As Christmas arrives, children are often surrounded by stories about Prophet Isa (A.S.) (known as Jesus in Christianity) and the holiday’s festive atmosphere. From school activities to decorations in shops and TV programs, it’s nearly impossible for them to ignore. This makes it essential for Muslim parents to have thoughtful conversations with their children to help them understand the Islamic perspective, foster their Islamic identity, and respectfully navigate the season.

Here are some simple conversations you can have with your children about Christmas:

1. Who is Prophet Isa (A.S.)?

Ask your child if they know about Prophet Isa (A.S.). Explain that he was one of the greatest Prophets in Islam and is mentioned 25 times in the Quran. Share that he was sent by Allah to guide people to worship Him alone and to help the poor and needy.
Mention his miraculous birth to Maryam (A.S.), one of the most pious women in history, who is also honored in the Quran. Tell them about his miracles, such as speaking as a baby, healing the sick, and bringing the dead to life—all by Allah’s permission.

2. How is Prophet Isa (A.S.) Viewed in Islam and Christianity?

Explain that while Christians believe Isa (A.S.) is the son of God, Muslims believe he was a Prophet and servant of Allah, like all other Prophets. Clarify that Allah is One and has no children.

You can use this opportunity to discuss how different people have different beliefs, and it’s important to respect others while staying firm in our own faith.

3. What Really Happened at Prophet Isa’s Birth?

Ask if they’ve heard the story of Prophet Isa’s birth and compare it with what they might hear at school or on TV. Share the Quranic story of Maryam (A.S.) receiving news from an angel that she would have a son, even though she was not married.

Talk about how Maryam (A.S.) showed immense trust in Allah, seeking solitude to give birth to Isa (A.S.). Share the story of baby Isa speaking to defend his mother’s honor and proclaiming his mission as a Prophet of Allah.

4. What About Christmas?

Explain that Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus. However, even Christians acknowledge that December 25 is unlikely to be his actual birthday—it was chosen to align with ancient pagan traditions.

Discuss how Christmas has evolved over time, with increasing focus on decorations, gifts, and consumerism, which often overshadow its religious significance.

5. Why Don’t Muslims Celebrate Christmas?

Ask your children if they’ve ever felt left out during Christmas celebrations. Acknowledge their feelings and gently remind them that as Muslims, we have our own celebrations—Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha—given to us by Allah.

Encourage them to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of Eid, where we pray, give charity, and exchange gifts. Explain that respecting Christmas doesn’t mean we need to celebrate it ourselves.

6. Prophet Isa (A.S.)’s Message and His Connection to Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.)

Share that Prophet Isa (A.S.) foretold the coming of another Prophet, named Ahmad, who is Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.). Highlight the continuity of their message: to worship Allah alone and lead a righteous life.

Explain how Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) came 600 years after Isa (A.S.) to complete Allah’s message for humanity.

7. What About the Cross?

If your child hears about Jesus being crucified, explain that Muslims believe Prophet Isa (A.S.) was not killed or crucified but was raised up by Allah to protect him from harm.

8. Respecting Others’ Beliefs

Finally, teach your child the importance of respecting the beliefs of others without compromising our own. Share the Quranic verse:

“And insult not those whom they worship besides God, lest they insult God wrongfully without knowledge…”(6:108).

This helps them understand that while we don’t celebrate Christmas, we should be kind and respectful to those who do.

Empowering Your Child

By having these conversations, you help your child understand Prophet Isa’s (A.S.) significance in Islam and navigate the holiday season with confidence and respect. This not only strengthens their Islamic identity but also nurtures tolerance and understanding in a diverse world.