Q 3: In some Masjids (mosques) here, people gather and continue repeating Allah’s Name around a piece of white cloth. What is the importance of the white cloth in Islam?

A: placing a piece of cloth in the Masjid and gathering around it to repeat the Name of Allah is a misleading act of Bid`ah (innovation in religion) undertaken by some Sufis who deviate from the course of the Messenger (peace be upon him). Therefore, it is not permissible to do or attend. This should also be prohibited and disavowed. Masjids should be protected from such acts of Bid`ah.

May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions!

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Member     Member     Member     Deputy Chairman     Chairman
Bakr Abu Zayd     Salih Al-Fawzan     `Abdul-`Aziz Al Al-Shaykh     `Abdul-Razzaq `Afify     `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz

Source : http://www.alifta.net