Can I use pictures on a website?
The permissibility of using pictures on a website in Islamic teachings can be viewed through various perspectives. There are narrations that address the topic of images and pictures.
One narration from Al-Kafi states: I asked one of them about images in the house. He said, 'There is no harm if they are to your right and left, behind you, or under your feet; but if they are in front of you towards the Qibla, then cover them with a cloth.'
Al-Kafi 4:539. This indicates that while there may be certain conditions regarding the placement of images, they might be permissible in specific contexts.
In contrast, a narration from Sahih al-Bukhari mentions a situation where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ observed a cushioned cloth with pictures and stated: The owners of these pictures will be punished on the Day of Resurrection; it will be said to them: Bring to life what you created. And the angels do not enter a house in which there is a picture.
Sahih al-Bukhari 77:173. This suggests a stricter view on the matter, emphasizing the potential consequences of possessing images.
Considering these different perspectives, the acceptability of using pictures on a website may depend on the context, intention, and adherence to the guidelines regarding their display.
Sources
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Al-Kafi 4:539
Al-Kafi · Book 4, Hadith 539
I asked him about the saying of Almighty God, "And when they commit a shameful act, they say, 'We found our forefathers doing it, and God commanded us to do it.'" He said, 'Say, indeed God does not command immorality. Do you speak about God what you do not know?' I asked, 'Have you seen anyone claim that God commanded adultery, drinking wine, or any of these forbidden acts?' I said, 'No.' He said, 'Then what is this immorality they claim that God ordered them to perform?' I said, 'God knows best and He is its guardian.' He said, 'This concerns the unjust Imams. They claimed that God commanded them to follow a people whom God did not order them to follow. God rejected that upon them and informed that they have lied against Him, and He described that among them as immorality.' — OR — I asked one of them about images in the house. He said, "There is no harm if they are to your right and left, behind you, or under your feet; but if they are in front of you towards the Qibla, then cover them with a cloth."
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Sahih al-Bukhari 77:173
Sahih al-Bukhari · Book 77, Hadith 173 · Narrated by Aisha
She bought a cushioned cloth with pictures in it. The Prophet, peace be upon him, stood at the door but did not enter. I said: I repent to Allah from what I have done. He said: What is this cushioned cloth? I said: It is for sitting and resting the head. He said: The owners of these pictures will be punished on the Day of Resurrection; it will be said to them: Bring to life what you created. And the angels do not enter a house in which there is a picture.
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