Question:

What do the scholars and experts of shari’ah say regarding our village where there is a small old masjid which unfortunately is not used for prayer anymore? The reason for this is that a new masjid has been built nearby. A part of the old masjid is being used as a madrasa for the memorisation of the Holy Qur’an. The villagers are hoping to use another part as a nursery for small children because there is no other place. What is the ruling regarding this?

Answer:

When a masjid becomes unoccupied, due to another masjid being built, or people leaving the vicinity or any other reason which cannot be reversed. Then in these circumstances the old masjid can be used for activities which are beneficial for the general Muslim population.

Similarly, in the scenario mentioned, a portion of the masjid can be used as a madrassa for the memorisation of the Holy Qur’an. A different portion, which people do not utilise as a masjid, can be used as a nursery for small children.

And Allah ﷻ knows the best.

This Fatwa is written by Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Munir Al-Azhari