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What is the sin incurred by watching non-pornographic TV series, movies, and magazines, and by listening to jokes?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

Series and films, even non-pornographic ones, often contain corrupting elements such as music, the appearance of immodestly dressed women, gender mixing, touching of non-mahrams, and the disintegration of families due to marital infidelities that arise from them. They spread indecencies and lead to grave sins. The eye commits adultery through looking, as stated in the Hadith: "Indeed, Allah has decreed upon the son of Adam his share of adultery, which he will inevitably attain. The adultery of the eye is looking..." This also leads to "minor sins" that destroy their perpetrator. Nevertheless, there is no harm in watching what is free from these prohibitions and does not distract from a duty, while emphasizing the importance of utilizing one's life in what pleases Allah. As for magazines, there is no harm in them if they are free from forbidden elements, incitement to vice, and provocative images. It is preferable to choose magazines and books that promote virtue. Regarding jokes, they are permissible if they are within the bounds of etiquette and free from lies, mockery, and ridicule, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Indeed, I do not speak except the truth." And woe to him who lies to make people laugh.

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

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