Is watching television impermissible and unlawful in general or is it only considered unlawful when one watches a particular programme or documentary that goes against Islamic teachings?

In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful.

Television falls in the category of play and amusement and furthermore there is the issue of the gaze upon images contrary to the teachings of Islam.

Allah states in the Quran: “Say to the believers that they should lower their gaze and protect their private parts. That is more pure for them; verily Allah is well informed of what you do.” (Surah An Nur:30)

It is stated in Fatawa Rahimiyya (Vol 6, P292), that it is not permissible to watch television and nor keep it at home.

 
And Allah knows best.

Sayeedur Rahman

Darul Ifta Birmingham