There’s a common Muslim saying ‘tahaabu tahaadu,’ which translates to giving gifts to spread love. Gifting is a core culture embedded in the Islamic religion. Gifting a Muslim wedding couple is a well-accepted deed. However, it essential that you learn about the most appropriate and suitable gifts to give to Muslim couples at their wedding.
So, what are the acceptable gifts for a Muslim wedding and the ones to avoid? Acceptable gifts for a Muslim wedding include; his and hers Attar set, Hijab brooch set, Islamic calligraphy canvas, prayer beads, blacksmith cufflinks, 99 names of Allah painting, al Oudh Cambodi with incense, the essential Rumi book of poetry, Money, Crystal Mosque replica and a Quran ornament. Importantly, avoid alcoholic gifts, products that contain pork, or overly extravagant gifts.
After receiving a wedding invitation, wedding gifts often come to mind, and if you’re a non-Muslim, figuring out the most appropriate gift may be a little tasking. Whether it’s your first Muslim wedding or not, choosing the perfect wedding gift isn’t always an easy task. Read on to discover some of the most acceptable gifts to take to a Muslim wedding and what not to take as a gift.
Do You Give Gifts at a Muslim Wedding?
Gifting is an accepted attribute that takes place during Muslim weddings. Gifts are presented personally within the event at whatever point you meet with the couple. A Muslim wedding function begins typically with the groom walking into the event’s hall. The groom makes his entrance in the company of family and friends. The bride’s family welcomes them. After a while, the bride’s family brings her to the stage.
The bride and groom will sit on the stage together. At a later time, they mingle with their guests while taking pictures. During this session, the caterers serve food. Find your way to the couple. Congratulate them, then personally hand them your gift.
If your present is cash, simply put it in an envelope or even a card with your name. Present the cash gift the same way you would present any other gift. Hand it to the couple when you have a chance to interact.
It is not uncommon for the bride and groom to be too busy. Frankly, weddings have a lot of guests to mingle with during the event. It might be hard to get a hold of their attention. If this is the case and you do not plan to wait until the wedding ends. Turn to either of their parents. Greeting the parents and passing your gift through them is also respectful.
Acceptable Gifts for a Muslim Wedding
The beauty of life is its diversity. Every religion carries its own cultures and beliefs. Gifting may sound as simple as walking into a shop and buying anything. However, some gifts are way more acceptable and valued in a Muslim Wedding.
The following are 11 gifts you should consider getting a Muslim wedding couple.
1. His and Hers Attar Set
Attar refers to naturally formed perfumes. Attars are alcohol-free and predominantly used in the traditional Muslim and Arab cultures. Muslims have specifically remained fond of attar mainly because it does not contain alcohol. These perfumes tend to have strong scents, and a drop or two are enough. They are a long-lasting and unique gift for a Muslim wedding couple.
2. Islamic Calligraphy Canvas
The Islamic religion has traditionally disapproved of any form of art that depicts living things. As a result of the prohibition, calligraphy’s art has grown famous in the Islamic religion.
Most religious places and mosques have paintings and pictures of extensive calligraphy. The calligraphy art extends even to Muslim homes. Muslim homes often have canvases full of calligraphy as part of their interior decor.
Islamic calligraphy will make an excellent gift for a Muslim couple. When picking out one, check out those that are easy to maintain and clean. For instance, a canvas with a blend of synthetic and cotton fabric will serve both purposes.
3. Hijab Brooch Set
Muslim women cover their heads and even faces at times with veils and scarves. The scarves used to do this are referred to as hijabs. As much as Muslim women often make it look easy, tying a hijab requires effort and practice to do it the right way.
A set of brooches will go a long way in making this process easier for the bride. Clips and pins are also easily lost; a Muslim woman can never own too many of them—a perfect gift for the bride.
While there are several types of pins to use on hijabs, some have more and better decorations than others. When picking out a Hijab brooch set suitable for gifting, pick out decorated ones.
Try designs that feature pearl designs and rhinestones. Check out for the material too. Pick one that wouldn’t damage or snag the delicate fabric of most hijabs. Brass and zinc alloy pins are a great option.
4. Set of Prayer Beads (Tasbih)
Some Muslim prayers consist of chants known as Dhikr. Dhikr prayers are said and repeated over a set number of times. Muslims use prayer beads to stay on track with the number of times they have repeated a particular verse. Although many Muslims have started using mechanical counters, Tasbih is a beautiful cultural item that most still Cherish.
For a gift, try out a Tasbih made from exotic beads. Check out materials like aloeswood, whose use lies in the making of incense. Going down to the details on the set of prayer beads will make a thoughtful gift for any Muslim couple.
5. Blacksmith Cufflinks
In most parts of the world, Muslim men’s traditional and regional attire has elongated sleeves and cuffs. While quite a number these days have sewn-in buttons, many Muslim men prefer having cufflinks.
Cufflinks are a stylish yet traditional gift for the groom. Look out for unique designs. Hand-finished cufflinks are a great way to make the gift even more special.
6. 99 Names of Allah Painting
Allah’s 99 names are also referred to as the 99 attributes of Allah. They are the names of Allah revealed via the Holy Qur’an. As per their religion, whoever counts the 99 attributes of Allah will enter paradise. Therefore, a painting with these names will make a heartwarming gift for any Muslim couple. It makes a beautiful, religious piece to hang in a Muslim household.
When picking out this canvas, check for canvases with less trouble maintaining, such as framed ones where dust can wipe off easily. Try out digitally embedded canvases if you choose to go frame-free. That way wiping with a wet piece of clothing will leave the writings intact.
7. Al Oudh Cambodi with Incense Diffuser
Oudh is also known as Agarwood or Aloeswood. It’s a fragrant resinous wood that Muslims from all over the world have traditionally used. Traditionally, Oudh gets burnt along with frankincense with the aid of coal. The fragrance entirely airs out a room and is very common to find in Muslim households. The burning of Oudh will usually take place at around sunset, right before saying the evening prayers.
Pair up the Oudh with a diffuser. It’s even better if the products match, that is, from the same manufacturer. Any Muslim groom and bride will find an Oudh and diffuser gift very thoughtful of you.
8. The Essential Rumi Book of Poetry
The Essential Rumi is a book written by Jalal-ad Din Muhammed Rumi, a scholar, a poet, and a Sufi cleric. Persian is the original language that Remi wrote his poetry in. The Persians considered it among the best pieces ever written in their language.
Over the years, Rumi’s poems have had extensive translations into multiple languages from all over the world. His work has influenced Muslims and non-Muslims over centuries and continues to so.
A gift of Rumi’s works would be well and warmly received by any Muslim, including newlyweds. The book presents some of the top examples of Sufi literature and mysticism. There are various translations of the works from which you can pick.
The Essential Rumi, a translation by Colen Barks, is one of the best books to start with for an English translation of Rumi. His translation has by far proven to retain and capture the introspective yet straightforward nature that characterizes Rumi’s Poetry. Colen Bark’s translation has remained faithful to the tone, spiritual messages, and images in the originals.
9. Money
Muslim weddings have their cultures and traditions entirely entrenched from the root country where the followers reside. Being a widespread religion worldwide, most Muslim weddings from around the world will be almost identical if not wholly similar.
That said, in most cases, it’s wonderfully acceptable for guests to give money as a wedding gift. You can also provide a cheque as a gift. In most cultures, the money gift is most suitable when given by the family’s close friends.
You can always inquire from the family whether the money would be an acceptable gift. In some cases, the wedding invitation card may state ‘No boxed gifts.’ In such a scenario, inquire from any Muslim in the locality what amount would be decent and acceptable. Usually, it is dependent on your level of closeness with the family.
10. Crystal Mosque Replica
A mosque replica is a great and ideal choice for a Muslim Wedding gift. Crystal ones specifically add a touch of class to making the art piece an excellent Muslim home piece. A mosque replica is a respectful and thoughtful gift that will congratulate the groom and bride on their wedding day.
11. Quran Ornament
The best gifts to give at a Muslim wedding are meaningful gifts. A gift that can show a spiritual background relating to the marriage. The Holy Quran is a unique and holy book to all Muslims. A crafted Quran ornament gift accompanied by a note that wishes them the blessings of Allah in their marriage makes a heartfelt gift.
Furthermore, it would also be a great decor showpiece for a Muslim home. A Quran ornament is an Islamic gift. Islamic gifts are some of the safest options to pick. It is a great idea, especially when you are unaware of the couple’s specific culture.
Gifts To Avoid at a Muslim Wedding
Muslim weddings aren’t too different from any other wedding. However, there are several things you should take note of when deciding on a wedding gift. These things aren’t by any means complicated; however, it’s entirely a possibility that you might not know some or all of them. Significantly when you did not grow up in a Muslim household or culture, below are some gifts you should never take to a Muslim wedding.
1. Alcoholic Drinks
The Islamic religion does not allow the consumption of alcohol. Keep this in mind when attending and gifting at a Muslim wedding. Gifts like champagne or wine that wouldn’t feel out of place at other weddings might at best meet disapproval. At worst, such a gift could be offensive. You want to keep off any alcoholic or alcohol-related gift.
This restriction is irrespective of whether you are aware that either the groom or bride enjoys alcohol. If you must get your Muslim friend an alcoholic gift because you are familiar and sure they would appreciate it, do so privately. Preferably offer such a gift after the wedding when their friends and family do not surround them.
2. Products Containing Pork
The Holy Quran prohibits Muslims from consuming pork or any products containing the same. The Islamic religion is an all-around way of life. The Muslim faith encompasses things that nourish a soul, like charity, prayer, and pilgrimage. It not only focuses on what people drink or eat but also other daily activities like what is eaten and drunk. A pork-based gift would be extremely distasteful to take to a Muslim wedding.
God, the creator, in the Holy Quran, explains in four different instances why consuming the flesh of pigs (swine) is wrong. According to the Muslim religion, God, the creator of all, must know what is healthy and unhealthy for consumption. The prohibition of pork is widespread across all Muslim cultures worldwide, as the Quran dictates.
3. Expensive and Lavish Gifts
A Muslim Wedding appears extravagant, especially to a non-Muslim. If this is your first Muslim wedding and researched what Muslim marriages look and feel like, it’s not uncommon to feel like your gift should match the lavish Aura. However, the Muslim religion and culture do not expect the giving of expensive gifts at weddings.
Muslims appreciate gifts that are more practical, gifts symbolizing the couple’s spiritual union. Islamic culture and religion focuses on the wholesomeness of individuals and detaching from material wealth. Bringing a lavish gift whose worth is primarily just at face value is not a good idea.
Guide To Picking Out the Perfect Muslim Wedding Gift
With all the gift ideas in mind, how then do you figure what to buy? The following are a few ideas to have at the back of your mind when narrowing down to a perfect gift for a Muslim Wedding Couple.
Think Islamic
The easiest shortcut when finding a Muslim wedding gift is opting to get Islamic related assistance. This way, you get to narrow down your search while at the same time opening up a variety of options for you. The second advantage of opting for Islamic gifts is that you can be sure that the gift cannot go the wrong way.
Gifting the couple an Islamic gift is perfectly acceptable and will show that you respect and honor their religion. There’s a lot to pick from Islamic calligraphy canvas, prayer beads, and mosque replicas.
Less is More
Having a ‘less is more’ mindset will save you from leaning towards extravagant gifts, especially for non-Muslims. Many of the flashy and somewhat pricy that would otherwise feel special in other religions might not be the best for a Muslim wedding. Look outside the material value of something and consider the value it adds or implies to a newly wedded Muslim couple.
Symbolism
Be keen on what your gift symbolizes. Your gift’s symbolic significance primarily impacts how great the gift turns out to the couple—edge towards gifts celebrating the new union. Keep off gifts that you may find hard to decipher. For instance, avoid knives and sharp objects that symbolize cutting short of some Muslim cultures’ relationship.
Appropriateness
Any gift to give a Muslim must be halal, meaning it has no pork products, alcohol, or even pig skin. Whether it’s a soap package, cosmetics, scented candles, and incense, among others, you must make a point of asking if the product you are purchasing is halal. Muslim laws forbid the use of any pigskin products.
If you must pick a product that risks having any forbidden things, make a point of investigating through the manufacturer before you buy. Otherwise, a gift as innocent as scented candles may come off inappropriate or offensive.
Always Ask
If you are in a position to inquire about the customs and taboos of the specific Muslims whose wedding you are attending, do so. For instance, in Afghanistan, you are expected to hand your gift by the right hand or both, never the left.
The left hand is considered unclean. Dogs are also widely regarded as unclean across the Islamic religion. Therefore in some parts, any dog-related item, including something as simple as containing a dog’s picture, shouldn’t be handed.
Muslims generally do not appreciate products made from animals that had inappropriate slaughtering. Any product made from scavengers, inclusive of shellfish and birds, is also banned. Quite evidently, it is much safer for you to ask about such beliefs before picking out a gift.
Don’t Overthink It
Aside from the tabooed things, finding a Muslim wedding gift is a lot simpler than it appears. First, you will find many prohibited things written in Muslim laws; therefore, quick research will inform you. Next, the expected gifts are quite simple.
So just think happy union and translate that into a gift. Finally, your invitees are aware that you are non-Muslim, so do not be too hard on yourself. Once you stray from the prohibited
Comparison Between Gifting at Muslim Weddings and Other Religions
The most significant difference between gifting wedding Muslim couples and other religions is the value accorded to gifts. Quite visibly, Muslim culture promotes heartfelt gifts that speak to the union ahead irrespective of their material worth.
In other religions such as Hindu and Buddhist, money is one of the most welcomed and shared gifts. Traditionally in Muslim religions, cash gifts are most suitable when coming from their family and close friends.
The Muslim religion wedding gifts are a bit similar to the Roman catholic gifting culture. In both religions, spiritual and religious artifacts are common wedding gifts—prayer beads for Muslim couples and Rosaries for catholic weddings.
Interestingly rings are not always exchanged in Muslim weddings. The Quran forbids Muslim men from wearing gold rings. Muslim women are however allowed wear jewelry made from any precious metals. In other religions such as the Catholic faith rings are the centerpiece gifts that newly weds exchange during the ceremony.
Muslim Wedding Gifting FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions on Muslim Weddings.
Are There Muslim Weddings That Do Not Require Gifts?
Like any other wedding in various religions, a groom and bride can request that they are not gifted. However, this is a rare occurrence in Muslim marriages, mostly because the culture of gifting is a celebrated attribute in the religion.
The Prophet Mohammed, in his teachings, promotes a culture of gifting since it spreads love. If the bride and groom have not explicitly said they don’t require any, do carry a gift.
Can I Bring a Gift That Is Not on the Registry?
On some occasions, the bride and groom will create a registry with a list of items to get them. Following this list is essential and respectful to the bride and groom. Often, the couple has reliable and valid reasons as to why they prefer to have a registry. It could even be a means to assist their non-Muslim guests.
If you find that other guests have already bought your preferable gifts on the list, you can always put a cash gift in an envelope.
Are There Any Restrictions on How To Package a Muslim Wedding Gift?
No, there aren’t any restrictions on how to wrap or present your gift. In some religions and states, you cannot wrap wedding gifts in some colors like red in the belief that they spread bad luck. The packaging taboo is not the case in the Islamic religion. Feel free to look for a beautiful packaging bag or wrapping paper.
If your gift is in cash form, there is one major thing to consider. In many Muslim cultures, it’s wrong for a man to hand another man’s wife money. Therefore, look for the groom and give him the envelope and not his wife. You may also pass it to his wife and tell her that it’s a gift meant for her husband.
May I Add a Name Tag To the Gift?
As much as you will hand the gift personally to the couple, the chances are they won’t remember who brought what. If you wish to create a unique bond through the gift you are giving them, include a name tag or card along with the gift you give the couple. Sometimes, you may also want to give the gift anonymously; it’s also absolutely safe to do so.
Can My Gift Get Turned Down?
The Islamic religion encompasses a culture of love and understanding. There is a low probability of your gift getting turned down. However, there are a few prohibited foods and items that are rather obvious.
However, the least one could do is run a background check on their gifts. Gifts like alcohol may get a polite turndown. Innocently bought cosmetics containing alcohol are likely to be returned later if the bride finds out they have alcoholic content in them.
How Do I Tell if My Gift Is Too Extravagant?
There isn’t a written rule on what is ‘too extravagant.’ You may buy an expensive make of a mosque replica, yet the gift will edge towards a thoughtful side rather than lavish. Just avoid luxurious items whose closest attribution is vanity. No matter how well off you are doing, your friend’s Muslim wedding would not be the best occasion to gift them a car.
Finding the Right Gift
Hopefully, you now have an idea on what to gift a Muslim bride and groom. It’s essential to keep in mind that the gift should either be spiritual or practical. The gift should also be respectful to the family’s traditions. As much as extravagant gifts would feel like they match the wedding’s extravagance, remember that the same luxury shouldn’t reflect the guests’ gifts.
Another great option when picking out the gift is talking to other guests. Your hosts, the bride, and groom might have had a wedding registry with a list of the gifts they would appreciate. If they do not have a registry and remain confused, remember cash is a viable option.
