The Imamate of One Who Betrays a Trust

Question

The imam went for Hajj, and money was given [to him] to bring a clock for the mosque. Having brought it to Bombay, he sold it, bought [another] in Bombay for less money and gave that to the mosque. Is prayer behind such an imam valid or not?

Answer

It is not permissible to sell the clock bought with the mosque’s money and make a profit for oneself; this is a breach of trust. Further, if the old clock that he bought and gave is suitable for the mosque, it should be kept, and the profit he obtained from selling the first clock should also be taken for the mosque.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

Preview. The full text opens with JavaScript enabled.