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Heedless (or Oblivious) of The Causes of Calamity and Boastful When Granted Relief

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Fitnah, History of Islam, Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Shirk, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

وَلَقَدۡ أَخَذۡنَآ ءَالَ فِرۡعَوۡنَ بِٱلسِّنِينَ

And indeed We punished the people of Fir’aun (Pharaoh) with years of famine.

Meaning: Afflictions and drought for a long time.

وَنَقۡصٍ۬ مِّنَ ٱلثَّمَرَٲتِ لَعَلَّهُمۡ يَذَّڪَّرُونَ

And shortness of fruits (crops, etc.), that they might remember (take heed.

Meaning: They were afflicted so that they become aware that what befell them was a punishment from Allah and so that they may abandon their disbelief. However, neither was this admonition useful for them nor benefitted them, instead they persisted in transgression and corruption.

Then Allah, The Most High, said:

فَإِذَا جَآءَتۡهُمُ ٱلۡحَسَنَةُ قَالُواْ لَنَا هَـٰذِهِۦ‌ۖ

But whenever good came to them, they said: “Ours is this”.

Meaning: When the land became fertile and provision was in abundance, they said, “We deserve this” and they did not thank Allah.

Then Allah, The Most High, said:

وَإِن تُصِبۡہُمۡ سَيِّئَةٌ۬ يَطَّيَّرُواْ بِمُوسَىٰ وَمَن مَّعَهُ

And if evil afflicted them, they ascribed it to evil omens connected with Musa (Moses) and those with him.

Meaning: When the afflictions and drought reappeared, they said, “This came to us due to the presence of Musa and those who follow him”.

Then Allah,  The Most High, said:

أَلَآ إِنَّمَا طَـٰٓٮِٕرُهُمۡ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ وَلَـٰكِنَّ أَڪۡثَرَهُمۡ لَا يَعۡلَمُونَ

Be informed! Verily, their evil omens are with Allah but most of them know not.

Meaning: The afflictions reappeared by the divine will and decree of Allah and not what you think; rather your sins and disbelief is the reason that brought about these afflictions. [1]

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

A thought came to my mind about the calamities, hardships and great afflictions that take place in the world, so I said: Glorified is Allah and free is He from all imperfections! Indeed, Allah is The Most Generous of all those who show generosity, and generosity necessitates forbearance and forgiveness. So how do we look at these punishments? I contemplated and saw that the presence of many people is as if they do not exist. They neither study the evidences about the Oneness of Allah [in His Lordship, Names and Attributes and that He alone has the right to be worshipped], nor do they abide by Allāh’s commands and prohibitions, instead, they carry on in their habits like cattle. And unless the Islamic legislation agrees with what they want, otherwise they cling to selfish interests. And after obtaining the Deenaar (money), they do not care whether it was (earned) through lawful or unlawful (means). They pray when it is easy for them, otherwise they abandon the prayer. Amongst them are those who openly commit great sins, whilst being aware of its prohibition. And it may be that there is a scholar with robust understanding, but his sins are grave indeed. Thus, I came to know that even when the punishments are great, they are lesser (in severity) than their crimes. And when punishments occur to wipe away sins, those (responsible for such sins) say: ‘’Which sin is this for?’’ and they forget what has proceeded (i.e. their sins). An old man becomes so insignificant to the extent that the hearts become sympathetic, while he is unaware of the fact that this is due to not giving importance to the commandments of Allah in his youth. [2]

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

Indeed, I have witnessed (the situation) of many people – those who are unaware of the (real) meaning of life. Amongst them is one who has no need of seeking after a livelihood due to his abundant wealth, but he sits in the market most of the day staring at the people, and how many offensive (things) and evil deeds go past him! Amongst them is one devoted to playing chess, others pass time by talking about the rulers and others talk about the high and low prices of (goods and services).

Thus, I knew that Allah, The Most High, has not given everyone the blessing to realise the nobility of (one’s) life span and acquaintance with the value of (one’s( period of well-being, except to the one whom it is bestowed and blessed with the zeal to profit from that. [3]

[1] An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer kalaam Al-Mannaan’ of Imaam Sadi (rahimahullaah). Surah Al-Araaf 130-131]

[2] An Excerpt from Saydul Khatir. page: 18-19. slightly paraphrased.

[3] An Excerpt from Saydul Khatir. page:241. Slightly paraphrased

 

[20] Notification to Ahlul Bidah and The Mumayyi’ah: These Clarifications Are Coming Back!

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Bid'ah (Innovation), Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Shirk, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Interactions

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

The first group is those whose companionship is akin to nourishment, essential for both morning and evening. One leaves it once their needs are fulfilled, and returns to it when in need. These people are those who know Allah, His commandments, the plots employed by His enemies, the diseases of the hearts, and the remedies to heal them. They are sincere to Allah, His Messenger, and His creation, and their company brings forth comprehensive benefits.

The second group is those whose companionship can be compared to vital medication needed during periods of illness. Thus, you do not need to intermingle with them as long as you are healthy. These are people one cannot do without when it comes to beneficial aspects of life, such as sustaining a livelihood, fulfilling various dealings, engaging in partnerships, seeking consultation, receiving medical aid, and so forth.

The third group is those whose companionship resembles various diseases, each with its level of severity and mildness. Within this group, there is one whose companionship is akin to a chronic illness. This particular person does not bring any benefit to your religious or worldly matters, and in fact, associating with them may result in a loss in either or both aspects of your life. Therefore, if you engage with this person, it would be like a disease that could ultimately lead to your demise. Among them, there is one whose companionship is comparable to a toothache whose pain intensifies, but abates once the toothache disappears.

The fourth group is those whose companionship is utterly destructive, and associating with them is akin to consuming poison. Common indeed is this among the people! May Allah not increase their numbers, and they are the advocates of misguidance and innovation in religious matters. They obstruct others from following the path of the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and instead call to that which is in opposition to it. They divert people from the path of Allah and strive to distort it, presenting innovation in religious matters as if they were part of the Sunnah, and misrepresenting virtues as vices and vices as virtues. Whenever you establish pure Islamic monotheism among them, they say, “You have degraded the Awliyaa [friends of Allah]”. [Footnote a] And when you adhere strictly to the path of the Messenger, they say, “You have invalidated the adherence to the path of the Imams”. [Footnote b] Furthermore, when you enjoin what Allah and His Messenger have commanded and forbid what they have forbidden, they say, “You are subjecting people to trials”. [Footnote c] [1]

—————————————-

Footnote a:

Al-Allamah Muqbil Bin Hadi Al-Wadi’i, may Allah have mercy upon him,stated: Allah, Glorified and Exalted be He, said:

وَعَجِبُوٓاْ أَن جَآءَهُم مُّنذِرٌ۬ مِّنۡہُمۡ‌ۖ وَقَالَ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرُونَ هَـٰذَا سَـٰحِرٌ۬ كَذَّابٌ
أَجَعَلَ ٱلۡأَلِهَةَ إِلَـٰهً۬ا وَٲحِدًا‌ۖ إِنَّ هَـٰذَا لَشَىۡءٌ عُجَابٌ۬
وَٱنطَلَقَ ٱلۡمَلَأُ مِنۡہُمۡ أَنِ ٱمۡشُواْ وَٱصۡبِرُواْ عَلَىٰٓ ءَالِهَتِكُمۡ‌ۖ إِنَّ هَـٰذَا لَشَىۡءٌ۬ يُرَادُ
مَا سَمِعۡنَا بِہَـٰذَا فِى ٱلۡمِلَّةِ ٱلۡأَخِرَةِ إِنۡ هَـٰذَآ إِلَّا ٱخۡتِلَـٰقٌ
أَءُنزِلَ عَلَيۡهِ ٱلذِّكۡرُ مِنۢ بَيۡنِنَا‌ۚ بَلۡ هُمۡ فِى شَكٍّ۬ مِّن ذِكۡرِى‌ۖ بَل لَّمَّا يَذُوقُواْ عَذَابِ

And they wonder that a warner (Prophet Muhammad) has come to them from among themselves! And the disbelievers say, “This (Prophet Muhammad) is a sorcerer, a liar. Has he made the aaliha (gods) (all) into One Ilaah (God – Allah). Verily, this is a curious thing!” And the leaders among them went about (saying), “Go on and remain constant to your aaliha (gods)! Verily, this is a thing designed (against you)! We have not heard (the like) of this among the people of these later days. This is nothing but an invention! Has the Reminder been sent down to him (alone) from among us?” Nay! But they are in doubt about My Reminder (this Qur’an)! Nay, but they have not tasted (My) Torment! [Surah Sa’d. 4-8]

So, you say to the Raafidah, “Indeed, it is shirk to invoke other than Allah with regards to seeking benefit and protection from harm in a matter which none can (fulfil) besides Allah. It is not permissible to invoke Ali Ibn Abee Taalib [may Allah be pleased with him] or other than him amongst the dead [may Allah have mercy upon them] because Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] said:

وَٱلَّذِينَ تَدۡعُونَ مِن دُونِهِۦ مَا يَمۡلِكُونَ مِن قِطۡمِيرٍ
إِن تَدۡعُوهُمۡ لَا يَسۡمَعُواْ دُعَآءَكُمۡ وَلَوۡ سَمِعُواْ مَا ٱسۡتَجَابُواْ لَكُمۡۖ وَيَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ يَكۡفُرُونَ بِشِرۡڪِكُمۡۚ وَلَا يُنَبِّئُكَ مِثۡلُ خَبِيرٍ۬

And those, whom you invoke or call upon instead of Him, own not even a Qitmeer (the thin membrane over the date stone). If you invoke (or call upon) them, they hear not your call, and if (in case) they were to hear, they could not grant it (your request) to you. And on the Day of Resurrection, they will disown your worshipping them. And none can inform you (O Muhammad) like Him Who is the All-Knower (of each and everything). O mankind! it is you who stand in need of Allah, but Allah is Rich (Free of all wants and needs), Worthy of all praise. [Surah Fatir. 13-14]

And Allah said:
وَمَنۡ أَضَلُّ مِمَّن يَدۡعُواْ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ مَن لَّا يَسۡتَجِيبُ لَهُ ۥۤ إِلَىٰ يَوۡمِ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ وَهُمۡ عَن دُعَآٮِٕهِمۡ غَـٰفِلُونَ
وَإِذَا حُشِرَ ٱلنَّاسُ كَانُواْ لَهُمۡ أَعۡدَآءً۬ وَكَانُواْ بِعِبَادَتِہِمۡ كَـٰفِرِينَ

And who is more astray than one who calls (invokes) besides Allah, such as will not answer him till the Day of Resurrection, and who are (even) unaware of their calls (invocations) to them? And when mankind are gathered (on the Day of Resurrection), they (false deities) will become enemies for them and will deny their worshipping.’ [Surah Al-Ahqaf. 5-6]

And Allah said:
وَمَن يَدۡعُ مَعَ ٱللَّهِ إِلَـٰهًا ءَاخَرَ لَا بُرۡهَـٰنَ لَهُ ۥ بِهِۦ فَإِنَّمَا حِسَابُهُ ۥ عِندَ رَبِّهِۦۤ‌ۚ إِنَّهُ ۥ لَا يُفۡلِحُ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرُونَ

And whoever invokes (or worships), besides Allah, any other ilaah (god), of whom he has no proof, then his reckoning is only with his Lord. Surely! Al-Kaafiroon (the disbelievers in Allah and in the Oneness of Allah, polytheists, pagans, idolaters, etc.) will not be successful.’ [Surah Al-Muminoon. 117]

And if you say, “Indeed others have joined them (i.e. the Mushrikoon) in this (affair”, so I say, “Whoever joins them in this (affair of shirk) is similar to them”. Read https://www.manhaj.com/manhaj/articles/xyjjc-takfir-and-the-excuse-of-ignorance-shaykh-saalih-al-fawzaan-5—on-those-who-worship-the-righteous.cfm

Allah said:
وَلَا تَدۡعُ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ مَا لَا يَنفَعُكَ وَلَا يَضُرُّكَ‌ۖ فَإِن فَعَلۡتَ فَإِنَّكَ إِذً۬ا مِّنَ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ
وَإِن يَمۡسَسۡكَ ٱللَّهُ بِضُرٍّ۬ فَلَا ڪَاشِفَ لَهُ ۥۤ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ وَإِن يُرِدۡكَ بِخَيۡرٍ۬ فَلَا رَآدَّ لِفَضۡلِهِۦ‌ۚ يُصِيبُ بِهِۦ مَن يَشَآءُ مِنۡ عِبَادِهِۦ‌ۚ وَهُوَ ٱلۡغَفُورُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ

And invoke not besides Allah, any that will neither profit you, nor hurt you, but if (in case) you did so, you shall certainly be one of the Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrongdoers). And if Allah touches you with hurt, there is none who can remove it but He; and if He intends any good for you, there is none who can repel His Favour which He causes it to reach whomsoever of His slaves He will. And He is the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.’ [Surah Yunus. 106-107]

When you convey these verses and what is similar to them to the (Rawaafid), and then say to them, “Indeed, is it permissible to call upon the dead and seek deliverance and rescue from them?” They (say), “You are a Wahhaabi. You hate the family of the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him]”. This is the same regarding the extreme Soofees when you say, “Indeed, the Awliyaa can neither benefit nor harm”, they say, “You hate the Awliyaa”. Indeed, mighty is the statement that comes out of the mouths of these two sects; they utter nothing but a lie! [2]

Footnote b:

“Why do the Salafīs say that it’s impermissible to blindly follow the Great Imāms such as Abu Hanīfah, Mālik, Ash-Shāfi’ī and Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, yet they blindly follow the scholars such as Ibn Bāz, Ibn Uthaymīn, Al-Albānī, etc?” Question 4 in the Manhaj.

Cling To The Sunnah And Avoid Taqleed – Tele-link with Abu Khadeejah ‘Abdul-Wāhid

Footnote c:
https://abukhadeejah.com/the-great-virtue-and-principles-of-enjoining-the-good-and-forbidding-evil-by-imam-al-barbahari-d-329h-and-al-fawzan/#:~:text=’%20Rather%20you%20should%20enjoin%20the,just%20go%20along%20with%20them.

[1]An Excerpt from “Bada’i at-Tafsir Al-Jami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim 3/467-469

[2]An Excerpt from “Ilhaadul Khomeini Fee Ardil Haramayn”. Pages 206-207

[19] Notification to Ahlul Bidah and The Mumayyi’ah: These Clarifications Are Coming Back!

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Bid'ah (Innovation), Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

The Mufti, Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, was asked about warning against the groups of illegal partisanship, so he stated:

Response

it is obligatory to clarify the danger of (illegal) partisanship and dividing and splitting so that the people can be upon insight and understanding because even the common people are being deceived.

How many of the common people in this time have been fooled by some of the groups because they believe that they are upon the truth? So it is a must that we clarify to the people, the students and the common people, the danger of these parties and sects because if they remained silent [i.e. the scholars] then the people would say, “The scholars were aware of this and they remained silent.” Due to this innovation would enter upon them. So it is necessary to clarify these matters when these things appear. The danger for the common people is greater than the danger [posed] to the students because if the scholars remain silent the common people will think that this is correct and that this is the truth.

Al-Ajwibah Al-Mufeedah page 131

An Introspective Scrutiny of the Conscience – Before Sunrise – Through Some Admonitions of the Virtuous

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah', Zuhd (Abstinence).

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

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

When a person does not act on the truth he is in need of- neither affirming nor loving it, he is an oppressor against himself. When he affirms or loves falsehood, and follows his desires, he is an oppressor against himself.

Oppressing oneself occurs due to following conjecture and what the soul desires, and this can occur through following one’s views and desires.

Bidah is the basis of evil and that is to give precedence to one’s intellect over the divin text and choosing one’s desires over the fulfilment of a command; and following guidance is the basis of good, as Allah, The Most High, said:

فَإِمَّا يَأۡتِيَنَّڪُم مِّنِّى هُدً۬ى فَمَنِ ٱتَّبَعَ هُدَاىَ فَلَا يَضِلُّ وَلَا يَشۡقَىٰ
وَمَنۡ أَعۡرَضَ عَن ذِڪۡرِى فَإِنَّ لَهُ ۥ مَعِيشَةً۬ ضَنكً۬ا وَنَحۡشُرُهُ ۥ يَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ أَعۡمَىٰ

Then if there comes to you guidance from Me, then whoever follows My Guidance shall neither go astray, nor fall into distress and misery. “But whosoever turns away from My Reminder (i.e. neither believes in this Quran nor acts on its orders, etc.) verily, for him is a life of hardship, and We shall raise him up blind on the Day of Resurrection.” [Ta Ha. 123-124] [1]

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

The human being does not hate truth due to considering it to be falsehood; rather he loves truth through his Fitra and loves falsehood due to his desires and lusts. The shift towards success or loss defends on what he gives preference to. Allah said:

فَأَمَّا مَن طَغَىٰ
وَءَاثَرَ ٱلۡحَيَوٰةَ ٱلدُّنۡيَا
فَإِنَّ ٱلۡجَحِيمَ هِىَ ٱلۡمَأۡوَىٰ
وَأَمَّا مَنۡ خَافَ مَقَامَ رَبِّهِۦ وَنَهَى ٱلنَّفۡسَ عَنِ ٱلۡهَوَىٰ
فَإِنَّ ٱلۡجَنَّةَ هِىَ ٱلۡمَأۡوَىٰ

Then, for him who Tagha (transgressed) and preferred the life of this world (by following his evil desires and lusts), Verily, his abode will be Hellfire; But as for him who feared standing before his Lord, and restrained himself from impure evil desires, and lusts. Verily, Paradise will be his abode. [An-Naazi’aat. 37-41] [2]

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

The servant does not embark upon that which he has been forbidden except through two ways- either due harbouring evil thoughts about his Lord that if he were to obey Allah and preferred Him, Allaah will not grant him that which is better from the lawful things; or he acknowledges that (Allaah will grant him something better than the forbidden thing he wants) and that whoever leaves something for Allah’s sake, Allaah will replace it with something better; but lusts overcomes his patience and desires overcomes his intellect. The first affair is due to weakness in knowledge and the second a weakness in intellect and insight. [3]

Illegal Partisanship

A person sees that acknowledging the truth would necessitate an acknowledgment that he was upon falsehood. A person is nurtured upon a religion, creed, school of thought or views acquired from his nurturer and teacher, which he considers to be the truth and followed it for a long time.

Then when it becomes clear to him that (such religion, creed, view or school of thought) is false, it becomes difficult for him to acknowledge, just as when his forefathers, ancestors or the one he follows are upon a (particular) way and then its falsity is clarified for him. This is because he sees that their deficiencies necessitate his own deficiencies and acknowledgement of their misguidance or errors necessitates his own deficiencies.

In this era of ours, you even see a woman who comes across an issue related to the religion – in which there is a difference of opinion between the mother of the believers Aa’isha and others amongst the companions, may Allah be pleased with them, so she defends Aa’isha’s position solely due to the fact that Aaisha is a woman like her. When she presumes and then claims that Aa’isha is correct and those men who oppose her position are mistaken, in this is an affirmation of Aa’isha’s virtue over those men, which then becomes a virtue for women unrestrictedly and she receives some of that. And through this appears – to you – the underlying reasons behind the bigoted partisanship of an Arab to an Arab, a Persian to a Persian, a Turk to a Turk and other than that. [4]

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

How many a person knows about love of Allah, its rulings and all the affairs it necessitates, but his heart is deprived of it?! And how many a servant (of Allah) knows and bears witness to the pre-decree of Allah and the excellence of sufficing oneself with Him, but when that which has been decreed takes place in opposition to what he desires, you see him anxious- having no tranquility and certainty, nor repose?! And only the one whose heart has acquired knowledge and awareness of Allah in truth is at ease with the fact that Allaah is sufficient for him, whilst submitting to His judgements regardless what the state of affairs may turn out to be.  And how many a person knows the rulings of trade and its details, but at the time of dealing, buying and selling, he does not deal in a beautiful manner with others?!  So, do not be deceived when you know something that you will be attributed to it. This is why it is obligated on a person to ask Allaah for beneficial knowledge- knowledge that produces [righteous] deeds.  And Allaah knows best. [5]

One day Sufyaan Ath-Thawree, may Allah have mercy upon him, sat and spoke, while Sa’eed Ibn As-Saa’ib at-Taa’ifee, may Allah have mercy upon him, was present in the gathering; so Sa’eed started weeping until Sufyaan felt sorry for him. Then Sufyaan said to him, “O Sa’eed! What makes you weep when you heard me mentioning the good people and their deeds?” He said, “O Sufyaan! What should prevent me from weeping, for when the stations of the good people are mentioned, I am not from them’. So Sufyaan said, ‘You have a right [or it is befitting that] you weep”. [6]

[1] Sharh al-Hadith “Allaahummah Innee Zalamtu Nafsee Katheeran. page 66.

[2] At-Tankeel Bimaa Fee Ta’neeb Al-Kawtharee Minal Baatil. 2/179 with the checking of Imam al Albaanee, may Allah have mercy upon him.

[3] An Excerpt from Al-Fawaa’d. page 78

[4] Aathaar Ash-Shaikh Al-Allaamah Abdur Rahmaan Bin Yahyaa al-Mu’allimee. 11/294

[5] Majmu Al-Fawaa’id Waqtinaas Al-Awaabid. Faa’idah Number 14

[6] Muhaasabah An-Nafs page 76- By Ibn Abee Dunya, may Allah have mercy upon him.

An Incident at Fustat: When Status Meets Truth, Humility as the Scholar’s Test and Shield

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Featured, History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah', Zuhd (Abstinence).

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

Imam Abu Bakr Ibn Al-Arabi Al-Maliki, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Muhammad Bin Qasim Al-Uthmani, may Allah have mercy upon him, told me more than once:

“I arrived in Fustat one day, then I went to the gathering of Shaikh Abi Al-Fadl Al-Jawhari, may Allah have mercy upon him, and there I witnessed a statement that he uttered to the people. And that which he stated – in the first gathering when I sat with him – was that ‘The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, طلق – i.e. he did divorce, ظاهر – i.e. he did utter the statement to a wife, ‘You are like my mother’s back’, and آلى – i.e. he made an oath to abandon his wives for a month”.

When he (i.e. Shaikh Abi Al-Fadl Al-Jawhari) left, I followed him until I reached his house with a group of people; then he sat with us in the vestibule and acquainted them with my affair because he saw a stranger [i.e. I (Muhammad Bin Qasim)] and did not know the person among those who came to him before. When most of them departed from him, he said to me, “I see that you are a stranger; do you have anything to say?” I said, “Yes”. He said to his companions, “Excuse him from having to speak in your presence”, so, they got up and I stayed alone with him. I said to him, “I attended your gathering today so that Allah may bless me (with some of the knowledge you possess), and I heard you say, ‘Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] آلى – i.e. he once made an oath to abandon his wives for a month and what you said was true; طلق – i.e. he did divorce women, and what you said was true, and you said that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, ظاهر i.e. he did utter the statement to a wife, ‘You are like my mother’s back’, but this never happened and can never be correct to say that it happened because Az-Zihaar [i.e. to say to one’s wife, ‘You are like my mother’s back’ (i.e. unlawful for me to approach)] is an evil statement and false speech, and this can never be uttered by the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him”. He hugged and kissed my forehead, and said, “I repent from this statement. May Allah reward you on my behalf as a good teacher”.

I departed from his presence, and the next day I went early to his gathering, but he was in the Central Masjid before me and was sitting on the pulpit. When I entered the Masjid and thus he saw me, he called out at the top of his voice (saying), “Welcome, my teacher. Make room for my teacher”. So, the people turned towards me and their eyes stared at me! O Abu Bakr! And you know me – meaning, he (i.e. Muhammad Bin Qasim Al-Uthmani) was indicating to Ibn Al-Arabi about his extremely shy character because when someone greeted him by surprise, he would feel shy – due to his extreme shyness – and turned red as if his face was painted with Gulnaar (pomegranate blossom). He (i.e. Muhammad Bin Qasim) continued, “People hastened towards me, raising their hands towards me (i.e. acknowledging me) and nudging me until I reached the pulpit, and I did not know in which part of the earth I was due to my extreme shyness (i.e. shocked), whilst the Masjid was overcrowded with people and I sweated due to shyness. Then the Shaikh turned towards the people and said to them, ‘I am your teacher and this is my teacher! Yesterday, I told you that Allah’s Messenger آلى – i.e. he once made an oath to abandon his wives for a month; طلق – i.e. he did divorce women, and ظاهر i.e. he once uttered the statement to a wife, ‘You are like my mother’s back’, and neither did a single one of you give me the correct understanding nor respond to me, but he (i.e. Muhammad Bin Qaasim) followed me to my house and said such and such to me. I repeat (i.e. right now) what took place between him and I, repent from yesterday’s statement, and return to the truth. Whoever hears it from those who were present, let him not rely on what he says, and let the one who is present convey this affair to the absent one. May Allaah reward him with good’”. Then he (i.e. Shaikh Abee Al-Fadl) started supplicating a lot and the people responded with Aameen.

Ibn Al-Arabi stated – after narrating this incident- “So look – may Allah have mercy upon you – at this firm adherence to the religion and an acknowledgment of the people of knowledge given by this man – whose leadership was manifest and whose worth was well known- to a stranger whom he neither knew nor where he came from! Follow his example and you’ll be led aright”. [Ahkam Al-Qur’an 1/248-249]

———————————

Zihaar: Allah [The Exalted] says:

ٱلَّذِينَ يُظَـٰهِرُونَ مِنكُم مِّن نِّسَآٮِٕهِم مَّا هُنَّ أُمَّهَـٰتِهِمۡ‌ۖ إِنۡ أُمَّهَـٰتُهُمۡ إِلَّا ٱلَّـٰٓـِٔى وَلَدۡنَهُمۡ‌ۚ وَإِنَّہُمۡ لَيَقُولُونَ مُنڪَرً۬ا مِّنَ ٱلۡقَوۡلِ وَزُورً۬ا‌ۚ وَإِنَّ

Those among you who make their wives unlawful (Az-Zihar) to them by saying to them “You are like my mother’s back.” They cannot be their mothers. None can be their mothers except those who gave them birth. And verily, they utter an evil statement and a lie. [Surah Al-Mujaadilah. Ayah 2]

Two Timeless Traits That Have Always Defined Ideal Role Models

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Articles, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Scholars of Islam, Shirk, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Two Timeless Traits That Have Always Defined Ideal Role Models—No Matter the Era and Competition For Global Influence

Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, said:

إِنَّ إِبْرَٰهِيمَ كَانَ أُمَّةً قَانِتًا لِّلَّهِ حَنِيفًا وَلَمْ يَكُ مِنَ ٱلْمُشْرِكِينَ

Verily, Ibrahim was an Ummah (leader), Qanitan (obedient), Hanifan (one who worshipped Allah alone), and he was not one of the Mushrikeen (polytheists and those who associate partners with Allah in worship). [An-Nahl. 120]

Ibrahim, peace be upon him, is the leader of the Hunafaa (the adherents to Tawhid) and this is why Allah said to him: [إِنِّى جَاعِلُكَ لِلنَّاسِ إِمَامًا – Verily, I am going to make you a leader (Prophet) of humankind]. [Al-Baqarah. 124]

It is a tradition among people to align themselves with prominent figures, particularly those they deeply respect. Therefore, if an individual claims that their chosen leader is an Imam (a virtuous guide), it is important to recognise that no Imam surpasses Prophet Ibrahim (following Prophet Muhammad). Allah has made declarations regarding Prophet Ibrahim:

وَمَن يَرْغَبُ عَن مِّلَّةِ إِبْرَٰهِۦمَ إِلَّا مَن سَفِهَ نَفْسَهُۥ

And who turns away from the religion of Ibrahim (i.e. Islamic Monotheism) except him who befools himself]! [Al-Baqarah. 130]

When an individual relies this as evidence to assert that the person they follow is an Imam, it is essential to scrutinise the Aqeedah (Islamic Creed) of that individual whom they elevate to the status of Imam. This evaluation should be conducted in accordance with the Qur’an to determine if he belongs to the adherents of Tawhid. Should someone attempt to validate the position of Imam as a form of proof, it is imperative that this proof entails a thorough examination of the Aqeedah of the individual designated as Imam, assessed against the Qur’an and the authentic Sunnah, to ascertain whether he embodies the principles of Tawhid. Furthermore, Allah, the Mighty and Majestic, said regarding the Prophet:

لَّقَدْ كَانَ لَكُمْ فِى رَسُولِ ٱللَّهِ أُسْوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ لِّمَن كَانَ يَرْجُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلْيَوْمَ ٱلْءَاخِرَ وَذَكَرَ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرًا

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. [Surah Al-Ahzab. 21] (1)

Prophet Saul, peace be upon him

Allah, The Exalted, stated about the Children of Israel:

وَقَالَ لَهُمْ نَبِيُّهُمْ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ قَدْ بَعَثَ لَكُمْ طَالُوتَ مَلِكًا قَالُوٓا۟ أَنَّىٰ يَكُونُ لَهُ ٱلْمُلْكُ عَلَيْنَا وَنَحْنُ أَحَقُّ بِٱلْمُلْكِ مِنْهُ وَلَمْ يُؤْتَ سَعَةً مِّنَ ٱلْمَالِ قَالَ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ ٱصْطَفَىٰهُ عَلَيْكُمْ وَزَادَهُۥ بَسْطَةً فِى ٱلْعِلْمِ وَٱلْجِسْمِ وَٱللَّهُ يُؤْتِى مُلْكَهُۥ مَن يَشَآءُ وَٱللَّهُ وَٰسِعٌ عَلِيمٌ

And their Prophet (Samuel) said to them, “Indeed Allah has appointed Talut (Saul) as a king over you.” They said, “How can he be a king over us when we are better fitted than him for the kingdom, and he has not been given enough wealth.” He said: “Verily, Allah has chosen him above you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and stature. And Allah grants His Kingdom to whom He wills. And Allah is All-Sufficient for His creatures’ needs, All-Knower.” [Al-Baqarah 247]

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

He [Talut] was given deep insight and physical strength through which he was qualified for his position as king because if he has deep insight and the ability to implement the right decision, he will be able to fulfil this role in the most perfect manner; but if he lacked one of the two, he would not be able to do his job properly. If he was physically strong but lacked deep insight, a king would be unsuccessful in running the affairs of the kingdom because his strength would not be utilised wisely. If he had deep insight but did not have the strength to implement any decisions, his insight would not benefit him because he would not be able to achieve anything. [2]

The Goal Behind Leadership

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

The difference between the desire for righteous leadership as opposed to merely desiring leadership: It is the difference between exalting the command of Allah and being sincere to Allah as opposed to love of exalting oneself and hastening towards the fulfilment of desires. Indeed the one who is sincere to Allah and exalts Him, he loves that his Lord is obeyed and not disobeyed; [loves that] Allah’s Word should be uppermost and that all affairs of the religion should be established sincerely for the sake of Allah, and [that] the servants should obey Allah’s commands and keep away from what Allah has forbidden. He is sincere in his servitude to Allah and sincere to Allah’s creation in calling them to the path of Allah. So he loves to be [an upright] leader in the religion; rather he asks his Lord to make him from the leaders of the righteous people who are followed, just as he is a follower of the righteous. Therefore, if this servant of Allah who calls to the path of Allah- loves that he is considered dignified in the eyes [of the people], revered and beloved in their hearts and is one followed amongst them, so that he is trusted by them and they follow the example of the Messenger through him, then this [desire of his] does not harm him; rather he is praised for it. That is because the caller to Allah loves that Allah is obeyed and singled out in worship. He loves to be a means by way of which [people] are aided to [obey Allah, single out Allah in worship and follow the Messenger]. And due to this, [when] Allah mentioned those chosen slaves of His- whom He praised in His revelation and will grant the best of reward on the day they meet Him- He mentioned them with the best of their deeds and characteristics, and then said:

وَٱلَّذِينَ يَقُولُونَ رَبَّنَا هَبْ لَنَا مِنْ أَزْوَٰجِنَا وَذُرِّيَّٰتِنَا قُرَّةَ أَعْيُنٍ وَٱجْعَلْنَا لِلْمُتَّقِينَ إِمَامًا

And those who say: “Our Lord! Bestow on us from our wives and our offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and make us leaders for pious. [Al-Furqan 74]

They ask Allah to grant them the comfort of the eye by making their wives and offspring obedient to Allah, and to grant them happiness in their hearts due to being followed by the righteous in obedience and servitude to Allah. This is because a trustworthy leader in the religion cooperates upon obedience and the call them to (sound) leadership in the religion, whose foundation is patience and certainty, as Allah said:

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]

Thus, in their supplication to Allah that He makes them leaders of the righteous people, is that Allah guides, grants them success, bless them with beneficial knowledge and righteous actions–outwardly and inwardly–without which (sound) leadership in the religion cannot be achieved.

This is different from (merely) seeking leadership, for indeed its seekers hasten to obtain it in order to achieve their goals, exaltedness in the earth, enslavement and attachment of the hearts to them, and aiding them in all their goals, while they are exalted and everyone subservient to them. This pursuit of leadership brings about corruption – (the extent) which none can encompass (in their knowledge) except Allah- such as rebellion, envy, transgression, enmity, oppression, trials, being ardent in defending oneself at the expense of violating the rights of Allah, exalting those despised by Allah and belittling those honoured by Allah. [3] [end of quote]

In light of this matter, the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, has left us with clear guidance on how to deal with rulers. Just as we are not infallible, rulers too will err. Therefore, as our relationships with one another across various walks of life are determined by divine revelation, so too is our relationship with those in authority guided by divine revelation. Please read further below:

Believer’s Bahaviour Towards Muslim Rulers – [Supplicates For Them….]

Furthermore, we are bound by a covenant to uphold while coexisting with non-Muslim governments, and we do not follow the path of the khawarij in our interactions with non-Muslims, nor do we act in a treacherous manner. This is neither a passive view nor a compromise, as the radicals attempt to portray, rather, it is rooted in Islamic law because Islam is perfect way of life that establishes justice and well being for all. Read below by Shaikh Abu Iyaad, may Allah preserve him.

https://www.shariah.ws/articles/szsumlh-the-foundation-of-muslim-relations-with-non-muslims-who-do-not-show-aggression-and-hostility.cfm

https://www.shariah.ws/articles/duviqgl-shaykh-salih-al-fawzan-the-islamic-shariah-provides-security–for-muslims-and-non-muslims-and-those-who-violate-it-are-kh257rijites-who-are-to-be-fought-and-severely-punished.cfm

 

[1] An Excerpt from ‘Sharh Kitaab At-Tawheed’. Lesson 1 By Shaikh Abdur Razaaq Al-Badr, may Allah preserve him.

[2] Tafsir As-Sadi

[3] An Excerpt from Ar-Ruh. 487-489

The Silent Admission of Willing Murderers

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Basics, Death, Fitnah, Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Scholars of Islam, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

The Silent Admission of Willing (Intentional) Aware, Rational Rule-Breaking Murderers Without Evidence of a Legally Defined Self-Defense Case When the Strong Influence of Taqwah Is Absent to Restrain the Wicked Soul

Imam As-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated in his Tafsir of Ayah 32 in Surah An-Nisaa about the one who kills without a justified reason:

فلما تجرأ على قتل النفس التي لم تستحق القتل علم أنه لا فرق عنده بين هذا المقتول وبين غيره، وإنما ذلك بحسب ما تدعوه إليه نفسه الأمارة بالسوء. فتجرؤه على قتله، كأنه قتل الناس جميعا. وكذلك من أحيا نفسا أي: استبقى أحدا، فلم يقتله مع دعاء نفسه له إلى قتله، فمنعه خوف الله تعالى من قتله، فهذا كأنه أحيا الناس جميعا، لأن ما معه من الخوف يمنعه من قتل من لا يستحق القتل

When he had the effrontery to kill a soul that does not deserve to be killed, it is known that (or it implies that) for him (i.e. the murderer) there is no distinction between this one who is killed and other than him (i.e. another person not murdered yet), rather,  that (i.e. his deed of unlawful killing) is due to what his evil soul calls him to. Thus, his dareness to kill him is as if he has killed all humankind.

On the other hand, the one who saves a life, meaning, spares the life of someone and does not kill him, while his soul entices him, but fear of Allah, The Most High, prevents him from killing, this is as if he has saved the lives of all humankind, because the fear (of Allah) with him prevents him from killing the one who does not deserve to be killed.

An Excerpt from “Tafsir As-Sadi”. Paraphrased

 

NB: In all of this, it’s important to remember certain points that are present in the final divine revelation and in the different Tafaaseer of the Qur’an, including Tafsir As-Sadi.

The murderer is dealt with along with the rights of the victim and their family through legal means. Vigilantism is not allowed under any circumstances.

The doors of repentance are still open for the murderer even though the legal consequences are still in place from the beginning to the end through the courts.

All of this is outlined in Shariah law regarding crimes.

Within a month – in a Time Period of Impunity – a Close Companion Spoke to Us About the Mentalities and Shared Six Admonitions

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Articles, Death, Featured, Fitnah, Jannah (Paradise), Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Repentance, Scholars of Islam, Shirk, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah', Zuhd (Abstinence).

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

Muttarrif Bin Abdillah, may Allah have mercy upon him, used to say:

“People’s intellects are in accordance with (circumstances) of their era”.

[Siyar A’lam An-Nubulaa 4/188]

 

First Reminder:Allah Never Commits Injustice!

Allah, The Most High, said:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يَظْلِمُ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ ۖ وَإِن تَكُ حَسَنَةً يُضَاعِفْهَا وَيُؤْتِ مِن لَّدُنْهُ أَجْرًا عَظِيمًا

Surely! Allah does not do injustice, even as much as an atom (or a small ant), but if there is any good (done), He doubles it, and gives from Himself a great reward. [An-Nisaa 40]

Allah, The Most High, informs us of the perfection of His justice and grace, as well as being far removed from everything that is in opposition to this, whether it is minor or major injustice. He says:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يَظْلِمُ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ ۖ

Surely! Allah does not do injustice, even as much as an atom (or a small ant).

Meaning, He neither diminishes the good deeds of His servant nor increases their sins, as He said (in Surah Az-Zalzalah):

فَمَنْ يَعْمَلْ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ خَيْرًا يَرَهُ وَمَنْ يَعْمَلْ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ شَرًّا يَرَه

So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.

“But if there is a good deed done, He doubles it”.

Meaning, multiplied up to tenfold or even more, depending on the deed, its benefit, the situation of the doer, their level of sincerity, love for Allah, and the perfection of the deed.

“And (He – Allah) gives from Himself a great reward”.

Meaning, not only the reward for the deed itself but also guidance towards other good actions and the provision of abundant blessings and goodness. [1]

 

Second Reminder: Anyone who gives up something for Allah’s sake will be given something better in its place!

This matter is found in many places in the Qur’an. Allah mentioned it in relation to the first immigrants who left their homes, wealth, and loved ones behind for the sake of Allah, thus, Allah substituted that for them with increased provision, honour, and authority in the worldly life.

When Ibrahim, peace be upon him, disassociated himself from his people, his father, and that which they worshipped other than Allah [i.e. departed after his father threatened to stone him for rejecting the idols], Allah bestowed on him Ishaq, Yaqub, and righteous offspring. When Sulayman, peace be upon him, was diverted from remembering Allah by his horses, he got rid of them, thus, Allah substituted them.

فَسَخَّرۡنَا لَهُ ٱلرِّيحَ تَجۡرِى بِأَمۡرِهِۦ رُخَآءً حَيۡثُ أَصَابَ
وَٱلشَّيَـٰطِينَ كُلَّ بَنَّآءٍ۬ وَغَوَّاصٍ۬

So, We subjected to him the wind; it blew gently by his order whithersoever he willed. And also the Shayaateen (devils) from the jinn (including) every kind of builder and diver. [Sa’d. 36-37]

When the people of the cave [i.e. the young men mentioned in Surah Al-kahf] separated themselves from their people and what they worshipped other than Allah, Allah bestowed His Mercy on them, facilitated means of success and tranquillity for them, and made them a guide for the misguided.

And (regarding) Maryam, peace be upon her, Allah said:

وَٱلَّتِىٓ أَحۡصَنَتۡ فَرۡجَهَا فَنَفَخۡنَا فِيهَا مِن رُّوحِنَا وَجَعَلۡنَـٰهَا وَٱبۡنَهَآ ءَايَةً۬ لِّلۡعَـٰلَمِينَ

And she who guarded her chastity (virgin Maryam), We breathed into (the sleeves of) her (shirt or garment) (through our Ruh Jibraa-eel), and We made her and her son (Eesa) a sign for the Aalameen (mankind and jinn)]. [Al-Anbiya. Ayah 91]

Whoever gives up what their Nafs call them to – the vain desires, Allah will replace it for them with His love, repentance to Him, and what is better from that which is gathered for them of the pleasures of this life. (2)

 

Third Reminder: Whoever Abandons What is Beneficial Will Be Put to Trial With What Is Harmful!

This is found in a number of verses, that when the polytheists shunned the worship of Ar-Rahman (Allah), they were put to trial with the worship of images (idols).

When they displayed haughtiness and claimed that the Messengers were (only) humans (i.e. therefore they are not obliged to follow the Messengers), they were put trial with submission to everything that made (their) intellect and religion unstable.

When Iman was clearly shown to them (i.e. the disbelievers) at the first instance and they recognised it, but then turned away from it, Allah – Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections- turned away, afflicted and sealed their hearts.  Thus, they did not believe until they perceived the painful punishment.

After the straight path was clarified for them, but they deviated from it by choice and approved the path of deviation in opposition to the path of guidance, they were punished- Allah allowed their hearts to stray (due to their own wrong doing) and became confounded in their path (of misguidance).

When they belittled the signs of Allah and His Messengers, Allah belittled them with a humiliating punishment. When they displayed haughtiness, Allah humiliated them in this life and the next.

When they forbade that Allah’s Name be glorified and mentioned in the Mosques of Allah and strive for their ruin, it was not fitting after that they should enter it except in fear.

وَمِنْهُم مَّنْ عَاهَدَ اللَّـهَ لَئِنْ آتَانَا مِن فَضْلِهِ لَنَصَّدَّقَنَّ وَلَنَكُونَنَّ مِنَ الصَّالِحِينَ
فَلَمَّا آتَاهُم مِّن فَضْلِهِ بَخِلُوا بِهِ وَتَوَلَّوا وَّهُم مُّعْرِ‌ضُونَ
فَأَعْقَبَهُمْ نِفَاقًا فِي قُلُوبِهِمْ إِلَىٰ يَوْمِ يَلْقَوْنَهُ بِمَا أَخْلَفُوا اللَّـهَ مَا وَعَدُوهُ وَبِمَا كَانُوا يَكْذِبُونَ

And of them are some who made a covenant with Allah (saying): ”If He bestowed on us of His Bounty, we will verily give Sadaqah (Zakat and voluntary charity in Allaah’s cause) and will be certainly among those who are righteous”.  ‘Then when He gave them of His Bounty, they became niggardly [refused to pay the Sadaqah (Zakat or voluntary charity)], and turned away, averse.  So He punished them by putting hypocrisy into their hearts till the Day whereon they shall meet him, because they broke that (covenant with Allaah) which they had promised to Him and because they used to tell lies”. [at-Tawbah. Aayaat 75-77]

The verses that convey this meaning are numerous and in them is that a servant (of Allah) was close to being guided and made to follow the straight path, but then he abandoned it after being acquainted, or he renounced it after following it, thus he is punished and has no right to guidance.  This is a recompense for his actions, as Allah says about the Yahud [i.e. those who knew the truthfulness of Muhammad’s, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, Messengership, but turned away from it wilfully]:

وَلَمَّا جَاءَهُمْ رَ‌سُولٌ مِّنْ عِندِ اللَّـهِ مُصَدِّقٌ لِّمَا مَعَهُمْ نَبَذَ فَرِ‌يقٌ مِّنَ الَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْكِتَابَ كِتَابَ اللَّـهِ وَرَ‌اءَ ظُهُورِ‌هِمْ كَأَنَّهُمْ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ
وَاتَّبَعُوا مَا تَتْلُو الشَّيَاطِينُ عَلَىٰ مُلْكِ سُلَيْمَانَ

And when there came to them a Messenger from Allah (i.e Muhammad) confirming what was with them, a party of those who were given the Scripture threw away the Book of Allah behind their backs as if they did not know!  They followed what the (devils) gave out (falsely of the magic) in the lifetime of Sulayman.  [Al-Baqarah. 101-102]

They abandoned the most sublime, the most beneficial and the most truthful of the Books (i.e. the Qur’an), thus Allah put them to trial with following that which is the most debased, most untruthful, and most harmful. Those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger abandon spending their wealth in obedience to Allah, and (instead) spend it in obedience to Shaytan. (3)

 

Fourth Reminder: Sin Breed Other Similar Sins!

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

Sins breed similar sins, and they give rise to one another, making it difficult for a person to abandon them, as some of the pious predecessors said, “Indeed, one of the punishments for an evil deed is to commit another one after it, and one of the rewards for good deeds is doing a good deed after it. When a servant of Allah does a good deed, another good deed says, “Let me be like that one”. The third one does the same, and so on, leading to an increase in rewards and a multiplication of good deeds, and the same applies to evil deeds, until good deeds and sins becoming essential traits and established habits.

If a person who does good neglects obedience, they will feel constricted and uneasy, much like a fish out of water until it returns to its natural environment to find peace. If a sinner turns away from wrongdoing and embraces righteousness, they may feel a sense of inner turmoil, leading them to revert to their old ways. Many wrongdoers engage in sinful acts not out of pleasure or desire, but rather due to the discomfort they experience when trying to abandon those actions. (4)

 

Fifth Reminder: None Can Guide You Except Allah!

“Whoever Allah misguides, then none can guide him”.

This occurs based on Allah’s Perfect Wisdom and Just Decree, as recompense for one’s wickedness (a); due to a hidden plot in one’s heart (b); due one turning away from guidance and behaving as if he does not know Allah’s guidance (c); turning away from Allah’s reminder, which he revealed to his Messenger, turning away from understanding it and not pondering upon it, and that which Allah intends by way of it, thus, Allah leaves such a person with his devil as a punishment – the devil that follows him. So, this devil becomes his ally. (d) This because none submits to Allaah sincerely and truthfully, and performs the deeds of the people of Jannah, except that Allah will never abandon him. (e) Such a person (i.e. the misguided one) was not compelled to go astray, instead he made a choice, but his choice is under the Will of Allah. We do not know what was in the hearts of those who deviate, thus, Allah deviated their hearts; but we know – with absolute certainty – that Allah passes Just Judgments and He does not do injustice to anything; rather, it is the people who wrong themselves. (f)

Sixth Reminder: Keep On Asking Allah!

اللَّهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ لِي دِينِي الَّذِي هُوَ عِصْمَةُ أَمْرِي
وَأَصْلِحْ لِي دُنْيَايَ الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَاشِي
وَأَصْلِحْ لِي آخِرَتِي الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَادِي
وَاجْعَلِ الْحَيَاةَ زِيَادَةً لِي فِي كُلِّ خَيْرٍ
وَاجْعَلِ الْمَوْتَ رَاحَةً لِي مِنْ كُلِّ شَرٍّ

O Allah! Rectify my religion for me, which is the safeguard of my affairs; rectify my worldly [affairs], wherein is my livelihood; and rectify my Afterlife to which is my return; and make life for me [as a means of] increase in every good and make death for me as a rest from every evil. [Sahih Muslim 2720]

(1) An Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi

(2) An Excerpt from ‘Qawaa-idul Hisaan Li-Tafseeril Quraan’ page 164. By Imam As-Sadi

(3) An Excerpt from ‘Al Qawaa-idul Hisaan Li-tafseer Al Qur’an’ Pages 96-97 By Imam As-Sadi

(4) Ad-Da’u Wad Dawa 60-61. Publisher: Dar Al-Hadith Al-Qahira 1430H (2009)

(a) Tafsir As-Sadi, Surah Israa. Aayah 5

(b) Sharh Arba’een page 87-88. 1st edition. 1424 (2003) by Shaikh Uthaymeen

(c) Zaad Al-Maseer. Tafsir Surah Az-Zukhruf Ayah 36

(d) Al-Jawaab Al-Kaafee 136-137. By Imaam Ibnul Qayyim.

(e) Sharh Arba’een page 88. 1st edition. 1424 (2003)- By Shaikh Uthaymeen.

(f]) Sharh Al-Arba’een pages 55-56- 1st edition 1428 (2007)-by Shaikh Salih Aala As-Shaikh, may Allah preserve him.

One of the Most Absurd Psychological Projections and Propaganda Methods of All Time

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Fitnah, History of Islam, Mental Health, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Prophets, Qur'aan, Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Shirk, Sin.

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

One of the Most Absurd Psychological Projections and Propaganda Methods of All Time, Engineered to Rewrite Reality

Allah, The Most High, said

وَقَالَ فِرْعَوْنُ ذَرُونِي أَقْتُلْ مُوسَىٰ وَلْيَدْعُ رَبَّهُ ۖ إِنِّي أَخَافُ أَن يُبَدِّلَ دِينَكُمْ أَوْ أَن يُظْهِرَ فِي الْأَرْضِ الْفَسَادَ

Fir’aun (Pharaoh) said: “Leave me to kill Musa (Moses), and let him call his Lord (to stop me from killing him)! I fear that he may change your religion, or that he may cause mischief to appear in the land!” [Ghafir 26]

 إِنِّي أَخَافُ أَنْ يُبَدِّلَ دِينَكُمْ

“I fear that he may change your religion” which you are following ;

  أَوْ أَنْ يُظْهِرَ فِي الْأَرْضِ الْفَسَادَ

“or he may cause mischief to appear in the land”.

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

وهذا من أعجب ما يكون، أن يكون شر الخلق ينصح الناس عن اتباع خير الخلق هذا من التمويه والترويج الذي لا يدخل إلا عقل من قال الله فيهم

This is the most astonishing (i.e. in a negative way) situation imaginable, where the worst among creation advises the people against following the best of creation (in his time). This illustrates a degree of deception and propaganda that cannot enter except the minds of those about whom Allah said:

فَٱسْتَخَفَّ قَوْمَهُۥ فَأَطَاعُوهُ إِنَّهُمْ كَانُوا۟ قَوْمًا فَٰسِقِينَ

Thus he [Fir’aun (Pharaoh)] befooled and misled his people, and they obeyed him. Verily, they were ever a people who were Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah). [Az-Zukhruf 54]

An Excerpt from “Tafsir As-Sadi”

[17] Notification to Ahlul Bidah and The Mumayyi’ah: These Clarifications Are Coming Back!

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Bid'ah (Innovation), Contemporary Issues, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Refutations, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Al-Marwadhee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, I said to Abu Abdillah (i.e. Imam Ahmad- may Allah have mercy upon him), “What do you think- a man preoccupies himself with fasting, prayers (i.e. optional fasting and prayers) and refrains from speaking against Ahlul Bidah?” He frowned and said: “If he fasts, prays and secludes himself from the people (i.e. he performs optional fasts, prayers and stays away from the people, except when he has to mix with them), he only benefits himself; but if he speaks (i.e. against ahlul bidah), he (benefits) himself and others, and that is better.[1]

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated in As-Sawaa’iq Al-Mursalah:

Exposing the faults of these ones (i.e. the misguided beliefs and actions of Ahlul Bidah), clarifying their disgraceful acts and their principles is from the best of Jihad in the path of Allah. Indeed, the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said to Hassan Ibn Thabit, may Allah be pleased with him, “The Ruh Al-Qudus (i.e. Jibreel) will continue to support you, so long as you are defending Allah and His Messenger”. He, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, (also said to Hasan): “Lampoon them (i.e. Quraish) and Jibril (Gabriel) is with you”. “O Allah! Aid him (i.e. Hasan) with the Ruh Al-Qudus as long as he is defending Your Messenger”. He stated about Hasan’s rebuke against Quraish: “By Allah! It will hurt them more than arrows”.

Thus, how can this not be from Jihad in the path of Allah when it is the case that many of these interpretations (i.e. those uttered by the deviants) are in opposition to the path of the pious predecessors – the Sahabah, the Taab’ieen, Ahlul Hadith and the Imams of Islam – whom Allah granted honour and are mentioned with good praise by the Ummah- and are tantamount to jesting with the texts and harbouring evil suspicion towards them (i.e. the texts), which is a type of the evil speech that was uttred by those who slandered the Messenger and his religion. This is because these false interpretations contain false claims and what is apparent from the speech of its utterer is slander; something that is impossible to ascertain, disbelief, misguidance, Tashbeeh, Tamtheel or deception; then he (i.e. the deviant utterer of such statements) changes them into meanings whose intended aim behind such words is known to be a type of intentional usage of words to cause ingenuity in ascertaining their sound meanings and to cause beguilement, which does not occur from one who intends to give sincere advice and sound clarification. Therefore, defending the speech of Allah and that of His Messenger is from the best of deeds, the most beloved to Allah and the most beneficial for the servant. [2]

Shaikh Al-Islam clarified the misguidance and bidah of some of the extreme Soofees, saying:

It harmful (effects) on the Muslims is greater than the harm of poison they eat, while being unaware of it. The harmful effects of their bidah and misguidance on the Muslims is greater than the harm (perpetrated by the) thieves and deceivers whom they are not aware of being thieves and deceivers. This is because the severest the harm of the thieves and deceivers can be is that it causes the death of a person or loss of his wealth, which is a worldly affliction and may be a means of receiving Allah’s mercy in the afterlife. As for these ones (i.e. the extreme Soofiyyah), they inculcate the (beliefs and acts) of disbelief and hearsay through the sound path of Prophets and the friends of Allah (i.e. they make the people believe that their beliefs, acts of disbelief and hearsay are based on the path of the Prophets and the close friends of Allah). They portray themselves as strivers in the path of Allah, but inwardly they are from those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger. They manifest the statements of the disbelievers and the hypocrites through the statements of the true friends of Allah (by way of forgery and manipulation), thus, a man joins them, while thinking that he will be from the believers and the friends of Allah, but ends up being a hypocrite and an enemy of Allah. [3]

[1] Tabaqaat Al-Hanaabilah 2/216

[2] As-Sawaa’iq Al-Mursalah 1/301-302

[3] Majmu 2/360