Fatwaa ID: 1131

Question:
AsSalam Alaykum,

In my local masjid, we have various programs for the youth to come in and play basketball, or eat pizza, or hang out at the masjid. The aim of these programs is to get the youth to make fellow Muslim friends, as well as to get them attached to the Masjid. However, these teenagers will occasionally bring their non Muslim friends, not because these people are interested in Islam, but because they want to come and play and have fun . We have previously allowed them to stay if it seems as if they are sincerely trying to learn about Islam. I was wondering if it is permissible to ask them to leave on these nights for the Muslim youth , or is this wrong?

Answer:
In the Name of Allaah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salaamu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullaahi wa-barakaatuh.

At the outset, we wish to commend you for providing such programs in the masjid for the youth. May Allaah Ta’aala accept and make this a source of great good.

In regards to bringing non-Muslim friends to the masjid, this is permissible as long as they observe the honor and sanctity of the masjid. Use this as a form of da’wah. Hold programs specifically for them as well or with them in mind. Even though they may not be interested in Islam at the moment, their affiliation or connection with the masjid or the Muslim youth may have a positive affect on them in the future. They observe and notice things that we may often overlook or ignore. Remind and educate the Muslim youth to show them the beauty of Islam and to be on their best behavior.

At the same time, it is understandable that many programs may be exclusive for Muslims. You may advise the Muslim youth to not bring any friends over for this program specially. Do so with with wisdom. If someone does come, it will not be appropriate to chase them out. It will definitely leave a bad impression or note on them.

And Allaah Ta’aala knows best.
Mufti Muajul I. Chowdhury
Darul Iftaa New York
https://askthemufti.us/

وصل اللهم وسلم وبارك على سيدنا محمد وعلى ءاله وصحبه أجمعين

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