Those qualified to perform acts of devotion are Muslims. This is because, no matter how humble, tearful, and submissive the disbelievers may be before their idol, that is not an act of drawing near to Allah. It is mentioned that the Christians in their churches show the same reverence as Muslims do in their mosques—there is weeping, lamentation, and wailing—but none of this benefits them. Some have even said concerning Allah’s words,

“On that Day there will be downcast faces, labouring and weary, entering a blazing Fire.” [Surah al-Ghashiyah]

that these are the Christians in their churches. In any case, this is incorrect, for the verse clearly states that this will be on the Day of Resurrection:

“Has there come to you the news of the Overwhelming Event? On that Day there will be downcast faces.” [Surah al-Ghashiyah: 1–2]

In any event, a disbeliever can never be among those qualified to perform acts of devotion. If someone were to ask: Suppose a disbeliever built a mosque for the Muslims—would it be permissible to pray in it? His deed would not be accepted from him, nor would it benefit him; even if we prayed in it, he would receive no reward. Yet we would not refrain from praying there, because the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “The earth has been made for me a place of prayer.” (1)

However, if we fear that this disbeliever intends to fish in troubled waters, or to claim a favour over the Muslims and someday say, “We are the ones who built mosques for you,” then we must boycott that mosque. The Muslims must cooperate in this and must not betray one another. But if this disbelieving man is known for generosity—giving to this person and that without concern or reproach, and without considering himself to have done anyone a favour—then there is nothing wrong with it and no objection.