Women Praying in an Open Space

Women Praying in an Open Space

Question
Respected scholars, as-salamu `alaykum.I'm a Muslim woman regularly attends the musalla [Arabic for: Prayer hall] for salah on my campus.Recently, the barrier separating our musalla from the rest of the mosque was opened to provide an open space for the sisters to pray.Some brothers have objected to the sisters performing Sunnah prayers in that open space, saying it is not right for a sister to pray Sunnah without a barrier. Is this true?Do I have no right to pray sunnah in a barrier-free zone ? Jazakum Allahu khayran. ( Question By : Hind )

Answer
Wa `alaykum as-salam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, thank you for your question, which reflects your care to have a clear view of the teachings of Islam. Allah commands Muslims to refer to people of knowledge to get themselves well-acquainted with the teachings of Islam as well as all aspects of life.

As far as Islamic Shari`ah is concerned, a Muslim woman is allowed to pray in an open space for the sisters to pray without a barrier. It should be clear that Almighty Allah did not prescribe segregation of males from females in the Qur'an; He only forbade indiscriminate mingling and mixing and khalwah. The woman is required to wear decent clothes that cover her `awrah (Arabic for: parts of the body that must be covered) and at the same time men are required to lower their gaze.

In his response to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, stated,

It is perfectly fine for you to pray in the same hall as men do as long as it is an open space —provided, of course, there is no indiscriminate mingling.

It is important for us to know that during the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), men and women used to pray in the same hall without any barriers. This is amply clear from the sources. Thus, women were able to see the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and they were able to learn the lessons he imparted from the minbar (Arabic for: pulpit) directly from his mouth. How often we read in the sources women saying that they learned such and such surah (Arabic for: chapter of the Qur'an) directly from the mouth of the Prophet, as he was used to reading them during sermons.

Hence, it is only reasonable to state that the barrier separating men and women at mosques today is a later-on innovation; therefore, there is nothing sacred about it.

It is important in this connection to point out that women have every right to see the speaker and imam while delivering the khutbah (Arabic for: sermon).

That the women during the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) were assertive in this is also clear from the sources. For the very idea of setting up a minbar for the Prophet to deliver the khutbah was suggested by a woman. She pointed out to him that she had a carpenter who could carve some wooden steps; if he were to stand on them while delivering sermons, everyone would be able to see him.

Therefore, the right of women to see and hear the speaker directly is a legitimate one. You can continue to pray in the open space without a barrier separating men and women.

Having said this, however, I must also point out that you should have a barrier in front of you to mark your prayer space so that people can pass in front of you, should a need arise. For this purpose, all that is needed is to use a prayer rug or place a book or handbag in front of you. The purpose of it is simply to allow for people to pass in front of the worshipper without distracting him or her.

Excerpted with slight modifications from islam.ca

Going to Beaches in Summer

Going to Beaches in Summer

Question
Dear scholars, As-salamu `alaykum. Is it permissible for a Muslim to enjoy summer at the beach ? And what are the conditions for enjoying the beach in summer ? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Shadi - United States )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear brother in Islam, thanks a lot for your question, which reflects your care to have a clear view of the teachings of Islam. Allah commands Muslims to refer to people of knowledge to become well acquainted with the teachings of Islam as well as all aspects of life.

Going to beaches for recreation is permissible for any Muslim. Practicing Muslims are not to be denied this right. Practicing Muslims, like anyone else, are free to enjoy the fresh air of the sea.

Almighty Allah permits Muslims to enjoy the lawful things He gave to them. Among these lawful things is sightseeing and enjoying the beauty of the universe. Almighty Allah says: (Say: Who hath forbidden the adornment of Allah which He hath brought forth for His bondmen, and the good things of His providing?) (Al-A`raf 5:32). But this should be within the prescribed limits, not to fall into that which is haram.

In his response to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

In Islam, we are warned against sins of nudity, promiscuity, and permissiveness that corrupt the soul as well as the mind. They all lead to temptations, which lead to sins, and sins eventually lead to Hellfire and eternal perdition.

It is therefore imperative that, while enjoying summer at the beach, we specifically avoid areas associated with the above and find locations or times where we will be staying clear of the above completely.

While enjoying summer at the beach as a group, we are not allowed to practice indiscriminate mingling of sexes, nor are we allowed to expose our `awrah to others. Remember `awrah includes all parts of the body that we must keep covered from others (except our lawful spouses).

Finally, while enjoying summer activities we must never forget our Prayers or other essential Islamic duties of worship.

You can assign different areas of the beach for males and females for activities such as swimming, or divide the time by making schedules for them.

Use your creative mind to think of halal (lawful) alternatives, for Allah assures us that for everything He has declared as haram (unlawful) for us, there is always a halal alternative in Islam. Therefore, our challenge is to find the halal alternative.

For as long as the above mentioned factors are taken into consideration, there are no restrictions on enjoying summer at the beach.

Wearing Colored Contact Lenses

Wearing Colored Contact Lenses

Question
As-Salamu `alaykum wa Ramatullah wa Barakatuh! Dear scholars, what does Islam say on wearing colored contact lenses, especially for women? Is it haram ? ( Question By : Salwa )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, we would like to thank you for showing keenness on knowing the teachings of Islam, and we appreciate the great confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations.

As regards your question, we’d like to cite for you the fatwa issued by Sheikh `Atiyyah Saqr, former head of Al-Azhar Fatwa Committee:

“I think that when men use contact lenses, they use them primarily to cure their sore eyesight. Such form of use both for curing long-sightedness and short-sightedness is purely for a medical purpose. Therefore, there is nothing wrong in using contact lenses in this case because they here resemble normal eye glasses. What applies to men, according to the previous ruling, applies also to women.

However, if women use those contact lenses for the purpose of exposing beauty, drawing men’s attention and causing temptation, there is no doubt that such thing is strictly prohibited.

Here, we would like to refer to an important point, relating to the common habit noticed in some girls wearing colorful contact lenses and choosing the green in particular for the purpose of attraction, and physical appearance. So the ruling on this is based on the purpose and intention. If the aim behind wearing such contact lenses is to cause sedition and obtain gains out of deception, then there is no doubt that wearing such lenses in this case is forbidden."

Shedding more light on this issue, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, Imam and religious director at both the Islamic center of Toronto (Jami mosque) and the Islamic foundation of Toronto, and instructor at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, says:

“The Shari`ah has come to observe three categories of people’s interests (Masalih), namely Daroriyyat (necessities), Hajiyyat (complementary), and Tahsiniyyat (embellishments). In all of its rulings the Shari`ah aims at the realization of one or the other of these Masalih.

As far as the issue of women wearing colored contacts is concerned, I would like to raise this question: under which category of the foregoing interests can we put this act? I cannot say it is Daroriyyat, nor Hajiyyat, or Tahsiniyyat because I wonder why do women think they should do that?

Further, some of these modern cosmetics aim at changing Allah’s creation in some forms like changing the color of the eye. Allah has given each woman a beauty that she can adorn herself and beautify for her husband without going to the extreme and doing something which might be considered repugnant according to the Shari`ah.

I do not say wearing colored contacts is haram since there is no certain operation to be undergone with a view to changing the color of the eyes forever. But I would say it is a kind of excessive beautification which is not recommended in Islam. Islam, as a religion that is based on moderation, does not approve of going to the extreme in anything.

However, if such kind of lenses are used for medical purpose and for the sake of treating sickness in the eyes, then it is a necessity which is given exception in Islam.”

Sheikh Muhammad Saleh Al-Munajid, a prominent Saudi lecturer and author, adds:

“There are two types of contact lenses:
1- Ophthalmic contact lenses: Those that are used to correct sight defects. There is nothing wrong with using this kind of contact lenses on the advice of a specialist oculist.

2- Colored cosmetic contact lenses: These come under the rulings on adornment. If a woman wears them for her husband, there is nothing wrong with it. If she wears them for other to see her, then it should not cause any fitnah or temptation. There is also the condition that they should not cause any harm, and there should be no element of cheating or deceiving, such as a woman wearing them when she meets the man who is proposing marriage to her.“

Giving a Muslim Child a Non-Arabic Name

Giving a Muslim Child a Non-Arabic Name

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. Can you give your child a name that is in a language other than Arabic, as long as it has a good meaning? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Charles - Canada )

Answer

Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we would like to thank you for the great confidence you place in us, and we implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

Islam does not oblige Muslim people to choose specific names, Arabic or non-Arabic, for their children, whether boys or girls. It is rather up to people to choose the names for their children. However, selecting names should be pursuant to some Islamic rules that will be stated below. Islam emphasizes that Muslims should have good names and give good names to their children. It is reported in a Hadith that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "You will be called on the Day of Resurrection by your names and the names of your fathers, so have good names." (Reported by Abu Dawud)

Answering your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

“Children are a trust in the hands of parents. Parents, therefore, have a duty to receive this divine gift with a true sense of gratitude and do everything at their disposal to provide the best nurturing. There is nothing better they can do in this regard than by providing them a home filled with love and kindness, and thus contributing to their overall physical, intellectual, ethical and spiritual growth and development. Such a duty begins before the birth of the child and extends all through their lives. Having said this, I must say, that the first important duty when a child is born is to recite the adhan in the right ear in a gentle voice, and give him or her a good name.

As for the choice of names, we are given the following guidelines:
1. We must certainly avoid names that indicate any trace of shirk or association of partners with Allah. Therefore it is forbidden to call someone `Abd al-Ka`bah, or `Abd al-Nabi (servant of the Ka`bah or servant of the Prophet), since all of us are servants of Allah alone.

2. We must also avoid names that imply meanings that are offensive or unpleasant in connotations. The Prophet changed names such as Harb (War) with Salam (Peace), ‘Asiyah (Rebellious) with Jamilah (Beautiful), Sa`b (Difficult) with Sahl (Easy to deal with), etc.

3. We are encouraged to give names that have good or noble meanings or associations, for names may inadvertently inspire a person to do great things or stay away from vices. Choosing names of prophets or great persons who have been role models of virtue and piety is an excellent idea. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) named his son Ibrahim, and he said, “I have called him by my father’s name!”

Having said this, I must add: There is nothing in the Islamic sources to indicate that we are allowed only to give our children Arabic names. Since Islam is a universal religion, there is no such requirement. Any name is okay so long as we keep in mind the above points. But, at the same time, while choosing names, we must strive our best not to compromise our Islamic identity.”

Excerpted, with slight modifications, from: www.islam.ca

Breastfeeding Period for Male and Female Babies

Breastfeeding Period for Male and Female Babies

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. I heard that boys should be nursed (before weaning) for a longer period than girls. Is that true ? Please clarify. Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Samira )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, we appreciate your question and the trust you place in us. We implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

It should be clear that Islam does not sanction any discrimination between children based on gender differences; this is totally un-Islamic. The idea that a baby boy should be nursed for a longer period than a baby girl can be traced to customs of people, while Islam is totally innocent of such discrimination.

Answering the question you raised, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

"Allah says in the Qur’an: “And the mothers may nurse their children for two whole years, if they wish to complete the period of nursing…And if both (parents) decide, by mutual consent and counsel, upon weaning the child, they will incur no sin (thereby); and if you decide to entrust your children to foster-mothers, you will incur no sin provided you ensure, in a fair manner, the safety of the child which you are handing over. But remain conscious of Allah, and know that Allah sees all that you do.” (Al-Baqarah: 233)

Based on the above verses as well as the relevant traditions of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), scholars have concluded that the ideal period of breast-feeding a child is two years. In this respect there is absolutely no difference whatsoever between a baby boy and a baby girl. One should, however, not rush to conclude from this that parents are not allowed to wean a child before two years.

Parents are allowed to wean a child before the expiry of two years —provided they do so based on consensual agreement and provided doing so would not jeopardize the health of the child. Children vary in their need for breast-milk because of the differences in their development and health considerations. This is why the Shari`ah has not laid down any hard and fast rule in this regard. The decision when to wean a child is left to parents, who are instructed to exercise it by considering primarily the welfare of the child involved.

If, therefore, it has been determined that weaning a particular child before two years is considered detrimental to the normal health of the child, it shall be considered haram (unlawful) for parents to do so, as we are not allowed to jeopardize the wellbeing of a child.
It should be clear from what is stated above that there is no difference in all of these between a baby boy and baby girl. The Qur’anic imperative stipulates that each child must be fed according to his or her needs and health conditions. To discriminate between children based purely on gender differences is not sanctioned in Islam. We must, therefore, consider it as purely un-Islamic. If one asks: Where did such an idea come from? The answer: It can be traced to customs of people, which ironically they often tend to project onto Islam, while Islam is totally innocent of such discrimination. Allah says, “Allah speaks the truth and He guides to the straight way.” (Al-Ahzab: 4)"

Excerpted, with slight modifications, from: www.muslims.ca

Treating Girls Differently

Treating Girls Differently

Question
I am female and my parents treat me different from my brothers. I think they are too strict, but they tell me that they just love me. Is this fair ? ( Question By : Sufia - United Kingdom )

Answer
In The Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, thank you very much for having confidence in us, and we hope our efforts, which are purely for Allah’s Sake, meet your expectations.

As far as Islam is concerned, parents are required to treat their children equally. Parents might seem extra cautious as to the well being and religious upbringing of their children, especially girls. But girls should never think ill of their parents and they should keep in mind that their parents truly care for them and in no way will true Muslim parents treat daughters unfairly. Parents, on the other hand, ought to be thoughtful of their children’s feelings and try their best to treat them justly and fairly. With this, the root of the problem will be removed and the whole atmosphere of love, compassion, tranquility and serenity will replace ill feelings.

In his response to the question, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former president of the Islamic Society of North America, states the following:

Boys and girls both should be treated fairly by their parents and other elders. The rules of halal and haram are the same for boys and girls. It is not Shari`ah, but our cultural mentality that makes some of us think that a loose boy is O.K., but a loose girl is not because she brings shame to the entire family. The un-Islamic behavior brings shame, whether it is of boys or girls. All of us should understand that.

Moreover, parents should be equally concerned with the behavior of their boys and girls. This is the general principle, but girls also have a special need. They need more protection, because very often it is girls who become the victims of assaults, rape and other indignities. In most cases boys can defend themselves, but girls need help.

In America, we see warnings and reminders to girls and women at schools, colleges and universities and everywhere, that they should be extra careful and cautious. They should not go alone in unpopulated areas, especially at night. They are told to be careful when dealing with males, even those whom they know. All these warnings are given for only one reason and the reason is that females need more protection. Thus, it is necessary for girls to receive extra care and attention from their parents as well as their older brothers and other relatives.

Based on this, your parents are true when they say that they love you. It is because of their love for you they want to protect you, but they should not have a double standard of halal and haram. They should not make one standard for boys and another for girls. That is un-Islamic.

Muslim Women Going to Malls: Any Restrictions ?

Muslim Women Going to Malls: Any Restrictions ?

Question
I would like to know whether there is a ruling on going to malls and stores for fun and leisure, especially for women. I heard that there is a curse on it, so I’d like to know more about that. Your answer is greatly appreciated.

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we would like to thank you for showing keenness on knowing the teachings of Islam, and we appreciate the great confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations.

The ruling of women going to malls, stores, and for having fun and leisure depends on the way they dress, the place they go to, the permission of the husband, as well as the balance woman is supposed to strike between her rights and family obligations.

Generally speaking, there is nothing wrong in a woman’s going out as long as she abides by the Islamic code of dress, obtains her husband’s permission before going out, and the place she wants to go to is not of a suspicious nature, and this would not affect her family duties, otherwise, it is not allowed.

Responding to the question, Sheikh Hamid Al-`Ali, instructor of Islamic Heritage at the Faculty of Education, Kuwait and Imam of Dahiat As-Sabahiyya Mosque, states the following:

What matters here is not the act of going out itself, rather it’s how a woman goes out. It is not allowed for a woman to leave her house except with the permission of her husband. Her husband can either give her a general permission or she can act according to the custom or `urf of people. For example, if it is the custom of people that women can go for meeting necessary needs, visiting her neighbor, going for work (actually if she is doing a legal work), or visiting her relatives, then there is nothing wrong in her going out.

Another important condition for women going out is that they have to abide by the Islamic dress code. Moreover, if a woman goes out, she has to avoid places of temptations or any place that might cause people to think evil of her if she goes without accompanying her husband.

A woman, furthermore, has to strike a balance between her responsibility towards her kids and husband, and her rights to go out and visit people. If the things contradict with each other, it is not allowed to go outside and neglect her family duties. Moreover, women should not go out excessively as that is not recommended.

Marriage within the Family

Marriage within the Family

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. I was told by one of my relatives that it is a part of Islam, not just a part of culture, that when you want to get married, first you should look within your family. Then if there is no one suitable from among your near relatives, you should look to your distant relatives, and if not then within your community, and if not your community then within your race, and finally if this is not possible then within your religion. I understand everything from the community and on, but I was wondering if it is necessary to look within the family first? Jazakum Allah khayran.

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we would like to thank you for the great confidence you place in us, and we implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

It is clear that Islam, undoubtedly, permits a man to marry any of his relatives except those forbidden for marriage whom Allah mentioned in surat an-Nisa': 23.. Concerning the issue of preferring a marriage partner from within one’s family before choosing one from outside, this varies from one case to another. Islam is generally keen to widen the circle of social bonds.

Responding to your question, Dr. Muzammil H. Siddiqi, former President of the Islamic Society of North America, states:

“This list of preferences in marriage is not mentioned in the Qur’an or Sunnah. It is simply people’s own preference. It is up to you to follow it or not. Generally people prefer to marry people of their own kind. Marriages among people who are compatible to each other in family background, age, education, looks and habits are more successful. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "A woman is married for four things, i.e., her wealth, her family status, her beauty, and her religion. So you should marry the religious woman; (otherwise) you will be a loser." (Reported by Al-Bukhari)

It is permissible to marry within your own family or relatives, and most people like that. However, as Muslims we must keep in mind that there are some relatives who are haram for marriage. These are mentioned in surat an-Nisa’: 23. Almighty Allah says: “Prohibited to you (for marriage) are: your mothers, daughters, sisters; father’s sisters, mother’s sisters; brother’s daughters, sister’s daughters; foster-mothers (who gave you suck), foster-sisters; your wives’ mothers; your step-daughters under your guardianship, born of your wives to whom you have gone in, no prohibition if you have not gone in; (those who have been) wives of your sons proceeding from your loins; and two sisters in wedlock at one and the same time, except for what is past; for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

It is also forbidden for Muslims to marry non-Muslims. The only exception is that a Muslim male is allowed to marry a chaste woman from among the People of the Book, i.e. Christians or Jews (see al-Ma’idah: 5).

It should also be remembered that forced marriages are not permissible in Islam. Parents should never force their sons and daughters to marry someone against their will. This is haram and it causes many social problems. Parents should advise their children and likewise children should take their parents’ advice seriously, but finally it is the will and consent of those who are getting married that should prevail.”

Husband Doesn't Pray: What to Do ?

Husband Doesn't Pray: What to Do ?

Question
Respected scholars, as-salamu `alaykum. My husband doesn't pray. Every time I talk to him about prayer, he tells me that as long as he doesn't drink or commit adultery, then he's a good Muslim. I keep telling him about the importance of prayer, but he doesn't seem to misunderstand the broader picture.Can you help me with some arguments ? Jazakum Allahu Khayran. ( Question By : Mona - United States )

Answer
Wa `alaykum as-salam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, thank you for your question, which reflects your concern about Islam and its teachings. Also, we appreciate the confidence you have in us and implore Almighty Allah to bless your efforts in pursuit of knowledge.

There is no doubt that neglecting prayers out of laziness is one of the most heinous sins in Islam. Indeed, salah is the second pillar of Islam after the two Testifications of Faith (testifying that there is no true god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah). Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "Islam is built upon five pillars: testifying that there is no true god except Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, performing salah, paying the zakah, making the pilgrimage (Hajj) to the Sacred House, and fasting the month of Ramadan" (Reported by Al-Bukhari).

So, you are advised, dear sister, to do your best to help your husband come back to the right path and understand the essence and importance of Prayer. Try to do that in a wise and kind way seeking the help of the imam of a nearby Islamic center, friends, or influential family members.

In his response to your question, Sheikh Muhammad Nur Abdullah, former president of ISNA (the Islamic Society of North America) and member of the Fiqh Council of North America, stated,

Salah is the second pillar of Islam. It is the distinction between Islam and disbelief. It is reported that "the first thing a person will be asked about on the Day of Judgment is whether he or she fulfiled his or her duty toward salah; if it is good, the rest of his or her deeds would be good; but if it is bad, the rest of his or her deeds would be bad." And the Qur'an, when addressing believers, frequently repeats the command to "establish Prayers."

You should tell your husband that Allah has commanded us to perform certain obligations and refrain from certain prohibitions. We must, therefore, fulfill our obligations and abstain from forbidden acts. Adultery (zina ) and drinking alcohol are forbidden acts; the Prayer is on the top of the obligatory acts.

Keep trying and be gentle in your approach. May Allah guide him to the right path.

Is photography allowed in Islam ?

Is photography allowed in Islam ?

Question
Is photography allowed in Islam ? Bearing in mind that it is not the same as painting or recreating a being, it's rather a capture of image through light and lens. ( Question By : Usamah - Lithuania )

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear brother in Islam, we would like to thank you for showing keenness on knowing the teachings of Islam, and we appreciate the great confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations, yet we apologize for the late reply.

With regard to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and an Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, answers:

"Photography as a medium of communication or for the simple, innocent retention of memories without the taint of reverence/shirk does not fall under the category of forbidden Tasweer.

One finds a number of traditions from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, condemning people who make Tasweer, which denotes painting or carving images or statues. It was closely associated with paganism or shirk. People were in the habit of carving images and statues for the sake of worship. Islam, therefore, declared Tasweer forbidden because of its close association with shirk (association of partners with Allah). One of the stated principles of usul-u-Fiqh (Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence) is that if anything directly leads to haram, it is likewise haram. In other words, Tasweer was forbidden precisely for the reason that it was a means leading to shirk.


The function of photography today does not fall under the above category. Even some of the scholars who had been once vehemently opposed to photography under the pretext that it was a form of forbidden Tasweer have later changed their position on it - as they allow even for their own pictures to be taken and published in newspapers, for videotaping lectures and for presentations; whereas in the past, they would only allow it in exceptional cases such as passports, drivers’ licenses, etc. The change in their view of photography is based on their assessment of the role of photography.


Having said this, one must add a word of caution: To take pictures of leaders and heroes and hang them on the walls may not belong to the same category of permission. This may give rise to a feeling of reverence and hero worship, which was precisely the main thrust of the prohibition of Tasweer. Therefore, one cannot make an unqualified statement to the effect that all photography is halal. It all depends on the use and function of it. If it is for educational purpose and has not been tainted with the motive of reverence and hero worship, there is nothing in the sources to prohibit it."


Do keep in touch. If you have any other question, don't hesitate to contact us.

How Islam Views Sex outside Marriage

How Islam Views Sex outside Marriage

Question
Some women go unmarried throughout life due to certain social factors against their will. Are these women allowed to have sex outside the wedlock in any way at any time of their life ? ( Question By : Zahid - United States )

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, thank you very much for having confidence in us, and we hope our efforts, which are purely for His Sake, meet your expectations.

In his response to the question in point, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former president of the Islamic Society of North America, states the following:

“It is a very sad thing to see that Muslim women or men suffer unmarried life due to un-Islamic social factors. We must blame our un-Islamic social customs and materialistic outlook that cause some men and women to remain unmarried.

Some young people or their parents have very high expectations for their spouses. They set a very difficult standard of education, profession, wealth or physical features for any prospective suitor. The result is that such women remain single because the suitors fail to meet those standards. We Muslims must emphasize that the best criterion according to Islam is good character. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is reported to have said: “If someone whose faith and morals you trust makes a proposal of marriage to you then marry him, otherwise there will be trials and much corruption in the land.”

As Muslims it is also our duty to help our Muslim brothers and sisters get married. Allah Almighty says in the Qur’an, “And marry such of you as are solitary and the pious of your slaves and maid servants. If they be poor; Allah will enrich them of His bounty. Allah is of ample means, Aware.”(An-Nur :32)

However, if for any reason men or women are not able to marry, then they must observe abstinence. They have no other way. Allah says in the Qur'an that the believing men and believing women guard their private parts from committing any illicit sexual act. He Almighty says, “ Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and be modest. That is purer for them. Lo! Allah is Aware of what they do.” (An-Nur: 30)

He Almighty also says: “ Lo! men who surrender unto Allah, and women who surrender, and men who believe and women who believe, and men who obey and women who obey, and men who speak the truth and women who speak the truth, and men who persevere (in righteousness) and women who persevere, and men who are humble and women who are humble, and men who give alms and women who give alms, and men who fast and women who fast, and men who guard their modesty and women who guard (their modesty), and men who remember Allah much and women who remember Allah hath prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward.” (Al-Ahzab: 35)

Sexual relations are allowed only among the married couples. Sex outside marriage is not allowed in Islam. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is reported to have said, "O young people, whoever among you can afford to marry, let him/her get married, because marriage protects the private parts of the body (i.e. from illicit relations) and it guards the eyes from straying. But those who cannot afford to marry then let them fast, because fasting will curb their sexual urge.”

Education or Marriage: Which Takes Priority ?

Education or Marriage: Which Takes Priority ?

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. Do you think that a girl should at least get her high school diploma before she gets married? My parents say I should get married now but I didn’t even finish high school yet! I would like to wait until I graduate at least before getting married. What should I do? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Amira )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, we would like to thank you for the great confidence you place in us, and we implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

It goes without saying that in Islam parents have no right to compel their daughter to get married or to stop her from pursuing education. They have every right to advise their child to get married, but the ultimate decision is in the hands of the child. Moreover, every Muslim woman has a right to basic education and skill training.

In his response to the question in point, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

“While parents in Islam have every right to advise their children and persuade them to get married, nevertheless, the ultimate decision when and with whom they wish to get married lies exclusively in their own hands, and not in the hands of their parents. In other words, parents have no right to compel you to get married now, should you choose to do so after completing your course of studies. If you were coerced into it, then such a marriage would be deemed as invalid in Islam.

In Islam every woman has a right to basic education and skill training. Parents cannot stop her from pursuing it. It is important for girls living in this society to get least their basic education and skills training in order for them to function as intelligent mothers as well as to be able to take care of themselves without being a burden on others, should their marriage fail. So have a free and open discussion with your parents on this issue. You should be able to convince them of the following:

1. Marriage in Islam is ultimately your decision, and parents have only the role of a guide or adviser; since you are the person who must live with the person, you must be able to decide for yourself. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) clearly established this precedent in authentic traditions.

2. Education is a necessity in this day and age. Islam exhorts us to get educated in order to be able to face the many challenges of life. In this day and age, no one gets anywhere in life without at least a basic education and skills training. We must learn a lesson from the pious Caliph `Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) who advised parents saying: 'Remember you are born in a different age; so they need to acquire certain skills which you were not required to learn in your time.'

3. It is you and you alone who must decide when you will be ready for marriage. But at the same time, it is not advisable for you to postpone the marriage indefinitely once you have acquired the basic education, or if you wish to enter into a marriage contract which stipulates that you will be allowed to complete your education even after marriage.

4. Should you find yourself unable to communicate with your parents, you may ask help of some wise people or imams who are respected for their sound knowledge and wisdom to talk to your parents. I pray to Allah to guide your steps and bless you in your decisions. Never fail to pray to Allah, for surely Allah is always with those who do the right things. Ameen.”

Engaged Couples Hanging out Together

Engaged Couples Hanging out Together

Question
As-Salamu `Alaykum. Does the religion of Islam permit the engaged man and woman to meet and spend time together before their marriage ? ( Question By : Islam - United States )

Answer
Wa`alaykum As-Salaamu Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.
In The Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, thank you very much for having confidence in us, and we hope our efforts, which are purely for Allah's Sake, meet your expectations.

In his response to the question, Dr. Muzzamil Siddiqi, former president of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), states the following:

“The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, not only permitted but encouraged the young people to see their prospective spouses before engagement. Jabir, may Allah be pleased with him, quoted the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, as saying: “When one of you make a proposal of marriage to a woman, if you can see what can invite you to marry her then do so.”

When Mughirah Ibn Shu'bah, may Allah be pleased with him, made a proposal of marriage to woman, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, asked him, "Have you seen her?" He said, "No." The Prophet said to him, "See her, because this may make your relationship more permanent." (Reported by An-Nasa'i, Ibn Majah and At-Timidhi)

On the basis of these and other similar Hadiths, the jurists have said that it is allowed for a boy and girl who are considering to marry each other to see and meet each other in the presence of their adult relatives. The meetings should be supervised and with proper Islamic dress and etiquette.

They are not allowed to go out alone or to spend time together alone. Even after the engagement or khitbah they should not have any unsupervised meetings.

They may talk to each other on telephone occasionally or they may write to each other, but they should observe modesty in their conversations and must always remember that they are still unmarried and whatever is allowed for married couples is not yet allowed to them.

In the past, some Muslims used to take an extreme position in this matter. They would not allow their boys and girls to see their prospective spouses at all. The first time they would see and meet each other would be on the night of their union. This was just a cultural practice and not an Islamic custom.

Now, the trend has gone to another extreme un-Islamic practice. It is observed in many Muslim, even in some religious, families that boys and girls are allowed to meet freely and go out without any supervision. This is unlawful and it must be stopped. Such practices, if continued, will corrupt Muslim families and weaken our family structure just as it happened to many non-Muslim families.”

Dowry from the Girl’s Side: Permissible ?

Dowry from the Girl’s Side: Permissible ?

Question
Is it wrong to get a dowry from the girl’s side? If this is done when she is getting married, will the marriage become invalid ? ( Question By : Fatimah )

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Thanks for your interesting question, and we pray to Allah to guide us all to the best, and to grant all those who intend to marry a successful marital life.

Actually, man is supposed to pay the dowry to his wife as it is one of her genuine rights. The woman, on the other hand, is not supposed to pay the dowry to her husband but she is permitted to help him with a sum of money in case he is financially straitened.

Responding to the question, Dr. Sano Koutoub Moustapha, professor of Jurisprudence & Its Principles at the International Islamic University, Malaysia, states: "

I shall pray to Allah to make it easy for those who intend to marry.

As far as the dowry (mahr) is concerned, it should come from the man’s side. It is an obligation upon him that he has to pay to the woman, and this dowry is a full right of the woman which totally belongs to her and not to anybody else.

Dowry is considered one of the main conditions for the validity of the marriage contract. It must be paid either at the beginning of the marriage or within the marriage, and nobody should waive it without the consent of the woman.

Therefore, the man has to pay the dowry to the woman, and it is up to them to agree on the time of the payment. However, there is no harm on the part of the girl if she assists the man willing to marry her with a sum of money if he has difficulty getting money to pay the dowry.

I shall point out that the dowry could be in kind as well as in cash. The dowry should be paid because Allah Almighty says: “And give unto the women, (whom ye marry) free gift of their marriage portions; but if they of their own accord remit unto you a part thereof, then ye are welcome to absorb it (in your wealth)” (An-Nisaa’: 4)

The payment of the dowry is not a prerequisite for the marriage; that is, the marriage can take place without the payment of the mahr on the spot, as it can be paid later on, but there must be an agreement on the payment of the dowry."