What Should Be Done With a Caged Bird That Cannot Be Kept Legally?
Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Question
What should one do with a caged bird that cannot survive outside, may be impure, and is illegal to keep—should it be released or given to an organization even if it may suffer?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Merciful and Compassionate
I hope you’re doing well, insha’Allah.
If keeping the bird is illegal, you must not keep it. If releasing it would either break the law or expose the animal to harm, the correct step is to surrender it to a reputable animal-protection body that can handle it safely and lawfully. This is both practical and fulfills your worldly and moral responsibility.
Allah Most High commands us, “Do not transgress. Allah does not love the transgressors.” [Quran, 2:190]
This includes harming creatures without right.
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) forbade harming animals. [Bukhari]
Thus, if you follow the local laws, surrender the bird to a local animal protection organization, and repent from your past action, then you have cleared your dues.
May Allah bless you for your concern and care.
And Allah knows best.
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[Shaykh] Faraz Rabbani
Shaykh Faraz Rabbani is a recognized specialist scholar in the Islamic sciences, having studied under leading scholars from around the world. He is the Founder and Executive Director of SeekersGuidance.
Shaykh Faraz stands as a distinguished figure in Islamic scholarship. His journey in seeking knowledge is marked by dedication and depth. He spent ten years studying under some of the most revered scholars of our times. His initial studies took place in Damascus. He then continued in Amman, Jordan.
In Damascus, he was privileged to learn from the late Shaykh Adib al-Kallas. Shaykh Adib al-Kallas was renowned as the foremost theologian of his time. Shaykh Faraz also studied under Shaykh Hassan al-Hindi in Damascus. Shaykh Hassan is recognized as one of the leading Hanafi jurists of our era.
Upon completing his studies, Shaykh Faraz returned to Canada in 2007. His return marked a new chapter in his service to the community. He founded SeekersGuidance. The organization reflects his commitment to spreading Islamic knowledge. It aims to be reliable, relevant, inspiring, and accessible. This mission addresses both online and on-the-ground needs.
Shaykh Faraz is also an accomplished author. His notable work includes “Absolute Essentials of Islam: Faith, Prayer, and the Path of Salvation According to the Hanafi School.” This book, published by White Thread Press in 2004, is a significant contribution to Islamic literature.
His influence extends beyond his immediate community. Since 2011, Shaykh Faraz has been recognized as one of the 500 most influential Muslims. This recognition comes from the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Center. It underscores his impact on the global Islamic discourse.
Shaykh Faraz Rabbani’s life and work embody a profound commitment to Islamic scholarship. His teachings continue to enlighten and guide seekers of knowledge worldwide.
