Inheritance and Iconoclasm

Question: I have inherited a lamp the base of which is a 3D statue. It is of great sentimental value to me and my family? Is it haram for to keep it?

Answer:

Wa alaykum assalam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,

Dear questioner,

Thank you for your important question.

From the description you have given, you clearly have a 3D model of animate life. This is something that is forbidden by all schools of Sunni Islam. It is not permissible to keep it and if you are its owner if must be broken.

If this is too difficult to do right now, ask Allah to give you the strength to do it later. I personally do not know of any other way to solve your situation.

Regarding your connection with your family, breaking the statue is a good deed and you may hope that what you do will benefit them in the Next Life.

I pray this helps, and I pray that Allah gives you strength and wisdom.

[Ustadh] Farid