What is the ruling on destroying or concealing images of animate beings found in books and magazines?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Scholars have differed concerning the ruling on photographic images. Some have deemed them forbidden due to the generality of the hadiths prohibiting images, while others have permitted them, considering them to be mere captured shadows, not actual depictions. It appears that a Muslim is not obligated to destroy what is found in newspapers, magazines, and books, given their widespread prevalence. As for hand-drawn images, the preponderant view among scholars is that they are forbidden. Therefore, it is obligatory to change them if they depict a living being.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 91928
- Added here
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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