy and appreciate the blogs these are very inspiring and by Allah I have never read a blog that gives me the feeling of sincerity as this sisters blogs do Mashaa Allah may Allah continue his guidance with all brothers and sisters who revert to Islam and then prosper, and continue to reward them immensely especially this sister for all her efforts in getting the true message out there .. Aameen thumma Aameen
LikeLike
“it’s just for fun”, “it’s not really based on any meaning anymore, “there’s no harm in it”
Great words, There is no God but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
LikeLike
I’m a Christian and I don’t do Halloween, anyone who can’t see its obviously the work of Satan must be blind.
LikeLike
Thanks for visiting and sharing your thoughts! Many Christians who are more learned and practicing do not take part in Halloween. I had a nice chat with a christian near my home who was expressing the same wonder you mentioned. I think many people just rationalize and see everyone else seems to be having fun and not being harmed apparently. Unfortunately many Muslims partake in this day as well, for the same reasons. Glad to know you can relate!
LikeLike
Asalamu Alaikum
I just bumped into this article not knowing tomorrow is haloween . . .what a coincidence, in addition i want you to know what an amazing service you are doing for Islam. May Allah (SWT) reward you,in this life and the next. I am influenced by your work. I am from kashmir.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Walaykum assalam wa rahmatullah. Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person