Does using a coin toss to decide between two options, such as choosing a type of food or a college major, fall under the forbidden practice of "divining with arrows" mentioned in the noble verse: "and that you seek to divine with arrows; that is defiance"?
Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · imported Sep 2, 2026
Casting lots is permissible because its permissibility is affirmed in the Quran, , and by scholarly consensus. It is used to distinguish rights or to determine shares. Examples include:
When there is equality in eligibility for imamate or custody. In distribution among partners. To appease feelings when those present hesitate in making a choice.
However, casting lots for divination or to know the unseen is forbidden, as this is considered a prohibited form of seeking knowledge of the unseen, similar to the pre-Islamic practice of divination with arrows. And Allah knows best.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · imported
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