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[1] Recent Acquaintance by Some of Us with Other Students of the Senior Scholars After 30 Years

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

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

I have met the Mashayikh; their circumstances were different and their stations of knowledge varied. The most beneficial of them for me in companionship was the scholar who acted upon his knowledge, even though there were others more knowledgeable than him.

I met Abdul Wahhab Al-Anmaatee, who adhered to the principles of the pious predecessors. Backbiting was not heard in his gatherings (a) nor did he seek any reward for sharing hadith. Whenever I read to him the hadiths related to Raqaa’iq, he would weep and his tears would flow continuously. As a young person at that time, his weeping profoundly affected my heart. He embodied the characteristics of the scholars whose descriptions we had heard in the reports.

I met Abu Mansur Al-Jawaaleeqee, who was notably quiet and very meticulous in his speech. Even when asked about a clear matter, which some of his young students would quickly answer, he paused to ensure accuracy. He fasted and kept quiet a lot. I benefited from these two men more than I benefitted from others. I understood from this situation that guidance through action is more effective than verbal instruction. The truly impoverished one is the person who spends their life acquiring knowledge without applying it, missing out on the pleasures of this world and the goodness of the hereafter, ultimately proceeding as one bankrupt in deeds with strong proofs against him. [1]

Who Is Shaikh Bilal As-Salimy, may Allah preserve him

Biography of Shaykh Bilal As-Salimy & Clarification of a Doubt (1)

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ فِعْلَ الْخَيْرَاتِ وَتَرْكَ الْمُنْكَرَاتِ وَحُبَّ الْمَسَاكِينِ وَأَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي وَتَرْحَمَنِي وَإِذَا أَرَدْتَ فِتْنَةَ قَوْمٍ فَتَوَفَّنِي غَيْرَ مَفْتُونٍ أَسْأَلُكَ حُبَّكَ وَحُبَّ مَنْ يُحِبُّكَ وَحُبَّ عَمَلٍ يُقَرِّبُ إِلَى حُبِّكَ

O Allah! I ask of you the doing of the good deeds, avoiding the evil deeds, loving the Masakin, and that You forgive me, and have mercy upon me. And when You have willed trial among the people, then cause me to die without being put to trial. And I ask You for Your love, the love of whomever You love, and the love of the deeds that bring one nearer to Your love.’” Allah’s Messenger said: “Indeed it is true, so study it and learn it.” [Sahih at-Tirmidhi 3235] [2]

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. [Saheeh Muslim Number: 2720] [3]

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ فِعْلَ الْخَيْرَاتِ وَتَرْكَ الْمُنْكَرَاتِ وَحُبَّ الْمَسَاكِينِ وَأَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي وَتَرْحَمَنِي وَإِذَا أَرَدْتَ فِتْنَةَ قَوْمٍ فَتَوَفَّنِي غَيْرَ مَفْتُونٍ أَسْأَلُكَ حُبَّكَ وَحُبَّ مَنْ يُحِبُّكَ وَحُبَّ عَمَلٍ يُقَرِّبُ إِلَى حُبِّكَ

O Allah! I ask of you the doing of the good deeds, avoiding the evil deeds, loving the Masakin, and that You forgive me, and have mercy upon me. And when You have willed trial among the people, then cause me to die without being put to trial. And I ask You for Your love, the love of whomever You love, and the love of the deeds that bring one nearer to Your love.’” Allah’s Messenger said: “Indeed it is true, so study it and learn it.” [Sahih at-Tirmidhi 3235] [4]

اللهم أرني الحق حقاً وارزقني إتباعه ، وأرني الباطل باطلاً وارزقني اجتنابه

O Allah! Show me the truth as truth and bless me with (the ability) to follow it, and show me falsehood as falsehood and bless me with (the ability) to avoid it. [Sharh Madhahib Ahl As-Sunnah 40] [5]

[1]An Excerpt from “Saydul Khatir”. page 138

[2]https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2021/01/01/o-allaah-let-me-live-if-life-is-good-for-me-and-let-me-die-if-death-is-good-for-me/

[3]https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2020/12/29/o-allaah-rectify-my-religion-for-me-which-the-safeguard-of-my-affairs-a-tremendous-supplication/

[4]https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2026/02/14/three-safeguards-against-performative-alliance-culture/

[5]https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2026/01/27/the-measure-of-truth-is-not-the-one-who-utters-it/

 

 

The Sole Criterion for Elevation: For Scholar, Student, and Layperson Alike; Whether Their Virtue Is Well Known or Newly Manifest

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Imam Ash-Shaatibee, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

Know that Allah has established this Shariah as proof against the creation (humankind and jinn) – the old and young alike, the obedient and the disobedient, the righteous and the wicked. He did not specify the proof against anyone in exclusion of another one. Also, all the other revealed laws were established as proof against all the nations to whom they were revealed. The Shariah is the judge- in general, and specifically- the judge on all those who have reached the age of responsibility. It is the path attached to (what Allah has ordained) and it is the Greatest Guide. Have you not heard the statement of Allah, The Most High:

وَكَذَٲلِكَ أَوۡحَيۡنَآ إِلَيۡكَ رُوحً۬ا مِّنۡ أَمۡرِنَاۚ مَا كُنتَ تَدۡرِى مَا ٱلۡكِتَـٰبُ وَلَا ٱلۡإِيمَـٰنُ وَلَـٰكِن جَعَلۡنَـٰهُ نُورً۬ا نَّہۡدِى بِهِۦ مَن نَّشَآءُ مِنۡ عِبَادِنَاۚ وَإِنَّكَ لَتَہۡدِىٓ إِلَىٰ صِرَٲطٍ۬ مُّسۡتَقِيمٍ۬

And thus We have sent to you (O Muhammad) Ruhan (an Inspiration, and a Mercy) of Our Command. You knew not what is the Book, nor what is Faith? But We have made it (this Qur’an) a light wherewith We guide whosoever of Our slaves We will. And verily, you (O Muhammad) are indeed guiding (mankind) to the Straight Path (i.e. Allah’s religion of Islamic Monotheism). [Ash-Shura 52]

He (the Prophet) – peace and blessings of Allah be upon him- was the first to be guided to the Book and Iman, and then those who followed him. The Book is the Guide and also the Sunnah that was revealed to him explains that guidance (i.e. the Sunnah and the Qur’an explain each other). All the creation (mankind and Jinn) are guided through it.  Therefore, when this is the case that the Shariah is worthy of being a decisive proof against them and a beacon by way of which they are guided to the truth, their nobility is determined by the extent to which they embrace its rulings- through acting upon them in speech, belief, and deeds– and not merely due to the level of their intellects or their nobility amongst their people. That is because Allah, The Most High, has determined nobility through Taqwa and no other than it. Allah, The Most High, says: [إِنَّ أَڪۡرَمَكُمۡ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ أَتۡقَٮٰكُمۡۚ- Verily, the most honourable of you with Allah is that (believer) who has At-Taqwa] [49:13] [(1)]

Imam Al-Awzaa’ee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Adhere to the path (footsteps) of those who came before you (i.e. the pious predecessors), even if people reject you. Be cautious of the opinions of men, no matter how they may embellish them with persuasive statement, for the truth will eventually become clear, and you will remain on the right path”. [(2)]

Imam Umar Ibn Abdul Aziz, may Allah have mercy on him, stated:

“Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and the leaders who succeeded him (Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman and Ali) established matters based on the pure revelation; adhering to them is an affirmation of Allah’s Book (the Qur’an), complete obedience to Allah, and strength in the religion ordained by Allah. No one has the authority to alter or change these practices, nor substitute them in opposition. Whoever follows these practices is rightly guided, and he who seeks assistance will be assisted (through them). Whoever opposes them and pursues a path other than that of the believers (the companions of the Prophet), Allah will leave him to what he has chosen and cast him into Hell, and what an evil destination”. [(3)]

Imam Ahmad, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Whoever becomes acquainted with the path of truth, it has been made easy for him to follow. And there is no proof for adhering to the path of Allah except through emulating the Messenger, peace be upon him, in his conduct, statements, and deeds.” [(4)]

Ibn Ataa, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Whoever commits himself to the etiquettes of the Sunnah, Allah will illuminate his heart with the light of knowledge, and there is no status more noble than following the beloved (Prophet) in His commands, actions, and manners.” [(5)]

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

“Whoever abandons the evidence will stray from the path, and there is no evidence except that which has been brought forth by the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him”. [(6)]

Al-Allamah Ahmad Bin Yahyah An-Najmi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Know that the truth is that what (has been revealed by) Allah and (given to) His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him in the Book and the Sunnah, even if its adherents and those who embrace it are few. What is conveyed in the Islamic legislation is the truth one is commanded to follow, even if the majority of the people free themselves from it and those who follow it are few. Allah stated:

ثُمَّ جَعَلْنَاكَ عَلَىٰ شَرِيعَةٍ مِنَ الْأَمْرِ فَاتَّبِعْهَا وَلَا تَتَّبِعْ أَهْوَاءَ الَّذِينَ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ
إِنَّهُمْ لَنْ يُغْنُوا عَنْكَ مِنَ اللَّهِ شَيْئًا ۚ وَإِنَّ الظَّالِمِينَ بَعْضُهُمْ أَوْلِيَاءُ بَعْضٍ ۖ وَاللَّهُ وَلِيُّ الْمُتَّقِينَ

Then We have put you (O Muhammad) on a plain way of (Our) commandment [like the one which We commanded Our Messengers before you (i.e. legal ways and laws of the Islamic Monotheism)]. So follow you that (Islamic Monotheism and its laws), and follow not the desires of those who know not. Verily, they can avail you nothing against Allah (if He wants to punish you). Verily, the Zalimun (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.) are Auliya’ (protectors, helpers, etc.) to one another, but Allah is the Wali (Helper, Protector, etc.) of the Muttaqun (pious). [Al-Jaathiya. 18-19]

Therefore, O slave of Allah! Be eager to follow the truth, follow the straight path and the path of early pious predecessors- the companions of the Messenger, and do not feel lonely due to the small numbers of those who follow it and the large numbers of those who oppose it, for indeed Ibrahim, peace be upon him, was an Imaam on his own and with Allah lies all success. [(7)]

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

Know that leaving the correct path occurs in two ways. Firstly: that a man strays from the correct path intending nothing but good, so his error is not to be followed since it leads to destruction. Secondly, a man who deliberately opposes the truth and acts contrary to the Pious ones who came before him, he is astray, leading others astray, a rebellious devil within the Ummah. It is a duty upon those who know of him to warn the people against him and to explain his condition to them so that no one falls into his innovation and is destroyed.

Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, commented:

After the Shaikh [i.e. Imam Barbahaaree] described the correct path in his previous statement- the correct path that is obligated to a Muslim to follow in his Aqeedah and religion, he then mentioned that the one who leaves the correct path is one of two men:

The First Man: Is the one who leaves the (correct path) without the intention (to do so), rather he intended good but followed other than the path of good. Striving (alone) is not sufficient, and even if the person has a righteous intention and a good aim, then that has to be upon the correct path. Therefore, this (person) is considered mistaken and whoever agrees with him upon that and follows with him upon error will be destroyed; because this is a path of destruction even though the (person) did not intend leaving (the correct path); rather his quest was (to reach something) good. This is the state of many of those who initiate newly invented matters -from themselves – in the knowledge of Aqeedah (Creed). This is not permissible and they should not adhere to it. The person is not upon correctness. Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, said:

 وَأَنَّ هَٰذَا صِرَاطِي مُسْتَقِيمًا فَاتَّبِعُوهُ ۖ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا السُّبُلَ فَتَفَرَّقَ بِكُمْ عَنْ سَبِيلِهِ

And verily, this is my Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His Path]. [6:153]

Therefore, we reject any path that exits us from the Straight Path even if the one who (calls) to it aims for good and has a good intention. We do not follow him upon that while he continues upon his error, eventually leading to destruction; because whoever abandons the correct path in his journey and takes a path of ruin will be destroyed.

As For The Second Person: It is the one who intends to leave (the correct path). He knows the truth and that what he embarks upon is falsehood, but he intends to leave the truth with the intention of misguiding the people. The intention of the first (person) is to bring about benefit for the people, but he did not follow the correct path. The second (person) intended to misguide the people and to turn them away from the correct path. So this one (i.e. the one who intends misguidance for the people) is a devil, because the devils take the people away from the Straight Path.

لَأَقْعُدَنَّ لَهُمْ صِرَاطَكَ الْمُسْتَقِيمَ

Surely I (Iblis) will sit in wait against them (human beings) on Your Straight Path. [7:16]

He intends to turn them away from it [i.e. the straight path] and (direct them) towards the deviated paths. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, gave us an example when he drew a straight line and drew other lines on its sides, he then said about the straight line:

“This is the path of Allah” and he said about the other lines, “These are the other paths, and on each path is a devil calling to it”.

This is a clear example that is in agreement to what the Shaikh [i.e. Imam Barbahaaree] has mentioned here. So the one who takes the people away from the Straight Path (and direct them) to the innovated paths of the innovators is not one who intends good for them; rather he intends destruction for them. He is a devil, be it that he is a devil from amongst the Jinn or the people.

It is obligated to us to be more careful of this (second person) than the first one because this one [i.e. the intentionally deviated one] intends to misguide the people.

And regarding the statement of Imaam Barbahaaree: “He is astray, leading others astray, a rebellious devil”.

Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan commented:

He is misguided and misguiding others. He is a rebellious devil, a rebel intending to turn the people from the Straight Path.

And regarding the statement of Imam Barbahaaree:

“It is a duty upon those who know of him to warn the people against him and to explain his condition to them so that no one falls into his innovation and is destroyed”.

Al-Allaamah Salih Al-Fawzan commented:

It is not permissible to keep quiet about this one who leaves the truth intentionally; rather it is incumbent to unveil his affair and uncover his vileness until the people are warned about him. And it is not to be said that the people are free to hold views, freedom of speech and respecting the views of others, as say present with regards to (having) respect for the views of others. The affair is not about views; (rather) the affair is about Ittibaa [i.e. following the authentic proofs narrated from the Messenger accompanied with the understanding of the Salaf]. Allah has outlined a clear path for us and He told us to adhere to it, when He stated:

وَأَنَّ هَٰذَا صِرَاطِي مُسْتَقِيمًا فَاتَّبِعُوهُ

And verily, this is my Straight Path, so follow it. [6:153]

Therefore, any person comes to us and wants us to leave this straight path, then firstly we reject his statement. Secondly, we clarify and warn the people against him and we do not keep quiet about him, because if we keep quiet about him, the people will be deceived by him, especially if he is an eloquent person, (with) good speech, writing and is educated; for indeed the people will be deceived by him and will say:

“This one is competent, this one is from the thinkers” as is taking place today.

So, the affair is very dangerous, and regarding this is a reason to refute the one in opposition, as opposed to what those ones say:

“Abandon the refutations, leave the people, everyone has his own views and have respect for him”.

Through this respect for the views and freedom of speech, the Ummah will be destroyed. The Salaf did not keep quiet about the likes of these people; rather they exposed and refuted them due to their knowledge of their danger upon Ummah. We do not keep quiet about their evil; rather that which Allah has revealed must be clarified, otherwise, we will be from those who conceal the truth- those about whom Allah stated:

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ يَكْتُمُونَ مَا أَنْزَلْنَا مِنَ الْبَيِّنَاتِ وَالْهُدَىٰ مِنْ بَعْدِ مَا بَيَّنَّاهُ لِلنَّاسِ فِي الْكِتَابِ ۙ أُولَٰئِكَ يَلْعَنُهُمُ اللَّهُ وَيَلْعَنُهُمُ اللَّاعِنُونَ

Verily, those who conceal the clear proofs, evidences and the guidance, which We have sent down, after We have made it clear for the people in the Book, they are the ones cursed by Allah and cursed by the cursers. [2:159]

And the affair is not limited to the innovator, rather it is extended to the one who keeps quiet about him, for indeed rebuke and punishment is extended to him, because it is obligatory to clarify and made clear for the people…..up until Al-Allamah Salih stated: “So our intention is to clarify the truth. Our intention is not to (merely) disparage the people or to speak about the people. The intent is to clarify the truth and this is a trust entrusted upon the scholars. It is not permissible to keep quiet about these people. [(8)]

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

Many people humble themselves to one another more than they humble themselves to Allah – The Most High, The Most Great. It is neither permissible for a person to be a slave except to Allah, (i.e. not to be subservient to anyone in a manner that only Allah deserves) nor humble himself except to the Greatness of Allah. Allah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] said:

هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ عَـٰلِمُ ٱلۡغَيۡبِ وَٱلشَّهَـٰدَةِ‌ۖ هُوَ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ
هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ٱلۡمَلِكُ ٱلۡقُدُّوسُ ٱلسَّلَـٰمُ ٱلۡمُؤۡمِنُ ٱلۡمُهَيۡمِنُ ٱلۡعَزِيزُ ٱلۡجَبَّارُ ٱلۡمُتَڪَبِّرُ‌ۚ سُبۡحَـٰنَ ٱللَّهِ عَمَّا يُشۡرِڪُونَ
هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلۡخَـٰلِقُ ٱلۡبَارِئُ ٱلۡمُصَوِّرُ‌ۖ لَهُ ٱلۡأَسۡمَآءُ ٱلۡحُسۡنَىٰ‌ۚ يُسَبِّحُ لَهُ ۥ مَا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضِ‌ۖ وَهُوَ ٱلۡعَزِيزُ ٱلۡحَكِيمُ

He is Allah besides Whom none has the right to be worshipped but He; the King, the Holy, the One Free from all defects, the Giver of security, the Watcher over His creatures, the All-Mighty, the Compeller, the Supreme. Glory be to Allah! [High is He] above all that they associate as partners with Him. He is Allah, the Creator, the Inventor of all things, the Bestower of forms. To Him belong the Best Names. All that is in the heavens and the earth glorify Him. And He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. [Surah Al-Hashar’ Ayaat 23-24]

Examine those Ayaat in the last part of Surah Al-Hashar! The statement:

هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ

He is Allah besides Whom none has the right to be worshipped but He)]: This necessitates Tawheed Al-Uluhiyyah [The Oneness as the only one Who has the right to be worshipped].

The statement:

هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ عَـٰلِمُ ٱلۡغَيۡبِ وَٱلشَّهَـٰدَةِ‌ۖ هُوَ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ

He is Allah, besides Whom none has the right to be worshipped but He, the All-Knower of the unseen and the seen (open). He is the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful]: This necessitates Tawheed Al-Asmaa Was Sifaat [The Oneness of Allah in His Names and Attributes.

The statement:
هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلۡخَـٰلِقُ ٱلۡبَارِئُ ٱلۡمُصَوِّرُ‌ۖ

He is Allah, the Creator, the Inventor of all things, the Bestower of forms]. This necessitates Tawheed Ar-Roboobiyyah [The Oneness of Allah in His Lordship].

These few Ayaat in the last part of Surah Al-Hashr necessitate all the categories of Tawheed [Pure Islamic Monotheism]. [(9)]

Imam Ash-Shawkaanee [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said:

The love for high status and wealth often leads to the abandonment of fairness, which in turn distances individuals from the truth. This abandonment further results in the concealment of truth and the failure to clarify what Allah has obligated. The two aforementioned matters are a greater enemy to an individual than a pair of hunting wolves, [Footnote a] as stated by Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] because it was the reason that led the people of the scripture to distort Allah’s Books and hide the clear evidences and guidance that were revealed to them, such as what happened to the Jewish Rabbis (i.e. those who deviated after the advents of their Prophets). Allah, in His Mighty Book, and the Messenger, through authentic narrations, have both informed us about this.

The Imam also stated:

We often see a man who holds a belief that aligns with truth and correctness. However, when he speaks to someone who disagrees with him- one who is inclined towards something of the innovated matters in the religion, and especially if that person holds a position of leadership or worldly wealth, not to mention a king, he agrees with him, strengthens, supports and aids him against others.

The least in such circumstances is that he would hide what he believes is the truth and show contempt – in the presence of a person from whom it is neither possible to receive harm nor benefit – towards what has become clear to him is the right thing, so, what about someone from whom harm and benefit are possible? This behavior is essentially prioritizing worldly things and the life of this world over the religion and the afterlife. If he observed and reflected upon what has happened to him, he would have realised that his inclination toward the (vain) desires of a man, two men, three or more individuals – among those he compliments within that gathering, conceals the truth to be in agreement with them and to gain affection, acquire their possessions, and avoid being isolated by them -is a deficiency in upholding the truth and tantamount to exalting falsehood. If it were not for the fact that these individuals hold a higher position in his eyes than the Lord, he would not have been inclined to their (vain) desires and abandoned what he knows to be what Allah wants and demands from His servants. [(10)]

Footnote a: Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “Two hungry wolves let loose among sheep are not more harmful than a person’s craving after wealth and status is to his Religion”. [(11)]

Imam Muhamad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “Two hungry wolves let loose on a flock -then what will remain from the flock?! Even when a single wolf stops eating because its stomach is full, it still kills the rest of the flock; then what about two hungry wolves let loose on a flock!! Not a single will remain. Likewise, a person who craves wealth or status will corrupt the religion and because of this, it is obligated to a person that his intention is far removed from this- far removed from craving wealth and status in the religion. We ask Allah to aid us to accomplish this”. [(12)]

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ حُبَّكَ وَحُبَّ مَنْ يُحِبُّكَ وَالْعَمَلَ الَّذِي يُبَلِّغُنِي حُبَّكَ

O Allah, I ask you for your love and the love of those who love you and the deeds that will bring me your love.

[(1)] An Excerpt from Al-I’tisam 3/434[(2)] Siyar 7/120

[(3)] Ighatha Al-Lahfan 1/159

[(4)] Madarij As-Salikin 2/486

[(5)] Madarij As-Salikin 2/486

[(6)] Miftah Dar As-Sa’adah 1/85

[(7)] An Excerpt from Irshaad As-Saaree Fee Sharh Sunnah Lil-Barbahaaree page 47

[(8)]Source: An Excerpt from It’haaf Al-Qaaree Bi-attaliqat Alaa Sharh As- Sunnah Lil Imam Barbahaaree. 1/110-115. slightly paraphrased

[(9)] An Excerpt from Majmu Wa Rasaail Wa Fataawa 1/22

[(10)] An Excerpt from Adabud Talab Wa Muntahaa Al-Adab. Pages 93-95. Slightly paraphrased]

[(11)] Reported by Tirmidhee no.2376. Declared Authentic by Imaam Albaani (rahimahullaah) Saheeh Sunan At-Tirmidhee Vol 2 page 553

[(12)] At-taleeq Alaa Siyaasah Shar’iyyah. pages 454-455

 

[7] Be Vigilant Against Subtle Repackaged Shubuhaat In Some WhatsApp Groups

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

An Important Book That Demonstrates What The Scholars Say About The Difference Between Sincere Advice and Shaming

كتاب اقرا اونلاين Pdf 292 الفرق بين النصيحة والتعيير : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive
https://archive.org/details/Pdf292

Knowledge Across Generations: Guidance, Responsibility and Harmony

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

 

 

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

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Articles, Basics, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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.

Books Are Not the Foundation of Guidance and Understanding

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Contemporary Issues, Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Imam Muhammad Bin Sali Al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

One of the things obligated to a student of knowledge to comply with is that he acquires knowledge directly from the Shaikhs, because he will reach -by way of that- several benefits as follows:

a: The path to acquiring knowledge will be shortened for him instead of moving from one book to another whilst trying to find out the view that carries more weight (in a particular subject matter) and the reason behind it, and trying to find out the weak view in (that particular subject matter) and the reason behind it. Instead of going through all this, the teacher will give him what he seeks after through an easy path, present to him – two, three or more than three – different views of the people of knowledge together with a clarification of the view that carries more weight and the proof. Indeed, there is no doubt that this is beneficial (or advantageous) for the student.

b: He will be facilitated with the ability to grasp a subject matter quickly, because when the student of knowledge reads to a scholar, he will grasp the subject matter many times quicker than when he reads books (on his own). That is because when he read books, he may come across difficult and obscure statements, so he needs contemplation and repetition, which requires time and effort, and he may understand those statements wrongly and then act upon them.

c: Close association between the students of knowledge and the erudite scholars- junior people of knowledge attached to senior people of knowledge.

These are from the benefits of acquiring knowledge directly from the Shaikhs; but as mentioned earlier, it is obligated on a person to choose a scholar who is reliable, trustworthy and strong – one who has real knowledge and understanding and not superficial knowledge- truthful and firm in fulfilling what is entrusted to him and known for fulfilling acts of worship, for indeed a student follows the footsteps of his teacher. (1)

The Imam, may Allah have mercy upon him, also stated that a person should learn the fundamentals and establish his knowledge on sound fundamental principles – the Qur’an and the Sunnah etc. A person should not approach knowledge, whilst intending to acquire everything at once because that is not possible; rather one should acquire knowledge little by little. Likewise, one should not rely solely on books and his personal efforts, rather one should have a reliable Shaikh- one who is reliable in his understanding and is trustworthy- because the Shaikh who teaches you has already studied, taught, revised and understood. The Shaikh also mentioned that students have different abilities, and some might be able to study more advanced books -under a Shaikh- than others. Likewise, the path followed in the path of seeking knowledge under the scholars vary depending on where a person is residing, and the method adopted by the scholars of that country. (2)

Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan,may Allah preserve him, said:

Learning from books without referring to the scholars! This is a path of deviation, and many have deviated because of it. He (i.e. the person) will either misunderstand what is in the books or understands in a way other than what is intended because it has not been explained and made clear to him. The author (of the book) may be deviated in his views or knowledge and fills it (i.e. the book) with mistakes in affairs of knowledge. Then this ignorant youth reads and adopts it. Therefore, the books are not to be solely depended upon. And even if the books are sound, you will not be able to understand by merely seeking after it (i.e. reading). The khawaarij were not misguided and misguiding others with their intellects and fear of Allaah, except that they disassociated themselves from the scholars and depended on their own understanding and that of those like them. They took instructions from one another, and thus they caused harm to themselves and to the Ummah. This is the result for disassociating from the scholars. (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 Hadeeth 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 Hadeeth 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 Noor [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 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]. [Surah 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)

Knowledge in the Masajid and the Shariah Institutions

 

[1] Sharh Hilyati Taalibil Ilm. pages 105-106.
[2] Sharh Hilyati Taalibil Ilm. page 77 onwards.
[3] Tawjeehaat Mihimmah Li-Shabab Al-Ummah. Page 7
[4] Quoted by Shaikh Abdullah Al-Bukhari in Sharh Umdatul Ahkaam. Lesson 1
[5] Tarikh Baghdaad by Al-Khateeb Al-Baghdaadee 5/68
[6] Al-Jami Li-Akhlaaq Ar-Raawee 2/218
[7] Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm. 245-248.

[6] Humility of The Scholars

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Brotherhood, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Repentance, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, 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]

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

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Articles, Bid'ah (Innovation), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Fitnah, History of Islam, Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

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

Whoever realises what the innovators have abandoned of the Sunnah and left behind and he clings to it, he is a person of the Sunnah and the Jamaa’ah. He should be followed, helped and protected.  He is one of those whom the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, bequeathed that he should be looked after.

Al-Allamah Salih al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, commented saying:

That is “They are those upon that which I (the Prophet) and my Companions are upon today”.  He, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, advised (by way of command) that one should be with them – this Jamaa’ah, these people, this group- upon that which the Messenger and his Companions were upon. However, this requires two matters:

The First Matter: Knowledge, we learn what the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and his Companions were upon. As for the ignorant one, he does not learn, while thinking that what the one in opposition is upon is what the Messenger was upon.

The Second Matter: To be firm upon what the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and his Companions were upon because the one who follows the Sunnah will receive grief, trouble and intimidation from the people, but he must exercise patience and not turn away from the truth. He does not bargain [the truth] nor abandon anything of it. And due to this, it has been reported (in a hadith) regarding the one who adheres to upon his religion at the end of time is like one holding a burning coal or prickles due to what he will receive of hardship, grief and trouble from the people. So he requires patience.[1]

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

May Allah have mercy upon you! Know that if the people were to desist from newly introduced matters, not entering into any of them at all and did not say anything for which there was no narration from the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, or from his Companions, there would not be any innovation.

Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, commented:

If they desisted and did not enter into them, restricted themselves to the Sunnah and did not abandon it for Bidah, certainly they would have received safety.  But whoever relinquishes the Sunnah and innovate statements that have no proof in the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, he will eventually be with the innovators and the deviated sects.  And there is no safety except through the Sunnah which the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, left for us. He said: “Indeed, I have left amongst you two things, if you hold firmly to them, you will never go astray; the book of Allah and my Sunnah”.

And in another hadith: “I have left you upon white plain (i.e. clear guidance), its night is like its day, and none deviates from it except he who is destroyed”.

This is the path to safety: the Sunnah of the Messenger and that which his companions were upon…. [2]

[1]: An Excerpt from It’haf Al-Qaaree Bitta’liqaat Alaa Sharh As-Sunnah Sunnah Lil Imam Al-Barbahaaree Barbahaaree, 2/68-69. Slightly paraphrased

[2]: An Excerpt from It’haf Al-Qaaree Bitta’liqaat Alaa Sharh As-Sunnah Lil Imam Al-Barbahaaree Barbahaaree, 2/82-83. Slightly paraphrased