The third question: I have earned a certain sum of money through my work as a photographer. Now, I am ready to give it up seeking the Pleasure of Allâh and His Messenger. What is the ruling on this money? Is it unlawful or what should I do with it?
Answer: I hope there will be no blame on you concerning this money because at the time when you were earning it, you were not certain of its being unlawful and were ignorant of the rule of Shari`ah on it or you might have doubted that it was lawful due to the opinion of those who consider photography as lawful. My opinion is built on what Allah (Exalted be He) says concerning usurers: So whosoever receives an admonition from his Lord and stops eating Ribâ (usury) shall not be punished for the past; his case is for Allâh (to judge); but whoever returns [to Ribâ (usury)], such are the dwellers of the Fire they will abide therein. May Allah provide all of us with refuge from that. This honorable Ayah indicates the lawfulness of the past earnings of unlawful work when Allah's slave repents to Him and does not do such work again. If you give the money or some of it in charity just to be on the safe side, this is good because the Prophet (may peace be upon him) said: "So he who guards himself against doubtful things keeps his religion and honor blameless...'' As for charity, I find no clearcut evidence proving this obligation.