Why, in the Current Climate, We Insist to Every Mancunian Youth We Meet That They Establish Thorough Verification

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

It is incumbent that the expression conveys the intended meaning through the appropriate terminology. Should the term be explicit or evident, the objective is achieved. However, if the term possesses dual interpretations—one valid and the other erroneous—the intended meaning must be clarified. In instances where the term suggests a flawed interpretation, it should only be employed with an explanation that mitigates any potential misunderstanding. Furthermore, if the term may mislead certain listeners into grasping an incorrect meaning, it should not be used if it is known to carry such implications, as the primary aim of communication is clarity and understanding. On the other hand, if the term accurately reflects the intended meaning but some individuals remain unaware of its significance without any negligence on the speaker’s part, the responsibility lies with the listener, not the speaker”. [1]

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The basis of Banee Adam’s misguidance stems from ‘General Terms’ and ‘Ambiguous Meanings’ (i.e. terms, meanings, statements that can be interpreted as either truth or falsehood when not clearly defined). This issue is exacerbated when they interact with a confused mind, particularly when coupled with misguided desires and enthusiasm. Thus, seek the guidance of the One who stabilises hearts, asking Allah to strengthen your heart in His Religion and protect you from falling into this darkness”. [2]

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, also said:

“If the speaker falls short in his clarification and addresses the listener with vague terms that may encompass various interpretations, and the listener remains uncertain of the intended meaning; if this arises from the speaker’s inability, the listener is given from the speaker’s inability rather than his intent. If the speaker possesses the ability and he does not do so while it is obligated to him to do so, he gives the listener from his evil intent”. [3]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Verification is one of the most important affairs, if not the most important. Verifying what is transmitted from others is an important matter because sometimes the transmitters harbour evil intentions, so they transmit – intentionally and deliberately – that which will tarnish the reputation of the one they transmit from. And at other times they do not harbour an evil intention, but they understand something in a manner that is opposite to what is intended by it. Therefore, it is obligatory to verify. So, when the proof (or sound source) of the transmission is established, then the one from whom the statement was transmitted is engaged in a discussion before a judgement is passed as to whether it is a mistake or not. This is because it may become clear to you – by way of discussion – that the one from whom the statement was transmitted is correct. And if not, then what is known is that if a person were to immediately pass a judgement merely based on what he hears, he will transmit things (i.e. statements, views, opinions etc) from some of the scholars – those considered to be the beacons of (Shariah) knowledge – that which the souls will dislike; but when one verifies, contemplates and establishes contact with this Shaikh, the matter becomes clarified. [4]

[1] Ar-Radd Alaa Al-Bakri 702-703

[2] As-Sawaa’iq Al-Mursalah 3/927

[3] As-Sawaa’iq Al-Mussalah 2/503

[4] Excerpt from Sharh Hilya Talib Al-Ilm. pages 75-76