Trick?...but not even Treat?

Assalaamu Alaikum :D

This question has been running through my mind so often these past few days because of the approach of Hallowe'en. Clearly, participating in this event is haram. But ... giving candy to cute little kids in darling costumes ... is that haram as well? I read up on an article and my answer came out to be "yes, it is haram". The only reason I look forward to Hallowe'en is just to see these adorable kids in the most cutest outfits. Especially when they bring little babies awwwww All I want to do is just see these little children that I won't see until the following year. But, I must understand that this is a pagan ritual and participating in any way would be haram.

Majority of us, as children wanted to participate in Hallowe'en because of one main reason, the candy. I was definitely one of those kids, I'm a complete sugar freak. So what my mummy would do is make us do something Islamic related and then she would reward us with a BIG bag of goodies. My goodness, she put everything in there! Just so we would not feel left out and instead of doing something in the way of a pagan historical ritual, we would do something that was a practice of Islam and would benefit us in our learning. Subhana'Allah. It is definitely the duty of the parents to make sure that their children are aware of the facts and help them understand why Muslims should not take part.

I will just highlight a couple of points from the article I read, just so everyone is aware of the upcoming occasion.

"Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (s.a.s.) issued a stern warning: "Whoever imitates a nation is one of them!" (Abu Da'oud). Muslims should heed this warning and refrain from copying or imitating the kufar in their celebrations. Islam has strongly forbidden Muslims to follow the religious or social customs of the non-Muslims, and especially of the idol-worshippers or those who worship the devil. The Prophet (s.a.s.) said: "By Him in Whose hands is my life, you are ordered to enjoin good and forbid evil, or else Allah will certainly afflict you with torments. Thereafter, even your du'a (supplications) will not be accepted." (Tirmidhi)"

I found these hadith's to be quite strong. Even though these days, the practice of Hallowe'en usually is not based upon the original ideas of the ritual and the thought only revolves around "fun" is still no excuse to participate. This ritual originated from somewhere and it is very important for every individual to educate themselves about the significance of it. And if it is something that goes against Islam, as Muslims, it is our duty to be aware and distance ourselves from such practices, no matter what it is ... insha'Allah.

"We have established, beyond doubt, that the celebration of Hallow'een is absolutely forbidden in Islam. It is HARAM. The question arises as to what to do on this night. Muslim parents must not send their kids out "trick-or-treating" on Hallow'een night. Our children must be told why we do not celebrate Hallow'een. Most children are very receptive when taught with sincerity, and especially when shown in practice the joy of their own Islamic celebrations and traditions. In this regard, teach them about the two Islamic festivals of Eid. (Eid-ul-Fitr is fast approaching, and this is the perfect time to start preparing them for it.) It must also be mentioned that, even Muslims who stay home and give out treats to those who come to their door are still participating in this festival. In order to avoid this, leave the front lights off and do not open the door. Educate your neighbours about our Islamic teachings. Inform them in advance that Muslims do not participate in Hallow'een, and explain the reasons why. They will respect your wishes, and you will gain respect in the process. "A person who calls another to guidance will be rewarded, as will the one who accepts the message." (Tirmidhi)"

For further reading, check out this link:
http://www.themodernreligion.com/misc/hh/halloween.html

May Allah Subhanahu wa ta'ala guide us in the right direction, enhance our knowledge and stay on Sirat-ul-Mustaqeem ... ameen.

IN ADDITION:

I would like you all to check this link out too, it has to do with Homer, that says it all *sigh*
http://entertainment.sympatico.msn.ca/celebs/articles/1335169.armx