Question: In recent times, celebration of the Valentine Day has spread, particularly among female students. It is a Christian celebration, and it is (manifested) with fully red costumes, clothing and shoes, and exchange of red roses.

We hope that you make clear for us the ruling on celebrating this holiday, and what your guidance is to Muslims in matters such as these, may Allah preserve you and guard you.

Answer: In the Name of Allah the Most Merciful the Most Beneficient

As-Salamu `alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh:

Celebrating the Valentine Day is not permissible because:

Firstly, it is an innovated holiday that has no basis in the Sharee`ah.
Secondly, it calls to love and passion.
Thirdly, it calls to keeping one’s heart busy with nonsense matters which contradict the guidance of the righteous predecessors, may Allah be pleased with them.

So it is not permissible that anything from the signs of that holiday take place on that day, whether it relates to eating, drinking, clothing, giving gifts, or other than that.

It is incumbent upon the Muslim to be proud of his religion and that he does not blindly follow every crier.

I ask Allah the Exalted that He protect Muslims from every trial, apparent and hidden, and that He give them protection and guidance.

Written by Muhammad Salih al `Uthaymeen on 5/11/1420 hijree.

Note: (5th Dhul Qa`da 1420 = 11 February /2000)