Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.
In this fatwa:
Sharing game screenshots that include human-like characters is usually considered halal in Islam. Scholars clarify that digital characters are not real beings and don’t fall under the prohibition of traditional image-making (taswir). As long as the screenshots avoid indecent content and are shared respectfully, they are permissible.
Responding to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and an Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:
Understanding the Concept of Taswir in Islam
Absolutely. In Islam, capturing and sharing screenshots of digital game characters is generally considered permissible, provided the content remains respectful and modest.
The key condition is to avoid anything deemed haram, such as nudity, explicit material, or immoral themes. Since the individual is merely documenting in-game moments and not creating original images, this action does not fall under prohibited image-making.
Are Digital Game Characters Considered Real Images?
Many scholars differentiate this practice from taswir—the forbidden creation of images used for idolatry or to imitate Allah’s unique act of creation. Digital game characters, especially those with stylized or cartoon-like features, are not considered real beings. As such, they are not subject to the same rulings as physical sculptures or hand-drawn portraits.
Scholarly Opinions on Sharing In-Game Screenshots
Notably, respected scholars, including members of Al-Azhar’s Fatwa Council, have affirmed that screen-based imagery holds a distinct legal status from tangible depictions, particularly when there is no intention to replicate Allah’s creation.
Engaging with Digital Art: Likes, Comments, and Ethics
Furthermore, interacting with decent screenshots through liking, commenting, or rating is not sinful. Islam encourages the appreciation of creativity and beauty—provided it remains within ethical and religious boundaries.
Boundaries of Halal Content in Digital Sharing
In summary, engaging with game screenshots that are wholesome and respectful is allowed. Keep your intentions sincere, avoid objectionable content, and interact in a manner that reflects Islamic values. Respect and moderation should guide all your digital activities.
Absolutely! In Islam, snapping and sharing screenshots of digital game characters is typically allowed. As long as your content is respectful and modest, you are in the clear. Just steer clear of anything haram—think nudity and immoral themes. You are merely capturing in-game moments, not crafting images yourself.
Many scholars distinguish this from prohibited taswir (image-making), which refers to the creation of images that are used for idolatry or to imitate Allah’s creations.
Let’s be clear: digital characters, particularly those with stylized designs, aren’t real beings. They don’t fall under traditional rules about sculpture or hand-drawn portraits. Some of the eminent scholars including those of the Azhar’s fatwa council have affirmed that screen images hold a different status than physical depictions, especially if there’s no intent to mimic Allah’s creations.
In addition, liking, rating, or commenting on decent screenshots isn’t sinful at all. Embracing creativity and beauty within boundaries is an essential aspect of mindful living in our modern world.
In conclusion, your hobby is permitted as long as it remains wholesome. Keep your intentions pure, dodge inappropriate imagery, and engage with respect. Remember, respect is key in all your digital interactions.
Clarifications can be found in these fatwas:
- Is Playing Blue Whale Game Allowed?
- Is Game Development Haram?
- Entertaining Games: Permissible?
- Is Genshin Impact Haram?
- Are Shooting Games Haram?
- Is Watching Sports Haram?
- Is Online Poker Haram?
Almighty Allah knows best.