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Fatwa CenterIt is permissible to use this computer operating system
Question
As-Salamu Aleikom, Having studied Computer Science, and being looking for a job in the area, I think it would be very beneficial for me if I could learn more about the kind of computer operating systems called Ubuntu Linux. However, I have some doubts which prevent me from using it. I would like to listen to the opinion of a knowledgeable person about it. 1) First, Linux was invented by a kaafir. 2) Second, Ubuntu contains a software called Ubiquity. 3) Third, their developers favor that the number 42 is the "Answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe and Everything" (Astaghfir Allah) 4) Fourth, it contains a software called ayatana. That being, I would like to know if it is permissible or not to use it. I have been staying away from it and I will keep away from it if it is Haraam to use it, but I would like to hear your opinion. Thank you very much.
Answer
All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad 
is His slave and Messenger.
We are not aware of the details of this system; however, we learnt from some people who know it that it is an operating system like all other computer operating systems. If this is the case, then it is permissible to use it and it being made by non-Muslims is not an impediment to using it as the Prophet used to deal with non-Muslims in buying and selling and he used to wear the clothes that were made by them. The Muslims after him did the same without any objection.
The fact that the developers of this system believe that number 42 is the secret of life does not make it forbidden to use it. In fact, their evident and clear disbelief, let alone such a belief, does not render what is made by them forbidden. Similarly, them naming some programmers Ayatana (which could mean “our signs” in Arabic) or the like does not make it forbidden to use this system provided that it does not contain in itself what is Islamically forbidden.
Allaah Knows best.
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