Is It Permissible to Sell Saunas Given Their Potential Misuse?

Answered by Shaykh Muhammad Carr

Question

Is it permissible to manufacture and sell saunas, considering their use may involve exposure of the ‘awra in group settings, such as in resorts, spas, and clubs?

Answer

Manufacturing and selling saunas is permissible in principle because saunas are not inherently impermissible. They are neutral tools that can be used in permissible or impermissible ways, depending on the intentions and actions of the users—the responsibility for how saunas are used lies with the individuals or institutions purchasing and utilising them.

The foundational rule in Islamic law is that all things are permissible unless explicitly prohibited by evidence. This includes manufacturing and selling items, provided they are not inherently haram or used predominantly for haram purposes.

Allah (Most High) says, “It is He who created for you all that is on the earth” [Quran, 2:29].

The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The halal is clear, and the haram is clear, and between them are doubtful matters…” [Bukhari, Muslim].

Considerations Regarding ‘Awra [Nakedness] Exposure

The concern arises due to the potential misuse of saunas in environments where the ‘awra may be exposed, such as in public or mixed-gender settings. However, the following points are relevant:

Permissible Uses

Saunas can be used in private settings or in environments where Islamic guidelines regarding covering the ‘awra are observed. Such uses are lawful and beneficial.

Misuse by Others

If the saunas you manufacture are sold to businesses or individuals, and they misuse them by allowing exposure of the ‘awra, you are not held accountable for their misuse unless:

– You knowingly and directly contribute to such impermissible usage.
– You market or advertise the saunas in a way that encourages impermissible behavior.

The Quran states, “No bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another” [Quran, 6:164].

Preventive Measures

To minimize the potential for misuse, you can take steps such as:

– Selling to businesses or individuals likely to adhere to Islamic guidelines.
– Including clear guidance on the proper and permissible use of saunas in your marketing materials or manuals.
– Avoiding associations with settings that promote or normalize impermissible behaviors.

Business and Ethical Responsibility

While the basic permissibility of manufacturing and selling saunas is established, it is praiseworthy to ensure that your business aligns with Islamic ethics by:

– Assessing potential customers or settings for probable adherence to Islamic principles.
– Avoiding partnerships or sales that might directly contribute to environments of sin or immorality.

Conclusion

Manufacturing and selling saunas are permissible if your involvement does not knowingly or directly promote impermissible behaviour. Strive to make your business a source of benefit and avoid contributing to sinful practices to the best of your ability.

And Allah knows best.

[Shaykh] Muhammad Carr
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Mohammad Abu Bakr Badhib 

Shaykh Muhammad Carr has dedicated his life to studying and transmitting our beautiful deen. His studies have taken him around the globe, where he has benefitted from many luminaries. Under the guidance of his teachers – Shaykh Taha Karan, Shaykh Yaseen Abbas, Shaykh Muadh Ali and many others – Shaykh Muhammad has grown to appreciate the beauty and benefits of diverse scholarship. He completed his memorization of the Qur’an at Dar al-Ulum Zakariyyah in September 1997 and received an Alimiyya Degree in 2006 from DUAI (Darul Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah). He is also affiliated with Masjid Auwal in Bo Kaap, Cape Town (the oldest mosque in South Africa), where he serves as a co-imam, and Dar Al-Safa, where he has taught since 2018. As a teacher, he imparts the wisdom of our heritage and tradition by opening the door for students. As an imam, he has the unique opportunity to serve his community in daily life. 

In addition to his roles as a teacher and imam, Shaykh Muhammad Carr has contributed significantly to the administrative and advisory aspects of Islamic institutions. Since 2023, he has served as the Administrative Director at The Imam Kurani Institute, contributing to the institution’s growth and development. He continues to pursue traditional Islamic Sciences, possessing a keen interest in Islamic Contract Law and Finance. Shaykh Muhammad has been a Shari’ah Board Member for Islamic Asset Management & Insurance Companies since 2001, aligning financial practices with Islamic principles.