The Ruling on Writing “Bismillah” on Invitation Cards

Question

What is the ruling on writing Bismillah on wedding invitation cards, bearing in mind that they will be thrown in the streets or in waste paper baskets?

Answer

Writing Bismillah on cards and other messages is allowed, based upon the narration from the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) in which he said:

“Any important matter which does not start with Bismillah is a matter which is cut of (from every good thing).” (Irwa-ul-Ghalil, 1/29 and Ad-Durrul Manthoor 1/31)

and because he used to begin his letters with the Tasmiyyah.

It is not permissible for one who receives a card or letter in which Allah’s Name, or a Qur’anic verse is mentioned to throw it in the rubbish or refuse, or to put it in an undesirable place. Likewise, it is not permissible to abuse newspapers and other such things, or throw them in the rubbish, nor to use them as eating mats for food, nor as wrappers for things due to the fact that they contain the mention of Allah’s Name, the Almighty, the All-Powerful and because doing that involves sin. As for the writer, there is no sin upon him.

May Allah grant the Muslims success in attaining all goodness.


Shaikh Ibn Baz (Rahimahullah)

Reference: Fatawa Islamiyah Volume 5 Pages 308-309