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[17] The Character Trait Most Hated By The Messenger

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, narrated:

“There was no traite more hated to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, than lying. A man would speak based on lies in the presence of the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and he would not be content until he knew that he had repented.” [Sahih Tirmidhi 1973]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Woe to him who says things (while lying) to make people laugh thereby. Woe to him! Woe to him!” [Abu Dawud 4990]

Al-Munaawee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

He (the Prophet) repeated it to announce the intensity of his (this person’s) ruin because lying by itself is the head of every blameworthy matter and the gatherer of every disgrace. Thus, when the initiation of laughing is added to it, which kills the heart, causing heedlessness and carelessness, it becomes the most repugnant of repugnant things. Thus, the wise people said: “Initiating things that make people laugh out of frivolity is the height of repugnance”. [Fayd Al-Qadeer 6/368]

Knowledge Across Generations: Guidance, Responsibility and Harmony

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

“Indeed, among the portens of the hour (i.e. the signs of the day of Judgement) is that knowledge will be sought from the Asaghir”.

The people (scholars) have given different interpretations of “As-Sighar” in this context (as) mentioned by Ibn Abd al-Barr in Al-Jami [1/157] and Al-Shatibi in Al-I’tisam [2/93].

Ibn Qutaybah – may Allah the Most High have mercy upon him – held that As-Sighar are the young (youth). He stated based on the narration by Ibn Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him, “the people will not cease to be upon good as long as their scholars are Mashayikh (i.e. elders) and not young people”, that it means:

Youthful gratification, youthful intensity, haste and folly would have ceased from the elder, and he possesses Tajribah and Khibrah [experience, proficiency and the know-how with regards to matters].

Neither doubt influences him through his knowledge nor is he overcome by (vain) desires, neither inclined -through his knowledge-towards excess eagerness for something nor (easily) enticed by Shaytan in the manner a young man is enticed. Thus, age is accompanied with composure, dignity and awe. The Shaikh (is mostly) safe from these matters which may influence the young person. If they influence him (i.e. a young person) and he gives a verdict, he ruins himself and others”.

Then the Shaikh [Abdus Salam Burjess – may Allah have mercy mercy upon him] stated that this ruling is not absolute with regards to the young ones, for indeed there were a group of the Sahabah and the Tabi’in who taught and gave verdicts in their young age, while the elders were present. However, the likes of these people are hard to find amongst those who came after them. If they are found and known for being upright- upon a sound (path), possess knowledge and their firmness is manifested, while there are no elders to be found, then knowledge of the Shariah is acquired from them, if they are free from Fitnah!

Therefore, the intent is not that the knowledge possessed by the young person is boycotted, while the elders are present; rather the intent is that the people are placed in their rightful positions. [1] [End of quote]

Nu’aym, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: It was said to Ibn Al-Mubarak, may Allah have mercy upon him, “Who are the Asaghir?” He said:

“Those who speak based on their views. As for the young one who narrates from the elder, he is not one who narrates based on his views”. [2]

Ibn al-Mubarak also said: “Al-Asaghir are Ahlul Bidah”. [3]

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

A man will not become well facilitated until he takes knowledge from one above him, one similar to him and one below him. [4]

Imam Abdullah Ibn al-Mubarak, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

A man will not be from the (students or scholars) of Hadith until he writes from someone similar to him, someone above him and someone below him. [5]

Imam Sufyan Ibn Uyaynah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

A man will not be from the (students or scholars) of Hadith until he takes from someone above him, someone below him and someone similar to him.” [6]

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khalee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Musa, peace be upon him, was spoken to directly by Allah and the Tawrat was revealed to him, which contained Hudaa [i.e. that which guides a person to Iman, truth and protects one from misguidance] and Nur [i.e. a guiding light in the midst of the darkness of ignorance, confusion, doubts, beliefs and deeds that appear to be truth but are falsehood in reality and evil desires], but when he knew that another person possessed knowledge of that which he did not possess, [Allah informed us that he (Musa) said]:

لَا أَبْرَحُ حَتَّىٰ أَبْلُغَ مَجْمَعَ الْبَحْرَيْنِ أَوْ أَمْضِيَ حُقُبًا

I will not give up (travelling) until I reach the junction of the two seas or (until) I spend years and years in travelling]. [Al-Kahf. Verse 60]

He went on foot – neither had a car nor a riding beast, nor a horse; (rather) he travelled on foot”. [7]

 

An Example of Harmony Between Teacher and Student

Al-Allamah Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhab Al-Bannah -may Allah have mercy upon him, was considered one of Shaikh Rabee’s Shuyukh. Anyone who knew Shaikh Al-Bannah will know that he used to hold Shaikh Rabee in high esteem. On one occasion when he visited him at his house, Shaikh Al-Bannah said to him, “Take a seat and do not stand, for even though I am your Shaikh, you are my teacher”.

He was asked whether Shaikh Rabee is considered one of the senior scholars, so he said: “Who among the scholars of this era and before it truly knows the numerous callers to Islam like him?! He is known for evidence and proof and does not speak against anyone except with evidence. For this reason, I say that Rabee Hadi is like Yahyah Ibn Ma’een in this era. I say that indeed Rabee is the Yahya Ibn Ma’een of this era. May Allah reward him (with good), preserve him, and safeguard his intellect and memory. The most knowledgeable regarding the (situation) of men – with proof and evidence- is Rabee Hadi. May Allah keep him firm and alive, so that he refutes those who misrepresent Salafiyyah and wage war against it. We ask Allah to reveal their state of affairs, expose them, and protect us from their evil”. [8]

Allah Raises Some People of Knowledge Above Others

Allah, The Most High, said:

فَبَدَأَ بِأَوْعِيَتِهِمْ قَبْلَ وِعَآءِ أَخِيهِ ثُمَّ ٱسْتَخْرَجَهَا مِن وِعَآءِ أَخِيهِ كَذَٰلِكَ كِدْنَا لِيُوسُفَ مَا كَانَ لِيَأْخُذَ أَخَاهُ فِى دِينِ ٱلْمَلِكِ إِلَّآ أَن يَشَآءَ ٱللَّهُ نَرْفَعُ دَرَجَٰتٍ مَّن نَّشَآءُ وَفَوْقَ كُلِّ ذِى عِلْمٍ عَلِيمٌ

So he [Yusuf] began (the search) in their bags before the bag of his brother. Then he brought it out of his brother’s bag. Thus did We plan for Yusuf. He could not take his brother by the law of the king (as a slave), except that Allah willed it. (So Allah made the brothers to bind themselves with their way of “punishment, i.e. enslaving of a thief.”) We raise to degrees whom We please, but over all those endowed with knowledge is the All-Knowing (Allah). [12:76]

نَرْفَعُ دَرَجَٰتٍ مَّن نَّشَآءُ

We raise to degrees whom We please], as Allah said (i.e. in another Ayah):

يَرْفَعِ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنْكُمْ وَالَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْعِلْمَ دَرَجَاتٍ ۚ وَاللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ خَبِيرٌ –

Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been granted knowledge. And Allah is Well-Acquainted with what you do]. [Al-Mujadilah 11]

وَفَوْقَ كُلِّ ذِى عِلْمٍ عَلِيمٌ

But over all those endowed with knowledge is the All-Knowing (Allah).

Al-Hasan al-Basri, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

There is not a scholar except that above him is (another) scholar until the all knowledge goes back to Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, (i.e. Allah as the absolute Owner and Bestower of all knowledge).

Abdur Razzaq, may Allah have mercy upon him, reported from Sufyan ath-Thawri, may Allah have mercy upon him, from Abdul A’laa ath-Tha’labi, may Allah have mercy upon him, from Sa’eed Ibn Jubayr, may Allah have mercy upon him, who said:

We were with Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, when he delivered an amazing speech. Then a man was amazed and said: “All praise and thanks be to Allah, above every possessor of knowledge is One All-Knowing”. Ibn Abbas said: “What an evil (or terrible) thing you have uttered! Allah is the All-Knowing, and He is above every knowledgeable one”. [9]

نَرْفَعُ دَرَجَاتٍ مَنْ نَشَاءُ

We raise to degrees whom We please.

Meaning, through beneficial knowledge and acquaintance with the paths that lead to their intended goals, just as We raised Yusuf’s, peace be upon him, in ranks.

Basheer al-Hujaymee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: One day, I heard al-Ḥasan al-Baṣri, may Allah have mercy upon him, recite this verse:

وَفَوْقَ كُلِّ ذِى عِلْمٍ عَلِيمٌ

But over all those endowed with knowledge is the All-Knowing (Allah).

Then he paused and said: “By Allah! There is not a single scholar on the face of the earth who has reached the evening except that above him is one who is more knowledgeable until (all) knowledge goes back to the One who taught it (i.e. Allah)”. [10]

“We raise in degrees whom We will”.

Imam as-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

(Meaning), through beneficial knowledge and acquaintance with the paths that lead to the intended goals, just as We raised the ranks of Yusuf. [وَفَوْقَ كُلِّ ذِي عِلْمٍ عَلِيمٌ – but over all those endowed with knowledge is the All-Knowing (Allah)]- Meaning, for every scholar, there is one above him who is more knowledgeable until (all) knowledge goes back to Allah the Knower of the unseen and the seen. [11]

Imam Muhamad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

know that regardless how much knowledge you have attained, indeed, there is always someone more knowledgeable than you. ” but over all those endowed with knowledge is the All-Knowing (Allah)”, until all knowledge goes back to Allah, the Might and Majestic (as the absolute Owner and Bestower of all knowledge). Do not think that you are the most knowledgeable of people, for (even) if you possess abundant knowledge, there is one who is more knowledgeable than you. Contemplate Musa, peace be upon him, when he said: “I do not know anyone among the people of the earth who is more knowledgeable than I”. What happened? He was told that indeed in a such and such place there is one who is more knowledgeable than you, meaning al-Khiḍr, peace be upon him. Then took place that which Allah Allah, The Most High, related to us in Surah al-Kahf. [12]


[1]An Excerpt from “Awaa’iq at-Talab” pages 29 onwards. Paraphrased

[2]Az-Zuhd 1/21

[3]Sharh Usul Al-I’tiqad Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah 1/95

[4]Quoted by Shaikh Abdullah Al-Bukhari, may Allah preseeve him, in Sharh Umdah Al-Ahkam. Lesson 1

[5]Tarikh Baghdad by Al-Khateeb Al-Baghdaadee 5/68, may Allah have mercy upon him.

[6]Al-Jami Li-Akhlaaq Ar-Raawee 2/218

[7] Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm. 245-248.

[8]https://rabee.net/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AB%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A8%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%B9-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D9%8A%D8%AE-%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A/

[9]An Excerpt from Tafseer Ibn Kathir

[10]An Excerpt from Mawsu’ah at-Tafseer al-Ma’thur 11/708

[11]An Excerpt from Tafseer as-Sadi

[12]https://alathar.net/home/esound/index.php?op=codevi&coid=39439

 

 

Excessive use of force by law enforcement

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, pease and blessings of Allah be upon him, said : “Two are the types of the inhabitants of Hell whom I did not see: people having flogs like the tails of the ox with them and they would be beating people, and the women who would be dressed but appear to be naked, who would be inclined (to evil) and making others inclined towards evil. Their heads would be like the humps of the bukht camel inclined to one side. They will not enter Paradise and they would not smell its odour whereas its odour would be smelt from such and such distance. [1]

Imam an-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“This hadith is from the miracles of Prophethood. Certainly these two types of people have appeared and they are present”. [2]

Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Men having flogs like the tails of the ox with them and they would be beating people”, such as the police and other than police who beat people unjustly. These are from the people of Hell. This is a threat that calls for caution. A soldier and non-soldier must not hit people except based on a justified reason”. [3]

Anyone who takes on the responsibility to beat people unjustly is included in this hadith, whether it is by the order of the state or without the order of the state because the state is to be obeyed only in good. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Indeed, obedience is only in that which is good. There is no obedience to the creation in disobedience to the Creator”. [4]

“And the women who would be dressed but appear to be naked”.

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

It has been clarified that they will dress in short attire that does not conceal the obligatory parts of the body. It has been elucidated that they will wear clothing that exposes the woman’s skin. Furthermore, it has been expounded that they will don tight clothing that covers the body but still reveals that which leads to trial through a woman. [5] [End of quotes]

Regarding the statement: “They will not enter Paradise, nor smell its fragrance, even though it can be found from a distance of five hundred years of travel”, here is the belief of Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama’ah as clarified by Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him:

والخلاصة أن من مات على الشرك لا يغفر له، والجنة عليه حرام، من عرب وعجم، ومن جن وإنس، ومن مات على ما دون الشرك من المعاصي، فهو تحت مشيئة الله خلافًا للمعتزلة والخوارج، ومن سار على مذهبهم من سائر المبتدعة، فإن الخوارج والمعتزلة ومن سار على مذهبهم يرون العاصي مخلد في النار، وأنه لا يغفر له إذا مات على الزنا يروه مخلدًا في النار، أو الخمر يروه مخلدًا في النار هذا باطل، بل هو تحت مشيئة الله، إن شاء الله غفر له، ومحا عنه سيئاته، وأدخله الجنة بتوحيده، وإسلامه، وأعماله الصالحة الأخرى.

وإن شاء عذبه على قدر معاصيه، يعذب في النار ما شاء الله، ثم يخرج من النار، عند أهل السنة والجماعة وهم الصحابة  وأتباعهم بإحسان، يعذب ما شاء الله قد تطول مدته، وقد تقصر على حسب أعماله السيئة، ثم يخرج من النار، لا يخلد في النار، لا يخلد في النار إلا المشركون إلا الكفرة.
أما العاصي الموحد المسلم لا يخلد في النار إذا دخلها، يعذب على قدر معاصيه التي مات عليها لم يتب، ثم يخرجه الله من النار إلى الجنة، عند أهل الحق عند أهل السنة والجماعة بإجماع أهل السنة والجماعة خلافًا للخوارج والمعتزلة ومن سار على منهجهم من الإباضية

The one who dies upon Shirk is not forgiven; Paradise is forbidden for him — among the Arabs, non-Arabs, the Jinn, and humankind.

The one who dies upon a sin that is lesser than Shirk is under the Will of Allah. This is the opposite of what the Muʿtazilah, the Khawarij, and others who follow their path believe — that the sinner will dwell in the Fire forever, and that he will not be forgiven if he dies with the sin of fornication or alcohol consumption. They hold that he will dwell in the Fire forever. This belief is false. Rather, he will be under Allah’s Will: if He wills, He will forgive him, erase his evil deeds, and enter him into Paradise due to his belief in Islamic monotheism, Islam, and other righteous deeds. And if Allah wills, He punishes him based on the level of his sin — punished in the Fire as Allah wills, then removed from the Fire.

This is the belief of Ahlus Sunnah, such as the Sahabah and those who follow them in good. He is punished as Allah wills, and the period may be long or short in accordance with his evil deeds. Then he is removed from the Fire and will not remain there forever.

None remains in the Fire forever except the polytheists and those who disbelieve (in Allah or His Messenger, or died upon a sin that is tantamount to major disbelief). [6] [Paraphrased]


[1] Sahih Muslim. 2128

[2] Sharh Sahih Muslim 14/92

[3]https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/10311/%D9%85%D8%A7-%D9%85%D8%B9%D9%86%D9%89-%D9%82%D9%88%D9%84%D9%87-%D8%B5%D9%86%D9%81%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%87%D9%84-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D9%84%D9%85-%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%87%D9%85%D8%A7

[4]https://binbaz.org.sa/index.php/fatwas/6333/%D9%85%D8%B9%D9%86%D9%89-%D8%AD%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%AB-%D8%B5%D9%86%D9%81%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%87%D9%84-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D9%84%D9%85-%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%87%D9%85%D8%A7

[5] Fataawaa Shaikh Muhammad Bin Utrhaymeen. 2/825

[6]https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/18158/%D9%85%D8%A7-%D9%85%D8%B9%D9%86%D9%89-%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%87-%D9%84%D8%A7-%D9%8A%D8%BA%D9%81%D8%B1-%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%8A%D8%B4%D8%B1%D9%83-%D8%A8%D9%87

A Brief Reflection From Al-Ahzab 39 and Al Ma’idah 54

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Allah, The Exalted, said:

الَّذِينَ يُبَلِّغُونَ رِسَالاتِ اللَّهِ وَيَخْشَوْنَهُ وَلا يَخْشَوْنَ أَحَداً إِلاَّ اللَّهَ وَكَفَى بِاللَّهِ حَسِيباً

Those who convey the Message of Allah and fear Him, and fear none save Allah. And Sufficient is Allah as a Reckoner. [Al-Ahzab. 39]

“Those who convey the Message of Allah” – Meaning, they propagate Allah’s Ayaat (verses, signs lessons, commands, and prohibitions), His proofs, and evidences to His servants. They call them to Allah’s path, they fear Allah alone without ascribing partners to Him, and they fear none except Allah. [1] “And Sufficient is Allah as a Reckoner”- Meaning: Preserve (and record) the deeds of His creation and will recompense them. [2]

 

In Surah Al-Ma’idah Ayah 54, Allah said about the true believers:

يُجَٰهِدُونَ فِى سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ وَلَا يَخَافُونَ لَوْمَةَ لَآئِمٍ ذَٰلِكَ فَضْلُ ٱللَّهِ يُؤْتِيهِ مَن يَشَآءُ وَٱللَّهُ وَٰسِعٌ عَلِيمٌ

They strive in the Way of Allah, and are never afraid of the blame of the blamers.

Meaning, they strive in the path of Allah with their wealth, lives, statements and actions. They do not fear the blame of the blamer, rather, they give precedence to their Lord’s Pleasure and the fear of His blame over the blame of the people. [NB: Must read “Footnote a” about Jihad in our era] This shows the strength of their resolve and determination, as the one whose heart is weak is weak in his resolve, which falters in the face of the blame of the blamers, and his strength diminishes when criticised by the critics. [3]

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

There are three people in relation to this matter: The first person is one hindered from what Allah loves due to fear of blame. The second manifests their love for what Allah loves, regardless of the blame of the blamers. The third conceals his deed that may attract blame to fulfil what is beloved to Allah. So, the first person is excessively negligent, the third person is a weak believer, and the second person is in the best position, and he is a strong believer. A strong believer is more virtuous and beloved to Allah than a weak believer. The highest type of love for Allah and His Messenger is found in striving in the path of Allah despite the numerous blamers since many souls dislike being in this situation. [4]

Al-Allamah Abdur Rahman Bin Yahyah Al-Mu’allimee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

When the Christians initially exaggerated the status of Isa, peace be upon him, the extremists began to accuse anyone who rebuked them of harboring animosity towards Isa and diminishing his status. Thus this became the greatest means for the proliferation of extremism, as those who adhered to the truth saw that rebuking the extremists would lead to accusations of a more detestable nature, such as hating and belittling Isa, as well as being hated by the majority and subjected to harm. This held them back from rebuking the extremists, allowing shaytan to operate without restraint. The circumstances surrounding the extremists among the Rawafid, grave worshippers, and advocates of blind adherence in the religion bear a striking resemblance to this scenario. [5]

Al-Allamah Ibn Aqeel, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

If the truthful ones were to keep silent and the falsifiers speak, the creation would relinquish what they have witnessed (of truth) and reject what they have not witnessed. So when the devout ones desire to revive the Sunnah, the people would reject it and think that it is Bidah. [6]

Jihad in our times: https://abukhadeejah.com/salafi-shaikh-fawzaan-on-jihaad-in-our-times-and-the-guidelines-of-jihaad-according-to-islam/
—————————————–


[1] An Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi

[2] An Excerpt from Tafsir Al-Baghawi

[3] An Excerpt from “Tafsir as-Sadi”

[4] An Eccerpt from Badaa’i at-Tafsir Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim 1/324

[5]at-Tankil Bimaa Fee Ta’neeb Al-Kawtharee Minal Abaateel. 1/80

[6] Shifaa As-Sudur Fee Ziyaarah Al- Mashahid Wal-Qubur. page 148

 

Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [107]

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him said:

This is the methodology of Marx, Lenin & those similar to them. It is not from the Islamic methodology. Revolutions, bloodshed, trials and troubles are Marx’s and Lenin’s school of thought.

Kashf As-Sitar page 18

Some Timeless and Precise Principles, Robust Admonitions: By Imam Ibn al-Qayyim, al-Allamah Muqbil bin Hadi, al-Allamah Rabee, and Shaikh Abdus Salam Burjess

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

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

فمن هداه اللهُ سُبحانَه إلى الأخذِ بالحقِّ حيثُ كان، ومع مَن كان، ولو كان مع من يُبغِضُه ويُعاديه، وردِّ الباطِلِ مع من كان، ولو كان مع مَن يحِبُّه ويُواليه؛ فهو ممَّن هُدِيَ لِما اختُلِفَ فيه من الحَقِّ

(الصواعق المرسلة)) (2/516

Whoever Allah—Glorified be He, free from all imperfections—guides to embrace (accept, uphold, etc) the truth, no matter where it comes from and with whomever it maybe, even if it is with someone he hates and (shows) enmity, and he rejects falsehood, no matter with whomever it may be, even if it is with someone he loves and allies with,  he is from those who have been guided to the truth regarding matters on which (people) differ. [1]

Al-Allamah Muqbil Bin Hadi Al-Wadi’ee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

What I advise the brothers is that they are eager for the texts of the Qur’an and Sunnah. (As for) an issue about which there is no proof, there is no harm that we return to the statements of the Imams and utilise it as support. [2]

He said:

“Call to the Book and the Sunnah. Do not call to personalities, for indeed personalities are not safe from Fitna”. [3]

He said:

“All the Muslims – Arabs, non-Arabs, white and black, it is incumbent to be one Jama’ah. [4]

He said:

“O Ahlus Sunnah! The society is under your care and it is your responsibility to rebut every Rafidi and falsifier. [5]

He said:

“The Dawah will not be properly grounded (or established) except through al-jarḥ wa al-ta’deel”. [6]

He said:

“If Allah shows you the truth, do not be bothered even if opposed, and be gentle with other scholars. As for the one whose conduct is conspicuously (blameworthy) every day, his condition must be clarified”. [7]

Some Timeless Robust Principles And Admonitions By Al-Allamah Rabee, may Allah have mercy upon him

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The seeker of truth is not diverted from the truth, fairness and justice due to admiration of the big personalities and being amazed by them, for indeed the truth is more worthy to be followed. It is not permissible to drop the proofs for the sake of this or that great man. The principle [rule] of the Muslim – the unbiased one, the seeker of truth – is always:

قُلْ هَاتُوا بُرْهَانَكُمْ إِن كُنتُمْ صَادِقِينَ

Say, bring forth your proofs if you are truthful. [An-Nahl. 64] [8]

He said:

It is incumbent upon the people of truth to have patience and deepen their commitment to this religion of truth. In times when frivolous desires are prevalent, it is essential to enhance one’s understanding of the truth and to remain steadfast in following it, as the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The one who lives long amongst you will see a lot of differences, so upon you is that you follow my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly guided khulafa. Bite onto it with your molar teeth (i.e. hold onto it firmly) and beware of newly invented matters (in the religion), for every newly invented matter (in the religion) is innovation in religion and every innovation in religion is misguidance’” [8.1]

The Arabic text below is a statement of Shaikh Abdus Salam Burjess, may Allah have mercy upon him, in Awa’iq at-Talab pages 85-86.

The Shaikh said that when a teacher errs regarding something, the student should deal with him gently according to the circumstances and should not say to him, “You have made an error” or “The matter is not as you say”, rather, he should use kind expressions through which the teacher realises his mistake without unsettling his heart, for this is from the rights that are owed to the teacher…. refutation that is accompanied with bad manners and distressing the person’s heart prevents understanding of what is right…

And just as this is obligated to a student of knowledge when dealing with the teacher, it is also incumbent upon the teacher to return to the truth when he errs. He is not to be prevented from returning to the truth after reviewing a statement he made and finds that it is in opposition to what is correct, for indeed that is a sign of equity and humbling oneself to the truth. Therefore, it is obligatory that one follows what is correct, whether it was conveyed by a younger or older person.

And it is a blessing upon a teacher that he has amongst his students one who notifies him of his mistake and leads him to what is correct, so that he does not persist upon that ignorance. This requires that one shows gratitude to Allah, The Most High, and then being thankful to the person through whom one was guided, whether it was a student or other than him.  (Paraphrased)

https://x.com/i/status/2010036458296619316

Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [77 of 80]

Shaikh Abdus Salaam Burgess, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

 


[1] s-Sawaa’iq Al-Mursalah 2/516 Paraphrased

[2]Al-Basha’ir Fis Samaa Al-Mubashir” page 13 with introduction by Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhab Al-Wassaabee, rahimahullah

[3] Basha’ir page 12

[4] Basha’ir Page 14

[5] Basha’ir Page 14

[6] Basha’ir Page 17

[7] Al-Basha’ir 25

[8] Al-Mulakh-khas Al-Jameel Fee Bayaan Manhaj Ash-Shaikh Rabee Fid-Da’wati Wal-Jarhi Wat-Ta’deel. Page 87

[8.1] Majmu 14/294

The Path to Honour: Contemplating Revelation and Following the Prophetic Example

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Studying the Prophet’s biography and reading it strengthens believer’s certainty, steadfastness and perseverance upon the religion ordained by Allah. It makes the believer’s heart honourable due to Islam, Islamic monotheism, the knowledge and awareness of Allah in his heart, his belief in Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and what Allah revealed to His Messengers. Allah said:

وَلِلَّهِ الْعِزَّةُ وَلِرَسُولِهِ وَلِلْمُؤْمِنِينَ

But honour, power and glory belong to Allah, His Messenger (Muhammad), and to the believers]. [Al-Munaafiqun.  8]

These are from the many benefits that every believer benefits from by studying the biography of The Chosen One (المصطفى). [1]

Indeed, one of the greatest blessings (bestowed) on a believer – leading to guidance and righteous deeds – is that Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, facilitates for him the path to seeking knowledge, grants him an ardent zeal and eagerness for knowledge. Seeking knowledge is something one never feels that he has acquired enough, rather whenever a path to knowledge is made available, he pursues it.

Allah protects the student of knowledge, guides and aids him, therefore it is incumbent upon a student of knowledge to exalt turning to Allah (in submission, obedience etc) and that what he learns should be a proof for him and not against him, and that Allah increases him in knowledge, facilitates him with the path to good and guidance.

“Whoever follows a path in search of knowledge Allah will make easy for a him a path to paradise”.

One of the noblest aspects of knowledge – a matter that occupies a mighty station- is to pay close attention to the characteristics of the Prophet, his specific qualities and deeds through by which Allah distinguished him from everyone amongst humankind, his manners, etiquettes and biography. This is because he is the greatest Imam and the perfect example. Indeed, Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, commanded us to follow his example, made him an Imam and example for us. Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, said:

لَّقَدۡ كَانَ لَكُمۡ فِى رَسُولِ ٱللَّهِ أُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ۬ لِّمَن كَانَ يَرۡجُواْ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلۡيَوۡمَ ٱلۡأَخِرَ وَذَكَرَ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرً۬ا

Indeed in the Messenger of Allah (Muhammad) you have a good example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much. [Al-Ahzab 21]

This noble verse – as the people of knowledge have stated – is a basis to established the fact that the Prophe, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is to be emulated; (but) emulating him cannot be fulfilled except through acquainting oneself with his characteristics, his qualities in general, his specific qualities and deeds through which Allah distinguished him from everyone amongst humankind, and (acquaintance with) his manners and etiquettes. The one who is unacquainted with the Prophet’s characteristics and manners will not be able to emulate him, and this is why the scholars have written beneficial books regarding his characteristics and qualities.

The manners and qualities of the Prophet are a means of calling inviting to this mighty religion. Indeed, many people- during his era and thereafter – have been guided through their acquaintance with his manners and qualities. One used to come to him while harbouring the most intense hatred towards him, but after meeting him and (observing) his great etiquettes, noble manners, lofty dealings and benevolence, the person would depart while loving him more than everyone else on the face of the earth. Therefore, his characteristics are a means to calling to this religion- an intrument for the one inviting the people in the path of Allah.

Speaking about his qualities, emulating him and calling others to emulate him strengthens the religion of Islam, because he was the one whom Allah appointed to convey and explain the religion to humankind. Allah chose him and he is the best of all the slaves of Allah- the greatest in his servitude to Allah. Calling the people to emulate his qualities is a means to calling people to believe in the religion ordained by Allah and a means to strengthening the belief of the one who has already believed in his Messenger-ship. This is why turning away from his Seerah has been the cause of people’s inclination towards the path of losers amongst men and women [i.e. those upon a path other than the path of Allah].

As for the biographies of the Imams of Guidance- the greatest of them being the Messenger, they are (also) a means of rectifying the person and safety from corruption and evil. On the other hand, the biography of the losers is a path that will lead to evil, ruin and corruption. Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, said:

قَدۡ كَانَتۡ ءَايَـٰتِى تُتۡلَىٰ عَلَيۡكُمۡ فَكُنتُمۡ عَلَىٰٓ أَعۡقَـٰبِكُمۡ تَنكِصُونَ
مُسۡتَكۡبِرِينَ بِهِۦ سَـٰمِرً۬ا تَهۡجُرُونَ
أَفَلَمْ يَدَّبَّرُوا الْقَوْلَ أَمْ جَاءَهُم مَّا لَمْ يَأْتِ آبَاءَهُمُ الْأَوَّلِينَ
أَمْ لَمْ يَعْرِفُوا رَسُولَهُمْ فَهُمْ لَهُ مُنكِرُونَ

Indeed, My Verses used to be recited to you, but you used to turn back on your heels [denying them, and with hatred to listen to them]. In pride [they Quraish pagans and polytheists of Makkah used to feel proud that they are the dwellers of Makkah sanctuary Haram], talking evil about it [the Qur’an] by night. Have they not pondered over the Word [of Allaah, i.e. what is sent down to the Prophet], or has there come to them what had not come to their fathers of old? Or is it that they did not recognize their Messenger [Muhammad] so they deny him? [i.e. this is a rebuke against them because all of them – young and old – knew his lineage, truthfulness and trustworthiness, yet they turned away from his message]. [Al-Muminun. 66-69]

This shows that contemplating the Qur’an, acquainting oneself with the Messenger’s guidance and biography is a path leading to safety, and a safeguard against turning back on one’s heels. On the contrary, abandoning the Seerah of the Prophet and inclining towards the Seerah of the losers will lead to ruin.

The people became corrupted – in this era – after being put to trial through movies and films, but had they turned to the biographies of the Prophets and the noble companions of the Prophet Muhammad, they would have found guidance and a path leading to steadfastness. [2]


[1] An Excerpt from “Silsila al-Muhādarāt al-ilmiyyah 4/506-507 By Shaikh Salih Aala Ash-Shaikh – may Allah preserve him.

[2]An Excerpt from: “Sharh Al-Mukhtasar Fee Sifatus An-Nabi Wa Akhlaqihi. Audio Lesson 1 By Shaikh Abdur Razaaq Al-Badr – may Allah preserve him.

Wholehearted Supplications: Some Lessons For An Upright Caller to Allah

In The Name of Allāh, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

After Allāh, The Most High, appointed Musa, peace be upon him, and showed him magnificent signs, he was sent to Fir’awn – the king of Misr. Allāh, The Most High, said to Musa:

ٱذۡهَبۡ إِلَىٰ فِرۡعَوۡنَ إِنَّهُ ۥ طَغَىٰ

Go to Fir’aun (Pharaoh)! Verily, he has transgressed all bounds.

Meaning: Fir’awn has rebelled and transgressed all the limits in disbelief and corruption. He has become haughty in the earth, overpowered the weak, claimed Ar-Rububiyyah [Lordship for himself] and al-Uluhiyyah [that he deserves to be worshipped]. This transgression of his was the cause of his destruction, but due to Allah’s Perfect Mercy, Wisdom and Justice, He does not punish anyone until after establishing the proof by sending Messengers.

Musa, peace be upon him, knew that he was going to shoulder a great responsibility because he was going to be sent to an obstinate and arrogant dictator, who had no opponent in Misr -amongst the people- to oppose him. He was by himself after killing someone [unintentionally]; but after Allah commanded him to go to Fir’awn, he obeyed Allah’s command, accepted it wholeheartedly, asked Allah for assistance and to facilitate him with the ability to (fulfil the task).  Allah said that Musa said:

رَبِّ ٱشۡرَحۡ لِى صَدۡرِى

O my Lord! My expand my heart.

Meaning: Grant me self-confidence and courage so that I can bear both verbal and physical harm, and so that I neither grieve nor become fed up due such harm, for indeed a person with an aggrieved heart is not fit to guide and invite the people to (Allah’s guidance).

وَيَسِّرۡ لِىٓ أَمۡرِى

And ease my task for me.

Meaning: Grant me ease in every affair I pursue and every path I intend to follow, whilst calling to your guidance; and lighten the difficulties in front of me. The caller is granted ease when he approaches all affairs in the appropriate manner; addresses every person based on what they should be addressed with, and calls them through a path that is easier for them to understand, which will enable them to accept his speech.

وَٱحۡلُلۡ عُقۡدَةً۬ مِّن لِّسَانِى

And make loose the knot (the defect) from my tongue, (i.e. remove the incorrectness from my speech) [That occurred as a result of a brand of fire which Musa (Moses) put in his mouth when he was an infant].

يَفۡقَهُواْ قَوۡلِى

That they understand my speech.

Musa used to suffer from a speech impediment and it was difficult to understand his speech as the Mufassiroon have stated, just as Allah says in another verse that Musa said:

وَأَخِى هَـٰرُونُ هُوَ أَفۡصَحُ مِنِّى لِسَانً۬ا

And my brother Haaroon (Aaron) he is more eloquent in speech than me.

He asked Allah to remove the speech impediment so that what he says can be understood and the people he speaks to can clearly grasp what is intended by his speech.

وَٱجۡعَل لِّى وَزِيرً۬ا مِّنۡ أَهۡلِى

And appoint for me a helper from my family,

هَـٰرُونَ أَخِى

Harun (Aaron), my brother,

 ٱشۡدُدۡ بِهِۦۤ أَزۡرِى

Increase my strength with him.

Meaning: to be my helper and my assistant in delivering the message to those whom you have sent me to deliver your message, as Allah said in another verse:

سَنَشُدُّ عَضُدَكَ بِأَخِيكَ وَنَجۡعَلُ لَكُمَا سُلۡطَـٰنً۬ا

We will strengthen your arm through your brother, and give you both power.

وَأَشۡرِكۡهُ فِىٓ أَمۡرِى

And let him share my task.

Meaning: Grant him prophet-hood and make him a Messenger, just as you have made me a Prophet and a Messenger.

Then Allah informs us of the benefit Musa was seeking by asking for such favours, which is:

كَىۡ نُسَبِّحَكَ كَثِيرً۬ا

That we may glorify You much.

وَنَذۡكُرَكَ كَثِيرًا

And remember You much.

Musa knew that acts of worship and the religion revolves around remembrance of Allah, thus he asked Allah to make his brother a partner in that – aiding and helping one another in righteousness and piety; to remember Allah profusely by way of Tasbeeh [i.e. Subhanallah], Tahleel [i.e. laa ilaaha illal laah] and other types of worship.

إِنَّكَ كُنتَ بِنَا بَصِيرً۬ا

Verily! You are of us Ever a Well-Seer.

Meaning: You know our situation and weaknesses; what we can and cannot do, and our complete need of You in every affair. You see our affair more than us [i.e. you see everything and nothing escapes your sight] and you are more Merciful to us than we have for ourselves; therefore bestow upon us what we have asked You and respond to our supplication.

After he made these supplications and requests, Allah said to him:

قَدۡ أُوتِيتَ سُؤۡلَكَ يَـٰمُوسَىٰ

You are granted your request, O Musa (Moses).

Meaning: I will grant you everything you’ve asked. I will grant you courage, make your task easy and remove the speech impediment from your tongue, so that your speech is understood; and I will make your brother -Hurun – your helper. Allah said in another verse:

وَنَجۡعَلُ لَكُمَا سُلۡطَـٰنً۬ا فَلَا يَصِلُونَ إِلَيۡكُمَا‌ۚ بِـَٔايَـٰتِنَآ أَنتُمَا وَمَنِ ٱتَّبَعَكُمَا ٱلۡغَـٰلِبُونَ

And give you both power, so they shall not be able to harm you, with Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), you two as well as those who follow you will be the victors.

These requests made by Musa show his perfect knowledge and awareness of Allāh, his perfect discernment, perfect knowledge about affairs and perfect sincerity. This is because the caller to the path of Allah- the one who guides the people, especially if the one being invited to the path of Allah is from the obstinate and haughty ones, and transgressors- is need of a courageous heart and complete forbearance, in order to bear the harm he might come across. He is in need of clear speech, in order to be able to express himself to the one he intends and wishes to address. Rather, a person in such a situation needs clear eloquent speech in order to present the truth in a proficient manner, beautify it as much as he is able and make it appealing to the people.

On the other hand, he shows the ugliness of falsehood, so as to repel people from it. Besides this, the caller is in need of being granted ease in his task by approaching affairs in the proper manner – calling to the path of Allah with wisdom, fine admonition and arguing in the best way. He should deal with every person whilst taking into consideration the situation of each person he addresses.

This matter becomes more accomplished when the caller has helpers and assistants, who will help him to reach this goal because when many people speak, it will have an effect and that is why Musa made those requests. If you examine the situation of the prophets – those sent to the people- you will discover this affair, especially the seal and most virtuous amongst them, Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him because he was at the highest peak in every perfect and good human characteristic. He had a courageous heart and was facilitated with the means of calling to Allah. His speech was eloquent – with fine expression and explanation- and he had companions who aided him to convey the truth, and (besides the Prophets and Messengers) none can ever excel those companions of Muhammad after their departure from this world. [1]

Imam Ibn Qayyim, may Allāh have mercy upon him, said:

A man asked Imam Ash-Shaafi’ee, may Allāh have mercy upon him, saying: “What would be better that one is granted strength and the authority to establish the path of Allah and His Messengers without any hindrance from those who belie or oppose Allah and His Messengers, or face trials (at first)?” Ash- Shaafi’ee said to him, “One will not be given strength and the authority to follow the path of Allah without any hindrance from those who belie or oppose Allah and His Messengers until after facing trials; for indeed Allah tried Nuh, Ibrahim, Musa, Eesa and Muhammad; then after they exercised patience, they were granted authority and strength to establish the path of Allah without hindrance”. Therefore, one should never think that he will escape pain. This is a great principle, thus, it is obligated to a sane person to be acquainted with it. Everyone will face afflictions, for indeed a person is a social being who must live with people; the people have wants (or desires, wishes etc) and perceptions, and will seek to make him agree with them. If he disagrees with them, they harm and punish him; but if he agrees with them, sometimes they harm him and at other times he is harmed by others.

Allah said:

فَٱصۡبِرۡ إِنَّ وَعۡدَ ٱللَّهِ حَقٌّ۬‌ۖ وَلَا يَسۡتَخِفَّنَّكَ ٱلَّذِينَ لَا يُوقِنُونَ

And let not those who have no certainty of faith, discourage you from conveying Allah’s Message (which you are obliged to convey)]. [Surah Ar-Rum’ 60]

Unlike the person upon certainty, the person who has no certainty in faith (or lacks certainty) does not remain firm, rather he acts carelessly, whereas certainty is the firm Iman in the heart based on knowledge and action. It may be that a person has sound knowledge but does not exercise patience during calamities; rather he is swayed by emotion.

Al-Hasan Al-Basri, may Allāh have mercy upon him, said:

If you wish to see someone with insight but has no patience, you will see him; and if you wish to see someone who has patience but not insight, you will see him; but if you see a person who has insight as well as patience, he is the one that Allah mentions in the verse:

وَجَعَلۡنَا مِنۡہُمۡ أَٮِٕمَّةً۬ يَہۡدُونَ بِأَمۡرِنَا لَمَّا صَبَرُواْ‌ۖ وَڪَانُواْ بِـَٔايَـٰتِنَا يُوقِنُونَ

And We made from among them (Children of Israel), leaders, giving guidance under Our Command, when they were patient and used to believe with certainty in Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.)]. [As-Sajdah’ 24] [2]

Imam As-Sadi said about this verse (Ar-Rum 60): [فَٱصۡبِرۡ – So be patient]: Meaning, upon that which you have been commanded and in calling them to the (path of) Allah; even if you see them turning away that should not turn you away from the call.

إِنَّ وَعۡدَ ٱللَّهِ حَقٌّ۬‌ۖ

Indeed, the promise of Allah is true.

Meaning, there is no doubt about that. This is from that which aids a person to exercise patience because when a servant (of Allāh) know that his deeds will not be in vain and will find a full reward for it (in the afterlife), then what he faces of hardship will become minor, and it will become much easy for him to bear every difficulty.

وَلَا يَسۡتَخِفَّنَّكَ ٱلَّذِينَ لَا يُوقِنُونَ

And let not those who have no certainty of faith, discourage you.

Meaning, their Iman is weak and their certainty is little, so their forbearance becomes lacking as result and their patience is little.

So, beware – out of fear – of being discouraged by these people because unless you are not careful about their affair, they will discourage you and lead you to not being firm in holding fast to the commands and prohibitions, and the soul may assist them in this affair, seek to be similar and to be in agreement with them. [3]

We ask Allāh:

اللَّهمَّ إنِّي أسألُكَ الثَّباتَ في الأمرِ والعزيمةَ على الرُّشدِ

O Allah! I ask You for firmness in this matter and determination to adhere to the path of guidance. [4]


[1] An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer kalam al-Mannaan’. explanation of Verses 24-36 Surah Taha). Slightly paraphrased

[2] An Excerpt from ‘Al-Fawaa’id’ pages 293-300. slightly paraphrased

[3] An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer kalam al-Mannaan’.

[4] Declared Saheeh Li-Ghayrihee By Imaam Al-Albaanee in Takhreej Mishkaat Al-Masaabeeh 915

A Faqih who could be challenging to work with

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Ibn Kamil, may Allah have mercy upon him.

Shaikh Al-Islam, Al-Allamah, Al-Hafidh, Al-Qadee, AbuBakr Ahmad Bin Kamil Bin Khalaf, Bin Shajarah al-Baghdadi, a student of Muhammad Ibn Jarir at-Tabari, may Allah have mercy upon him.

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, was born in the year 260 AH. He narrated from: Muḥammad Ibn al-Jahm al-Samaree, Muḥammad ibn Saʿd al-Awfee, Abdul Malik ibn Muḥammad al-Raqaashee, al-Ḥasan ibn Sallaam al-Sawwaaq, Muḥammad ibn Maslamah al-Waasitee, and others of their generation.

Ad-Daraqutnee al-Ḥakim, Ibn Rizqawayh, Abu al-Alaa Muḥammad ibn al-Ḥasan al-Warraaq, Yaḥyah ibn Ibraaheem al-Muzakkee, Abu al-Ḥasan al-Ḥammaamee, Abu ʿAli ibn Shaadhaan, and others, narrated from him. Abu al-Ḥasan ibn Rizqawayh said: “My eyes have not seen anyone like him, and I heard him mention his date of birth”.

Al-Khaṭeeb said:

“He was from the scholars of the Ahkam (of the Shariah), the sciences of the Qur’an, grammar, poetry, and history, and he had authorships in that. He held the position of judge at Kufa”.

Ad-Daaraqutnee said:

“He was Mutasaahil and may (sometimes) narrate from his memory that which is not in his book, and Ujub (self-amazement) ruined him”.

Ibn Shajarah died in the month of Muḥarram in the year 350 AH, at the age of ninety.

Ad-Daaraqutnee said:

“He (Ibn kamil) did not give weight to anyone among the Fuqahaa”. Ibn Ad-Dhahabee said: “I came across some of his more elevated-isnad narrations, and he was among the seas of knowledge, but self-amazement made him fade away (drop out of sight)”.

He wrote a book on Qiraa’aat. He has an authorship on Ghareeb Al-Qur’an, a book (titled) “Mujaz al-Taʾweel An Muʿjiz at-Tanzeel, a book on history and a book on contracts (Ash-Shurut).”

An Excerpt from Siyar A’lam An-Nubulaa 15/54

[14] The Self-Evident and Irresistible Nature of Pure Islamic Monotheism

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Allah, The Most High, said:

مَثَلُ ٱلَّذِينَ ٱتَّخَذُواْ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ أَوۡلِيَآءَ كَمَثَلِ ٱلۡعَنڪَبُوتِ ٱتَّخَذَتۡ بَيۡتً۬ا‌ۖ وَإِنَّ أَوۡهَنَ ٱلۡبُيُوتِ لَبَيۡتُ ٱلۡعَنڪَبُوتِ‌ۖ لَوۡ ڪَانُواْ يَعۡلَمُونَ

The likeness of those who take Auliya’ (protectors and helpers) other than Allaah is as the likeness of a spider, who builds (for itself) a house, but verily, the frailest (weakest) of houses is the spider’s house, if they but knew. [Al-Ankabut. 41]

Imam As-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Allah presents this similitude regarding those who worship others besides Him, seeking honour, strength and benefit through (them), yet the matter is the opposite of the goal they seek, for their likeness is that of a spider that builds a house to protect itself from the heat, cold and harm, but the frailest and weakest of houses is the spider’s house. [1]

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

Allah mentions that they are weak and that those whom they take as protectors and helpers are weaker than them. With regards to their weakness and their goal behind taking others as protectors and helpers besides Allah, they are similar to a spider that builds a house, which is the frailest and weakest of houses.

Based on this parable, the polytheists become much weaker when they take others as protectors and helpers besides Allah, and they do not benefit from those they take as protectors and helpers besides Allah, as Allah stated (in another verse):

وَٱتَّخَذُواْ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ ءَالِهَةً۬ لِّيَكُونُواْ لَهُمۡ عِزًّ۬ا
كَلَّا‌ۚ سَيَكۡفُرُونَ بِعِبَادَتِہِمۡ وَيَكُونُونَ عَلَيۡہِمۡ ضِدًّا

And they have taken (for worship) Aaliha (gods) besides Allah, that they might give them honour, power and glory (and also protect them from Allah’s Punishment etc.). Nay, but they (the so-called gods) will deny their worship of them, and become opponents to them (on the Day of Resurrection). [Maryam. 82-83]

And Allah said:

وَٱتَّخَذُواْ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ ءَالِهَةً۬ لَّعَلَّهُمۡ يُنصَرُونَ
لَا يَسۡتَطِيعُونَ نَصۡرَهُمۡ وَهُمۡ لَهُمۡ جُندٌ۬ مُّحۡضَرُونَ

And they have taken besides Allah Aaliha (gods), hoping that they might be helped (by those so-called gods). They cannot help them, but they will be brought forward as a troop against those who worshipped them (at the time of Reckoning). [Yaa Seen. 74-75]

And after mentioning the destruction of the nations of the polytheists, Allah said:

وَمَا ظَلَمۡنَـٰهُمۡ وَلَـٰكِن ظَلَمُوٓاْ أَنفُسَہُمۡ‌ۖ فَمَآ أَغۡنَتۡ عَنۡہُمۡ ءَالِهَتُہُمُ ٱلَّتِى يَدۡعُونَ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ مِن شَىۡءٍ۬ لَّمَّا جَآءَ أَمۡرُ رَبِّكَ‌ۖ وَمَا زَادُوهُمۡ غَيۡرَ تَتۡبِيبٍ۬

We wronged them not, but they wronged themselves. So their Aaliha (gods), other than Allah, whom they invoked, profited them naught when there came the Command of your Lord, nor did they add aught (to their lot) but destruction. [Hud. 101]

These four places in the Qur’an show that the one who takes protectors and helpers besides Allah- through whom he seeks to strengthen himself, behave arrogantly and prevail- will not achieve except the opposite, and there is a lot more about this in the Qur’an. This is one of the finest parables and the clearest proofs regarding the falsehood of Shirk and the deprivation of the one who commits Shirk, and that he will achieve the opposite of what he seeks. [2]


[1] An Excerpt from “Tafsir as-Sadi”

[2] An Excerpt from Bada’i at-Tafseer Al-Jaami Lima Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibnul Qayyim. 2/299-300