A common emotional and theological dilemma for new Muslims involves keeping religious icons or heirlooms inherited from non-Muslim relatives. Converts often receive items such as crucifixes, sculptures of the Virgin Mary, or holy cards from pious family members.
These items hold immense sentimental value as memories of loved ones, yet they clash with the Islamic prohibition on religious imagery and idols. Scholars provide nuanced guidance on how to balance the prohibition of venerating icons with the permissibility of keeping mementos.
Strengthening the Commitment to Monotheism
The primary foundation of Islam is Tawhid (the Oneness of Allah). Therefore, a committed Muslim is expected to adhere strictly to the tenets of the religion and avoid backsliding into rites or symbols pertaining to other faiths.
Regarding inherited items like crucifixes or statues, scholars emphasize that these objects must never be considered holy or used to seek blessings. The light of Islam requires that faith be reposed solely in the heart, moving away from pre-Islamic reliance on physical idols.
Deconstructing the Sanctity of Images
To help converts detach spiritually from these objects, scholars point to the mundane origins of many religious images.
For instance, prominent scholars note that the common depiction of the Virgin Mary was historically artistic interpretations—such as those by Michelangelo—often modeled after ordinary women, such as Italian farmers. Understanding that these are merely man-made artistic representations, rather than divine likenesses, helps a believer see them as simple objects rather than sacred symbols.
Islam teaches that religious rulings must be based on solid proof, not mere artistic tradition. Allah says in the Qur’an:
“…Say, ‘Produce your proof, if you should be truthful.'” (Quran 27:64, Saheeh International)
The Ruling on Keeping Items as Mementos
Is keeping religious icons strictly for the sake of memory permissible?
Scholars state that there is nothing wrong with keeping such pictures or items, provided two strict conditions are met:
- No Intention of Reverence: The items are kept solely to remember the deceased relative (e.g., the grandmother) and not to revere the creed they symbolize.
- Solid Creed: The Muslim’s belief in Tawhid must be rock-solid, ensuring these items do not affect their faith.
Scholars draw evidence from Islamic history, noting that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and early Muslims used the Roman Dinar in their trade. These coins carried the images of Roman monarchs and emperors, yet their use was permitted for their value as currency, not out of reverence for the figures depicted.
Therefore, keeping such items is permissible as a symbol to remember the dead, as long as they do not represent a creedal symbol to the person’s current faith.
