I often think about the cherished traditions and tasty dishes that come with the sacrifice of a ram during Sallah, also known as Eid al-Adha.
Our Muslim friends and neighbors frequently share plates of beautifully roasted meat, filling the air with a wonderful aroma that promises a delightful feast. However, as a Christian, I wonder: Is it okay for me to eat Sallah meat?
This question isn’t just a matter of taste; it’s a theological and communal issue that sparks diverse opinions among Christians. Let me share my journey and insights on this topic, which might help you make your own informed decision.
A few years ago, during a Sallah celebration, my Muslim neighbors brought over a platter of the most roasted meat. My family and I were eager to dig in, but an unexpected debate broke out among my Christian friends who were visiting. Some argued that eating meat from a Muslim celebration was dishonoring to our faith. Others believed that our freedom in Christ allowed us to partake in such meals without guilt.
Caught in the middle of this theological tug-of-war, I turned to the Bible for clarity. The Apostle Paul’s teachings, in Romans 14:13-23, Paul writes: “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister… I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean… Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died… For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
With these scriptures in mind, I prayed and sought the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I felt peace about eating the Sallah meat, understanding that it was not inherently unclean.
So, can Christians eat Sallah meat? My journey has taught me that the answer depends on personal conviction, guided by biblical wisdom and the leading of the Holy Spirit. While we are free to make our own decisions, it’s crucial to consider the impact on our fellow believers and strive for unity.
As I celebrate Sallah with my friends and neighbors, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a desire to reflect the love of Christ. The essence of our faith transcends dietary choices, focusing instead on the principles of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
David Okafor, an essayist writes from Abuja