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Are messages that ask to be forwarded to others, such as messages of remembrance (dhikr) or those that include visions and commands to spread them and promise certain outcomes, considered a Bid‘ah (innovation in religion)?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

Reminding one's Muslim brethren of good deeds is a commendable and desirable act, whether done verbally or through messages. What is prohibited, however, is linking this to a specific number, or attributing sin to not sending it, such as saying: "Whoever reads this message must distribute it to people and wait 4 days, then they will experience great joy; otherwise, they will experience great sorrow." This is deceit, falsehood, and an innovation in religion. It is impermissible to circulate such messages or to believe them.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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