Question: Does writing abusive or sexual words on the keyboard of a computer or smartphone, make the keyboard or screen impure?
Answer:
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate,
No, the screen and/or keyboard are not impure due to writing foul language with or on them. [Tahtawi/Shurunbulali, Hashiyat Maraqi al-Falah]
What is Physical Impurity (Najasa)?
The Sacred Law has delineated certain tangible things under the category of physical impurities (najasa). Those things are as follows:
(1) Anything that comes out from the private parts. Semen, pre-sexual fluid, urine, feces, etc… fall into this category.
(2) Flowing blood
(3) A mouthful of vomit
(4) Wine
(5) Pork
and more…
[Ibid.]
Shameful Language
Despite the fact that writing foul language does not result in the spread of impurity, such shameful language is not befitting for a Muslim.
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The believer does not criticize, nor condemn, nor speak shamefully, nor speak obscenely. [Tirmidhi]
The Muslims should carry themselves with dignity, in action, and in speech. The is the way of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and give him peace). He is the greatest example for us. The best of this life and the next is in the following of the Prophet (may Allah bless him and give him peace).
I hope this helps,
Allah knows best.
[Shaykh] Yusuf Weltch
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani