Can We Use Filthy Materials As Art Supplies, Tools, or Anything Else Similar?

Answered by Shaykh Farid Dingle

Question

Is it permissible to use something that is filthy as a tool, art supplies, or the like?

Answer

Thank you for your important question.

In the Shafi‘i school, it is permissible to use filth (dead animals, dung, and the like) for uses that do not result in consumption, wearing, or filth flying the body. However, this is specific to filth that is not from dogs or pigs. [Nawawim Minhaj al Talibin]

Filthifying the body by using something like filthy soap is permissible if there is a need and no other reasonable alternative; it would, of course, have to be washed off afterward. [Ramli, Nihayat al-Muhtaj]

If you are not sure whether or not the material/tool is filthy or not, or whether it is from normal filth, or dog and pig filth, then you can assume it is fine to use. [Nawawi, Rawdat al-Talibin; Malibari, Fath al-Mu‘in]

I pray this helps.
[Shaykh] Farid Dingle
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Ustadh Farid Dingle has completed extensive years of study in the sciences of the Arabic language and the various Islamic Sciences. During his studies, he also earned a CIFE Certificate in Islamic Finance. Over the years, he has developed a masterful ability to craft lessons that help non-Arabic speakers gain a deep understanding of the language. He currently teaches courses in the Arabic Language.