What is the ruling on drawing out of necessity to avoid failing an exam, knowing that drawing is forbidden?
Drawing animate beings is forbidden and considered one of the major sins. If a student is compelled to draw, they must draw permissible images such as trees and rivers, or draw human figures without heads; because the prohibition is lifted from an image if it lacks a head. Sheikh Ibn 'Uthaymeen was asked about the ruling on drawing animals for educational purposes. He replied that it is not permissible due to the severe warning against image-makers. However, it is permissible to draw parts that are not infused with life, and if a student is put in this situation, they should draw an animal without a head. If a student is compelled to draw a complete image, the sin falls upon the one who commanded them, and the student may be in a state of necessity.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/23613