Question
1) Is it permissible for a Muslim to donate money for building a church?
2) Is it permissible for Muslims to accept donations from non-Muslims for building Masjids?
بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمنِ الرَّحِيْم
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
Answer
1) This would not be permissible because it entails assisting others in sin. (Raddul Muhtar: v. 9, p. 563 [Maktaba Imdadia])
2) This would be permissible on the condition that the donor considers this action to be rewarding. Nevertheless, if by accepting this donation, there is a fear of harm, e.g., non-Muslims taking control of the Masjid, interfering with its affairs, etc., then the Masjid committee should refrain from accepting such a donation. (Fatawa Mahmudia: v. 22, p. 127 [Darul Isha’at]; Kitabun Nawazil: v. 13, p. 356 [Darul Isha’at])
Only Allah knows best
Written by Maulana Mohammad Ahsan Osmani
Checked and approved by