Collecting Pictures as a Memento
Question:
Is it permissible to collect pictures for persevering memories or not?
Answer:
It is not allowed for any Muslim, male or female, to collect photos, and by photos I mean of living beings with souls, whether it is a man or animal. Rather it is obligatory to discard those pictures, since it is confirmed that the Prophet said to Ali, may Allaah be pleased with him, Dont leave a picture without obliterating it, and a raised grave without levelling it. [1] It is also confirmed that when he (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) entered the Kabah on the Victory day, he saw pictures on the wall of the Kabah, so he ordered for water and a garment to be brought, he then wiped off those pictures. As for drawing pictures of inanimate objects: mountains, trees, etc., there is no harm it that.
[1] Muslim no. 969
Shaykh `Abdul-`Azeez Bin Baz
Fatawa Islamiyah Vol. 8 Page 161
