We appreciate your concern for the general public and for respectfully raising it with us. We are uncertain about the specific aspect of the fatwa to which you are applying the principle of sadd al-dharāʾiʿ (blocking the means). However, we will address both possibilities.

Regarding mawlid gatherings, the fatwa clearly outlines guidelines that must be adhered to when organizing such events. As for the principle of sadd al- dharāʾiʿ, scholars did not consider the potential occurrence of unrelated issues sufficient grounds to categorically deem the practice impermissible. Notably, prominent scholars native to regions such as the Indian subcontinent—where such issues are more prevalent—have explicitly permitted these gatherings in cases where the concerns are absent and have even regarded them as rewarding when conducted correctly.^[1] Moreover, the stigma surrounding the term “mawlid” and its perceived association should not overshadow or undermine the concept as a whole. Rather than dismissing it outright, such misunderstandings offer an opportunity for education and clarification. While individuals may choose to avoid using the term due to its associations, these connotations alone should not form the basis for passing judgement on the concept itself.

Finally, the purpose of the fatwa is to provide the general ruling regarding such gatherings. As with many religious gatherings and topics, it remains the responsibility of individuals to evaluate their own circumstances and consult with local scholars to assess the likelihood of problematic issues arising. If they believe that avoiding the label of "mawlid" for the gathering would prevent misunderstandings, they may choose to do so. Conversely, if they believe that such gatherings, regardless of the name, might result in misunderstandings, they should first educate attendees on the matter. They may then decide to hold such events with proper precautions or refrain from organizing them altogether.

Similarly, in the context of birthday celebrations, the fatwa provides guidelines to be observed. If the concern is the potential development of religious significance for such events, this objection holds little weight, as most people today are unaware of their origins. Furthermore, practices like blowing out candles to make wishes, which may resemble religious rituals, have been explicitly prohibited in the fatwa. While birthdays may have been rooted in religious observance in ancient times, they are now akin to participating in non-religious holidays, which, under certain conditions, is permissible.^[2]

If the principle of sadd al- dharāʾiʿ is applied—arguing that impermissible components such as singing, dancing, or gender mixing render the practice objectionable—this does not provide sufficient grounds to categorically prohibit birthday celebrations. Similar issues can arise in other celebratory events, yet such events are not deemed impermissible unless such elements are present.

Additionally, birthdays are common within the Muslim community, as it is the norm in the society around them. The fatwa sets the boundaries for such occasions, thereby guiding people towards abstaining from impermissible practices.

In conclusion, while sadd al- dharāʾiʿ is an important consideration when issuing a fatwa, its application is context specific. In the present context, using it to categorically prohibit the aforementioned practices is unwarranted.^[3] Nonetheless, for those who wish to abstain from birthdays, then, inshāAllāh, they will receive the reward for their taqwā. Those who observe the occasion should do so within the parameters presented in the fatwa.

And Allah knows best.

Ml. Muhammad Bilal Khizar
Student, Darul Iftaa Chicago

Checked and Approved:

Mf. Abrar Mirza
Head Mufti, Darul Iftaa Chicago