The imam standing in front of a calligraphic inscription

Question

If the imam stands facing a calligraphic inscription, is there any harm in the prayer?

Answer

This istilam (reverential treatment, like touching something sacred), and moreover making it a fixed practice out of devotion and reverence, is a cause of corrupting the beliefs of the common people and is contrary to the way of the master of creation ﷺ.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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