Question
Assalamu alaykum. I follow the Hanafi madhhab and wanted to ask: Is it halal to keep a ball python as a pet? Ball pythons are non-venomous and generally harmless, and I would keep it safely and properly care for it. I only want it as a pet. Is this halal, haram, or makruh according to Hanafi fiqh? JazakAllahu khayran.
Islamic Ruling & Answer
Walekumussalam,
According to the Hanafi school of jurisprudence, keeping a ball python merely as a hobby, for decoration, or as a pet is not permissible. Although it is non-venomous and generally harmless, this does not change the ruling, because it is nevertheless a type of snake, and snakes are considered among harmful creatures.
Therefore, the fact that it will be kept in a secure enclosure and will not cause harm to anyone does not remove the impermissibility of keeping a snake merely as a hobby.
However, if there is a genuine and valid need, such as medical or scientific research or treatment, then a separate allowance may apply to the extent of that necessity.
Therefore, in the situation described, since the purpose is simply to keep a ball python as a pet, one should refrain from doing so according to the Hanafi school.
And Allah knows best
Answered by
Daurah-e-Hadith (Fazil), Darul Uloom Deoband · Specialization in Fiqh & Ifta (Grade A), Jamea Tul Hidaya, Jaipur
August 20, 2026
Researched & verified under our editorial & answer-review policy.
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