Birthdays are few and far between in the Bible. As a matter of fact, birthdays are only mentioned three times in Scripture. After we take a closer look at these three Bible birthdays, we will tackle the question of whether Christians should celebrate birthdays.
Birthdays In The Bible
Pharaoh
(Genesis 40:20) Now the third day was Pharaoh’s birthday, and he gave a feast for all his officials.
Our first birthday in the Bible belongs to the Egyptian Pharaoh. He celebrated this day by giving a feast to all of his officials. In these officials presence, Pharaoh restored the chief cupbearer to his position, but had the chief baker hanged.
Job’s Sons
(Job 1:4) His sons used to hold feasts in their homes on their birthdays, and they would invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them. NIV
And his sons went and feasted in their houses, every one his day; and sent and called for their three sisters to eat and to drink with them. KJV
Many versions of the Bible describe Job’s sons as feasting in their houses, every one on his day. Most scholars agree (his day) is referring to their birthday. As you can see above, the New International Version refers to it as being their birthdays.
Herod
(Mathew 14:6) On Herod’s birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for the guests and pleased Herod so much
(Mark 6:21) On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee.
The Bible says on Herod’s birthday the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod so much that he promised to give to her whatever she asked. Her mother prompted her to tell Herod, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” Although grieved, because of his oaths and his guests, the king ordered that her wish be granted and sent to have John beheaded in the prison. John’s head was brought in on a platter and presented to the girl, who carried it to her mother.
Should Christians Celebrate Birthdays?
Although the Bible does not condemn the celebration of birthdays, some people believe there is indirect evidence in God’s Word that Christians should not be involved in birthday celebrations.
The first thing they point to is how every time birthdays are mentioned in the Bible, it as always linked to someone or something that was bad. Pharaoh had his baker killed. Herod had John the Baptist beheaded. It is believed by some that all Job’s children were killed during a birthday party for Job’s oldest son. They also point out the Scripture that says the day of death is better than the day of birth (Ecclesiastes 7:1).
For most Christians, these are not convincing enough arguments to prove it is wrong for a Christian to celebrate birthdays. Most would agree, birthday parties are a simple but effective way to show someone how much they are loved, appreciated, honored, and respected. The Bible says to give everyone what you owe them, including honor and respect (Romans 13:7).
Regardless of which side of this argument you may be on, (Romans 14:5-6) is a couple of good Scriptures to leave you with.
One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.
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