I can’t help but think of the beloved customs and delicious foods associated with the ram sacrifice on Sallah, or Eid al-Adha. Sharing plates of wonderfully roasted meat, which fills the air with a delicious aroma promising a delightful feast, is a common practice among our Muslim friends and neighbours.
But as a Christian, I’m curious: Can I consume meat from Sallah? This is not merely a personal preference question; it is a societal and religious dilemma that divides Christians’ views. Let me share my experience and thoughts on this matter in the hopes that they will assist you in coming to your own well-informed conclusion.
A platter of the tastiest roasted pork was brought over by my Muslim neighbours a few years ago during a Sallah celebration. My Christian friends who were visiting got into an unexpected argument just as my family and I were getting settled in. Eating meat during a Muslim festivity, according to some, is disrespectful to our beliefs. Others thought that we could eat such meals guilt-free because of our freedom in Christ.
I looked to the Bible for guidance because I was caught in the middle of this religious tug-of-war. Teachings of the Apostle Paul: “Therefore let us stop passing judgement on one another,” Paul states in Romans 14:13–23. Rather, resolve not to place any roadblocks or hindrances in the path of a sibling or sibling.
I am completely sure that nothing is dirty in and of itself because of my faith in the Lord Jesus. However, something is considered dirty by the person who believes it to be such. Don’t let your food ruin someone for whom Christ gave his life. Since righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit are what define the kingdom of God, eating and drinking are not important.
Keeping these texts in mind, I prayed and asked the Holy Spirit to lead me. Having realised that the meat from Sallah was not intrinsically filthy, I felt at ease eating it. Can Christians so consume meat from Sallah? I’ve learned throughout my path that the solution is based on one’s own convictions, led by the Holy Spirit and scriptural understanding.
Sallah meat
Although we have the freedom to choose, it’s important to think about how our actions will affect other Christians and work towards harmony. I celebrate Sallah with my neighbours and friends because I want to be a reflection of Christ’s love and because I am filled with gratitude. The fundamental tenets of our faith—righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit—transcend dietary preferences.
