Government regulations pertaining to the Corona virus
Question:-
As Muslims, are we required to abide by the government regulations with regards to wearing masks and social distancing etc.? The Masjid in our area enforces social distancing. What are we required to do?
Answer:-
As citizens of a country, we as Muslims should abide by the rules and regulations of the country with the proviso that it does not contradict the laws of Almighty Allah in any way. When there seems to be some sort of conflict between man-made laws and the Divine laws of Almighty Allah, then preference will always be afforded to the Divine laws of Allah Ta’ala. The Hadith states, “There is no obedience to the creation in disobeying Allah Ta’ala.”
The laws formulated to curb the Corona disease from spreading are man-made and there is no guarantee or certainty in their preventative measures being successful. In fact, the disease seems to be spreading very rapidly in spite of the preventative measures being in place. However, we should bear in mind that, even though one may not be sinful for not donning the mask, or sanitizing and filling in a register, there is a fear of institutes and Masajid being implicated by the authorities. The result is that the entire Muslim community suffers the consequence (of the actions) of a few individuals. We should, therefore, look at the broader picture when adopting a particular approach in the current situation.
If the Masajid in your area have implemented social distancing in Salaah, then this is in conflict with the Ahadith of Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam. You are therefore not required to adhere to this regulation in Salaah. If there isn’t any Masjid in close proximity to your home where Salaah is performed shoulder to shoulder, and there is no other way of performing congregational Salaah in accordance to the teachings of Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam, then some of the current day Muftis have advised that Salaah should be performed at home.
ALLAH TA’ALA KNOWS BEST!
ANSWERED BY:
Mufti Mohammed Desai
Date: 21 Jumadal Ukhra 1443 / 24 January 2022