Answer: No, it is not permissible for a Muslim to visit churches or places of shirk (polytheism). Additionally, it is not permissible for a Muslim to participate in the acts of worship (Ibadat) of disbelievers, nor is it permissible to take part in their celebrations and festivals. These practices are uniquely theirs, and participating in them falls under Tashabbuh (imitation), which is prohibited for Muslims.
The Prophet ﷺ said in a hadith:
"Whoever imitates a people is verily from them." (Abu Dawud:4031)
Furthermore, Imam Bayhaqi narrated that Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) said:
“Stay away from the enemies of Allah on the days of celebration.” (Al-Tareekh al-Kabir:659)
Umar also advised:
“Do not learn the mannerism of the non-Arabs (unbelievers) and do not enter upon the polytheists in their churches during their festivals, for the wrath [of Allāh] descends upon them then.” (Bayhaqi: 9/234)
Participating in such activities also goes against the command to honour the symbols of Islam. Allah says in the Quran:
"And whoever honors the sacred ordinances of Allah, it is best for him in the sight of his Lord. And whoever honors the symbols of Allah, indeed, it is from the piety of hearts." (Quran 22:32)
By participating in such activities, one is not honouring the prohibitions of Allah nor the symbols of Islam that we are commanded to uphold.
Additionally, Allah describes the servants of the Most Merciful (Ibadur-Rahman) in the Quran:
"And those who do not witness falsehood." (Quran 25:72)
Some of the early scholars of Tafsir and the Salaf interpreted "falsehood" in this verse as referring to:
"The celebrations of the polytheists."
This means that a Muslim should not attend their celebrations or visit their places of worship. Instead, one should stay away from such gatherings and avoid being present in such environments.
In conclusion, it is essential for Muslims to distance themselves from practices and gatherings that contradict the teachings of Islam and to honor the commands of Allah and His Messenger ﷺ.
Anything I have said that is correct is from Allah, and anything that is incorrect is from myself and Shaytan. Allah and His Messenger ﷺ are free from any errors.
— Answered by Ustadh Abdulrahman Hassan
