What is the ruling on imitating disbelievers in permissible matters, and what is the ruling on imitating actors? And should the Basmalah be recited once or twice before Al-Fatihah in prayer after the opening supplication and seeking refuge?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Benefiting from Western civilization involves taking its material benefits while abandoning its harms, which are represented in the neglect of the spiritual and moral aspects. This is the correct stance that does not contradict Islamic law; rather, the Prophet (peace be upon him) himself acted upon it by utilizing the expertise of disbelievers in beneficial worldly matters. However, imitating them in the characteristics of their false religions or their desires is forbidden.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/162124
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 162124
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy