Does using a wet miswak while fasting break the fast?
A fasting person should ensure that the miswak is dry when using it.
However, if the miswak is slightly moist but does not release any liquid when squeezed, then its use does not break the fast.
What is the ruling of Islamic Law on purchasing a home through conventional commercial banks for those living in the West?
All praise is due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon our master, the Messenger of Allah.
The ruling of Islamic Law on purchasing a home through usurious/interest-bearing loans was previously detailed in Fatwa No. (
760). Its summary affirms the prohibition of purchasing homes through interest-bearing loans, based on the general foundational principle of the strict prohibition of Riba (usury). This is the position we hold in devotion to Allah Almighty, and it is the religious edict we convey to the people.
As for considering the specific circumstances of a particular country or individual, the questioner must personally consult scholars whom they trust within their country of residence. And Allah Almighty knows best.
Can someone who begins a voluntary fast break it?
It is preferable for someone who begins an act of worship not to break it.
Allah the Exalted has said {what means}: "and let not your [good] deeds come to nought!" [Muhammad/33].
However, if a person starts a voluntary fast (nafl) and needs to break it, they are going against what is preferable, but there is no sin upon them.
What is the ruling of Islamic Law on saying the basmalah at the beginning of wudu`?
All praise is due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon our master, the Messenger of Allah.
Saying the basmalah (Bismillāh) at the beginning of wuḍūʾ is a sunnah. It is stated in al-Minhāj al-Qawīm Sharḥ al-Muqaddimah al-Ḥaḍramiyyah (p. 27): “Its sunnahs include the siwāk, then the tasmiyah (saying Bismillāh), joined with the intention (niyyah), at the start of washing the hands.” And Allah Almighty knows best.
