Is Islam a religion of love, given the existence of fatwas that forbid greeting, congratulating, and giving gifts to non-Muslims, and permit lying for a perceived benefit, while Christians offer congratulations and gifts and welcome everyone?

Summary:

- It is not permissible to congratulate disbelievers on their religious holidays, nor to attend their celebrations or give them gifts on such occasions. This is an affirmation of their false religion and indicates approval of their rituals of disbelief.

- It is permissible to accept a gift from disbelievers on their holidays, unless it is a sacrifice slaughtered for their holiday, or if it aids them in their rituals of disbelief. It is also permissible for a Muslim to give them gifts.

- Regarding "Salam" as an Islamic greeting: It is not permissible to initiate it with a disbeliever. However, it is permissible to respond to them by saying "Wa 'alayk" (and upon you) if there is doubt about their intention. If the listener is certain that the disbeliever said "Salam 'alaykum" (peace be upon you) without doubt, then it is permissible to respond with "Wa 'alaykum al-salam" (and upon you be peace) as a matter of justice.

- General greetings other than "Salam": They are permissible to initiate and to respond to.

- Lying is forbidden except out of necessity or need, within the narrowest limits. If the objective can be achieved through insinuation without lying, that is better.

- Islam is a tolerant, just, and merciful religion. Muslims welcome everyone and offer them assistance.