Category: the book of sales Transactions

The ruling on selling Statues

Question :

Is it correct for the Muslim to sell statues and make them his product and live on that (i.e., its earnings)?

Answer:

It is not permissible for the Muslim to sell statues or do business with them due to what is confirmed in the authentic Hadiths concerning the absolute forbiddance of making images of things that have souls and erecting statues of such things. It is also forbidden to leave them (without destroying them). There is no doubt that doing business with them is a form of promoting them and assisting in their making and erecting them in the houses, clubs and so forth.

If all of this is forbidden, then earning wages by distributing them and selling them is also forbidden. It is not permissible for the Muslim to live on this by (purchasing) food or clothing (from its earnings) or anything similar to that. If the person falls into this, he must leave it and repent to Allâh. May Allâh will accept his repentance. Allâh, the Most High, said:
"And verily, I am Most Forgiving for whoever repents, believes, works righteous deeds and then is guided."

A ruling has been issued by us concerning the absolute forbiddance of making images of things with souls, regardless of whether they are three dimensional (i.e., statues) or not (i.e., pictures and photographs). It makes no difference whether they are made by carving or copying or painting or modern photography equipment. May Allâh send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and his Companions.

Source:
The Permanent Committee
Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol. 4 Page 426