Fatwa ID: 03437

Answered by: Alimah Nasima Umm Hamza​

Question

Are subliminal messages haram?

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمنِ الرَّحِيْم

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

Subliminal messages work in a way where they place suggestions in your subconsciousness. There are two things to be aware of in regards to this:-

1- Where the messages are inserted without the participant being aware of the subliminal element. This is a form of cheating and deception and it will not be permitted.

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) happened to pass by a heap of eatables (corn). He thrust his hand in that heap and his fingers were moistened. He said to the owner of that heap of eatables: “What is this?” He replied: “Messenger of Allah, these have been drenched by rainfall.” He (SAW) remarked: “Why did you not place this (the drenched part of the heap) over other eatables so that the people could see it? He who deceives is not of me.”[1]

2- Where the subliminal messages are used with the knowledge of the participant. For example, some people use this for dealing with addictions such as smoking, or for helping in labour and birth. This type of subliminal message will be permissible since there is no cheating or deception involved and it is for the benefit of the participant.

Only Allah knows best

Written by Alimah Nasima Umm Hamza

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham