Rulings about photography and videography in Islamic sharia

Abstract

Entertainment has been a fundamental human need throughout history, often involving visual arts such as painting. The capturing of first-hand pictures dates back many centuries, even during the blessed era of the Holy Prophet. However, Islam prohibits the replication or imitation of the creation of Allah, a principle underscored by numerous hadiths of the Holy Prophet. With the advancement of technology, particularly the invention of the camera, the issue of photography and videography in Islamic jurisprudence has become a subject of significant debate among scholars. There are essentially two main viewpoints regarding the permissibility of photography within Islamic law. On the other hand, another group of scholars holds the opinion that photography is impermissible regardless of its purpose. They argue that capturing images, whether through photography or videography, involves replicating the creation of Allah and is thus forbidden in Islam. This viewpoint is based on the principle of avoiding anything that may lead to the worship of idols or the glorification of created beings over the Creator. In light of these differing opinions, attempts have been made to navigate between the two viewpoints, taking into consideration the context and purpose of photography or videography. Some scholars suggest that photography may be permissible for certain pragmatic reasons, such as documentation or legal purposes, while others advocate for stricter limitations on its usage. Overall, the debate surrounding photography and videography in Islamic jurisprudence remains complex and multifaceted, reflecting the ongoing efforts to reconcile religious principles with technological advancements in the modern world.