Q1) Since we are nearing the end of year, many Maktab Madrassahs award learners for achieving 1st , 2nd and 3rd positions with trophies. What is the status of these trophies in Shariah? Do these resemble the Kufaar in any way? Can it be classified as Tashabbuh?
A1) According to the internet, the very first metal trophies were found in ancient Rome. Soldiers would bring forth the weapons and armor taken from defeated troops, and these metals would be melted down and reconstructed as ‘trophies’ that took the form of gods or warriors. The date of the battle was often inscribed somewhere on these statues.
Another source states, in ancient Greece, trophies were made on the battlefields of victorious battles, from captured arms and standards, and were hung upon a tree or a large stake made to resemble a warrior. Often, these ancient trophies were inscribed with a story of the battle and were dedicated to various gods.
In conclusion, trophies have connotations of Kufr and should not be gifted in Madrasah Jalsas at all. Yes, it is Tashabbuh with the Kuffar and not permitted. The Kitaabs of Fiqh have discussed the various forms of Tashabbuh. When Tashabbuh is pertaining to Ibaadaat, then such a Tashabbuh is Haraam. When Tashaabuh is pertaining to Mua’sharat and A’adaat (social dealings and habits), then it will not be permissible particularly if it is a Shi’aar (symbol) of the Kuffar. Hence, Tashabbuh with Kufr will not be permitted. [Re: Fataawa Uthmaaniyyah Vol. Pg. 323/331]
Q2) Would it be suitable to hand out such awards in a Masjid or Madrassah hall?
A2) It is best not to hold Maktab Jalsas in a Masjid since the audience comprise of small children and generally the sanctity of the Masjid is not upheld. It is best that the Madrasah Hall is utilized for this purpose.
Q3) Can trophies be given for any other achievement at year-end Jalsahs? Is there merit or basis in Shariah for awarding the top 3 achievers in Maktabs?
A3) Awarding the top three achievers in class is generally to encourage students to work hard and to strive to acquire excellent results. When Sahaabah would participate in Jihaad then Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam would announce, “Whoever killed the enemy on the battlefield then for him is whatever (goods) were taken from the killed.” It is recorded in Umdatul Ahkaam that giving the killer the goods is for encouragement and to create zeal in fighting the enemy. Hence, it will be fundamentally permissible to award children as encouragement to excel in Islamic studies. However, children should also be told that as Muslims our intention should always be to please Allah. The award is in appreciation of your hard work, but every action is carried out for the pleasure of Allah. It should not be that the child grows up with the mindset that he needs to be rewarded for every good deed carried out.
من قتل قتيلاً له عليه بينة فله سلبه اخرجه الشيخان. (بخاری رقم: ۳۱۴۲، ومسلم، رقم: ۱۷۵)
قال في شرح سنن ابن ماجه: قال في الدر وندب للإمام أن ينفل وقت القتال حضاً وتــحــريــضـاً فيقول : من قتل قتيلاً فله سلبه فالتحريض نفسه واجب للأمر به . (شرح سنن ابن ماجه: ۱/ ۲۰۵(
وقال في شرح عمدة الأحكام إعطاء القاتل سلب قتيله من باب التشجيع والتحمس على قتال الأعداء . (شرح عمدة: ۱ /۷۴۴).
وأيضاً قال فيه: إعطاء بعض الجيش زيادة على أسهمهم أو تخصيص بعض السرايا بزيادة على غيرهم ، لقصد المصلحة والترغيب والتشجيع . (شرح عمدة الأحكام: ۷۵۱/۱).
(فتاوی دار العلوم زکريا 8/382)
ALLAH TA’ALA ALONE IN HIS INFINITE KNOWLEDGE KNOWS BEST!
ANSWERED BY:
Maulana Abdul Kader Fazlani
Date: 23 Safar 1446 / 29 August 2024
CHECKED AND APPROVED BY:
Mufti Mohammed Desai Saheb
