Sci-Hub

Abu Ahya al-Hanafi on Copyright, Intellectual Property, and Sci-Hub:

… Anyone who has studied the issue of copyright from the perspective of Sharia knows that there is ikhtilaf (difference of opinion) on this matter. This is a new issue in fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), so there can be no absolute certainty about it.

… Why then, after purchasing a book with my own money, do I not have the right to share it online for free?

However, I acknowledge the ikhtilaf on this issue and respect the opposing viewpoint—though I do not share it—with one exception: when it comes to religious and, more broadly, scientific knowledge. It is my firm belief that access to important and necessary information should be available to everyone.

Have you heard of Sci-Hub? If not, take some time to Google it. I am convinced that it is absolutely remarkable and that we should follow their example. Knowledge should be accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live or whether they have the means to purchase books.

7. Supporting knowledge, including Islamic sciences, is undoubtedly one of the most important deeds. Supporting dawah (Islamic preaching) is even more crucial than helping the poor. Providing people with nourishment for the Hereafter is more valuable and honorable than feeding them in this world.

I hope Muslims begin to understand this. But this support should never be associated with restricting access to beneficial information, prohibiting copying, or imposing limitations on sharing materials.

What if Imam al-Bukhari had prohibited copying his Sahih?
What if Imam al-Shafi'i had placed copyright on *Al-Umm*?
What if Imam al-Ghazali had required royalties for his books to be paid to his heirs?

Therefore, while I respect the position of those who recognize the legitimacy of copyright in general, I am convinced that scientific, religious, and any other knowledge essential for life and work should be freely distributed and available 24/7.

By restricting access to such knowledge, we are enabling the contagious ignorance that continues to grow and spread around us.

Everyone can contribute to this cause:
- Buy a useful e-book and make it publicly available.
- Scan and share a valuable paper book.

Yes, support authors financially, buy their books—but do not deprive access to those who, for one reason or another, cannot afford to purchase them.

www.group-telegram.com/ye/scihubreal.com/20

41.5K viewsAlex, Feb 20 at 08:22

Abu Ahya al-Hanafi on Copyright, Intellectual Property, and Sci-Hub:

… Anyone who has studied the issue of copyright from the perspective of Sharia knows that there is ikhtilaf (difference of opinion) on this matter. This is a new issue in fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), so there can be no absolute certainty about it.

… Why then, after purchasing a book with my own money, do I not have the right to share it online for free?

However, I acknowledge the ikhtilaf on this issue and respect the opposing viewpoint—though I do not share it—with one exception: when it comes to religious and, more broadly, scientific knowledge. It is my firm belief that access to important and necessary information should be available to everyone.

Have you heard of Sci-Hub? If not, take some time to Google it. I am convinced that it is absolutely remarkable and that we should follow their example. Knowledge should be accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live or whether they have the means to purchase books.

7. Supporting knowledge, including Islamic sciences, is undoubtedly one of the most important deeds. Supporting dawah (Islamic preaching) is even more crucial than helping the poor. Providing people with nourishment for the Hereafter is more valuable and honorable than feeding them in this world.

I hope Muslims begin to understand this. But this support should never be associated with restricting access to beneficial information, prohibiting copying, or imposing limitations on sharing materials.

What if Imam al-Bukhari had prohibited copying his Sahih?
What if Imam al-Shafi'i had placed copyright on *Al-Umm*?
What if Imam al-Ghazali had required royalties for his books to be paid to his heirs?

Therefore, while I respect the position of those who recognize the legitimacy of copyright in general, I am convinced that scientific, religious, and any other knowledge essential for life and work should be freely distributed and available 24/7.

By restricting access to such knowledge, we are enabling the contagious ignorance that continues to grow and spread around us.

Everyone can contribute to this cause:
- Buy a useful e-book and make it publicly available.
- Scan and share a valuable paper book.

Yes, support authors financially, buy their books—but do not deprive access to those who, for one reason or another, cannot afford to purchase them.

BY Sci-Hub