A summary of the concepts held by the Ahl al-Sunnah.
Among the forms of imitation rooted in the pre-Islamic era (Jahiliyyah) is the imitation of the disbelievers.
The most severe form of this is following their opinions and theories that contradict the law of Allah.
Allah the Exalted says:
“(Saying): Follow that which is sent down unto you from your Lord, and follow no protecting friends beside Him. Little do ye recollect!” (7:3)
"Little do you take heed."
This does not mean that one cannot benefit from their worldly sciences in matters that do not contradict the Shari'ah.
Among the forms of imitating the disbelievers:
Following their customs, rituals, and social habits.
And celebrating their holidays.
The Commander of the Faithful, 'Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), forbade the use of non-Arabic languages (rutanat al-a'ajim).
Meaning, speaking in their languages.
Imam Ahmad said:
"Speaking in a language other than Arabic without a necessity is a form of hypocrisy."
Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah said:
"Imitation in outward appearance
engenders a type of affection, love, and loyalty in the inner self.
Just as love in the inner self
engenders imitation in outward appearance."
This is a matter confirmed by both perception and experience.
Examples of this include imitating Westerners by shaving the beard,
and in hairstyles,
and in the fashions that distract people in this worldly life,
and divert them from concerning themselves with noble matters,
and from what would enable them to lead the world.