Is it permissible to use the plus sign (+) in mathematics even though it resembles the cross?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
The plus sign (+) in mathematics is not exactly like the cross. The cross, to Christians, refers to a crucified human and consists of two intersecting beams, one vertical and the other horizontal. The upper part of the vertical beam might be shorter than the lower part, or its ends might be level. Even if we assume a resemblance, the purpose of the sign is a specific mathematical function, and therefore, there is no impediment to its use.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/58150
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 58150
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy