Muslim Minorities (Q & A)

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Live Fatwa With Sheikh Ahmad Kutty
kutty
 

On Sunday, February 19, 2012, we managed to run a successful e-mail based Live Fatwa session with Sheikh Ahmad Kutty on “Muslim Minorities” in the occasion of the Prophet’s birthday.

Interestingly, users reacted positively and sent their questions via the Fatwa section’s e-mail address in and ahead of the session’s time. The honorable guest, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty kindly responded to all the questions.

Below you can review all questions and Dr. Shihab’s replies:

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Question 1  

Deen – India

Allowed Name

As-salamu `alaykum. Dear Sir, I have a 4 year old son. I have named him Ihsan Aziz. Is this name allowed in Islam?

Answer

There is nothing wrong in calling your son Ihsan `Aziz, although it would be preferable to call him Ihsan `Abd `Aal-Aziz which would mean: “Ihsan, the servant of the invincible.”

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 2

Basheer – India

Awlyaa’

Respected scholar, as-salamu `alaykum. What is the awliya? Is it ok in Islam to build qabr & celebration?

Answer

Awliya’ is the plural form of waliy; which means friend, protector, guardian, etc. In Islamic literature, it refers to those who have been considered as truly pious and God-fearing and thus serve as role models for others. We read in the Qur’an, “Verily, the friends “Awliya’” of Allah have nothing to fear or grieve for”. Then the next verse goes on to define the friends of Allah: “they are they who cherish true faith (in Allah) and thus remain conscious (of Him). And such are the ones who shall receive glad tidings from Allah in this world and the next…” (Qur’an: 10: 62-64)

So, the friends of Allah are those who are pious and God-fearing. The foremost of this group the messengers of Allah, who serve as the role models for humanity. They are followed by those who imitate them.

In Islam next to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) in saintliness come the four righteous caliphs and the eminent companions as well as the pious forbears and imams. There was no dearth of awliya’ Allah in the history of Islam; thanks to their efforts, Islam has reached all corners of the globe.

As for the practice of building tombs on the graves, it is contrary to the explicit teachings of Islam; for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has sounded grave warnings against turning graves into places of excessive veneration. Ironically, the Muslims have built tombs on graves of saints and turned them into places of excessive veneration. This is undoubtedly a reprehensible innovation to be rejected.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 3

Abu Abdullah

Doctor – Magic - Death

As-salamu `alaikum! I just read in the news that a Muslim involved in magic was sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia. What do the Qur'an and Sunnah say about this? Is this allowed in Islam? Do we have Shari`ah in Saudi Arabia? I was in hajj this year and there is no insaniyya (humanity) in the twin holy cities generally. There is a seven star hajj for rich and a street star hajj for poor, where is the spirit? Is this the message of Holy Prophet (SAWW)? I saw air conditioned tents in `Arafah? Where are we heading to? And in hajj days, the fares of everything start touching the skies, looting, cheating, faking is common, no customer services, arrogance, racism. People from Asia are working like slaves. You know you cannot marry a "real ARAB" woman and cannot establish an independent business (you need a kafeel), and on the name of hajj you are looted with both hands, this is the only trip that you pay from EUROPE an average of 3000 Euros and you don't know what you are getting in to. Does Islam allow "malookiyya", nepotism? No doubt then that our brothers and sisters are dying with hunger and we are spending millions for our own nafs. Shrari`ah, as I understand, is to apply the Qur'an and Sunna 24 hours, right, and in all mu`amlaat (dealings)? Please, comment!

Answer

At all times, we must resist from attacking individuals or countries or nationalities, and refuse to make statements or judgments that may sound racist or stereotypical.

As for the specific case you have referred to, I cannot comment on it since I am not aware of the specifics.

Having said this, however, I must also point out: every Muslim has the right to express indignation at the deplorable state of the Ummah. No one can deny some of the facts you have alluded to. These are the conditions - as the Qur’an reiterates in numerous places - that caused the downfall of previous nations.

Let me cite here the insightful statement of the pious caliph `Umar, “The Muslim decline will begin when their rulers do not welcome criticism and the people are afraid of offering it.”

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 4

Salva – Qatar

Marriage

As-salamu `alaikum, Sheikh. I'm an engineering student, 20 years of age. My family is abroad while I'm alone in my native place, staying on boarding since three years before, after moving from abroad. I was really well known in the place abroad and all cared and respected me and everyone there was righteous. But once I came down here I felt alone because all are only Muslims by name. The few friends I have never bother to speak up against the bad actions of the rest with me.

I felt like the odd one out in this place. Then came this person, a third cousin of mine, studying in my college a few months elder than me. I never knew him because I was abroad but our families know each other very well.

When I enquired about him all said he's a very good guy, God fearing, not like the other guys on campus, also a member of an Islamic group which I too belong to. We started talking. He shared the same views as mine. We started getting closer. When I got involved in problems with the "bad gang" he always helped me out and supported me. I felt only he could make me live in this "HELL" because I can’t leave this place as I have passion for my career.

You may say we fell in love, yes. Our circumstances lead us to it. But unlike the others we never roamed about together, never even met or sat to talk with each other at college, wallahi. Only few know us in that too as cousins. However, I felt I was being Hippocratic and I told my parents. But they couldn't accept the fact that I would do this.

I tried to convince them we did not do anything wrong just talk through phone which they already knew. But they said they'll never accept this because it's a "love marriage" and they fear their status in the society. And another thing is because he is just 6 months elder to me.

These reasons I feel have no relevance in Islamic view. They say they are starting to hate that family because of this. But they want me to marry the person they get for me. But I don’t think I can ever do that.

If at all they force me I will not be completely with the person I marry, my mind will be elsewhere. Isn't that more sinful? How can I convince them? And now that they didn’t talk about it anymore. Should I bring it up again or only insha allah when it's time for me to get married. Please, help me out... I'm praying to Allah as well and I'm damn sure He'll grant me what I want because I trust him and believe in him. jazaakallahu khairan.

Answer

Although, according to Islam, a guardian`s consent is important for the marriage of a woman, no guardian has the right to refuse permission to marry an eligible candidate she has chosen to marry, as long as she is an adult in full possession of her mind.

As Imam Ibn Taymiyah has rightly pointed out, even as a guardian has no right to force her to consume foods she does not like, he has no right to force her to marry someone she doesn’t wish to. Mind you marriage is far more a crucial matter than consuming foods as it entails life-long partnership; as such, one needs to be extremely careful in choosing the right kind of a partner.

Finally, there is no forced marriage in Islam. This is clearly demonstrated by the precedent of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). Once a woman came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) complaining that her father had given her in marriage to his cousin in order to raise his family status without her consent.

Upon ascertaining the truth of the matter, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) ordered for the annulment of the marriage; but then the woman said that she has accepted her father’s choice for her, but she wished to let the women know that they cannot be forced to marry someone they don’t wish to!

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 5

IAN –Malaysia

Muslim Interaction Gives Bad Impression

As-salamu `alaykum. I am a student who was raised up in a very Islamic environment. The interactions I had with women had always been restricted, Islamic and I am very proud to have lived in such environment.

However, I am moving into college now, and I found out that people are not practicing the Islamic way of socializing (interactions between men and women) as I did back in my school years. At first, I am tempted to change my creed of being strict and uptight about this whole interaction issue but Allah knows better what I have to do and He keeps me with my Islamic attitude.

However, I begin to realize that my friends sort of resent my behavior of isolating myself from women and not treating them as equally as I treat my male friends. I feel that they had a bad impression on me, which is not good because in my class, I am the only one who came from religious Islamic school while others came from normal schools which don't practice Islam fully.

This bad impression they had on me because of my alienated style of interacting with females sort of demotivates me in some ways and I think it is not good for Islam itself because I suppose people should be attracted to the beauty of this religion, not despise them on first interpretations.

I must say that I am not concern of my status - what I really care about is their impression on Islam. Now, I believe I understand the question about interactions between men and women in Islam comprehensively, which is, if I am correct, we are actually allowed to interact in certain occasions such as work, study and etc.

I did practice that - I didn't avoid interacting with them completely but what they expect from me are more than that which are to be nicer, more talkative even on trivial matters and jocular with them at sometimes. Of course, because they are of my opposite sex, I cannot simply act like that because I am clear about my boundaries. I know and I have read other answers about this kind of issue and they say you should stop seeking for human's attention and hold on to what you seek from Allah. And also, I read another answer to this similar question about how I should actually explain why I have to act like this and like that.

Fyi, I am very bad at explaining things, especially with females because explaining things is really not my forte (even though I am used to da`wah my male friends) and even if I really get to explain to them about my Islamic creed, I have a strong feeling that they will resent this way of life more because to them, it is just so 'backward' and 'unmodern'. And I have been thinking about loosening up a little bit more, but maintaining my intention of dawah giving them, but currently, I am reluctant to do so.

So, my question is: which is much more important; should I loosen up a little bit more (in that sense I mentioned) to make them not resent Islam itself and silently, furtively instilling dawah to them, or should I just keep it as it is, be stringent, put Allah's favor as top priority, and most probably, consequently keep them afar from enlightenment they should get from me? I will appreciate your answers and concerns very much. Thank you.

Answer

You cannot violate the rules of Islamic ethics governing male-female interactions in the name of da`wah. Giving da`wah cannot be taken as a license for changing Islam to suit the whims and fancies of people. The principles of Islam cannot change.

However, there is a clear distinction to be drawn between those which are considered as basics and those which are peripheral. And at all times a preacher must use wisdom and observe priorities in delivering the message.

Wisdom involves, among other things, considerations of time and place and the customs of people as well as their level of understanding. Observance of priorities involves stating the fundamentals first, etc.

For further details, you may refer to detailed articles and answers posted elsewhere. You may do well to study the works of Shaikh Qaradawi on such vital issues if you wish to pursue this matter seriously.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 6

Abdur-Rahman – Canada

Selecting Marital Partner

Salam, I am considering a woman to marry her, but I realize that her parents were not under legal marriage when they gave birth to her. So, I am really concerned about my move since I don't know exactly how Islam looks at this circumstance.

Answer

You are allowed to marry her as long as she is compatible with you in faith and character. The fact that she was born out of wedlock is not her fault. In Islam, no one is burdened by the sin of another. So, once you are satisfied about her personal qualities, you may marry her as long as she is willing to marry you.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 7

Ahmed – Canada

Man Living Alone

As-salamu `alaykum. I would like to know if a man living by himself is haram (i.e. no wife) Thank you.

Answer

If I understand your question correctly, you wish to know whether it is OK for you to remain a bachelor. If this is correct, it all depends upon your own specific nature and circumstances. The legal status of marriage varies according to specific circumstances and conditions of individuals concerned.

If you are reasonably certain that you have no fear of falling into sins, then it is up to you to marry or not. In Islam, we have a number of great scholars who chose to remain bachelors as they felt no need to marry. Thus great scholars such as Ibn Jarir, Nawawi, Ibn Taymiyya, etc. were life-long bachelors. For further details on the legal status of marriage, you may refer to detailed answers posted earlier.

If, on the other hand, you need to ask that you are married and you wish to know whether it is OK for you to live alone separate from your wife, then the answer is as follows:

Although you may live alone temporarily for genuine reasons, you are not allowed to do so if you have a choice.  For by doing so, you are depriving your wife of her right to companionship. Caliph `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) ordered the warriors not to stay away from their wives for more than four months.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 8

Nadeen - Canada

Love

I was in love, and I believed I would marry that man but it didn’t turn out like this. I know at point he is not honest to me. I know it’s wrong to have a relationship with a man before marriage and I have dated once before. I always believed that my love was true and then was deceived. I want a good life partner. I have repent but I want to forget him and bring peace to mind. It’s just hard to let him go. Can you, please, help me how I can pray for a better future and ask for forgiveness once again?

Answer

You shouldn’t despair of Allah’s mercy for it is not becoming of a true believer to do so as the Qur’an explicitly states.

So, you certainly need to repent and ask forgiveness of Allah for your past sins and return to Him earnestly and sincerely. Once you do so, Allah will forgive you.

You should never stop praying to Allah to bless you in your search for a suitable life-partner. You may use any du`a’. You may also choose to pray in your own language from your heart.

Here is one du`a’ you may do well to read on a daily basis: Allaahumma rahmata arjoo falaa takilnee ilaa nafsee tarafata a’ynin wa aslih lee sha’anee kullahu (O Allah, I beseech Your mercy; so do not abandon me to my own devices—even for an instant. Rather, straighten out for me all of my affairs).

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 9

Abdullah – Canada

40 Days After Death.

What is the significant of 40 days after a Muslim passed away? Some Muslims are celebrating that 40th day by giving a charity and reciting the holy Qur'an. May Allah bless and reward you.

Answer

There is no basis for observance of 40th day of the passing away of a person; it is a reprehensible innovation, which should be discouraged. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “It is not allowed for a person who believes in Allah and the last day to mourn for a dead person for more than three days.” The only exception is that of a widow undergoing the waiting period of four months and ten days.

Having said this, I should also point out the following:

Offering charities and good deeds on behalf of the dead is a good practice, albeit it is not bound by any time restrictions.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 10

Morad – Canada

Satisfaction

I am a sinner, but some time I am thinking that Satan (iblees) was against Adam and Allah and he argued with Allah, if iblees was doing that arguments with Allah and now what our situation, how can I fight with him (with iblees) and also I cannot see him? If I have to see him, and he will give me wrong lesson, I will give him good punish. The problem is that as a human being automatically I will make mistake. Therefore, making lot of sins, we always pray for our sins.

Answer

I cannot figure out the main point of your question. If I have grasped the essence of it, you wish to ask, what is the point of repentance when we know that to sin is human? The answer is:

Even as it is human to sin, it is equally human to ask forgiveness of Allah and resolve to change. When you sinned you knew you had a choice not to do so; so you are punished for your sins.

The Qur’an makes it crystal clear that we are punished only for our own willful actions, and that humans have the freedom to choose. Therefore, we cannot use the divine will to justify our own sins.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 11

Polly – Canada

Step-daughter

I have been the provider and care-giver to my "daughter" (step-daughter) since she was 2. Her mother was termed a unfit mother and she was taken away from her. My husband who is the biological father had got soul custody. She is 4 now. I've raised her since then. Her mother is an ex-druggie and alcoholic and doesn't influence her in a good way. How much right does she have Islamicaly to her daughter if I am the one who has been devoted to bringing her up in a good Muslim family. Do I have any right?

Answer

If you are the one who cared for her and looked after her, then certainly she owes you respect and honorable treatment. The biological mother who has neglected her has forfeited her rights.

So your foster child ought to reciprocate your kindness with kindness and love with love. Zayd ibn Thabit who was under the care of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) chose him over his own biological father, for he had been convinced of his selfless love towards him. Zayd was known among Muslims as the beloved friend of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 12

Yasmeen – Canada

Name for Girl

My wife and I would like to name our daughter Eliza? We know the meaning is "chosen" and "precious". Is this name acceptable for Muslims? We did research and keep finding it as a Muslim name but want to be sure. Also, how would it be written in Arabic? Thank you.

Answer

There is no harm in naming your daughter Eliza.  However, I haven’t come across this name in Arabic.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 13

Summer – UK

Marriage/Different Community/Parents

I'm a 20 female. My family is looking for a life partner. But it’s a MUST that the life partner is of the same race and cast. I fell in love with a guy from a different race and want to marry him, but my parents are afraid because they don't want people to point fingers at them. We are both practicing Islam. So, we see no problem, as race is not an issue for us. Under these terms, am I allowed to go against their will? I haven't spoken to them yet, what to do?

Answer

You have the right to choose the person you wish to marry as long as you have chosen someone who is compatible in faith and character. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “When someone with a pleasing faith and character approaches for marriage, marry him; otherwise, you are paving the way for spreading corruption in the land.

So, your parents cannot stop you from marrying the person you choose as long as the above conditions are met. In other words, they cannot simply stop you from marrying a person simply based on ethnic or racial considerations.

Having said this, I urge you to persuade your parents to change their mind—if you are sure he is the right person to marry. Perhaps your parents are worried about his compatibility and his ability to provide for you. Therefore, you need to be frank with them and try to make them understand.

Perhaps you should get the help of the imam in the community or any other wise person whom your parents respect to convince them. In the meantime, pray to Allah to inspire you to make the right choice.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 14

D. - Canada

Argument With Teacher Over Prayer

I'm a high school student and I recently had an argument with a teacher over prayer at school. During the time for prayer, he used to let me go to pray. But one day, he told me that I could do it after school. By the time I get home, I barely have time to pray `Asr, let alone Zuhr. He says that other students say that it is allowed afterschool. What should I do? I don't have enough time in between classes. Some friends have told me to combine it with `Asr afterschool, but I don't feel right doing that.

Answer

Perhaps you should speak with your teacher, and explain to him the importance of praying on time. You may provide him with the detailed answers on the importance of prayer in Islam published elsewhere on this site.

If, however, you are not allowed to take time off from your classes, then you may combine Zuhr with ‘Asr. However, you are not allowed to skip both of them altogether. Combining prayers is allowed in exceptional circumstances. For details, please, look for the detailed answers published earlier.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 15

Fadwa - Canada

Sexless Marriage

My husband never wants to have sex with me. He doesn't tell me that but he never tries. If I start things, then we do. I’m not sure what to do. Am I supposed just to be OK with that? I don't feel like a woman around him I feel like I’m just a wall. He's a very good husband otherwise, and we get along so well. We have 2 kids and he's a very good father. I asked him repeatedly for a reason as to why or if there's something I can do to fix it but I never get a straight answer.

Answer

You have every right to derive sexual satisfaction from your husband even as he has the same to the same. That is your legitimate right as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Your body has rights, your soul has rights….and your spouse has rights…and so, give each one his or her right!”

Perhaps it may be a good idea to seek professional counseling; it is more than likely that your husband is suffering from some medical challenges, which can be treated by a specialist. For further details on your question, let me cite from one of my previous answers:

“According to the Qur’an, the purpose of marriage is to attain sukun (tranquility and peace; see for instance verses 30:21; 7:189), which can never be achieved through impulsive sexual fulfillment unless it is accompanied by mutual love, affection, caring, and sharing, which are all part and parcel of a fulfilling and productive marriage relationship.

Islam, as we know it holistically from the sources, is a balanced way of looking at things. Sexual fulfillment can never be detached or separated from an attitude of mutual respect, love, and emotional attachment, otherwise it can hardly be distinguished from the behavior of brutes. Mind you, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) warned couples against hopping into beds like birds without proper foreplay and preparation, which includes showing affection and tender care.

Now coming to the mutual obligations of spouses, it is lucidly and beautifully expressed in the following verses:

And cohabit with them on terms of utmost decency and fairness.” (An-Nisa’ 4: 19);

And they (women) have rights similar to those of men in fairness.” (Al-Baqarah 2: 228).

In light of these, it is only reasonable to assume that a husband must set an example of fairness and compassion in dealing with his wife. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was especially known for his compassionate treatment of his family. He was extremely caring and gentle with them; he enjoyed their company, and said that it was one of the best things that he cherished in this world.

He also told the faithful that the best thing for a believer to reckon in this world was the companionship of a righteous wife. In keeping with the spirit of such teachings, it is wrong for anyone to reduce woman to the position of an object for sexual gratifications.

In Islam, man and woman in general, as well as husband and wife in particular, are equal partners; just as a husband has needs to which a wife is expected to be responsive. A wife, also, has needs to which a husband should be responsive.

To be successful, marriage must be based on mutual reciprocity and consensual relationship. We know that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was in the habit of drinking from the same cup with his wife, thus placing his lips in the same spot where she placed hers. He would take a bite of food and then she would take another bite. It is this Prophetic attitude of mutual respect, affection, and companionship that should serve as a role model for all the married couples in Islam”.

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 16

Ahmad – Canada

Concentration Issue

As-salamu `alaykum. Dear imam, I have a problem that I can't get over. I have a fear of darkness, even when I want to pray with the lights off. I can’t do it. I feel something is around me and I can't concentrate. What can I do to stop this? The Qur'an is on in my house every couple of nights. But I can't get over this fear. Can you, please, let me know if there is anything I can do to help me get over this issue? Thank you.

Answer

I empathize with your condition and pray to Allah to remove your fears and anxieties and grant you peace of mind.

As for finding a cure for this condition, first of all, you need to talk to your doctor, who may refer you to a specialist who may counsel you and provide you with practical tips.

Along with this, you need to resort to spiritual cure and treatment. You need to read Al-Fatihah, Ayat al-Kursi and the last three surahs on a daily basis in the morning and before retiring to bed. You may also read the following du`a’ on a daily basis:

Allaahmmaa ustur awraatee wa aamin raw’aatee wa ihfaznee min bayni yadayya wa min khalfee wa ‘aaodhu bi ‘azamatika an ughtaala min tahtee.

(O Allah, I beg Your mercy to cover my faults and remove my fears and anxieties and protect me against all evils from my front and back; and I seek Your protection against being swallowed by the earth from under my feet.).

I also urge you to play the Qur’an continuously in your house and get a copy of the Invocation of God by Ibn al-Qayyim and study and practice its lessons. I pray that Allah cure you and grant you freedom from all fears and anxieties.

Allah Almighty knows best. 

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Question 17

Medwin – Canada

Honor Killings

Hi. I’ve been reading about the honor killings (such as the current Shafia case, and some other un-noticed killings). Does Islam allow this, especially if it is a religion of peace? What is the "honor" in honor killings? What is the significance of it? A Muslim neighbor told me that there is no FORCE in Islam, but I've seen it happen. Can you explain, please? Islam has a very negative image with us in the West, but Muslims don't seem to be making it any better with their actions. Why? Thanks.

Answer

There is no such as honor killing in Islam; killing is a most heinous crime.  For details, I can only cite from one of my previous answers on this issue:

“There is no such concept in Islam that is called “honor killing”. Islam holds every soul in high esteem and does not allow any transgression upon it. It does not allow people to take the law in their own hands and administer justice, because doing so will be leading to chaos and lawlessness. Therefore, based on this, Islam does not permit such killings.

 

First of all, in order to sanction killing, it must be through a binding verdict issued by an authoritative law court. Individuals themselves have no authority either to judge cases or pass judgments. Therefore, a Muslim should not sanction such killing because doing so will be leading to the rule of the law of the jungle. A civilized society cannot be run by such laws.”

Allah Almighty knows best.

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Question 18

Ahmed Tauqeer – India

Praying in Mosque Which Was Built on Controversial

As-salamu `alaykum. Dear Brothers, my query is regarding the construction of mosque in the vicinity of my home. The mosque was built around three years ago on a land donated by a land broker who happens to live in the same vicinity. Recently it came to the knowledge of neighborhood and mosque managing committee that the same broker with held malafide notions and garbled up nearby land which was a street near the mosque. The point being here he garbled more than double the land that he gave in donation to the mosque illegally.

My question here is: what is the position from Islamic point of view regarding praying at this mosque now given the facts that have come to our knowledge now. Can we use the mosque still? The mosque land deed papers are legally complete. Can we use donations from people with hidden agenda who later on turn out to be not being a person of worthiness? Hope you will answer my query soon. Allah Hafiz, Shukran, and Jazaak Allah.

Answer

If you have reasonable grounds to believe that the land the person donated for the mosque was fraudulently appropriated, then it is haram to pray in it, according to the vast majority of scholars and jurists belonging to various schools. For, by praying in such a mosque, we are condoning acts of robbery and injustice.

A mosque is a place to disseminate the word of Allah. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was told not to pray in masjid ad-dirar built by hypocrites and the fifth column in Madinah, who had built it in order to turn people against Islam and foment dissension and division in the community.

If, on the other hand, the mosque is built on the land that rightfully belongs to him then there is nothing wrong in praying there, even though he may have other unlawful earnings or possessions in his hands.

For in this case, it is the case of a man who has both lawful and unlawful incomes, and as long as the donation comes from his lawful earnings, we are allowed to accept it, although we must reject that which he gives from his unlawful earnings.

Abu Bakr, the first caliph, (may Allah be pleased with him) accepted the gift of food from his client, who had both lawful and unlawful earnings. However, when discovered it was purchased by money earned through soothsaying he induced vomiting!

Allah Almighty knows best.

The editor of OnIslam Live Fatwa service.

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