Christmas, Religious Significance, and Cultural Customs
An interfaith discussion
An informative conversation about the significance of the birth of Jesus in the Christian and Muslim traditions.
Presenter:
Reinhard Krauss, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Academy for Judaic, Christian, and Islamic Studies
Moderator:
Sheikh Asim Buyuksoy
Director of Religious Affairs
Islamic Center of Southern California
For Christians, Christmas is one of the two major religious celebrations each year, the other one being Easter. The religious significance of Christmas is the commemoration and celebration of the birth of Jesus. The Qur’an also tells of the birth of Jesus but, unlike Christians, Muslims do not attach an annual observance to the event.
Over the past 2000 years, Christmas has also acquired numerous ancillary customs, such as Santa Claus or the Christmas tree which vary from country to country. The webinar will explore both the religious significance and some of the traditional customs associated with Christmas. Participants are encouraged to ask questions about either aspect.
Co-Sponsored by:
