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Aid with no strings attached

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, History of Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Aid with no strings attached – Generosity of Ottoman Turks during “The Great Irish (Potato) Famine”

Abdullah ibn Amr reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “The merciful will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful to those on the earth, and the One in the heavens will have mercy upon you.” [Sahih Abu Dawud 4941]

Potatoes have a special place in Irish culture, as for centuries the people of the Emerald Isle have depended on this tuber as a diet staple.

A seven-year famine in the 19th century, known as the Great Famine or Potato Famine, killed more than a million people in Ireland. The famine in Ireland, which was under British rule at the time, was triggered by the potato blight or late blight, a disease caused by a fungus-like organism causing collapse and decay.

The greatest single disaster Ireland has ever suffered – Gorta Mor in Gaelic – forced more than a million citizens to migrate to the U.S., but those who were too poor to go anywhere were doomed to die from starvation or illnesses that struck the weak and malnourished.

Observing the suffering, English philanthropist James Hack Tuke said people in the worst-affected areas were “living, or rather starving, upon turnip-tops, sand-eels and seaweed, a diet which no one in England would consider fit for the meanest animal.”

The worst year for the famine was 1847, as it saw no improvement in crop yields from the first two years of the plague. But it was at that time, the plague’s worst year – “Black ’47” – that unexpected aid arrived from afar.

Thousands of miles away, in the Ottoman capital Istanbul, Sultan Abdul Majid I was made aware of this great human suffering when his dentist, who came from Ireland, told him about the desperate situation. The sultan quickly offered 10,000 British pounds – just over a million pounds at current values, or $1.3 million – to be used to help the starving people of Ireland.

However, Queen Victoria had already aided Ireland with 2,000 British pounds, and her advisors in London refused to accept any offer exceeding the monarch’s aid.

Faced with this dictate, the unwillingly slashed his original offer of aid and sent Ireland 1,000 British pounds instead.

However, he had a fierce desire to extend more help for this humanitarian cause. “He was eager to do more, and that’s why he ordered three ships to take food, medicine and other urgent necessities to Ireland,” said Levent Murat Burhan, Turkey’s ambassador in Dublin, describing what happened next.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA), Burhan said the historic aid operation was done on the sly, as the British navy would not allow any foreign ships to dock at harbors in either the capital Dublin or Cork.

“So the Ottoman ships had to travel further north and deliver the aid to the harbor of Drogheda,” Burhan said.

The aid was delivered to the wharves of Drogheda on the coast of the River Boyne, and it is especially in that place that the generosity of the Ottoman Empire is still remembered by the locals, 173 years later.

Visitors to Dublin museums can come across memorials and information about this unforgettable aid from the Ottoman Turks, but a plaque on the wall of a central Drogheda building, unveiled in 1995 by Mayor Alderman Godfrey and then-Turkish Ambassador to Ireland Taner Baytok, reads, “The Great Irish Famine of 1847 – In remembrance and recognition of the generosity of the People of Turkey toward the People of Ireland.”

During a 2010 visit to Ankara, Ireland’s then-President Mary McAleese expressed the Irish people’s gratitude for the aid, saying that the people of Drogheda had “incorporated into their coat of arms your own beautiful emblems, beautiful crescent and star, and they are there to the present day.”

Apart from the plaque of gratitude in the center of the town, the crescent and star are engraved on stones and painted on a wall.

But perhaps the most significant evidence of the aid and the local gratitude for it comes in a letter signed by local dignitaries of Drogheda. Ambassador Burhan showed AA a copy of the letter in his official room in Dublin. The letter reads: “We, as Irish nobles, dignitaries and people, submit our gratitude to the Ottoman Sultan for his generous assistance to us due to famine disaster. It is inevitable that we apply for other countries’ assistance to get rid of the threat of hunger and death.

The answer given to assistance call generously by the Ottoman Sultan has also been a model for the European countries. Thanks to this accurate behavior, many people have been relaxed and got rid of death. We submit our gratitude on behalf of them and pray for the Ottoman Sultan and his country not to face any disasters as we do.”

Irish novelist James Joyce referred to the Sultan’s aid in his work, Ulysses. “Even the Grand Turk sent us his piasters”.

Excerpt from Daily Sabah (Turkish Online News)

Courtyard of The Heart, Whispers and Intentions

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allah, The Exalted, says:

يَعْلَمُ خَآئِنَةَ ٱلْأَعْيُنِ وَمَا تُخْفِى ٱلصُّدُورُ

Allah knows the fraud of the eyes, and all that the breasts conceal. [Ghafir. 19]

[يَعْلَمُ خَآئِنَةَ ٱلْأَعْيُنِ – Allah knows the fraud of the eyes]: This pertains to the gaze that an individual conceals from their sitting partner and companions. It is discreetly stealing a glance. [وَمَا تُخْفِى ٱلصُّدُورُ – and all that the breasts conceal]: This pertains to the undisclosed actions of an individual. Allah is aware of these concealed deeds. (1)

Allah, The Exalted, says:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ عَالِمُ غَيْبِ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ ۚ إِنَّهُ عَلِيمٌ بِذَاتِ الصُّدُورِ

Verily, Allah is the All-Knower of the unseen of the heavens and the earth. Verily! He is the All-Knower of that is in the breasts. [Fatir. 38]

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: It is obligated to a person to be mindful that Allah (knows, hears, and sees everything about them). This awareness should prompt them to focus their attention on Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, directing all their intentions, hopes, and aspirations toward Allah, and their primary concern should always be to seek what pleases Allah. (2)

Allah, The Exalted, says:

قُلْ أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ ٱلنَّاسِ
مَلِكِ ٱلنَّاسِ
إِلَٰهِ ٱلنَّاسِ
مِن شَرِّ ٱلْوَسْوَاسِ ٱلْخَنَّاسِ
ٱلَّذِى يُوَسْوِسُ فِى صُدُورِ ٱلنَّاسِ
مِنَ ٱلْجِنَّةِ وَٱلنَّاسِ

Say: “I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of mankind, the King of mankind, the (only) Deity (in truth) of mankind, from the evil of the whisperer (the devil) who whispers evil and withdraws (from his whispering after one remembers Allah), who whispers in the breasts of mankind, of jinns and men.

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

Why (the mention of the word) “Breast” and not “Hearts”? Contemplate the underlying reason behind Allah’s statement: [ٱلَّذِى يُوَسْوِسُ فِى صُدُورِ ٱلنَّاسِ – who whispers in the breasts of mankind]; but Allah did not say, “in their hearts”. As-Sadr (breast) serves as the courtyard and residence of the heart, where all matters pass through before reaching the heart. They gather in the breast before making their way into the heart, functioning as a corridor for it. Those who grasp this will comprehend Allah’s statement:

وَلِيَبْتَلَى اللَّهُ مَا فِي صُدُورِكُمْ وَلِيُمَحِّصَ مَا فِي قُلُوبِكُمْ

[It was] so that Allah might test what is in your breasts and purify what is in your hearts]. [Aal-Imran. 154]

Satan infiltrates the heart’s courtyard and dwelling place, casting whatever he desires to cast into the heart; whispers in breast, and his insinuations reach the heart. This is why Allah [The Exalted] says: [فَوَسْوَسَ إِلَيْهِ الشَّيْطَانُ – Then Satan whispered to him] and did not say, “In him” because the meaning is that he cast that to him and conveyed it to him, so it entered his heart. The heart may be initially untainted; then influenced by whispers (temptations). Sin crosses the mind, causing the heart to imagine and desire it. Gradually, this desire takes on a deceptive allure, captivating the self and leading it astray. Despite the heart’s awareness of the harm and evil consequences, sin continues to be portrayed as desirable, hindering the person from truly understanding its true nature. As a result, the focus shifts solely to the image of sin and indulgence, causing one to forget what lies beyond. This willfully chosen path transforms into an unwavering determination, intensifying the heart’s eagerness to indulge in wrongdoing. (3)

[1] An Excerpt from “Tafsir As-Sadi”

[2] An Excerpt from “Tafsir Surah Luqman page 142” by Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen.

[3] An Excerpt from “Badaa’i at-Tafsir Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim 3/449-454

Love with Balance, Fight or Oppose with Fairness

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

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

The Importance of Upright Friendship

Allah said:
الْأَخِلَّاءُ يَوْمَئِذٍ بَعْضُهُمْ لِبَعْضٍ عَدُوٌّ إِلَّا الْمُتَّقِينَ

Bosom friends on that Day will be foes one to another except for the pious. [Al-Zukhruf 67]

Meaning on the Day of Judgment, those who established close friendships upon disbelief, disobedience to Allah and rejection (i.e. belied guidance), “Will be foes one to another” because their close friendships and love in the worldly life were for other than Allah, thus, they will turn into enmity on the Day of Judgment.

“Except for the pious”, who avoided Shirk and disobedience, for indeed their love for one another will endure and remain.

وَقَالَ إِنَّمَا ٱتَّخَذۡتُم مِّن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ أَوۡثَـٰنً۬ا مَّوَدَّةَ بَيۡنِكُمۡ فِى ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا‌ۖ ثُمَّ يَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ يَكۡفُرُ بَعۡضُڪُم بِبَعۡضٍ۬ وَيَلۡعَنُ بَعۡضُڪُم بَعۡضً۬ا وَمَأۡوَٮٰكُمُ ٱلنَّارُ وَمَا لَڪُم مِّن نَّـٰصِرِينَ

And (Ibrahim) said: “You have taken (for worship) idols instead of Allah, and the love between you is only in the life of this world, but on the Day of Resurrection, you shall disown each other, and curse each other, and your abode will be the Fire, and you shall have no helper.” [Al-Ankabut 25]

How can they attach themselves to someone who is aware that he will free himself from those who worshipped him and curse them?! [Tafsir As-Sadi]

Love and Hate Moderately

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Love your beloved one modestly, for it may be that he will become hated to you someday. And hate the one whom you hate modestly, for it may be that he will become your beloved one someday”.

Al-Allaamah Ibn Al-Atheer, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

“This means that you should love your beloved one with moderation and do not go beyond bounds. Do not go into extremes in your love and hate, for it may be that one day you’ll hate the one you used to love and love the one you used to hate. Therefore, neither exaggerate in your love and become regretful (in future), nor exaggerate in your hatred and thus become shy in the presence of the one you used to hate after you stop hating him”. [An-Nihaayah 5/284]

Treat Others Fairly

Abdullah Bin Amr, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Whoever would love to be delivered from Hellfire and admitted into Paradise, let him meet his end whilst believing in Allah and the Last Day, and let him treat people as he would love to be treated”. [Ṣaḥih Muslim 1844]

Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: This is from the Jawami al-Kalim of the Prophet [i.e. precise speech with a comprehensive meaning] and his amazing wisdom. It is obligatory to pay close attention to this important principle and that a person must not deal with the people except in a way he loves to be dealt with. [Sharh Sahih Muslim 12/196]

Al-Allamah Zaid Bin hadi al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

A Muslim is to give consideration to his Muslim brothers in the same way he would give consideration to himself- wishing for them the good he wishes for himself and hates that evil should touch them just as he hates that for himself. The one who loves that the people should approach him with good related to the worldly matters and the Afterlife, it is obligated to him to do the same for them, so that the statement of the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, “You cannot (truly) believe until you wish for your brother what you wish for yourself” becomes a reality in his personality; and also the statement of the Prophet: “The believer in relation to another believer is like a structure, each part strengthening the other”, and also the statement of the Prophet, “The Muslim is the brother of another Muslim”. Whoever is able to have these characteristics, then indeed he has established Iman (in this matter), good manners and dealings. [at-Ta’liqat Al-Malihah Alaa Silsila Al-Ahadith As-Sahihah 2/29-33]

Sincere Advice

Sincere advice, especially when urgently needed, cannot be concealed even for the sake of close or real friendship

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

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Basics, Contemporary Issues, Fitnah, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadi Al-Madkhali, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked, “What do you say about an individual who advises people not to listen to refutations, and when asked why he took this stance, he answered, ‘The person who asked me about this was a common person, and he is unable to recite the Quran properly’. What is your comment on this? May Allah bless you”.

Answer: If he is a layman, he must be taught the Islamic creed and warned against ahlul bidah. Because the majority of ordinary people have become supporters of the people of bidah these days, it is necessary to warn them against (the people of bidah). Say to him, “So and so is on such and such bidah, and you will be harmed if you listen to him.” This is done so that they will not read (his books), listen to his audio tapes, and will be cautious of his statements. This layman needs someone to caution him and remind him of the principle, “This knowledge is religion so look at whom you take your religion from”. During these times, the common people are targeted by the people of bidah, who will tell you, “Do not let them read the books of refutations.” No. No. This will expose them (the people) to destruction. (1)

The Shaikh, may Allah have mercy upon him, Al-was asked, “Is it permitted for us as students of knowledge to be silent about the Mubtadi’ah and to nurture the youth and students on the Salafi path without mentioning the names of the Mubtadi’ah?”

Answer: By Allah, if necessary, the Mubtadi’ah are to be mentioned by their characteristics as well as their names. If so and so has put himself forward for leadership, leading this Ummah and the youth to falsehood, he is to be mentioned by name. If there is a necessity, he must be mentioned by name. In this regard, one of the Salafis in Egypt used to teach, and he would just mention generalities (general descriptions without mentioning names), and the people did not understand these generalities. Following that, he began to openly mention the names of the groups and individuals, so they said, “O Shaykh! Why did you not teach us like this in the beginning?” He said, “I delivered many lessons to you, and I would say this and that (i.e. general descriptions without names)”. They said, “By Allah! We did not understand.” (2)

Al-Allamah Saalih Al-Fawzaan [may Allah preserve him] said:

The principle here is about warning against mistakes and deviance after identifying them as such. If the affair necessitates making known the name of an individual among the obstinate opponents so that beguilement does not occur through them, particularly those individuals with deviated views or deviation in behaviour and methodology, and they are well known among the people and a good opinion is held about them, there is no harm in mentioning them by their names and their methodology warned against. The scholars do research on the science of Jarh Wat-Tadeel and then mention the narrators and the criticism levelled against them. This is not done for the sake of personal (criticism), but rather to advise the Ummah in case they come across affairs from these individuals that are harmful to the Religion or lies against the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him]. Therefore, this principle is first and foremost about warning against mistakes. But the person who made such a mistake should not be named if doing so would either do more harm or if there is no benefit in doing so.

If the matter requires that his name be made known in order to warn the people about his methodology, this is an act of sincere devotion to Allah in worship, an act of sincere devotion to Allah’s Book, an act of sincere devotion to Allah’s Messenger (by following his Sunnah), and an act of sincere advice to Muslim leaders and their common folk, especially if he (the one warned against) is active among the people and they have a positive view of him and buy his books and audio tapes. Therefore, there has to be clarification and warning because silence will be harmful to the people. His affair has to be unveiled, however, it must be done as an act of sincere devotion to Allah in worship, an act of sincere devotion to Allah’s Book, an act of sincere devotion to Allah’s Messenger (by following his Sunnah), and an act of sincere advice to Muslim leaders and their common folk, and not for the purpose of defamation or to satisfy one’s desires.

[1]Fataawa Fadeelah Ash-Shaykh Rabee’ Al-Madkhalee (1/273)

[2]Fataawa Fadeelah Ash-Shaykh Rabee’ Al-Madkhalee (1/277)

[3] An Excerpt from “Al-Ajwibah Al Mufeedah”. Question number 66. Page 162. slightly paraphrased

Wagers allowed only for racing camels, or horses or shooting arrows

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

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

The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Wagers are allowed only for racing camels, or horses or shooting arrows”. [Sahih Sunan Abi Dawud 2574]

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

“Wagers and gifts are only deserved in the context of horse and camel racing, as well as similar activities, and in archery, which is considered a form of combat preparation. This is because these activities serve as means of readiness in the fight against the enemy, and offering rewards for them encourages and motivates participation in jihad. However, engaging in races that do not pertain to military preparation or do not enhance one’s capability for Jihad is prohibited, and taking a reward for such races is not permissible.” [1]

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah stated:

“If one of the participants or an outsider were to offer a reward, it would fall under the category of prizes. Such practices are prohibited, except in cases that yield benefits, such as competitions and contests, as indicated in the hadith: “Wagers are allowed only for racing camels or horses or shooting arrows”. This is because offering money for purposes that do not serve a beneficial role in either religion or worldly matters is forbidden, even if it does not constitute gambling. [2]

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

The Prophet permitted competitions involving rewards in three specific activities, while prohibiting them in others. This exception serves to distinguish these activities from gambling or its close resemblance, as competitions that involve a reward can lead to a situation where one party benefits at the expense of another, which is the essence of gambling. If one were to inquire why these three activities are allowed, the response is that they serve to support Jihad in the path of Allah. Camels are utilised to carry the belongings and weapons of the fighters, as well as to transport the fighters themselves. The arrows are employed by the combatants to defend themselves and to attack their enemies. Similarly, the horse is used for charging and retreating, making it a valuable asset in warfare and in the pursuit of jihad for the sake of Allah. [3] [End of quotes]

NB: Any specific alternative form of competition that could be viewed as supportive of Jihad [Footnote a] or advantageous in religious or worldly matters should be directed to scholars for a specific Fatwa. This is to prevent ourselves from making personal analogies that may lead to the endorsement of what is impermissible or the prohibition of what is permissible. Thus, it is incumbent upon us to seek the guidance of scholars where one believes there may be a justification for their intended actions.

Footnote a: Read: https://abukhadeejah.com/salafi-shaikh-fawzaan-on-jihaad-in-our-times-and-the-guidelines-of-jihaad-according-to-islam/

[1] Ma’alim al-Sunan. (2/255)

[2] Majmu Al-Fataawaa 32/223]

[3]https://www.alathar.net/home/esound/index.php?op=codevi&coid=33043 paraphrased

Caution to Ourselves, Our Children, and Companions: The Peril of Pushing Concessions Too Far

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Articles, Basics, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah', Zuhd (Abstinence).

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

A’isha, may Allah be pleased with her,  reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, did something and allowed his people to do it, but some people refrained from doing it. When the Prophet learned of that, he delivered a sermon, and after having praised Allah, he said, “What is wrong with such people who refrain from doing a thing that I do? By Allah, I know Allah better than they, and I am more afraid of Him than they.” [Al-Bukhari 6101]

Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him and his father,  reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Verily, Allah loves for you to take His concessions, just as He loves you to fulfill the things He has obligated.” [Sahih Ibn Hibban 354]

 

Unjustified Pursuit of Concessions and Odd Matters

Ibrahim Ibn Abee Ablah (died 152AH – may Allah have mercy upon him) said, “He who carries the odd affairs of knowledge carries a lot of evil”. [1]

Abdur Rahmaan Bin Mahdi (died 198AH – may Allah have mercy upon him) said, “The one who pursues the odd affairs of knowledge cannot be an Imam in knowledge”. [2]

Imam ash-Shaatibee, may Allah have mercy upon him] stated regarding the attitude of unjustified pursuit of concessions, “This arises from following one’s desires. Desire leads to a ‘too easy going attitude’ and the pursuit of concessions for oneself and others. So, you see him (i.e. such person) adopting that for himself or passing that judgment for his relative or friend, which he would not do for another person, due to the desire of that relative and friend”. [3]

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “If a Mukallaf [i.e. the sane one who has reached the age in which the obligations of the Shariah are obligated to him or her] seeks after concessions in the Madhabs in every affair that is difficult for him and every statement that agrees with his desires, then he will remove himself from the firm handhold of piety and persist upon the pursuit of desires”. [4]

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, also stated regarding the attitude of the unjustified pursuit of concessions: “This arises from following one’s desires. Desire leads to a too easy going attitude and the pursuit of concessions for oneself and others. So, you see him adopting that for himself or passing that judgment for his relative or friend, which he would not do for another person due to the desire of that relative and friend”. [5]

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, also said: “If a Mukallaf [i.e. the sane one who has reached the age when the obligations of the Shariah are obligated on him or her] seeks after concessions in the Madhabs in every affair that is difficult for him and every statement that agrees with his desires, then he will remove himself from the firm handhold of piety and persist upon the pursuit of desires”. [6]

“f desires enter (a person), it leads to following the ambiguous matters out of being eager to prevail and become victorious through establishing excuses in issues related to difference of opinion (or differing); but rather it leads to splitting, disharmony, enmity, and hatred due to the different desires and lack of (sound) agreement; however, the Shariah came to curtail (vain) desires completely. If some of the premises of the evidence were not established except through desires, it would not result except in following desires and that is contrary to the Shariah, and opposing the Shariah is not fr of the Shariah at all. Therefore, following desires concerning what one may regard to be adherence to the Shariah is tantamount to misguidance.”. [7]

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allāh have mercy upon him, said:

It is obligated to you to adhere to evidence and not (seek) concessions. Some of the pious predecessors said: “Whoever pursues concessions may fall into Zandaqah (hypocrisy or disbelief). Every Mad’hab contains some errors- some mistakes from some of its followers or from the Imam to whom it is attributed, who may have erred in some narrations or some hadiths were hidden from him. Therefore, a student of knowledge should not chase after concessions. If there is a difference of opinion on an issue and it is not one about which there is consensus, there are treatises among the people of knowledge, and the student of knowledge should (diligently) search for evidence and examine the more compelling statement or the one supported by stronger evidence, then he takes that which is established based on evidence and he does not chase after concessions. [8]

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

The facilitation of ease is what aligns with the essence of the religion. From this, we know that when two scholars differ in their opinions and it is not clear which view carries greater weight, neither in terms of evidence nor derivation of proofs, and both are reputable scholars in their knowledge and trustworthiness and the evidence is not clear as well as the derivation of proofs, yet they hold differing views—one being more stringent than the other—whom should we follow? The response: We should follow the easier option and it is said (we follow) the more stringent one, as it is deemed more cautious. However, this statement requires further examination, as the most cautious approach would be what aligns more with the Shariah and the easier option would be what aligns more with the Shariah. [9]

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

The jurists -may Allāh have mercy upon them, defined Muru’ah [manliness, sense of honour, honourable behaviour] in the Book of Testimonies, stating: “Doing what beautifies and adorns (a person’s character), while avoiding what may tarnish one’s character or reputation. This definition is general. Anything that beautifies and adorns you in the eyes of the people, and serves as a reason for praise for you, is considered Muru’ah, even if it does not fall under acts of worship. And everything opposite of this is contrary to Muru’ah. [10]

Al-Allaamah Saaleh Al-Fawzaan [may Allaah preserve him] was asked about those who follow the legislated Islamic concessions?

He replied: The religion is an Amaanah- an amaanah between the slave and his Lord. It’s obligatory that he fulfils it (the religious duties) as Allah and his messenger have commanded. Whoever performs the obligations, refrains from the prohibited affairs, (does) that which he is able from the Mustahabbaat (recommended deeds) and abandons the Makroohaat (disliked actions), this is the Amaanah between the slave and his lord. The concessions are only allowed when there is a need and necessity (to utilise) them. Utilise them in accordance with necessity- with a need for the concession. Just like the sick person combines between two prayers, performs Tayyamum if he cannot use water for purification and doesn’t fast in Ramadhaan (i.e. when travelling etc), and a traveler shortens the prayers. This is a religious concession used at the time of its requirement. As for using concessions in other than their correct place (i.e. situation), then this is not permissible. Allah did not permit that for him (in such situation). Indeed He (Allaah) only placed the concessions at specified times and situations, and they are not used in other than these (times and situations). Therefore, it is obligated to the Muslim that he fears Allah and that he establishes that which Allah has obligated to him. [11]

Reminder to Those Youth You Have Gone to Study And Are Teachers or Will Be Teachers In Future InShaAllah

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

“The loftiest ambition in pursuit of knowledge is to acquire knowledge from the Qur’an and the Sunnah- to be granted understanding by Allah [i.e. blessed to acquire sound knowledge and act upon it] and through the Sunnah of the Messenger, and acquaint oneself with the boundaries of the revelation [i.e. neither going into excess nor being lackadaisical]. And the most baseless ambition of the students of knowledge is to confine their ambitions in following the bizarre affairs and that which has neither occurred nor has it been revealed, or acquainting (oneself) with the differences of opinion and pursuing the statements of the scholars, whilst having no ambition to acquaint oneself with what is correct among those statements. Little is there to benefit from the knowledge of these people”. [12]

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

We have decided to explain the book “Hilya Talib Al-Ilm” after consultations and suggestions from our students at the central Masjid. This is because if a student of knowledge lacks virtuous character, then there is no benefit in his pursuit of knowledge; instead it is obligated to a person that whenever he acquires knowledge of something related to virtuous deeds or acts of worship, he (strives) to implement it. If he does not do so, then he and the ignorant person will be the same; rather, the ignorant person may be in a better position because he deliberately abandons it  unlike the ignorant person. This is because the ignorant person may act if he knows unlike the one who knows yet does not follow. Therefore, I urge both myself and you to embody virtuous manners, patience, perseverance, forgiveness, and kindness to the best of our abilities. This is besides the great advice – fear of Allāh – about which Allāh says:

وَلَقَدْ وَصَّيْنَا ٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُوا۟ ٱلْكِتَٰبَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ وَإِيَّاكُمْ أَنِ ٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ

And verily, We have recommended to the people of the Scripture before you, and to you (O Muslims) that you (all) fear Allah, and keep your duty to Him. [An-Nisa 131] [13]

Al-Allaamah Abdur-Rahmaan Bin Yahyah Al-Mu’allimee, ay Allah have mercy upon him] said, “And know that some of the sincere ones fall into error by the will of Allah as a trial for others, as to whether they will follow the truth and abandon his speech, or be deceived by his virtuousness and lofty (status)? He (i.e. this sincere scholar) is excused; rather he is rewarded for striving to reach the correct verdict and his intention to reach good, and he is not degraded. However, the one who follows him (out of being) deceived by his great (status) without turning towards the real evidences in Allah’s Book (i.e. the Qur’an) and the Sunnah of His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), he is not excused; rather he is upon a great danger”. [14]

 

[1] Siyar A’laam An-Nubula 6/324

[2] At-Tamheed 1/64 by Ibn Abdil Barr

[3] Al-Muwaafaqaat. 5/84

[4]Al-Muwaafaqaat. 3/123

[5] Al-Muwaafaqaat. 5/84

[6] Al-Muwaafaqaat. 3/123

[7] Al-Muwaafaqaat 5/221

[8] Paraphrased:

عليك أن تأخذ بالدليل، لا بالرخص، قال بعض السلف: من تتبع الرخص؛ تزندق، كل مذهب يكون فيه بعض الأغلاط، بعض الأخطاء من بعض أتباعه، أو من الإمام الذي هو منسوب إليه أنه غلط في بعض الروايات، وأنه خفي عليه بعض الأحاديث، فطالب العلم لا يتتبع الرخص.
وإذا كان في المسألة خلاف، ما هي بمسألة إجماع، فهناك رسائل بين أهل العلم، فطالب العلم يتحرى الدليل، وينظر في أقرب القولين، أو الأقوى للدليل، فيأخذ بما قام عليه

الدليل، لا بتتبع الرخص

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/2138/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%AA%D8%AA%D8%A8%D8%B9-%D8%B1%D8%AE%D8%B5-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%81%D9%82%D9%87%D8%A7%D8%A1

[9]  Paraphrased:

التيسير هو الموافق لروحِ الدِّينِ، مِن هُنَا نَعْلَمُ أَنَّهُ إِذَا اخْتَلَفَ عَالِمِانَ فِي رَأْي ولم يتبين لنا الأَرْجَحُ من قوليها لا من حَيْثُ الدَّلِيلِ، وَلا مِن حَيْثُ الاسْتِدْلَالُ وكُلُّهُمْ عُلَماءُ ثَقَاتِ فِي عِلْمِهِمْ وَأَمَانَتِهِمْ، وَالْأَدلَّةُ لِيسَتْ وَاضِحَةً، وَالاسْتِدْلَالُ كَذَلِكَ، لكن اخْتَلَفَ رَأَيْهَا، أَحَدُهُمَا أَشَدُّ مِن الثَّانِي، فَمَنْ نَتَّبِعُ؟
الجواب: تَتَّبِعُ الأَيْسَرَ ، وقيل : الأَشَدَّ؛ لَأَنَّهُ أَحْوَطُ؛ وهذا القَوْلُ فِيهِ نَظَرُ؛ لأن
الأَحْوَطَ مَا كَانَ أَوْفَقَ لِلشَّرْعِ، وَالأَيْسَرُ هُوَ الأَوْفَقُ لِلشَّرْعِ

Sharh Hilya Talib Al-Ilm page 202. 1st Edition 1434AH Rabi’ ul Awwal

[10] Paraphrased:

والمَرُوءَةُ حَدَّهَا الفقهاء . – رحمهم الله – في
كتاب الشهادات، فقالوا هي: فِعْلُ ما يُجَمِّلُهُ ويُزَيِّنُهُ، وَاجْتِنَابُ مَا يُدَنَّسُهُ وَيُشِيةٌ
وهذه عبارة عَامَّةٌ ، كُلُّ شَيْءٍ يُجَمِّلُكَ عِنْدَ النَّاسِ، وَيُزَيِّنُكَ وَيَكُونُ سَبَبًا للثَّنَاءِ عَلَيْكَ
فهو مَرُوعَةٌ، وإن لم يكن مِنَ العِبادات، وكلُّ شيء عَكْسُ ذلك فهو خلاف المروءة

Sharh Hilya Talib Al-Ilm page 7. 1st Edition 1434AH Rabi’ ul Awwal. page 50

[11] Translated by Abu Aa’isha Amjad Khan. http://www.alfawzan.af.org.sa/node/13751

[12] An Excerpt from Al-Fawaa’id. Page 99

[13] Paraphrased:

فقد قَرَّرْنَا شَرْحَ كتاب «حِلْيَةُ طَالِبِ الْعِلْمِ»، بعد مُشَاوَرَةٍ واقتراح الطلبة لدينا في الجامع؛ وذلك لأنَّ طالب العلم إذا لم يَتَحَلَّ بالأخلاقِ الفَاضِلَةِ فَإِن طَلَبَهُ لِلْعِلْمِ لا فائدة فيه، لكن يَجِبُ على الإنسان كُلَّمَا عَلِمَ شَيْئًا مِن الْفَضَائِلِ أو العِبَادَاتِ أن يقوم به، فإذا لم يفعل فهو والجاهل سواءٌ، بَلِ الْجَاهِلُ أَحْسَنُ حَالًا منه، لأنَّه تَرَكَ الفَضْلَ عن عَمْدٍ بخلاف الجاهل، ولأنَّ الجاهل رُبَّمَا يَنْتَفِعُ إِذا عَلِمَ،
بخلاف من عَلِمَ ولم يَنتَفِعُ .
فلهذا أحثُّ نفسي وإِيَّاكُمْ على التَّحَلي بالأخلاقِ الفَاضِلَةِ، وَالصَّبْرِ والمُصَابَرَةِ، والعفو والإحسان، بقدر المستطاع، هذا بقطع النظر عن الوصية الكبرى، وهي الوَصِيَّةُ بتقوى الله – عز وجل، التي قال الله – تعالى – فيها
وَلَقَدْ وَصَّيْنَا ٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُوا۟ ٱلْكِتَٰبَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ وَإِيَّاكُمْ أَنِ ٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ

Sharh Hilya Talib Al-Ilm page 7. 1st Edition 1434AH Rabi’ ul Awwal

[14] Raf’ul Ish-tibaah. page 152

 

[5] 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, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

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

The people extensively read books that contained deviant viewpoints and the libraries were decaying and being filled with misguidance and Bidah. Nonetheless, they [those who object when one reads the books that contain refutations] refrained from speaking in this manner. However, as people started to (follow) the teachings of Allah’s Book and the Sunnah based on the methodology of the Pious Predecessors and discovered books that warned them against Bidah and misguidance, they [those who object] said, “Do not busy yourselves on these matters, do not neglect knowledge”. These refutations are part of acquiring knowledge. By Allah! To be acquainted with guidance (and distinguishing) it from misguidance, recognising good and (distinguishing it) from evil, are knowledge that will safeguard a person, as Hudhaifah [may Allah be pleased with him] said, “The people used to ask the Messenger about the good, but I used to ask him about the evil out of fear of falling into it”. The books of the proponents of Bidah and misguidance should be made known through the books that debunk them. Many young people were ruined when deprived of the likes of these books that protect them. These books [of refutations] offer a shield of protection for the youth. [1]

The Shaikh was asked: What is your view about the one who says “Speaking a lot about about Manhaj [methodology] makes the heart become hardened?”

Response: Speaking a lot about (sound) methodology and studying it hardens the heart, but advocating fictitious (beliefs, deeds, ideas, views), bidah, misguidance, and the ideas of the khawaarij softens the hearts?! The call to (sound) methodology – the call to the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him], and everything they contain about correct beliefs, acts of worship, deeds, and rectification of the (Islamic) methodology is a significant matter that should be (emphasised).

The misguided (beliefs, methodologies, etc) are plentiful, and no matter how much someone speaks, their efforts are insufficient compared to what is needed. Currently, we speak about the (sound) methodology, but has it reached all Muslims? However, speech based on the path of the Tableeghees, the Ikhwaanees, the proponents of misguidance, the proponents of Bidah, fictitious views, and (deviant) political views soften the heart! Is this statement correct?! This is the speech of the foolish ones – those who are tired of the true Islamic methodology approach, so they speak such falsehoods that obstruct (people) from the path of Allah. [2]

[1]An Excerpt from “Juhoodul Allaamah Rabee Al-Madkhali Fee Naqdi Shubuhaatil Hizbiyyeen. page 80-81

[2] An Excerpt from Juhoodu Al-Allaamah Rabee Al-Madkhali Fee Naqdi Shubuhaatil Hizbiyyeen’ page 77-78

A brief assessment of Julian Wood’s signpost of ethical superiority

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Articles, Contemporary Issues, Fitnah, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Shirk, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

يَٰٓأَهْلَ ٱلْكِتَٰبِ قَدْ جَآءَكُمْ رَسُولُنَا يُبَيِّنُ لَكُمْ كَثِيرًا مِّمَّا كُنتُمْ تُخْفُونَ مِنَ ٱلْكِتَٰبِ وَيَعْفُوا۟ عَن كَثِيرٍ قَدْ جَآءَكُم مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ نُورٌ وَكِتَٰبٌ مُّبِينٌ

يَهْدِى بِهِ ٱللَّهُ مَنِ ٱتَّبَعَ رِضْوَٰنَهُۥ سُبُلَ ٱلسَّلَٰمِ وَيُخْرِجُهُم مِّنَ ٱلظُّلُمَٰتِ إِلَى ٱلنُّورِ بِإِذْنِهِۦ وَيَهْدِيهِمْ إِلَىٰ صِرَٰطٍ مُّسْتَقِيمٍ

O people of the Scripture! Now has come to you Our Messenger (Muhammad ) explaining to you much of that which you used to hide from the Scripture and passing over (i.e. leaving out without explaining) much. Indeed, there has come to you from Allah a light (Prophet Muhammad) and a plain Book (this Quran). Wherewith Allah guides all those who seek His Good Pleasure to ways of peace, and He brings them out of darkness by His Will unto light and guides them to a Straight Way (Islamic Monotheism). [Al-Ma’idah 15-16]

In this short response, we are not looking to debate democracy and the numerous writings surrounding it – both in favour and against. Instead, our goal is to simply remind Julian Wood that the noble prophets Musa and Harun, along with all the prophets of Bani Israel, peace and blessings of Allah be upon them, did not govern by what Julian appears to take pride in, that the Zionist State is the sole democracy in the region they’ve named as the Middle East. Once again, the matter at hand is not about discussing democracy, as there is plenty of literature on both sides of the argument. Rather, what is being presented as a sign of moral superiority was not the path followed by Bani Israel. Thus, our only inquiry is whether Julian truly follows the Prophets of Bani Israel, as this would require adherence to the noble prophet Isa, peace be upon him, first, and finally submission to the path of the final prophet, Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. However, before we delve into that, we will briefly outline what all the prophets of Bani Israel adhered to prior to the arrival of Muhammad. https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2025/06/21/they-were-not-governed-by-netanyahus-ideas/

Secondly, let’s find out if Julian is a true follower of the prophets of Bani Israel, peace and blessings of Allah be upon them. Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

When it is case that the true followers of the Prophets, peace and blessings of Allah be upon them, are people of knowledge and justice, therefore the speech of the people of Islam and the true adherents to the Prophetic Sunnah regarding the unbelievers and the proponents of religious innovations has to be based on knowledge and justice, and not conjecture and what the soul desires. And due to this the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The judges are three: one will go to Paradise and two to Hell. A man who knows the truth and judges with it will enter paradise; a man who knows the truth but judges with the opposite of it will enter the fire, and a man who judges for the people based on ignorance will enter the fire’’. [Reported by Imaam Abu Dawud 3573]

And when it is the case that the one who judges between the people in matters related to wealth, blood [i.e. murder cases, physical violence etc] and honour will enter the hell fire if he is not a just scholar, then how about the one who passes judgements – without knowledge and justice – on creeds, religions, the fundamentals of belief,  divine knowledge and the general fundamental principles related to different subject matters, as is the case with the people of Bidah and vain desires – those who follow the ambiguous doubtful matters, abandon those explicitly clear texts that have transmitted by the Prophets, cling to matters that share an ambiguous similarity through mere analogy and opinions, and then present matters whose differences can neither be reconciled nor equated, just as is the case with the unbelievers and all the people of bidah and vain desires, who liken the creation to the Creator [i.e. they give the creation the Perfect Attributes that only belong to the Creator], and liken the Creator to the creation [i.e. by describing the Creator with the imperfect attributes of the Creation], and then they put forward an evil similitude for Allah by way of thoughtless and confusing speech. This is because the false religion of the Christians is an innovated religion- innovated after the departure of the Messiah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and altered the religion of the Messiah through it, thus, they deviated from the Messiah’s path and remained upon that which they innovated.

Then when  Allah, The Most High,  sent Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, they disbelieved in him, thus, their disbelief and misguidance occurred in two ways: substitution of the religion of the first Messenger [i.e. the Messiah] and belied the second Messenger [i.e. Muhammad], just as the Jews substituted the rulings of the Torah before the Messiah was sent and then belied him. The Christians’ denial of Muhammad’s Messengership is a well-known belief of theirs to every Muslim, which is similar to the Jews’ disbelief  in the Messiah. The Christians emphasise the disbelief of the Jews greater than what the Jews deserve, because the Jews (i.e. those who disbelieved in the Messiah) claimed that he was a magician and a liar; rather they said that he is an illegitimate child, as Allah informed us about them: [وَقَوۡلِهِمۡ عَلَىٰ مَرۡيَمَ بُہۡتَـٰنًا عَظِيمً۬ا – And their speech against Maryam (Mary)- a grave false charge (that she has committed illegal sexual intercourse]. [Surah An-Nisaa. Aayah 156]

However, the Christians claimed that the Messiah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is Allah, therefore the strife between them and the Jews regarding the Messiah involved a lot of contradictions, misguidance at similar levels and confrontation, and this is why both nations rebuked one another with something more than what each of them deserved, as Allah said:

وَقَالَتِ ٱلۡيَهُودُ لَيۡسَتِ ٱلنَّصَـٰرَىٰ عَلَىٰ شَىۡءٍ۬ وَقَالَتِ ٱلنَّصَـٰرَىٰ لَيۡسَتِ ٱلۡيَهُودُ عَلَىٰ شَىۡءٍ۬ وَهُمۡ يَتۡلُونَ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبَ‌ۗ كَذَٲلِكَ قَالَ ٱلَّذِينَ لَا يَعۡلَمُونَ مِثۡلَ قَوۡلِهِمۡ‌ۚ فَٱللَّهُ يَحۡكُمُ بَيۡنَهُمۡ يَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ فِيمَا كَانُواْ فِيهِ يَخۡتَلِفُونَ

The Jews said that the Christians follow nothing; and the Christians said that the Jews follow nothing; though they both recite the Scripture. Like unto their word, said (the pagans) who know not. Allah will judge between them on the Day of Resurrection about that wherein they have been differing. [Al-Baqarah. 113]

Muhammad Bin Abee Muhammad, the protege of Zaid Bin Thabit, may Allah be pleased with him, reported from Ikrimah or Saeed Bi  Jubayr, who reported from Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him and his father,  that when the Christian delegation of Najran came to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, the Rabbis came and argued with them in the presence of the Messenger; so Rabee bin Hurmilah said, “You are upon nothing”, thus, he disbelieved in Isa and all the Injeel”. Then a man from the people of Najran said to the Jews, “You are upon nothing”, thus, he wilfully denied Musa’s Prophethood and disbelieved in the Torah, so Allah revealed:

وَقَالَتِ ٱلۡيَهُودُ لَيۡسَتِ ٱلنَّصَـٰرَىٰ عَلَىٰ شَىۡءٍ۬ وَقَالَتِ ٱلنَّصَـٰرَىٰ لَيۡسَتِ ٱلۡيَهُودُ عَلَىٰ شَىۡءٍ۬ وَهُمۡ يَتۡلُونَ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبَ‌ۗ

The Jews said that the Christians follow nothing; and the Christians said that the Jews follow nothing; though they both recite the Scripture. [Al-Baqarah. 113]

So each of them recited the affirmation of what they reject in their book- meaning, the Jews disbelieved in Isa whilst they had the Torah in which Allah established the evidence against them through Musa that they should believe in Isa and in the Injeel. [Ibn Abee Haatim. 1/339]

[وَقَالَتِ ٱلۡيَهُودُ لَيۡسَتِ ٱلنَّصَـٰرَىٰ عَلَىٰ شَىۡءٍ۬  – The Jews said that the Christians follow nothing];  Qatadah said regarding this verse: “Certainly, the early Christians were upon something, but they innovated and split”.  [وَقَالَتِ ٱلنَّصَـٰرَىٰ لَيۡسَتِ ٱلۡيَهُودُ عَلَىٰ شَىۡءٍ۬ – and the Christians said that the Jews follow nothing]; Qatadah said regarding this verse, “Certainly, the early Jews were upon something, but they innovated and split”.

The Jews belied the religion of the Christians and said that the Christians were upon nothing; and the Christians denied everything through which the Jews were distinguished with, even the laws of the Torah which the Messiah did not abrogate; rather he commanded them to act upon it. As for the Jews, they denied many of the things through which others were distinguished from them, until they denied the truth brought by Isa. So, even though the Christians – due to that which they innovated of exaggeration and misguidance – went into extremes in declaring the Jews as unbelievers and showed them enmity beyond what is obligated, however there is no doubt that the Jews disbelieved when they belied the Messiah, as Allah said to the Messiah:

إِنِّى مُتَوَفِّيكَ وَرَافِعُكَ إِلَىَّ وَمُطَهِّرُكَ مِنَ ٱلَّذِينَ ڪَفَرُواْ وَجَاعِلُ ٱلَّذِينَ ٱتَّبَعُوكَ فَوۡقَ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُوٓاْ

I will take you and raise you to Myself and clear you [of the forged statement that ‘Iesa (Jesus) is Allah’s son] of those who disbelieve, and I will make those who follow you (Monotheists, who worship none but Allah) superior to those who disbelieve [in the Oneness of Allah, or disbelieve in some of His Messengers, e.g. Muhammad, ‘Iesa (Jesus), Musa (Moses), etc., or in His Holy Books, e.g. the Taurat (Torah), the Injeel (Gospel), the Qur’an] till the Day of Resurrection. [Aal Imraan. 55]

Allah said:

قَالَ عِيسَى ٱبۡنُ مَرۡيَمَ لِلۡحَوَارِيِّـۧنَ مَنۡ أَنصَارِىٓ إِلَى ٱللَّهِ‌ۖ قَالَ ٱلۡحَوَارِيُّونَ نَحۡنُ أَنصَارُ ٱللَّهِ‌ۖ فَـَٔامَنَت طَّآٮِٕفَةٌ۬ مِّنۢ بَنِىٓ إِسۡرَٲٓءِيلَ وَكَفَرَت طَّآٮِٕفَةٌ۬‌ۖ فَأَيَّدۡنَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ عَلَىٰ عَدُوِّهِمۡ فَأَصۡبَحُواْ ظَـٰهِرِينَ

Eesaa the son of Maryam said to Al-Hawariun (the disciples): “Who are my helpers (in the Cause) of Allah?” Al-Hawarieen (the disciples) said: “We are Allah’s helpers” (i.e. we will strive in His Cause!). Then a group of the Children of Israel believed and a group disbelieved. So We gave power to those who believed against their enemies, and they became the uppermost. [Surah As-Saff. Aayah 14]

The disbelief of the Christians – due to their denial of Muhammad’s Messengership – is greater than the disbelief of the Jews due to their denial of the Messiah’s Messengership. This is because the Messiah only abrogated a little from the Torah and all the laws and acts of worship ordained for him could be traced back to the Torah; however the majority of the beliefs and practices of the Christians were innovated after the departure of the Messiah. That which is found in the Jews’ denial of the Messiah by opposing Allah’s Shariah is not the same as the Christians’ denial of Muhammad, who brought an independent book from Allah, because nothing in the laws of the Qur’an was ordained based on the law of another Messenger. Allah said: [أَوَلَمۡ يَكۡفِهِمۡ أَنَّآ أَنزَلۡنَا عَلَيۡكَ ٱلۡڪِتَـٰبَ يُتۡلَىٰ عَلَيۡهِمۡ‌ۚ إِنَّ فِى ذَٲلِكَ لَرَحۡمَةً۬ وَذِڪۡرَىٰ لِقَوۡمٍ۬ يُؤۡمِنُونَ – Is it not sufficient for them that We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) which is recited to them? Verily, herein is mercy and a reminder (or an admonition) for a people who believe]. [Al-Ankabut. 51]

The Qur’an is an independent book like the Torah of Musa, even though the Qur’an is greater than it. And this is why the  Christian scholars made a connection between Musa and Muhammad, just as when An-Najaashee – the (Ethiopian) king of the Christians- heard the Qur’an, he said, “Indeed, this and what Musa brought came from the same source”.

Also, when Waqarah bin Nawfil – who was one of Christian Arab scholars- heard the statement of the Prophet, he said, “Indeed, the Naamoos [i.e. Jibreel] came to you, who was sent to Musa. I wish I were young till when your people expel you [i.e. from Makkah]”. Allah’s Messenger asked, “Will these people drive me out?” Waraqah said, “Yes, for nobody brought the like of what you have brought, but was treated with hostility. If I were to remain alive till your day [when you start calling to Islam], then I would support you strongly”. [Al-Bukhari]

And this is why Allah mentioned the Torah and the Qur’an together in His statement:

فَلَمَّا جَآءَهُمُ ٱلۡحَقُّ مِنۡ عِندِنَا قَالُواْ لَوۡلَآ أُوتِىَ مِثۡلَ مَآ أُوتِىَ مُوسَىٰٓ‌ۚ أَوَلَمۡ يَڪۡفُرُواْ بِمَآ أُوتِىَ مُوسَىٰ مِن قَبۡلُ‌ۖ قَالُواْ سِحۡرَانِ تَظَـٰهَرَا وَقَالُوٓاْ إِنَّا بِكُلٍّ۬ كَـٰفِرُونَ

قُلۡ فَأۡتُواْ بِكِتَـٰبٍ۬ مِّنۡ عِندِ ٱللَّهِ هُوَ أَهۡدَىٰ مِنۡہُمَآ أَتَّبِعۡهُ إِن ڪُنتُمۡ صَـٰدِقِينَ

But when the truth (i.e. Muhammad with his Message) has come to them from Us, they say: “Why is he not given the like of what was given to Musa (Moses)? Did they not disbelieve in that which was given to Musa (Moses) of old? They say: “Two kinds of magic [the Taurat (Torah) and the Qur’an] each helping the other!” And they say: “Verily! In both we are disbelievers.” Say (to them, O Muhammad): “Then bring a Book from Allah, which is a better guide than these two [the Taurat (Torah) and the Qur’an], that I may follow it, if you are truthful.” [Al-Qasas.  48-49]

Allah did not revealed books that were a better guide than the Torah and the Qur’an. Then Allah said:

فَإِن لَّمۡ يَسۡتَجِيبُواْ لَكَ فَٱعۡلَمۡ أَنَّمَا يَتَّبِعُونَ أَهۡوَآءَهُمۡ‌ۚ وَمَنۡ أَضَلُّ مِمَّنِ ٱتَّبَعَ هَوَٮٰهُ بِغَيۡرِ هُدً۬ى مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ‌ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَا يَہۡدِى ٱلۡقَوۡمَ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ

But if they answer you not (i.e. do not believe in your doctrine of Islamic Monotheism, nor follow you), then know that they only follow their own lusts. And who is more astray than one who follows his own lusts, without guidance from Allah? Verily! Allah guides not the people who are Zalimun (wrong-doers, disobedient to Allah, and polytheists). [Surah Al-Qasas. Aayah 50] [End of quote: An Excerpt from Al-Jawab As-Sahih Liman Baddala Deen Al-Masih 1/26-30]

In the brief discussion above, the main goal is to remind Julian that all of them- Netanyahu’s gang, the Evangelists, the Christian Rightists and Neocons are not true followers of the Prophets. Therefore, our conversation is entirely religious, based on the infallible texts we have shared earlier. Thus, Julian is claiming a moral superiority that no prophet of Bani Israel ever used as a basis for moral authority. By stating all of this, we aim to bring Julian back to common sense and reality.

Finally, we are instructed to treat Jews, Christians, and others with justice, and to coexist with them in a respectful manner, even though many in Palestine support the genocidal maniac Netanyahu and his IDF. We also denounce antisemitism just as we denounce over seventy years of Zionist brutality. May Allah guide Julian Amin.

Must Read:

https://www.abukhadeejah.com/living-with-non-muslims-in-the-west-with-fine-conduct/ 

https://abuiyaad.com/sn/muslims-antisemitism

https://abuiyaad.com/w/antisemitism-ernest-renan

https://abuiyaad.com/a/muhammad-semitic-prophet

Rotten Myth of a Religious Right-Wing Extremist and a Christian Zionist

The Pursuit of Two Scholars That Led to Tremendous Good

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

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

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah stated why he wrote Al-Wasitiyyah:

The reason for writing this book was that one of the judges of Waasit came to me- a Shaikh called Radiyyuddeen Al-Waasitee from the followers of the Shaafi’ee Madhab. He came whilst on his journey and was one of the good people and an adherent to the religion. He complained about the overwhelming ignorance and wrongdoing in his land – under the rulership of the Tartars – and asked me to write for him an Aqeedah that would be a fundamental support for him and his household; but I asked him to excuse me from this request. I said to him, “The scholars have written various books of Aqeedah, so take from the books written by the Imams of the Sunnah”, but he insisted and carried on urging me, and said, “I do not want except a book of Aqeedah written by yourself”. Thus, I wrote this Aqeedah for him whilst I was sitting after Asr”.

In that one sitting after Asr prayer, Shaikh Al-Islam wrote – accurately – this Aqeedah and fulfilled what the requester desired. Shaikh Al-Islam said, “Many copies of this book spread in Egypt, Iraq and other places”. This is the reason why Shaikh Al-Islam wrote the book.

The need to clarify the Aqeedah – making it clear to the people and attaching them to their Creator and Lord, their Master and Protector, through the sound Aqeedah and upright Iman- is the matter through which degeneration and deviation in society would be cured.

This is because the greatest cause of degeneration in society is due to lack of (truly) knowing Allah, His Greatness, Exaltedness and Perfection, and what the hearts should contain regarding Allah’s Exaltation. It has been said, “The one who knows Allah more will fear Him more”. But when a person’s knowledge about Allah is weak, then various deviations and corruptions appear amongst the people. Therefore, the Aqeedah is the cure and medication that will bring about safety. If the Aqeedah is sound, the deeds will be upright, behaviour will become good and the souls will be satisfied. Contemplate this in relation to the affair of this righteous judge and the situation in his land, such as his mention of the spread of ignorance, rife wrong doing and corruption, thus, he went to find a solution to these problems by asking Shaikh Al-Islam to write a book on creed. When you look at the state of affairs in our time, you’ll see this widespread and painful state of affairs in many societies; therefore, people are greatly in need of concentrating on Aqeedah, learning Aqeedah, nurtured upon Aqeedah, and spreading Tawheed, and Iman. This judge saw that Aqeedah is the solution and cure, and he acknowledged Shaikh Islam’s leadership in knowledge, religion, piety and great station, so he sought from him and insisted until Shaikh Al-Islam agreed to write this book. (1)

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

The rectification of every nation and its [upright] ascendancy is tied to the soundness of its Aqeedah and Afkaar [views or thoughts]; therefore, due to this reason, the Message of the Prophets came to rectify the creed [of the people]. Therefore, the first thing every Messenger said to his people was:

ٱعۡبُدُواْ ٱللَّهَ مَا لَكُم مِّنۡ إِلَـٰهٍ غَيۡرُهُ

Worship Allah! You have no other Ilah (God) but Him. (La ilaha ill-Allah: none has the right to be worshipped but Allah)]. [Al-A’raaf. 59]

وَلَقَدۡ بَعَثۡنَا فِى ڪُلِّ أُمَّةٍ۬ رَّسُولاً أَنِ ٱعۡبُدُواْ ٱللَّهَ وَٱجۡتَنِبُواْ ٱلطَّـٰغُوتَ‌ۖ

And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): “Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taghut (all false deities, etc. i.e. do not worship Taghut besides Allah)]”. [An-Nahl 36]

And this is because Allah [Glorified be He and free is He from all Imperfections] created the Khalq [i.e. Jinn and Mankind] to worship Him alone and not associate anything as a partner with Him.

وَمَا خَلَقۡتُ ٱلۡجِنَّ وَٱلۡإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعۡبُدُونِ

And I (Allah) created not the jinns and humans except they should worship Me (Alone). [Adh-Dhaariyaat. 56]

Ibadah [worship] is a right due to Allah [alone] which His slaves must fulfil, just as the Prophet said to Mu’adh Bin Jabal: “O Mu’adh, do you know what is the right of Allah upon His servants?” I said, “Allah and His Messenger know best.” The Prophet said, “To worship Him alone and to associate none in worship with Him. And do you know what is their right upon Him?” I said, “Allah and His Messenger know best.” The Prophet said, “Not to punish them if they do so.” [Bukhari]

The is the first and foremost Right [or obligation] without exception. Nothing else precedes it nor is precedence given to the rights of anyone over it. Allah said:

وَقَضَىٰ رَبُّكَ أَلَّا تَعۡبُدُوٓاْ إِلَّآ إِيَّاهُ وَبِٱلۡوَٲلِدَيۡنِ إِحۡسَـٰنًا‌ۚ

And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents]. [Al-Israa. 23]

قُلۡ تَعَالَوۡاْ أَتۡلُ مَا حَرَّمَ رَبُّڪُمۡ عَلَيۡڪُمۡ‌ۖ أَلَّا تُشۡرِكُواْ بِهِۦ شَيۡـًٔ۬ا‌ۖ وَبِٱلۡوَٲلِدَيۡنِ إِحۡسَـٰنً۬ا‌ۖ

Say (O Muhammad ): “Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited you from: Join not anything in worship with Him; be good and dutiful to your parents. [Sural Al-An’aam’ Aayah 151] (2)

Allamah Siddeeq Hasan Khan, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

(You) should know that sound knowledge does not contain any harm. Conversely, ignorance does not hold any benefits. This is because every piece of sound knowledge has a benefit that is connected to matters related to the Afterlife, the affairs of life, or human perfection. However, in certain sciences, it may be mistakenly assumed that harm can arise or that the knowledge is not beneficial due to a failure to consider the necessary conditions that must be observed in acquiring knowledge and by the scholars (themselves) because every branch of knowledge has its limitations, and these boundaries should not be exceeded. It is erroneous to believe that knowledge can surpass its intended purpose, just as it is incorrect to assume that mainstream medicine can cure all ailments. In reality, certain diseases cannot be cured through (medical) treatment. Among them is one who thinks that knowledge is above its rank in honour, just as one thinks that jurisprudence is the most honourable of all sciences absolutely, but that is not the case, as the knowledge of pure Islamic monotheism is more honourable without exception.

Among them is intending through knowledge other than its purpose, such as the one who learns for the sake of wealth or prestige. The purpose of sciences of the religion in and of themselves is not to earn wealth, but rather acquaintance with facts and refining morals. Therefore, he who pursues knowledge of the religion for the sake of professionalism is not a scholar, but rather he is someone who feigns resemblance to the scholars. The scholars of Transoxiana revealed and stated this when they were informed of the construction of schools in Baghdad; so, they held gatherings of religious knowledge and stated: “The people with lofty aspirations and the pure souls used to preoccupy themselves with it, whose intent or (goal) behind the pursuit of knowledge was because of its nobility and perfection (attained) through it, so they came to the scholars to benefit from them and their knowledge. However, if it becomes a means of earning, the mean (vile) and lazy people will approach it and this will be a reason for its disappearance, thus the sciences of wisdom are abandoned, even though they are noble in and of themselves”. (3)

Imam Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Among the people are those who have vast knowledge but (afflicted with vain) desires, and Allah’s refuge is sought (against this)! He issues religious verdicts based on what pleases the people, and not based on what pleases Allah. This one is called the scholar of the Ummah (or the people). The scholars are three types: the scholar of the religion, the scholar of the state (government), and the scholar of the Ummah. The scholar of the religion is the one who propagates the religion of Islam, issues religious verdicts based on the religion of Islam, knowledge, and what the Shariah establishes, and does not care whether it agrees with the desires of the people or not. The scholar of the state (or government) is the one who looks at what the state (or government) wants and issues a religious verdict based on what the state wants, even if that involves distorting Allah’s Book and the Sunnah of His Messenger. As for the scholar of the Ummah (or the people), he is the one who looks at what pleases the people. If he sees that the people are on something, he issues a religious verdict based on what pleases them, then he attempts to distort the texts of the Qur’an and Sunnah to make it agree with the desires of the people. We ask Allah to make us and you from the scholars of the religion who act upon it”. (4)

Amr Bin Al-Aas, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that he heard Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, saying, “If a Mujtahid gives a verdict according to the best of his knowledge and his verdict is correct, he will receive a double reward, and if he gives a verdict according to the best of his knowledge and his verdict is wrong, even then he will get a reward”. [Bukhari Number 7352]

A Few Points From This Hadeeth: [I] A Mujtahid is not deprived of reward. [II] The judgement of a non-Mujtahid is different from that of a Mujtahid. Shaikh Al-Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah stated that the one who speaks about the religion without knowledge and out of ignorance (is guilty of) lying and sinning. [III] The one who intentionally speaks to oppose the truth is threatened with entry into the fire of hell, as opposed to the affair of the one who speaks based on permissible Ijtihaad, for indeed he strives, fears Allah as much as he is able, desires to seek knowledge as much as he was able, speaks for the sake of Allah, knows the stronger proof and speaks based on that. This person is given two rewards if he is correct, but if he is mistaken, he receives one reward. [IV] A Mujtahid can be correct or mistaken. (5)

Imam Ash-Shawkaanee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

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 prioritising 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. (6)

Al-Allamah Siddeeq Hasan Khan, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

It is prohibited for a mufti to assist or guide an inquirer to his goal in matters that involve evading an obligation, permitting a forbidden act, or engaging in deceit or trickery. Instead, the mufti should possess a keen awareness of the cunning and deceitful nature of individuals and their circumstances, and should not assume the best of them. Instead, one must be cautious, perceptive, and knowledgeable about the circumstances and affairs of people, supported by an understanding of the Sharia. Without such awareness, one may stray from the right path and make others stray. There are many issues that may appear attractive on the surface but conceal repugnant injustice. The superficial observer focuses solely on the outward appearance and concludes its acceptability, while the insightful individual examines its intent and underlying essence. The former is easily misled by superficial issues, much like an ignorant person is deceived by the allure of money. In contrast, the latter reveals the falsehood, akin to a critic exposing counterfeit currency. How often does a person present falsehoods through eloquent language and polished expression, making them appear as truths? Conversely, how frequently does genuine truth get misrepresented as falsehood due to poor articulation and lack of insight? Anyone with even a modicum of discernment and experience can easily recognize this reality; in fact, it reflects the common behaviour of many individuals. Due to its prevalence and notoriety, there is no need for examples. The one closely examines all the false statements and the Bidah will find that their proponents often present them in appealing themes, using language that may be accepted by those unaware of their true nature. The intent in this discussion is that it is not permissible for anyone to issue fatwas based on prohibited tricks, neither assist in this nor guide others towards them, as this would contradict Allah’s command. (7)

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

When it is case that the true followers of the Prophets [peace and blessings of Allah be upon them] are people of knowledge and justice, therefore the speech of the people of Islam and the true adherents to the Prophetic Sunnah regarding the unbelievers and the proponents of religious innovations has to be based on knowledge and justice, and not conjecture and what the soul desires. And due to this the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “The judges are three: one will go to Paradise and two to Hell. A man who knows the truth and judges with it will enter paradise; a man who knows the truth but judges with the opposite of it will enter the fire, and a man who judges for the people based on ignorance will enter the fire”. [Reported by Imam Abu Dawud 3573]

When it is the case that the person who adjudicates amongst the people in disputes over wealth, blood (such as murder cases, acts of physical violence, etc.), and honour is (threatened) with entry into hell if he is not a just scholar, then what about the one who makes judgements – without knowledge and justice – on creeds, religions, fundamentals of belief, divine knowledge, and general fundamental principles relating to many subject matters, as is the case with Ahlul Bidah Wal Ahwaa [the proponents of religious innovations and followers of vain desires] who follow ambiguous doubtful matters, abandon those explicitly clear texts that the Prophets have transmitted, cling to affairs that share an ambiguous similarity through mere analogy and opinions, and then present affairs whose differences cannot be reconciled or equated, just as is the case with the unbelievers and all the proponents of religious innovation and followers of desires, who liken the creation to the Creator [i.e. they give the creation the Perfect Attributes that only belong to the Creator], and liken the Creator to the creation [i.e. by describing the Creator with the imperfect attributes of the Creation], and then they put forward an evil similitude for Allah by way of thoughtless and confusing speech. This is because the false religion of the Christians is an innovated [or concocted] religion- innovated after the departure of the Messiah [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] and altered the religion of the Messiah through it; so they deviated from the Messiah’s, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, path and remained upon that which they innovated. (8)

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, said:

We do not say that there are people of Ijtihaad amongst ahlul bidah because they are followers of desires, and Allah and His Messenger have testified to this. The misguided innovator stirs up discord and errs, and then says to you, “This is Ijtihaad”. When Hikmatiyaar and the misguided parties (in Afghanistan) murdered Shaikh Jameel Ur-Rahmaan, they said, “This is Ijtihaad”. They (ahlul bidah) do not fall into an affair of misguidance or a calamity except that they say, “This is Ijtihaad”. This is (tantamount) to diluting Islam, falsehood, misguidance, bidah and confounding truth with falsehood when the mistakes of the (qualified scholars of Ijtihaad)- for which they are rewarded- are placed at the same level with Bidah about which the Messenger declared to be destined for the hell fire. (9)

[1] Sharh Aqeeqah Al-Waasitiyyah Lesson 1. By Shaikh Abdur Razaaq Al-Badr, hafidhahullah.

[2] Al-Muhadharat Fil Aqeedah 6/17

[3] An Excerpt from “Abjad Al-Uloom” 1/77-78

[4] An Excerpt from “Sharh Riyaadus Saaliheen” 4/307-308

[5] Al-Arba’oona Hadeethaa Fee Usoolil Fiqh. pages 32-33]

[6] An Excerpt from Adabud Talab Wa Muntahaa Al-Adab. Pages 93-95.

[7] An Excerpt from Dakhr Al-Muhtee Min Aadaab Al-Muftee 121-122

[8] Al-Jawaabus Saheeh 1/26-30

[9] An Excerpt from ‘Ajwibatul Allaamatush Shaikh Rabee Bin Haadee Al Madkhalee Alaa As-ilah Abee Rawaaha Al-Manhajiyyah page: 20]

[1] The Heart’s Three Solid Pillars In The Path of Worship: Love, Fear, and Hope

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Articles, Basics, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Love

Allah [The Most High] said:

وَمِنَ النَّاسِ مَن يَتَّخِذُ مِن دُونِ اللّهِ أَندَاداً يُحِبُّونَهُمْ كَحُبِّ اللّهِ وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ أَشَدُّ حُبًّا لِّلّهِ

And of mankind are some who take (for worship) others besides Allah as rivals (to Allah). They love them as they love Allah. But those who believe, love Allah more (than anything else). [2:165]

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

The (true) believers love Allah more than the love that the idol worshippers have for the partners they associate with Allah in worship. This is because they (believers) have a pure and sincere love for Allah. As for the Mushrikoon, they associate partners with Allah in worship out of the love they have for their false objects of worship. The believers love The One (Allah) who deserves true love in reality, for true love of Allah is the very thing upon which depends the rectification of a person, his happiness and success. As for the Mushrikoon, they love those who are not worthy of being given any love, rather having love for such things is the very reason behind wretchedness, corruption and loss. [1]

Fear and Hope

Allah (The Most High) said:

إِنَّهُمْ كَانُوا يُسَارِعُونَ فِي الْخَيْرَاتِ وَيَدْعُونَنَا رَغَبًا وَرَهَبًا ۖ وَكَانُوا لَنَا خَاشِعِينَ

Verily, they (i.e. Prophets) used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear, and used to humble themselves before Us. [21:90]

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

They used to hasten towards the performance of good deeds and carried them out in the most virtuous times. They carried out those good deeds in a befitting manner and in the manner it is obligated. They never left a virtuous deed they were able to perform; rather they took the opportunity to perform it. They used to call upon Allah with Hope and Fear – asking Allah for those good things that are desired in the worldly life and afterlife. They used to seek Allah’s Refuge from those frightening things that bring about harm in this life and the next. Thus, they had fear and hope, and they were not heedless, inattentive and arrogant. [2]

Love, Fear And Hope In Surah Al-Fatihah

These three pillars are the pillars of servitude of the heart and no act of worship is accepted except through them. Allah is to be worshipped out of love of Him, hoping for His reward and fearing His punishment. Allah [The Blessed and Most High] mentioned these pillars of worship in Surah Al Fatihah – the best Surah of the Qur’an.

Love as a pillar of worship is found in statement [الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ – All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the ‘Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)]. This is because Allah is the Bestower of all favours and the Bestower of blessings is loved in accordance with the favours He bestows, and [الْحَمْدُ] is to praise alongside having love for the one who is praised.

Hope as a pillar of worship is found in the statement [الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ -The Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful]. That is because the believer hopes for Allah’s Mercy and desires its attainment.

Fear as a pillar of worship is found in the statement [مَالِكِ يَوْمِ الدِّين -The Only Owner (and the Only Ruling Judge) of the Day of Recompense (i.e. the Day of Resurrection)]. [يَوْمِ الدِّين – The Day of Recompense] is the day of reckoning. Then the statement [إِيَّاكَ نَعۡبُدُ وَإِيَّاكَ نَسۡتَعِينُ – You (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything)] follows thereafter, which means: O our Lord! We worship You based on those aforementioned pillars- love, hope and fear.

These are the three pillars upon which:

[إِيَّاكَ نَعۡبُدُ وَإِيَّاكَ نَسۡتَعِينُ ]  is established. They have also been mentioned in Surah Al-Israa Verse 57:

أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ ٱلَّذِينَ يَدۡعُونَ يَبۡتَغُونَ إِلَىٰ رَبِّهِمُ ٱلۡوَسِيلَةَ أَيُّہُمۡ أَقۡرَبُ وَيَرۡجُونَ رَحۡمَتَهُ ۥ وَيَخَافُونَ عَذَابَهُ ۥۤ‌ۚ إِنَّ عَذَابَ

Those whom they call upon [like ‘Iesa (Jesus) – son of Maryam (Mary), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angel, etc.] desire (for themselves) means of access to their Lord (Allah), as to which of them should be the nearest and they [‘Iesa (Jesus), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angels, etc.] hope for His Mercy and fear His Torment].

In the above Ayah, the statement “desire (for themselves) means of access to their Lord (Allah)”  means seeking to get close to Allah through love and doing what He loves. Then Allah stated, “(They) hope for His Mercy and fear His Torment”. Therefore in this Ayah, love, fear and hope are mentioned, and likewise stated in Surah Al-Anbiyaa: [إِنَّهُمۡ ڪَانُواْ يُسَـٰرِعُونَ فِى ٱلۡخَيۡرَٲتِ وَيَدۡعُونَنَا رَغَبً۬ا وَرَهَبً۬ا‌ۖ وَڪَانُواْ لَنَا خَـٰشِعِينَ – Verily, they used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear, and used to humble themselves before Us].

Therefore, a slave (i.e. the one who worships Allah alone) must combine these three pillars [love, fear and hope] in his (or her) acts of worship and remembrance of Allah. It is not permissible to worship Allah with only one of them without the others, such as worshipping Allah with love alone without fear and hope, or worshipping Allah with hope alone, or worshipping Allah with fear alone. And due to this, some of the scholars said, ”Whoever worships Allah with love alone is a heretic and whoever worships Allah with fear alone is a Harooree (i.e. from the Khaarij), and whoever worships Allah with hope alone is a Murji, and whoever worships Allah with love, fear and hope is a believer and person of Tawheed. [3]

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

We should know that fear of Allah should be combined with love and hope, so that fear does not become a cause of giving up hope in Allah’s Mercy. A believer should have both fear of Allah and hope in Allah’s Mercy, so that fear alone does not lead him to give up hope in Allah’s mercy, nor will hope alone make feel secure from Allah’s plan. That is because giving up hope in Allah’s Mercy and feeling secure from Allah’s plan are two affairs that negate perfect Tawheed.  Allah [The Most High] said: [فَلَا يَأۡمَنُ مَڪۡرَ ٱللَّهِ إِلَّا ٱلۡقَوۡمُ ٱلۡخَـٰسِرُونَ – None feels secure from the Plan of Allah except the people who are the losers]. [7:99]

Allah [The Most High] said:

[إِنَّهُ ۥ لَا يَاْيۡـَٔسُ مِن رَّوۡحِ ٱللَّهِ إِلَّا ٱلۡقَوۡمُ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرُونَ – Certainly no one despairs of Allah’s Mercy, except the people who disbelieve.” [12:87]

Allah said: [ وَمَن يَقۡنَطُ مِن رَّحۡمَةِ رَبِّهِۦۤ إِلَّا ٱلضَّآلُّونَ – “And who despairs of the Mercy of his Lord except those who are astray. [15:56]

Ismaa’eel Ibn Rafi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “Feeling secure from Allah’s plan is when a servant of Allah is persistent in committing sin, whilst hoping for Allah’s forgiveness”. The Scholars say that despair is to distance oneself from having hope for relief and losing hope in that, and it is the opposite of feeling secure from Allah’s plan. Both these two matters are a great sin. It is neither permissible for a believer to adhere to fear alone, and thus despairs of Allah’s Mercy, nor should he adhere to hope alone, and thus feels secure from Allah’s punishment; rather he should have fear and hope – fearful due to his sins, performs acts of obedience to Allah and hopes for Allah’s Mercy, just as Allah [The Most High] stated:

إِنَّهُمۡ ڪَانُواْ يُسَـٰرِعُونَ فِى ٱلۡخَيۡرَٲتِ وَيَدۡعُونَنَا رَغَبً۬ا وَرَهَبً۬ا‌ۖ وَڪَانُواْ لَنَا خَـٰشِعِينَ

Verily, they used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear, and used to humble themselves before Us. [21:90]

Allah said:

 أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ ٱلَّذِينَ يَدۡعُونَ يَبۡتَغُونَ إِلَىٰ رَبِّهِمُ ٱلۡوَسِيلَةَ أَيُّہُمۡ أَقۡرَبُ وَيَرۡجُونَ رَحۡمَتَهُ ۥ وَيَخَافُونَ عَذَابَهُ ۥۤ‌ۚ إِنَّ عَذَابَ رَبِّكَ كَانَ مَحۡذُورً۬ا

Those whom they call upon [like ‘Iesa (Jesus) – son of Maryam (Mary), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angel, etc.] desire (for themselves) means of access to their Lord (Allah), as to which of them should be the nearest and they [‘Iesa (Jesus), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angels, etc.] hope for His Mercy and fear His Torment. Verily, the Torment of your Lord is something to be afraid of! [17:57]

When fear of Allah and hope in Allah are combined, it urges a slave (i.e. a worshipper of Allah) to perform deeds and utilise the beneficial means to that. Indeed. alongside having hope in Allah’s Mercy, he performs acts of obedience and hopes for reward; and by way of fear, he abandons disobedience due to being fearful of Allah’s punishment. But if he despairs of Allah’s Mercy, he may stop performing righteous deeds, and if he feels secure from Allah’s punishment, he is pushed towards acts of disobedience. [4]

Imam Ahmad, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: It is obligated to a person that his fear and hope are the same because if one of them is more than the other he is destroyed.”

Among the scholars are those who say that if you desire to perform an act of obedience, you should have more hope that Allah will accept it, raise your status by way of it and strengthen you. And if you desire to commit an act of disobedience, you should have more fear so that you do not fall into it. And amongst the scholars are those who say that fear and hope should be based on the circumstances of a person. If one is in a state of poor health, he should have more hope because the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “None of you should die except whilst having good thoughts about Allah”. This is because if one has overwhelming fear whilst he is in a state of poor health, it may lead him to despair of Allah’s Mercy. As for when one is in a state of good health, he should have more fear because a state of good health is a reason for corruption [i.e. it corrupts some people because they take it for granted and are ungrateful etc]. The best position – in my view – regarding this dangerous subject matter is that a person (approaches the affair) based on his circumstances and the position that is more precise is that a person should have more hope when he performs a good deed, and when he desires an evil deed, he should have more fear. [5]

We ask 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 Number: 2720]

[1] An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer kalaam Al-Mannaan’ by Imaam Sadi’.

[2] An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer kalaam Al-Mannaan’ by Imaam Sadi.

[3] An Excerpt from Fiqhul Ad’iyah Wal-Adkaar’ 1/ 99-100

[4] Al-Irshaad Ilaa Saheeh Al-I’tiqaad War-Raddu Alaa Ahlish-Shirki Wal-Ilhaad’ pages 85. Publisher: Daarul Aasimah’ 1st ed  (Year 1423AH- year 2002

[5] Sharh Hilyati Talibal Ilm. Page 35-36. By Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih al-Uthaymin