Gift Ideas for Muslim Wedding
Shopping for the perfect gift is an essential part of any wedding. But if it is your first time exploring Muslim culture, gift hunting could be a bit different than expected.
So how to find the perfect gift for a Muslim wedding?
Well, Muslims appreciate thoughtful and useful gifts just as much as anyone else!
But before you select the perfect and meaningful gifts for Muslim couples, you must consider a few tips. Islam has certain items forbidden by Allah; hence, members of the Muslim community as well as those outside abstain from gifting such prohibited items.
If you’re unsure of Islamic customs and culture when it comes to wedding gifts, this article is for you!
Herein you’ll have a catalog of both “culturally appropriate” and “not suitable” presents for Muslim weddings which would make your search effortless.
5 Traditional Gift Ideas for Muslim Wedding
The joy of a wedding day is made even more special by the presence of family and friends – and their gifts!
When selecting a wedding present, I believe it is important to take into account cultural considerations as well as gifting something that truly reflects your relationship with the couple.
If you wish to demonstrate your thoughtfulness and respect for your friends’ faith, why not opt for traditional Islamic gifts? By doing so, you will be displaying a sense of harmony and fondness toward them.
1. Prayer Set
One of the sweet gifts you can give to a Muslim couple is a prayer set including a pair of prayer mats plus a Jilbaab (prayer cloth for women). I just love options and gift packaging of prayer mats on Etsy.
You can also order customized designs and colors with some engraved messages like this one:
2. Islamic Books
Marriage is a divine union in Islam and, like any other spouses, they may experience difficulty navigating through their daily struggles. However, this could be resolved if they have insightful books available at home to read during their free time – such an offering will surely be cherished by all Muslim couples looking to uphold the righteous path.
The following Islamic books have captivated my attention. You can easily find them online or could purchase them by clicking on provided links.
3. Umrah Gift
Umrah is a pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which is a sacred site in Islam.
Among the Muslim community, another meaningful present to give newlyweds is an Umrah package.
Providing an Umrah package as a gift helps the couple carry out one of the most meaningful prayers in Islam. And also provides them with an opportunity to form a strong spiritual and emotional bond – something extra special for newlyweds.
While this might be considered somewhat expensive, those who can afford luxurious gifts typically make this choice. Such generosity and thoughtfulness are greatly appreciated by the couple receiving it!
4. Wall Calligraphy
Islamic calligraphy serves as an exquisite traditional gift in the Muslim community. Whether they are customized or come pre-made, these calligraphies can serve as a daily reminder to recite common supplications and Surahs.
Just Ensure that the text is readable, as Quran should not be treated as a mere decorative object.
When considering calligraphy gifts, “Alhamdulillah” is a beautiful reminder of the blessings we have been given and would make an ideal choice. An alternate option could be to select any of Allah’s Names for wall calligraphy artwork – each conveying its special meaning.
5. Ittar & Perfumes
In Muslim culture, Ittar (perfume) is deemed sacred and is seen as a gift that represents happiness and joy.
I personally love this concept because it adds an extra layer of sentiment to the festivities! You can easily find varied options of Ittar online – ranging from floral scents to musky ones based on your preference.
What sets Ittar apart is its non-alcoholic fragrance, a preferred choice for many Muslims. Therefore, it makes the perfect Muslim wedding gift!
Modern-Day Gift Ideas for Muslim Weddings
Gifts from Amazon & Etsy
Both Amazon and Etsy offer many options for thoughtful gifts. From sweets to home decor, they have a wide selection of items that can be personalized or tailored according to your needs. For instance:
- Customized Bath Gift Set
- Mr & Mrs. Luggage Tag & Passport Holder
- A Journal for Couples
- Mr & Mrs. Cup Set
- E Gift Cards for Couples
DIY Gifts
Personalized wedding frame: A personalized wedding frame with the couple’s names and wedding dates is a thoughtful and modern gift idea.
Halal gourmet gift basket: Consider gifting a halal gourmet gift basket filled with delicious snacks and treats that they can enjoy together.
Customized Kitchenware: A stylish and personalized kitchenware set would make a perfect gift for newlyweds.
Matching Home Décor: This could include pressed herb-scented candles, bedding with matching cushion covers, and an eye-catching side table lamp in complementary colors or themes.
A Day-Out Wallet: You can also gift the newlyweds a personalized wallet full of delightful gift cards to nearby restaurants, stores, and spas! This unique present will make them feel pampered and cherished.
6 Inappropriate Gifts for Muslim Weddings
1. Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited in Islam, hence gifting alcohol or beverages containing any amount of alcohol should be avoided.
Through a chain of transmitters, Ibn ‘Umar reported that Allah’s Messenger(ﷺ) has said:
“Every intoxicant is Khamr and every intoxicant is forbidden.”
[Sahih Muslim 2003b, Book 36, Hadith 93] Source: Sahih Muslim 2003b – The Book of Drinks – كتاب الأشربة – Sunnah.com – Sayings and Teachings of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم)
2. Non-Halal Edibles
Eating non-halal food is against Islamic teachings and should not be given as a gift.
Non-Halal edibles encompass all food items derived from animals that are not slaughtered by Islamic customs, including pork and other forbidden animals. Moreover, snacks or meals containing any form of alcohol or even a trace element of pork are also prohibited.
“He has only forbidden to you dead animals, blood, the flesh of swine, and that which has been dedicated to other than Allah. But whoever is forced [by necessity], neither desiring [it] nor transgressing [its limit], there is no sin upon him. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.”
[Surat Al-Baqarah 2:173] Source: Surat Al-Baqarah [2:173] – The Noble Qur’an – القرآن الكريم
3. Cosmetics Made from Non-certified Animals
Cosmetics derived from animals that have not been certified according to Islamic laws should be avoided. Such products include perfumes, lotions, and makeup containing animal-derived ingredients such as lanolin, etc.
“The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) as saying: Allah forbade wine and the price paid for it, and forbade dead meat and the price paid for it, and forbade swine and the price paid for it.”
[Sunan Abi Dawud 3485, Book 24, Hadith 70] Source: Sunan Abi Dawud 3485 – Wages (Kitab Al-Ijarah) – كتاب الإجارة – Sunnah.com – Sayings and Teachings of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم)
4. Paintings/ Artwork with Indecent or Human Graphics
In Islam, artwork depicting humans or idols is strictly forbidden and should not be given as a wedding gift.
“I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying, “Every painter will go to Hell, and for every portrait he has made, there will be appointed one who will chastise him in Hell.” Ibn ‘Abbas said: If you have to do it, draw pictures of trees and other inanimate things.”
[Riyad as-Salihin 1680] Source: Riyad as-Salihin 1680 – The Book of the Prohibited actions – كتاب الأمور المنهي عنها – Sunnah.com – Sayings and Teachings of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم)
5. Dolls & Statues
The Prophet (ﷺ) did not encourage idolatry or worship of other than Allah in any way, shape, or form. Therefore, such items are inappropriate gifts for Muslims.
Allah says in Quran:
يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِنَّمَا ٱلْخَمْرُ وَٱلْمَيْسِرُ وَٱلْأَنصَابُ وَٱلْأَزْلَـٰمُ رِجْسٌۭ مِّنْ عَمَلِ ٱلشَّيْطَـٰنِ فَٱجْتَنِبُوهُ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ ٩٠
Translation:
“O believers! Intoxicants, gambling, idols, and drawing lots for decisions are all evil of Satan’s handiwork. So shun them so you may be successful.”
[Surat Al Ma’idah, Verse 90] Source: Surah Al-Ma’idah – 1-120 – Quran.com
6. Silk or Gold Wearable for Men
By Islamic laws, unlike Muslim women, it is forbidden for men to be adorned with silk or gold. Therefore, when selecting a wedding gift for the groom, it would be wise to avoid anything that includes either of those materials.
The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) said:
“Gold and silk have been permitted for the females of my Ummah, and forbidden to the males.”
[Sunan an-Nasa’i 5148, Book 48, Hadith 109] Source: Sunan an-Nasa’i 5148 – The Book of Adornment – كتاب الزينة من السنن – Sunnah.com – Sayings and Teachings of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an appropriate gift for a Muslim?
An appropriate gift for a Muslim couple can be anything that honors their union and respects their religious beliefs. Traditional Islamic gifts include prayer sets, Islamic books, Umrah kits, wall calligraphy, Ittar & perfumes.
How do you congratulate a Muslim wedding?
Congratulating a Muslim couple in their union is an important way to honor and celebrate them. Consider sending them a heartfelt card or note, offering your love and admiration for the newlyweds. A meaningful gift will show your kindness and appreciation for the happy pair, completing your congratulations in style!
Do you take gifts to a Muslim wedding?
Gifts are a customary part of Muslim weddings, offering the perfect way to express your admiration for the bride and groom. Present them with an endearing present that celebrates their union – they’ll be overwhelmed by your thoughtfulness on their special day!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, selecting the perfect gift for a Muslim wedding ain’t much of a challenge. By keeping in mind traditional and modern gift ideas and key considerations, you can find the perfect gift that expresses your love and appreciation for the couple while respecting their cultural and religious values.
