Q: I would like to know whether or not it is permissible to read books which make you think of unnecessary/evil images. I am a practising Muslim, however I was enjoying the book ‘thirteen reasons why’ until I felt I needed to ask.
A: It is impermissible to read such books. The Qur’aan says: “Believers refrain from vain activities.” Why must a believer fear something that has no true existence. Why must he frighten himself or others. He needs to fear Allah Ta`ala alone.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)