Millions of Christians celebrate Christmas _ that is, the birth of Jesus Christ, the son of God _, around the world, between December 24 and 25. They do it in different ways, depending on the nationality, with festivities, carols, masses, dinners, or the delivery of gifts, the latter to emulate the shepherds when they brought presents to the newborn.
In any case, it must also be taken into account that there are several countries where the Christmas celebration is non-existent, generally because another religion governs, and people can be punished with fines or imprisonment, if they do not comply with the provisions.
Countries that do not celebrate Christmas include:
Saudi Arabia. Christmas is prohibited in this Muslim country located in Western Asia, although there is a Catholic minority that holds a celebration in private. In this place, those who celebrate a celebration can be detained by religious police, who also look for places with Christmas decorations to condemn them.
Tajikistan. It was one of the last countries to join the Christmas ban and this measure applies because 98% of its population is Muslim, although its state is secular and has a constitution of freedom of religion. Wearing a Santa suit could land the person in trouble with the authorities.
Brunei. Located on the island of Borneo, It has a population that celebrates Christmas but cannot do it in public, since they follow a Muslim calendar with Islamic festivities.
North Korea. This nation has censored since 2016 any meeting where alcohol is consumed, songs or dances are performed. The most common religions are Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Chondoism, and traditional shamanic cults.
Somalia. Here Christmas is prohibited because its population mostly follows Islam. In this way, the inhabitants cannot eat pork or consume alcohol.
China. The Asian giant has areas where Christmas is banned. There is freedom of worship, although its traditions were influenced by Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism. (F)
Source: Eluniverso
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