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*Playing computer games*
*Q:* Is it permissible to play racing games, shooting games and other similar games on the computer, playstation, phone, etc? These games can be quite expensive, and due to their addictive nature, they consume a lot of time.
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
*A:* Playing these types of games which do not benefit one is a waste of valuable time and wealth. Time and wealth are precious ni’mats and favours of Allah Ta’ala which should be valued and appreciated.
Apart from this, many of these games which contain violence, shooting, killing, etc. influence the behaviour and temperament of a person, thereby creating within him qualities of rebellion and aggression when dealing or living amongst people.
Majority of the time, these games also contain many haraam elements within them (e.g. pictures of animate objects, music, vulgarity, un-Islamic values and ethos, etc). In this case, it will be totally impermissible for one to play such games.
Islam allows one to engage in certain types of sport activities (e.g. archery, horse riding, physical training, etc.). However, it should be borne in mind that these types of sports which Islam allows are such that they aid one in one’s Deen, self development and self defense. When one develops himself, he will become useful for Deen, himself and others. He will be able to defend his life, the lives of his family and the lives of the Muslims in general. Furthermore, if any situation arises where Islam requires his assistance, he will be able to offer himself and fulfil the need of the time.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Zakaria Makada