Sharing a multi-faith prayer room with people of other religions is a practical necessity in many educational and professional settings, and Islam provides clear guidance on this matter. The religion encourages establishing good relations with people of other faiths and interacting with them kindly. This inclusiveness extends to the sharing of sacred spaces under specific conditions, ensuring that Muslims can fulfill their religious obligations while respecting the shared nature of the facility.
The Permissibility of Shared Worship Spaces
Scholars of Islamic studies and comparative religions affirm that it is permissible for a Muslim to use a common room allocated for worship by various religious communities. There is no prohibition in Islam against utilizing a space that is also used by non-Muslims for their prayers, provided the schedules do not conflict.
This ruling is supported by the flexibility inherent in Islamic law regarding places of worship. Historically, it is established that Muslims are permitted to pray in churches or synagogues if necessary.
Historical Precedents in the Sunnah
The permission to share space is rooted in the actions of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and his Companions.
- The Delegation of Najran: When the Christian delegation from Najran visited the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) in Madinah, he allowed them to perform their prayers inside his own mosque.
- The Companions: It is reported that some of the Companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) prayed in churches during their travels or conquests, further establishing the permissibility of praying in spaces associated with other faiths.
Furthermore, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) highlighted the universality of the earth as a place of worship for Muslims.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“The earth has been made for me [and for my Ummah] as a place of worship and purity. Therefore, anyone of my Ummah can pray whenever the time of Prayer is due.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari)
Guidelines Regarding Icons and Statues
While the space itself is permissible to use, scholars advise caution regarding the environment inside the room. If the room contains icons, statues, or religious imagery belonging to other faiths, a Muslim is advised to avoid facing them directly while offering prayer.
The prayer remains valid, but out of respect for the monotheistic nature of Islamic worship, one should position themselves so that these items are not in their direct line of sight during Salah.
