Fatwa by: Former Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Ibn Baz (may Allah have mercy on him)
Question:
What is the ruling on images? What are the Hadiths related to this matter? Also, is there a difference between three-dimensional and two-dimensional images?
Answer:
An image is defined as the depiction of animate beings with intention, such as humans, animals, birds, etc. The ruling on creating images is that it is prohibited in Shariah. Several Hadiths support this, including the following:
1. Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
“The people who will receive the severest punishment on the Day of Resurrection will be those who make images.”
2. Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with them) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
“Those who make these images will be punished on the Day of Resurrection, and it will be said to them: Bring to life what you have created.”
3. Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them) reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him):
“Whoever creates an image in this world will be tasked to breathe life into it on the Day of Resurrection, but he will not be able to do so.”
4. Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them) narrated from the Prophet (peace be upon him):
“Every image-maker will be in Hell. For every image he made, a soul will be created, and he will be punished with it in Hell.” (This implies that the more images there are, the more severe the punishment.)
5. It is reported from Abu Talhah (may Allah be pleased with him) in a Marfu’ form that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The angels do not enter a house in which there is a dog or images.”
These and similar Hadiths apply to all types of images, whether they cast a shadow or not. Two-dimensional images include those drawn on walls, paper, or fabric. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) entered the Ka’bah, he found several images inside. He called for a bucket of water and began erasing them while saying:
“May Allah destroy the people who make images of what they cannot create.”
However, modern-day exceptions include currency notes with images of leaders, as well as passports and identification cards, as they are necessary due to practical needs. This permission is limited to necessity only. And Allah knows best.
