Is copying books and works without the permission of their owners—whether they are alive or deceased—for the purpose of studying considered unlawful (haram) and falling under the category of theft, given that the student does not have sufficient money to buy these books and seeks knowledge with the intention of serving the Muslim nation (Ummah)?

The author has two rights regarding their work: a material right and a moral right. The material right is reserved for the author and is transferred to their heirs. It entails that no copying or printing is allowed except with their permission, whether specific or general. The presence or absence of permission is indicated on the book's cover. If the book lacks any such indication, it implies the author's permission for the public to benefit from their work. Authors usually intend to prohibit commercial copying and printing. As for a student copying for their studies, it is not thought to be included in the prohibition. Some scholars have permitted copying for private benefit by students. It is permissible for female students to share in purchasing one copy and circulating it or photocopying it for their personal use.