QUESTION:
What is the ruling regarding keeping monkeys as pets, and0000000000000000000000 to teach it chores and play with it?
ANSWER:
Allah Ta’ala has created us for an objective and purpose in the world. We have not been created to enjoy and pass time in the world, rather every moment is extremely precious as we are getting closer to our ultimate destination which is the Aakhirah.
Now, in our previous Fatwa we stated that adopting such a pet which is a means of comfort to its owner is acceptable in Shariah, with the proviso that one provides and takes care of the animal. This obviously does not mean that one should adopt a monkey and spend hours training the animal just to acquire some amusement. The Quraan Sharif states, “Did you think that we created you in vain and that you would not return to us.” [Surah Mu’minoon , Verse 115] Another verse states, “However, they (most people) prefer the life of this world, whereas the Aakhirah is much better and much more lasting.” [Surah A’la Verses 16/17] Yet another verse states, “The life of this world is mere futility and play. Without doubt, the life of the hereafter is true life, if only they knew.” [Surah Ankaboot, Verse 64]
We were simply referring to adopting a cat or a bird as a pet. Adopting such pets is proven from the Hadith Sharif and it brings comfort to its owner. In conclusion, there is no harm in adopting a simple pet which will bring some comfort to its owner while one dedicates his life to his worldly needs and the everlasting needs of the hereafter.
ALLAH TA’ALA ALONE IN HIS INFINITE KNOWLEDGE KNOWS BEST!
ANSWERED BY:
Mufti Mohammed Desai Saheb
Date: 13 Dhul Qa’dah 1445 / 22 May 2024
