Is It Permissible to Use Something That Is Filthy as a Tool?

Answered by Ustadh 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 filthifiying the body. However, this is specific to filth that is not from dogs or pigs. (Minhaj al Talibin, Nawawi) 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 afterwards. (Nihayat al Muhtaj, Ramli)

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. (Rawda al Talibin, Nawawi; Fath al Muin, Millibari)

I pray this helps.

[Ustadh] Farid
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.