بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Wagers are allowed only for racing camels, or horses or shooting arrows”. [Sahih Sunan Abi Dawud 2574]

Imam Al-Khattabi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Wagers and gifts are only deserved in the context of horse and camel racing, as well as similar activities, and in archery, which is considered a form of combat preparation. This is because these activities serve as means of readiness in the fight against the enemy, and offering rewards for them encourages and motivates participation in jihad. However, engaging in races that do not pertain to military preparation or do not enhance one’s capability for Jihad is prohibited, and taking a reward for such races is not permissible.” [1]

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah stated:

“If one of the participants or an outsider were to offer a reward, it would fall under the category of prizes. Such practices are prohibited, except in cases that yield benefits, such as competitions and contests, as indicated in the hadith: “Wagers are allowed only for racing camels or horses or shooting arrows”. This is because offering money for purposes that do not serve a beneficial role in either religion or worldly matters is forbidden, even if it does not constitute gambling. [2]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The Prophet permitted competitions involving rewards in three specific activities, while prohibiting them in others. This exception serves to distinguish these activities from gambling or its close resemblance, as competitions that involve a reward can lead to a situation where one party benefits at the expense of another, which is the essence of gambling. If one were to inquire why these three activities are allowed, the response is that they serve to support Jihad in the path of Allah. Camels are utilised to carry the belongings and weapons of the fighters, as well as to transport the fighters themselves. The arrows are employed by the combatants to defend themselves and to attack their enemies. Similarly, the horse is used for charging and retreating, making it a valuable asset in warfare and in the pursuit of jihad for the sake of Allah. [3] [End of quotes]

NB: Any specific alternative form of competition that could be viewed as supportive of Jihad [Footnote a] or advantageous in religious or worldly matters should be directed to scholars for a specific Fatwa. This is to prevent ourselves from making personal analogies that may lead to the endorsement of what is impermissible or the prohibition of what is permissible. Thus, it is incumbent upon us to seek the guidance of scholars where one believes there may be a justification for their intended actions.

Footnote a: Read: https://abukhadeejah.com/salafi-shaikh-fawzaan-on-jihaad-in-our-times-and-the-guidelines-of-jihaad-according-to-islam/

[1] Ma’alim al-Sunan. (2/255)

[2] Majmu Al-Fataawaa 32/223]

[3]https://www.alathar.net/home/esound/index.php?op=codevi&coid=33043 paraphrased