Hadith Text & Context

Narrated by Abdullah ibn Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him): "I heard the Prophet (ﷺ) saying, 'The people who will receive the severest punishment from Allah will be the picture makers.'" (Sahih al-Bukhari 5950)

This narration occurs through the chain of Masruq ibn al-Ajda' who observed images at Yasar bin Numair's residence, prompting his recollection of this grave warning.

Scholarly Commentary

The severe punishment mentioned pertains specifically to those who create images of animate beings (possessing souls) in violation of clear prophetic prohibitions. Classical scholars like Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explain this severity arises from competing with Allah's creative power and potentially leading to idolatry.

Imam an-Nawawi clarifies that two-dimensional images (like drawings) are less severely prohibited than three-dimensional statues, though both remain forbidden. The exception is images of inanimate objects (trees, landscapes) or necessary educational/medical illustrations.

Ibn Taymiyyah notes this warning applies particularly to images made for veneration or that promote spiritual corruption. Modern applications include prohibiting photographs and digital images of animate beings when used for inappropriate purposes.

Legal Rulings & Exceptions

The majority of classical scholars prohibit creating images of humans and animals based on multiple authentic narrations. Permissible exceptions include: children's educational toys, security identification, and academic necessities where no alternative exists.

Scholars distinguish between mere possession of images (makruh) and active creation (haram). The greatest sin lies in making images for worship or prideful display, mirroring the practices of earlier destroyed nations.

Spiritual Wisdom

This prohibition preserves pure monotheism by preventing slippery slopes toward idolatry. It also cultivates mindfulness of Allah's exclusive creative authority and protects society from vanity and artificiality.

The hadith teaches that sins are weighted by their consequences. Image-making historically led communities to shirk, thus warranting severe divine punishment comparable to major sins like murder and usury.