Fatwa ID: 05212

Answered by: Mufti Eunus Ali

Question

I bought handcrafted wood furniture, on furniture handcrafted some picture of an elephant. My question is please advise about this furniture use at home.

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Answer

It is narrated by Abu Talha (may Allah be pleased be with him) that The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Angels do not enter a house in which there is a dog or there are pictures.” [1]

The word used in the Hadith is تصاوير (Tasawir) which is commonly translated as pictures; however, this also includes statues, engravings and carvings etc.

This Hadith is referring to those pictures or carvings etc. of living things such as humans or animals.

Therefore due to the above Hadith it will not be permissible to display such objects. [2]

Furthermore, this will deprive one of the blessings that are brought by the angels.

In regards to your question, if it is possible to remove or discard the piece of furniture in question, it should be done. Alternatively, it may be covered up and hidden by using a sheet or a covering and in this manner, it should not be a problem In Sha Allah.

The important point to remember is that it should not be left on display in the house.

Only Allah knows best

Written by Mufti Eunus Ali

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

DarulIfta Birmingham

[1] Saheeh Bukhari: 5949

[2] Fathul Bari, Volume 10, Page 430 & 431, Darul Hadith