Reading and writing fantasy novel

17 Jan 2022 Ref-No#: 2962

Is it permissible to read or write a fantasy novel where imaginary God/goddess, imaginary laws of nature, imaginary species, religions, magic, spells, etc. are mentioned, but readers can understand that it is just an imagination. It is not ‘false’, rather it is imagination just for enjoyment. False means that fake thing what someone tells to others, but they believe that as true. But in this case, both the reader and writer understand that it is not true, just for enjoyment. So, it is fiction, not fact. In this case, is it permissible to read or write a fantasy novel?

Answer

Assalāmuʿalaykum Wa Raḥmatullāhi Wa Barakātuh

In principle, it is permissible to read novels and other literature provided that the contents are in conformity with the teachings of Islām and Islāmic etiquettes.

Literature that contains vulgarity, promotes immorality or glorifies that which Allāh has forbidden should not be read. Similarly, are novels that create the idea of there being another God/Goddess in one’s imagination.

Such types of novels are in direct conflict with one’s Imān (faith) and are proven to have detrimental effects on the spiritual self.

Such novels as you have described should be avoided at all costs. Despite the fact that the author and reader are both aware that it is fictional, it does impact the subconscious mind.

Alternatively, you may opt to read other books which are not in conflict with the teachings of Islām.

Also see Fatwaa Ref-No#: 3211

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