Reference: Fataawa Islaamiyyah – Volume 1, Page 110
Question: Is it permissible for a Muslim to show hospitality to the friendly non-Muslims by offering them food and drink which the Islaamic religion has prohibited?
Response: Islam is the religion of tolerance, ease and flexibility, and at the same time, it is the religion of justice. Hospitality is a part of Islaamic good manners, but if the guest is a disbeliever, then the ruling differs according to the different intention of the host and the different types of hospitality he offers him. If his intention is legitimate, based upon his desire to create harmony between himself and the disbeliever, so that he may call him to Islaam and save him from disbelief and misguidance, then his intention is honourable.
One of the fixed rules of the Islaamic law is that “means are governed by aims”; thus, if the aim is obligatory, the means is also obligatory; whereas, if the aim is forbidden, the means is also forbidden. And if he does not have a legitimate intention in offering hospitality and his failing to do so will not result in harm, then it is permissibile.
However, offering hospitality in the form of food and drinks which Allaah, the Almighty and Majestic, has forbidden is not permissible; for hospitality in this case is a form of disobedience to them, and placing their right over the Right of Allaah. The Muslim’s obligation is to adhere to his religion. Doing so in non-Muslim countries will show a powerful image and he will e calling people to Islaam by his words and deeds.
And with Allaah lies all the success, and may Allaah send prayers and salutations upon our Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his family and his companions.
