Scaring the Children Away from the Birds of the Grand Mosque in Mecca: Fiqh Study 10.35781/1637-000-120-003

Abstract

- To clarify the Islamic ruling on children scaring away the pigeons of the Grand Mosque in Mecca. - To propose educational and behavioral alternatives that align with Islamic teachings. - To contribute to the development of religious and behavioral awareness among visitors and residents. - To enrich jurisprudential and environmental studies related to the Two Holy Mosques. Research Methodology: Inductive approach. The analytical method and the comparative method. Findings: - Definition of "Scaring Away": It refers to disturbing, frightening, repelling, harming, or dispersing the birds and pigeons of the Grand Mosque. The term "Grand Mosque" refers to the boundaries established in historical and field studies on the sacred site. - Islamic Rulings: Religious texts are consistent and abundant in prohibiting the scaring away of the birds of the Grand Mosque, including pigeons. Scholars unanimously agree on the impermissibility of disturbing the game of the sacred sanctuary, and pigeons fall under this category. - Guardian's Responsibility: If a guardian encourages a child to scare away the birds of the sanctuary, this is considered prohibited by both textual evidence and scholarly consensus. If this act results in the death of the birds, the guardian is liable. If it does not, there is no liability, but repentance and seeking forgiveness are required. The prevailing opinion is that the atonement for killing a pigeon is offering a sheep, as per the majority view. - Child’s Actions: If an underage child independently scares away the pigeons of the Grand Mosque, there is no sin or penalty upon him. However, the guardian must educate him about the sanctity of this act. If the child causes harm or death to the birds, the guardian is held responsible.