During the holidays we spent much time with friends and family.

Answer

We do not know what is your understanding of „breaking ties‟. However, it is haraam to sit in a gathering of the type you have described. If you were present at the meals where so much gheebat was taking place, then you too are regarded as a participant in gheebat. You share with them in the vile sin of gheebat. It was incumbent for you to have stood up, discontinue the meal and leave the venue of gheebat. It was not permissible to sit in that evil gathering.

It is necessary to dissociate from such persons even if they are relatives. Dissociating from the sinful activities of relatives does not mean „breaking ties‟. Despite their flagrant sins, if at any time a relative is in need and requires assistance, then you should assist within the means of your affordability and ability.

Explaining the incumbency of maintaining family ties, Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said that it means: "To be kind to an unkind relative." But this does not mean joining them in merrymaking functions.

It is Waajib to abstain from family functions, even their so-called „walimahs‟ which are gatherings of israaf (waste), riya, takabbur, gheebat and buhtaan. In fact, nowadays it is advisable not to attend even their Nikahs in the Musaajid because after the Nikah they congregate in groups inside the Musjid to indulge in worldly conversation thereby defiling the sanctity of the Musjid with their haraam blabber and banter.

If the nikah is to be followed by a haraam hall function, then it will be haraam to participate in the Nikah ceremony in the Musjid. In fact, it will not be permissible for the Imaam and trustees to permit a nikah in the Musjid if it will be followed by a haraam wedding reception.

In the Hadith such vile molvis, muftis and huffaaz are described as khanaazeer.