QUESTION: I have a handgun. It is legally licensed, etc. With the crime rate in my area, in fact the entire country, is it advisable for me to carry my firearm when going Masjid? Is it Islamically encouraged?
ANSWER: As long as the Laws pertaining to carrying a firearm are met, which includes concealment at all times inside the Masjid, you may carry your gun or any other weapon such as a knife. Remember, concealment should be the criteria at all times. Also, the gun should be legal and licensed correctly.
The person carrying a gun, even if he is legally withing the law, if he has developed recent tempor issues, should be very cautious in this regard. Such as person may “just snap” at any slight inconvenience caused to him, which is bound to happen at a Masjid, parking areas, shoe racks, Wuzu Khanah, toilets, and he may discharge his gun to vent his anger and sort out the ‘opponent’ or the one ‘causing’ some inconvenience. Remember, a Masjid is a public place where some type of inconvenience is bound to be experienced, just like at any other public place.
A recent Masjid incident in this regard where during a Jalsah, a firearm was discharged, is a perfect example of this point.
Hence, such a person should rather not come near the Masjid with his gun.
Moreover, reciting Aayatul Kursi and the Masnoon Du’a for when leaving one’s home when going to the Masjid, work place, etc., are far more effective forms of Divine Protection and Security.
In terms of Asbaab (means) any weapon which meets the criteria of concealment and which is withing the legal framework may be carried.
And Allah Ta’ala knows best.