'Abdallah b. Mas'ud told that he heard God’s messenger say, “Those who will receive the severest punishment from God will be the people who make representations of things.” (Al-musawwiruna. There is a difference of opinion as to whether this refers to those who make snch representations as idols to be worshipped, or whether the reference is to representations of living creatures in general.)(Bukhari and Muslim.)
Exposition of the Hadith on Image-Makers
This narration from the esteemed Companion 'Abdallah ibn Mas'ud, preserved in the authentic collections of Bukhari and Muslim, addresses the grave matter of image-making (taswir). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) declared that the makers of images (al-musawwirun) will face the most severe punishment on the Day of Resurrection.
Scholarly Interpretation of "Al-Musawwirun"
The term "al-musawwirun" has been subject to scholarly discussion. Some authorities, including Imam Malik and Imam Ahmad in one narration, maintain that the prohibition applies specifically to creating images of animate beings (dhawa al-arwah) - those possessing souls, such as humans, animals, and angels. This is because such creation imitates Allah's exclusive creative power.
Other scholars, including Abu Hanifah and Al-Shafi'i, distinguish between three-dimensional statues (tamathil) and two-dimensional images (suwar). They consider statues more severely prohibited as they more closely resemble Allah's creation, while permitting images that are degraded or serve a necessary purpose.
Theological Foundations of the Prohibition
The severity of this punishment stems from challenging Allah's exclusive attribute as Al-Musawwir (The Bestower of Forms). As Allah states in the Quran: "He is Allah, the Creator, the Inventor, the Bestower of Forms" (59:24). The image-maker thus competes with divine creativity.
Furthermore, the prohibition serves to safeguard pure monotheism (tawhid) by preventing means that could lead to idolatry, as historical experience shows images often become objects of veneration. It also protects against the neglect of Allah's remembrance and the distraction of hearts from spiritual matters.
Exceptions and Permissible Forms
Scholars have noted exceptions including: images of inanimate objects (trees, mountains), images necessary for educational purposes, photographs required for official documents, and images where the head is removed or the form is sufficiently degraded. Children's dolls are permitted according to the practice of 'A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her).
Practical Guidance for Believers
The believer should avoid making or displaying images of animate beings in their homes and places of worship. When necessary, one should opt for the least objectionable forms and maintain awareness that this prohibition ultimately protects our relationship with the Creator and preserves the purity of Islamic worship.