Questioner:

Celebrating Valentine’s Day has recently become widespread, especially amongst female students. It is a Christian celebration and they celebrate it by wearing completely red attire consisting of red clothing and red shoes, and by exchanging red flowers. We would like from your eminence a clarification of the ruling on celebrating these kinds of events. Also, what is your advice to the Muslims regarding these kinds of affairs? May Allāh preserve you and look after your affairs.

Shaykh Muḥammad ibn Ṣāliḥ al-ʿUthaimīn:

Celebrating Valentine’s Day is not permissible from a number of angles.

Firstly, it is an unorthodox celebration that has no basis in Islamic rules and customs.

Secondly, it encourages excessive passion and infatuation.

Thirdly, it encourages a person to preoccupy his heart with the likes of these lowly affairs that are in opposition to the guidance of the righteous predecessors, may Allāh be pleased with them.

So it is not permissible to initiate on this day anything symbolic of a celebration, whether it be supplying food, drink or clothing, exchanging gifts or anything else.

A Muslim must derive honour from his religion and not be a yes-man, who follows all and sundry. I ask Allāh the Most High that He protects the Muslims from all trials and tribulations, both apparent and hidden, and that He takes care of us by taking charge of our affairs and leading us to success.

Source:

Majmū Fatāwā ash Shaykh ibn Uthaymīn (16/199)