Printing Advertisements Containing “Yā Rasūl Allāh” – Sharʿī Ruling
Source: Aḥkām wa Masāʾil, Issues of Buying and Selling, Vol.1, p.380
The Question
A printing press owner asks:
- Some clients request letterheads or advertisements containing the words “Yā Rasūl Allāh” or similar phrases.
- Most people using these words believe the Prophet ﷺ to be ḥāḍir wa nāẓir (omnipresent and all-seeing).
- My belief is that those holding this creed are not Muslims.
Is it permissible for me to print such material?
The Answer
Al-ḥamdu lillāh, waṣ-ṣalātu was-salāmu ʿalā Rasūlillāh, ammā baʿd:
◈ Your own statement clarifies the ruling:
“I do not regard as Muslim the one who believes the Prophet ﷺ to be ḥāḍir wa nāẓir.”
This belief indeed contradicts the correct Islamic creed and is based on shirk or kufr.
◈ Therefore, any words or phrases that propagate such false beliefs must not be printed.
◈ Even if the purpose is financial gain (through wages), it remains impermissible.
◈ Assisting in the spread of false creed—whether through printing, publishing, or distribution—is forbidden.
Conclusion
✔ Printing material containing such words, which imply or promote a bāṭil ʿaqīdah (false creed), is harām and impermissible.
✔ Earning money through this means is also unlawful.
ھذا ما عندي والله أعلم بالصواب
