The question of whether saying Ramadan Mubarak or “Ramadan Kareem” constitutes an impermissible religious innovation (bid`ah) often arises among believers striving to maintain the purity of their faith. However, Islamic jurisprudence provides clear parameters distinguishing between acts of worship and social customs. Primarily, there is nothing wrong with wishing one another well at the start of or during the holy month using these phrases. Such greetings are deeply rooted in cultural customs, and the foundational rule governing worldly customs and social interactions in Islam is absolute permissibility unless a specific text prohibits them.
Prophetic Precedent for Felicitations
Prominent scholars affirm that exchanging felicitations at the beginning of Ramadan is a praiseworthy practice. Far from being an innovation, sharing the joy of the approaching month aligns with the Sunnah (Prophetic tradition). The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) actively shared the good news of the onset of Ramadan with his Companions, using the occasion to urge them to make the most of its immense spiritual opportunities.
This practice is highlighted in a well-known narration where Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) stated that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
There has come to you Ramadan, a blessed month. Allah has made it obligatory on you to fast (this month). During it, the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are locked, and the devils are chained up. In it there is a night that is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is deprived indeed.” (Reported by An-Nasa’i).
Distinguishing Custom from Bid`ah
The concept of bidah strictly applies to introducing newly invented rituals or altering the divinely prescribed methods of worship (Ibadat). Greetings like “Ramadan Mubarak” (Have a blessed Ramadan) or “Ramadan Kareem” (May Ramadan be generous) are not recited as formal, ritualistic prayers that one believes are mandated by the religion. Instead, they are spontaneous expressions of joy, brotherhood, and mutual encouragement.
Because these felicitations are categorized under the customs of people (`Aadat) rather than formalized worship, the act itself safely rests upon the original Islamic ruling of permissibility. Therefore, believers can freely and joyfully exchange these greetings, viewing them as a means to foster community spirit and celebrate the arrival of Allah’s blessed month.
