A mosque in Bradford has issued a firm reminder to its congregation following repeated incidents of footwear being taken from the prayer area.
Jamia Masjid Hanfia, situated on Ambler Street near Carlisle Road, said several worshippers have complained about returning from prayers or events to find their shoes missing. The mosque has now appealed to visitors to act responsibly and respect one another’s belongings.
Footwear Removal a Religious Practice
In Islam, worshippers remove their shoes before entering the prayer hall as a sign of cleanliness and reverence for the sacred space. Shoes are typically left outside or in designated areas before prayers begin.
However, mosque officials say this long-standing practice has recently been abused, with some individuals allegedly taking footwear that does not belong to them.
Mosque Management Issues Clear Message
In a public notice shared with the community, mosque management stressed that all worshippers attending daily prayers, funerals (janaza), or other gatherings must leave with the same footwear they arrived in.
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The statement warned against taking someone else’s shoes, regardless of appearance or value, noting that many people work hard to purchase their belongings.
Management described such actions as causing “unnecessary distress and heartache” within the community and said the behaviour must end immediately.
Guidance on Moving Within the Building
The notice also advised worshippers to keep their shoes with them if they move between floors inside the mosque. Officials said this helps prevent mix-ups and maintains hygiene standards within the building.
They reminded attendees that wearing only their own footwear is a matter of both cleanliness and respect.
Appeal for Honesty and Respect
In its message, the mosque called on worshippers to uphold Islamic values, including honesty, respect, and consideration for others.
The management thanked community members for their cooperation and urged everyone to help maintain a welcoming and respectful environment for all visitors.
Official Statement from the Mosque
A post shared on Jamia Masjid Hanfia’s official Facebook page stated:
“All worshippers attending the masjid for namaz, janaza, or any other event are strictly requested to take their own footwear back home.
Do not take someone else’s shoes simply because they appear better or more expensive.
Everyone works hard to buy their footwear, and taking someone else’s causes unnecessary distress.
If you need to move to another floor within the masjid, please take your own shoes with you.
For hygiene and respect, your feet should go into your own shoes only.
This behaviour must stop immediately.
Let us uphold the values of honesty, respect, and cleanliness that our masjid represents.
Thank you for your cooperation.”
