What is the ruling on collecting a monthly sum of money from friends at work for an annual draw to select two of them to visit the Messenger (peace be upon him)? And is this draw considered unlawful gambling, knowing that the participants donate this money and do not expect its return?
If the intent behind visiting the Prophet (peace be upon him) is to visit his mosque and pray therein, then this is a righteous deed for which journeys may be undertaken. Those who visit the Prophet's Mosque are also advised to perform '.
However, if the travel is solely for visiting the Prophet's grave, scholars have differed regarding its permissibility. Nonetheless, the more preponderant view is that it is not permissible, based on the : "Journeys are not to be undertaken except to three mosques." Therefore, the intention should be to visit the Prophet's Mosque and pray therein.
Regarding drawing lots for the amount, if the drawing is for priority among those who are deserving (a lottery), then it is permissible. But if it is for determining who is deserving of the amount and who is not (who deserves the money and who does not), then it is gambling and not permissible.
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