Switching on the lights after the maghrib adhan

Question

It usually happens that after the maghrib adhan the lights are switched on, and after that the congregation takes place, because it becomes somewhat dark. One gentleman objects to this: he says that it resembles fire-worship. As it happens, the electric bulb is fitted at the place where the imam stands, which is why this troubles him; he says the bulb should be switched on after the prayer. What is the ruling according to the Shari‘a: is this misgiving of his correct? Kindly write a reasoned answer.

Answer

This misgiving is idle and baseless: this bears no resemblance whatsoever to fire-worship.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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