Question:
Can I play video games to keep family ties strong?
Answer:
Dear questioner,
May Allah bless you and increase you in good.
One of the most important things in the life of a Muslim who is striving to be a good Muslim is about the company one keeps.
Good Company
The Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) said,
“A person is on the religion of his close friend, so let him carefully examine whom he befriends.” [Tirmidhi]
This hadith lays down the foundation of good. Muhammad Mawlud, a great West African scholar, says in his famous Matharat al-Qulub, “The foundation of all good and evil rest in the same source, companionship.” I recommend you keep the company of those who remind you of Allah and whom you enjoy their company because it enriches you and leaves you a better Muslim after your time with them.
Temptation
Temptation and Shaytan’s ploys could be tricky. The devil will try to find subtle ways to delude you. So take caution!
“Satan is an enemy to you, so treat him as an enemy. He only invites his gang to be among the inmates of the Inferno.” [Qur’an 35:6]
Playing one game sometimes to keep the kinship bond may lead to more games, which opens up that trap-door for you once again.
We do not need to do anything that jeopardizes our relationship with Allah to please others.
Have a meal together, buy them a gift, have some tea or coffee together, maybe even pray together! There are many ways to keep kinship bonds ties strong without video games.
As for the actual ruling of video games, refer to this answer:
May Allah bless you and keep you strong on your faith.
[Imam] Yama Niazi
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani