Placing pictures in the mosque and praying in a place where there are pictures
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Fatwa number ( 1874 )
Q: For years, we have been in one of the official departments, and one of the distribution halls in the building where we work has been allocated to us. We pray in congregation there during our working hours. Some time ago, a number of large pictures of prominent figures were placed on the front wall facing the qiblah. We were greatly embarrassed by the presence of these pictures in front of us during prayer. What is your opinion on installing pictures in
the place designated for the prayer of Muslims for a long time, and should we continue to pray with them present?
A: The prayer is valid, and there is no blame on them, if Allah wills, in that matter if they are compelled to pray in the aforementioned place due to the absence of a nearby mosque. However, it is obligatory for them to do their utmost with the authorities to remove the pictures from this place, or to provide them with another place that does not contain pictures. This is because praying in a place where pictures are in front of the worshippers resembles the worship of idols. Many hadiths have come indicating the prohibition of imitating the enemies of Allah and the command to differ from them. It should be known that hanging pictures of living beings on the walls is not permissible; rather, it is one of the causes of extremism and shirk (associating partners with Allah), especially if they are pictures of revered figures. We ask Allah for success and guidance for everyone. And success is from Allah, and may Allah send prayers and blessings upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.
Q: For years, we have been in one of the official departments, and one of the distribution halls in the building where we work has been allocated to us. We pray in congregation there during our working hours. Some time ago, a number of large pictures of prominent figures were placed on the front wall facing the qiblah. We were greatly embarrassed by the presence of these pictures in front of us during prayer. What is your opinion on installing pictures in
the place designated for the prayer of Muslims for a long time, and should we continue to pray with them present?
A: The prayer is valid, and there is no blame on them, if Allah wills, in that matter if they are compelled to pray in the aforementioned place due to the absence of a nearby mosque. However, it is obligatory for them to do their utmost with the authorities to remove the pictures from this place, or to provide them with another place that does not contain pictures. This is because praying in a place where pictures are in front of the worshippers resembles the worship of idols. Many hadiths have come indicating the prohibition of imitating the enemies of Allah and the command to differ from them. It should be known that hanging pictures of living beings on the walls is not permissible; rather, it is one of the causes of extremism and shirk (associating partners with Allah), especially if they are pictures of revered figures. We ask Allah for success and guidance for everyone. And success is from Allah, and may Allah send prayers and blessings upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.
Source
www.alifta.gov.sa
The Arabic text is copied verbatim from the original source, without any edits.