Is it permissible to accept a gift from a colleague at work who has no religion?
Scholars have differed on the ruling regarding accepting gifts from polytheists due to the varying narrations on the matter. Some narrations permit it, such as the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) acceptance of a gift from the Christian king of Eila and the poisoned sheep from the Jewish woman. Other narrations prohibit it, such as the of Iyad bin Himar: "Indeed, I have been forbidden from the gifts of polytheists."
Al-Hafiz Ibn Hajar reconciled these narrations by stating that the prohibition might be specific to certain gifts, or to those whose intention behind the gift is to show affection and loyalty, while acceptance is permissible for those whose hearts are hoped to be won over to Islam. It was also said: Acceptance is for the People of the Book, and rejection is for idol worshippers. Some scholars claimed abrogation.
The more cautious approach is not to accept a gift from a polytheist unless there is a legally recognized benefit, such as winning them over to Islam and hoping for their guidance. However, if the intention behind it is to tempt a Muslim or to make them compromise something of their religion, then it is not permissible to accept it.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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