Is it permissible to photograph buildings and inanimate objects, taking into account the Sacred Hadith: "Who is more unjust than one who tries to create something like My creation? Let him create a grain of wheat or a barleycorn"? And does the prohibition apply to photographing inanimate objects?
The majority of scholars hold the view that it is permissible to depict inanimate objects such as trees and buildings. They cite the hadith: "Whoever makes a picture in this world will be ordered to breathe a soul into it on the Day of Resurrection, and he will not be able to do so," which indicates that the prohibition is specific to living beings. This understanding is supported by the view of Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them both), who issued a fatwa permitting the drawing of trees and inanimate objects, citing the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Indeed, the makers of these pictures will be tormented on the Day of Resurrection, and it will be said to them, 'Give life to what you have created!'" As for the saying, "Let them create a grain of corn or a barley seed," the intention behind it is to show incapability, not to prohibit the depiction of grains or trees.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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