The entire world is enthusiastic about Valentine’s Day, especially the youngsters. In the modern world, when people revere the valentine’s day like it’s a major festival, Muslim youngsters find themselves stuck in a dilemma of whether to celebrate it or not.
As a thumb rule, we Muslims are supposed to turn towards the Quran and Sunnah for any sort of guidance we need in our everyday lives – including this issue.
So what does the Quran and Sunnah say about Valentine’s Day?
The answer is PRACTICALLY NOTHING.
Valentine’s Day is a Roman festival, which continued to be celebrated until after the Romans became Christian. This festival became connected with the St. Valentine who was sentenced to death on 14 February 270 CE. The non Muslims still celebrate this festival, during which immorality and evil are practised widely.
Can Muslims celebrate Valentine’s Day?
The answer is a big big NO. Muslims are supposed to express love to their spouses irrespective of the calendar date. In fact, the Prophet (peace be upon him) gave us multiple examples of expressing love and kindness towards our spouse. He would drink from the same spot of the glass where his wife Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) drank from. In a famous instance he was publicly asked whom he loves the most to which he replied Aisha!
He would revere and respect his wives to an extent that even after Khadija’s death, he would stand out of respect for her friends and send them a portion of the sacrificial meat.
He (peace be upon him) would treat his wives as partners, often joking with them and maintaining playful relations with them. If we were to follow the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) example, we would be making our spouse feel appreciated and loved every day, instead of wanting to do that on 14th of February, a date which has no meaning and significance in the sight of Allah.
What you can do instead?
- Surprise them with monthly gifts
Everyone likes surprises and everyone likes to be showered with gifts. Set aside a monthly budget and give them something thoughtful which shows your love. - Tell them you love them
Don’t feel shy in telling your spouse that you love them. Say it loud and clear. Say it repeatedly. Many times we think it’s obvious that you love them but what might be obvious for you might not be so obvious to them. Express it. - Find unique ways of expressing love
Take them for a date night out, cook their favorite meal, take them for a short trip or vacation, write a love letter – there are so many creative ways to express love. - Maintain a positive and playful relationship with them
Dispel their worries with light humour, play occasional games with them or joke around!