Is Crowdfunding Permissible for Projects Promoting Islamic Values?
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
Is crowdfunding permissible to support a cinematic project with fictional, wholesome, and morally educational themes aligned with Islamic values?
Answer
Yes, crowdfunding to support such a cinematic project is generally permissible if the project adheres to Islamic values and avoids anything prohibited.
Allah (Most High) says, “And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.” [Quran, 5:2]
To ensure the legality and blessings in your project and income, your business model and content must align with Sacred Law. This includes:
– Content: The themes and message should promote moral and wholesome values in line with Islamic teachings. The production must be free from unlawful content.
– Means: The production process must avoid unlawful activities, such as hiring actors for inappropriate roles, using haram income, or including impermissible elements like music or exposed nakedness that contradicts Islamic guidelines.
Crowdfunding is generally a lawful method of raising funds. Crowdfunding can be helpful, especially when the cause is worthy and transparent about how the funds will be used and contributors are informed of the project’s nature.
It is advisable to consult knowledgeable scholars to review the project’s details to ensure compliance with Islamic principles and to seek guidance on any potential challenges.
Allah knows best.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Mohammad Abu Bakr Badhib
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy Prophetic living and fitness.
