A non-Muslim entering the Masjid

A: It is forbidden for Muslims to allow a non-Muslim to enter Al-Masjid Al-Haram (the Sacred Mosque in Makkah) and the areas around it. Allah says, O you who believe (in Allâh’s Oneness and in His Messenger Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم)! Verily, the Mushrikûn (polytheists, pagans, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh, and in the Message of Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) are Najasun (impure). So let them not come near Al-Masjidal-Harâm (at Makkah) after this year With regard to other Masjids, some Fuqaha' (Muslim jurists) said that it is permissible, because there is nothing to indicate that it is not allowed. However, others expanding the ruling of prohibiting non-Muslims to enter Al-Masjid Al-Haram to other Masjids maintain that it is not permissible for a non-Muslim to enter any Masjid.However, the correct view is that it is permissible, if it serves a legally considered interest or need such as to hear something that may invite him to enter Islam, a need to drink water from the Masjid, or the like. This is because the Prophet (peace be upon him) tied up Thumamah ibn Uthal Al-Hanafy in the mosque before he became Muslim. He also allowed the delegations of Thaqif and the delegation of Christians of Najran to stay in the Masjid before they became Muslim. There were many benefits offered by doing this: they could hear the speeches and sermons of the Prophet (peace be upon him), see people offering Salah and reciting Qur’an, and other benefits obtained by visiting the Masjid. (Part No. 6; Page No. 277) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.