Photos of Muslims offering congregational Salah and of children reciting the Qur'an

Q 8: Some scholars in Britain permit taking photos of Muslims offering Salah (Prayer) in congregation and of children reciting the Qur'an. They think that these pictures may impress non-Muslims and encourage them to know about Islam and Muslims when they are published in the newspapers and magazines.

A: Photographing animate beings is Haram (prohibited), whether they are humans or animals, and whether the pictures are of those who perform Salah, recite Qur'an or any other act. This is based on Sahih Hadiths (Hadiths that have been transmitted by people known for their uprightness and exactitude; free from eccentricity and blemish) reported in this regard. (Part No. 1; Page No. 704) Also it is not permissible to publish photos of Muslims who perform Salah, Wudu' (ablution), or recite Qur'an in the newspapers and magazines aiming at propagating Islam and encouraging others to know about Islam and profess it. This is because using unlawful means to propagate Islam is not permissible. There are so many lawful means to propagate Islam and they should not be replaced by other means which Allah prohibits. The spread of photography in the Muslim world does not justify its permissibility. In fact, this is a Munkar (that which is unacceptable or disapproved of by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect) according to authentic evidence and should be rejected pursuant to such evidence.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.