Is it permissible to keep a photograph for the time of dire necessity?
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The questioner : A woman asks: “My esteemed Shaykh, I was once compelled to travel outside the Kingdom, and I was asked to provide several photographs for my passport. I did so, and I found no photography studio for women, so I had them taken out of dire necessity. One of the photos I took remained with me. I was afraid that if I destroyed it, I might need it again in the future, which would compel me to expose myself to men once more. So I kept it. I am also afraid that keeping it now will prevent the angels from entering my home. What should I do? Please advise us, and may Allah reward you.”
The Shaykh : We say that keeping it is better than destroying it. If it remains covered and hidden in the middle of the suitcase or at the bottom of the trunk, it is not visible, apparent, or displayed. If you destroy it, you will be compelled, if the need arises in the future, to have men photograph you again, and you will also lose the extra cost of the fees. Therefore, keeping it is preferable. Likewise, for men, they may photograph their nationality or the like, taking several photos that they will need in the future. So we say there is nothing wrong with keeping them for the future.
Yes.
The Shaykh : We say that keeping it is better than destroying it. If it remains covered and hidden in the middle of the suitcase or at the bottom of the trunk, it is not visible, apparent, or displayed. If you destroy it, you will be compelled, if the need arises in the future, to have men photograph you again, and you will also lose the extra cost of the fees. Therefore, keeping it is preferable. Likewise, for men, they may photograph their nationality or the like, taking several photos that they will need in the future. So we say there is nothing wrong with keeping them for the future.
Yes.