(Issued on February 9, 2010)

The Full Body Security Scanners (also called Nude-body scanners) are being installed at various airports in United States and Europe. Several human rights and religious groups have expressed their concerns and disapproval of such scanners on the grounds of violation of privacy and human dignity. The Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA) emphasizes that a general and public use of such scanners is against the teachings of Islam, natural law and all religions and cultures that stand for decency and modesty.

It is a violation of clear Islamic teachings that men or women be seen naked by other men and women. Islam highly emphasizes ‘haya’ (modesty) and considers it part of faith. The Qur’an has commanded the believers, both men and women, to cover their private parts. Human beings are urged to be modest in their dress. See Holy Quran, 7:26-27; 24:30-31; 33:59. Exception to this rule can be made in case of extreme necessity, such as medical treatment, to investigate a crime or in a situation of imminent danger. There must be a compelling case for the necessity and the exemption to this rule must be proportional to the demonstrated need.

FCNA fully supports the necessary measures for the safety and protection of all passengers. It is, however, deeply concerned about the use of nude body scanners for this purpose. FCNA recommends that instead of producing and displaying a picture of the body, software should be designed to produce only the picture of questionable materials on an outline of the body. Further, other technologies could be used that detect the presence of explosives without infringing on modesty as some European leaders have pointed out. FCNA appreciates the alternate provision of pat-down search (when needed) and therefore recommend to Muslims to avail this option over the nude body scanners.
 
 THE MUSLIM-CATHOLIC QUESTION

In 1965 Catholic Church allowed its adherents to engage in dialogue with people of other religions. Since then Muslims and Catholics are meeting regularly in different part of the world. In the United States, the Muslim-Catholic dialogue formally began in 1985. National and regional meetings have been co-sponsored by U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Islamic Society of North America and several other Muslim organizations. I have been more directly and regularly involved in the West Coast dialogue of which I have served as a co-chairman with our esteemed Catholic Bishops and leaders.

In December 2003, we concluded a joint statement: “Friends and Not Adversaries: A Catholic-Muslim Spiritual Journey.” Our joint statement emphasized.  Read More

 
 A Call for Understanding and Harmony

The Fiqh Council is encouraging all Muslims throughout North America to consider using the new methodology for the sake of unity and to avoid the confusion and disputes that have occurred in the past.   However, the Fiqh Council does not intend to force its decision on anyone or any Muslim community.

You should follow the decision of your Imam and your Masjid.  Moreover, you should do so with great respect and avoiding unnecessary disputes and discussion.  It is not expected that everyone will embrace this decision immediately.  As with all changes, it will take time for people to understand the new method.   But, Insha’Allah, once people see the new methodology as a more objective and accurate standard, it will serve to unite us in the near future.

 
FCNA Chairman participates in Mecca Conference
In June 2008, the First International Islamic Conference on Dialogue was held in Mecca, Saudi Arabia with Muslim leaders from across the globe.  Read More
 
 
 
 

 
 

The Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA) disclaims responsibility for any private publication, statement or Fatwa of any existing or former FCNA member or affiliated party.  Read More