In business with a video library of legally approved films

24-2-2005 | IslamWeb

Question:

I am running a video library with only legal approved films, I have about 12 staff. Is this business legal or illegal from the Islamic point of view?

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Answer:

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. We ask Allaah to exalt his mention as well as that of his family and all his companions.

 

In principle it is permissible to sell or produce audio and video tapes provided that these tapes do not contain pictures of women, music and musical instruments, indecent serial stories and films, undermine the religion of Islam or the Muslims, enjoin evil, or cause hatred and disputes among the Muslims, and the like. Because in such cases, it is forbidden to buy or sell these tapes. If something is forbidden, its price is also forbidden. Most video stores contain the aforementioned prohibitions, and therefore, a Muslim has to look for a lawful job (source of income) as there is no doubt that on the Day of Judgement he will be accountable for the source of his income. 

Allaah knows best.