What is the ruling on images and seminars on television?

The questioner : Then, O Shaykh, also a second question: images and seminars on television?

The Shaykh : There are also many tapes regarding this. It is not permissible to use images, no matter how varied the methods of capturing them are, whether by hand, by photographic camera, or by video, which is a machine. None of this is permissible except within the limits of dire necessity, such as images for identity cards, passports, and the like. As for the expansion we see in the present age, where a person who wants to deliver a lecture appears on television—where is the dire necessity? On the contrary, here the presenter exposes himself to television and exposes himself to trial. Look at me, here I am. Whereas if the intention is education, it is achieved simply by people hearing the speaker's words, and this is sufficient to realize the legitimate benefit. Glory be to You, O Allah, and praise be to You. I testify that there is no deity but You. I seek Your forgiveness and turn to You in repentance.