It is also disliked when travelling to hang bells around the necks of camels and other riding animals, for it is narrated that “the angels do not accompany a caravan that has bells.” Hanging bowstrings around their necks is likewise disliked. One explanation given is the danger that the animals might be strangled by them, taking into account the two interpretations of the following report: “On one of his journeys, while the people were resting at midday, the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, sent ʿAbd Allāh ibn Abī Bakr with instructions that no bowstring necklace—or any necklace—should remain around a camel’s neck without being cut.” Another explanation is that this refers to amulets hung upon them for fear of the evil eye. Mālik stated this in his Muwattaʾ, and his interpretation is more apparent. Allah knows best.
Section
Keeping Mosques Free of Activities for Which They Were Not Established
Mosques should be kept free of craft work, eating assorted dishes, and overnight stays, except when travellers have no alternative. They should also be kept free of performing ablution, clamour, raised voices, announcements seeking lost property, and buying and selling. Allah Most High says:
“In houses which Allah has permitted to be raised and His name to be remembered therein, He is glorified morning and evening” [al-Nūr: 36] “by men” [al-Nūr: 37]—to the end of the verse.
Through this verse, Allah, Mighty and Majestic, has made known the purpose for which mosques were established. They must therefore be kept free of the other activities we have mentioned, as well as nail-clipping, hair-cutting, all filth, and ritual impurities. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, also said: “Keep your mosques free of your insane and your children, the drawing of your swords, and the raising of your voices. Place your ablution facilities at their entrances.”
ʿUmar ibn al-Khattāb, may Allah be pleased with him, built a courtyard on one side of the mosque called al-Butayhāʾ. He said: “Whoever wishes to make a commotion, recite poetry, or raise his voice should go out to this courtyard.”
Whenever someone selling goods in the mosque passed by ʿAtāʾ ibn Yasār, he would call him over and ask what he had with him and what he intended to do. If the man said that he wished to sell it in the mosque, he would say: “Go to the marketplace of this world; this is the marketplace of the Hereafter.” Success comes from Allah.