[Q 266] Proper Disposal of Islamic Texts

Question

How is it to burn Islamic books to dispose of them (not with evil intention)? Especially for example deviant (badmazhab) books that were bought accidentally etc as they may still have Ayaat, Ahadith, names of Pious people

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

الجواب بعون الملك الوهاب اللهم هداية الحق والصواب

Answer

It is not permissible to burn books that contain verses, Ahadith, etc., or any Islamic book that is no longer readable. The appropriate method is to bury them in a suitable place. A hole should be dug in the ground, the book placed inside, covered with a slab or similar cover, then covered with soil, in a manner similar to how graves are prepared.

Alternatively, such books can be submerged in deep water. For example, place the books in a bag, add a heavy object, and then throw it into the sea to ensure it does not resurface.

Answered by: Mubashir Attari AskMufti Scholar)

Verified by: Mufti Sajid Attari

Date: 29th April 2024