By: Waris Nissar
Hamaams are undoubtedly beneficial, particularly in regions like Kashmir, where winters can be harsh and unforgiving. These traditional heating systems provide much-needed warmth, enabling worshippers to perform their prayers comfortably. However, when hamaams are incorporated into masjids, their use often raises significant concerns about maintaining the sanctity and purpose of these sacred spaces.
Hamaams in Masjids: A Double-Edged Sword
From an Islamic perspective, warmth and comfort are not inherently wrong. Islam emphasizes facilitating acts of worship, as seen in the Quranic verse:
“Allah does not intend to make difficulty for you, but He intends to purify you and complete His favor upon you that you may be grateful.” (Quran 5:6)
However, the problem arises when hamaams, instead of being a means to aid worship, become a source of distraction. In many masjids, it is observed that the warmth of the hamaam attracts individuals who seldom visit during other times of the year. While it is good that masjids see more attendees, the purpose of their presence is often skewed. Instead of engaging in salah, dhikr, or Quranic recitation, people gather for worldly discussions, idle talk, and at times, activities that lead to fitna (discord).
The Prohibition of Worldly Talk in Masjids
Islam explicitly discourages indulging in worldly matters within the masjid. The masjid is a place for worship, spiritual reflection, and seeking closeness to Allah. Engaging in worldly conversations, especially those that involve gossip or disputes, is not only against Islamic principles but also distracts others from worship.
The Quran affirms the sanctity of the masjid as a place of worship:
“And [He revealed] that the masjids are for Allah, so do not invoke with Allah anyone.” (Quran 72:18)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also warned against misusing the masjid for purposes other than worship:
“If you see someone buying or selling in the masjid, say to him, ‘May Allah not make your trade profitable!’ And if you see someone announcing something lost, say, ‘May Allah not return it to you!’ Masjids are not built for this purpose.” (Tirmidhi)
While this hadith specifically addresses trade and announcements, the underlying principle extends to any activity that detracts from the masjid’s sacred purpose.
The Risk of Hamaams Becoming a Bid‘ah and Source of Fitna
When a practice that is permissible or even beneficial begins to lead people away from the teachings of Islam, it risks becoming a bid‘ah (innovation) and a source of fitna. The misuse of hamaams in masjids falls into this category. Some key concerns include:
- Encouragement of Idle Talk: Instead of fostering an environment of worship, hamaams often become gathering spots for discussions about worldly matters, jokes, and gossip, all of which are prohibited in the masjid.
- Attracting Non-Regular Worshippers for the Wrong Reasons: Many individuals who do not attend the masjid regularly come during winters primarily for the warmth of the hamaam rather than for prayer or spiritual benefit. This diminishes the spiritual essence of their presence.
- Erosion of Masjid Sanctity: With the focus shifting to worldly conversations, the masjid risks losing its sanctity as a place dedicated solely to Allah.
Striking a Balance
To address these issues, it is essential to strike a balance between accommodating worshippers’ needs and preserving the masjid’s sanctity:
- Setting Clear Guidelines: Masjid committees should establish rules regarding silence and conduct in the masjid, especially around hamaams. Worshippers must be reminded that worldly discussions are prohibited in the masjid.
- Encouraging Regular Attendance: Imams can use the opportunity to motivate those who attend only in winter to continue coming year-round, emphasizing the importance of salah and spiritual growth.
- Alternative Heating Solutions: Where possible, masjids can explore modern heating systems that do not encourage prolonged gatherings, such as underfloor heating or wall-mounted heaters.
- Education and Awareness: Regular sermons and reminders can help worshippers understand the importance of maintaining the masjid as a space for worship alone.
A Call for Reflection
Hamaams, when used appropriately, can enhance the worship experience by providing comfort during harsh winters. However, their misuse can lead to practices that contradict the essence of a masjid. As a community, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the masjid remains a place of solemnity, worship, and spiritual growth.
Let us remember the words of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
“The most beloved places to Allah are the masjids, and the most hated places to Allah are the marketplaces.” (Muslim)
By preserving the sanctity of the masjid, we honor its true purpose and fulfill our duty as stewards of this sacred space.
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