Q 1: I have a shop near Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah. It is a joint property that belongs to my brother and me. We did not find any one to rent it except for one person who wants to open a cafe in it. This means that he will serve hookahs and bring a TV. It should be noted that this shop is in front of a Masjid (mosque). Only one street separates it from the Masjid. Is it permissible for us to rent our shop to such a person who wants to do what we mentioned above?

A: It is not permissible to rent the shop to a person who wants to use it for unlawful work, because this involves cooperation in committing sin and transgression. Allah prohibits this saying, ...but do not help one another in sin and transgression. This ruling applies to the case you have asked about. Besides, this cafe will cause harm to whoever enters or leaves the Masjid and to the people who offer Salah (Prayer). You should be patient (Part No. 14; Page No. 445) until you find another person who rents your shop for another lawful purpose. Have glad tidings of good reward from Allah as He (Glorified be He) says, And whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.