Imam says using iPads to read sermons is disrespectful

Inemesit Udodiong 17:15 - 25 October 2016

The reading of sermons on iPads by Imams has been criticised by Sheikh Khalid Al-Faris, an imam.

Sheikh Khalid Al-Faris, the imam of Umm Ibrahim Al-Faris Mosque in Najrano, Saudi Arabia has spoken against a new trend amongst other imams.

Saudi Gazette reports that he has criticised imams, who use iPads to deliver their sermons, rather than the Qur'an.

In his words, "worshippers come to mosques for spiritual enhancement and their feelings must be respected. Giving a sermon looking into an iPad is disrespectful."

He was supported by Sheikh Saeed Al-Jalil, the imam of Al-Zubair Bin Al-Awam Mosque.

Al-Jalil said that the use of iPads, instead of the Holy Book, can be distracting.

"The imam’s moment of truth is when he stands on the minbar (the short flight of steps used as a platform by the preacher in a mosque). The more natural an imam sounds, the stronger his effect will be. It is okay to read out a sermon written on paper, but taking technology into the mosque can be distracting,” he said.

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Unfortunately, the Acting Director of Najran Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Ahmad Talibi, does not agree with this logic.

He also announced that the use of iPads has been approved by the ministry.

“There is no reason to prevent imams from using an iPad or similar devices. Many of them are already using technology in all parts of the Kingdom. The ministry closely monitors the activities of all imams. They are expected to perform their duties diligently but the use of technology will not affect the quality of their work in any manner,” said Talibi.