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The bitter truth uttered by a brave person!

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq'.

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

Imam As-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated about bravery:

This is a great quality that Allah commands in many verses about Jihad, praises the people who possess it, declares that it is the path of the Messengers and the Truthful, and forbids its opposite, which is cowardice, dismay, and fear of the creation when striving in Allah’s path. This lofty quality is inherent in a servant of Allah and is strengthened by the Islamic faith – helps to strengthen and calm the heart during important events and difficult situations, and it is a necessity, especially for leaders engaged in important matters. The Qur’an commands a person to fear Allah alone and not the creation, and the person’s heart is strengthened when he fears Allah alone and understands that the creation cannot help or hurt him except by Allah’s Will. His heart is strengthened when he is steadfast and relies on Allah, just as Allah [The Most High] said concerning the best of creation.

ٱلَّذِينَ قَالَ لَهُمُ ٱلنَّاسُ إِنَّ ٱلنَّاسَ قَدۡ جَمَعُواْ لَكُمۡ فَٱخۡشَوۡهُمۡ فَزَادَهُمۡ إِيمَـٰنً۬ا وَقَالُواْ حَسۡبُنَا ٱللَّهُ وَنِعۡمَ ٱلۡوَڪِيلُ

Those unto whom the people said, ”Verily, the people have gathered against you (a great army), therefore, fear them.” But it (only) increased them in Faith, and they said: ”Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us)” (3:173)

When a person is aware of the reward that results from being strengthened in courage and commitment to the Islamic religion, their strength and bravery increase, just as Allah said:

إِن تَكُونُواْ تَأۡلَمُونَ فَإِنَّهُمۡ يَأۡلَمُونَ كَمَا تَأۡلَمُونَ‌ۖ وَتَرۡجُونَ مِنَ ٱللَّهِ مَا لَا يَرۡجُونَ‌ۗ وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ عَلِيمًا حَكِيمًا

If you are suffering (hardships) then surely, they (too) are suffering (hardships) as you are suffering, but you have a hope from Allah (for the reward, i.e. Paradise) that for which they hope not] (4:104)

And what is observed and known about the situation and characteristics of the creation is that they do not own any means of benefit, assistance, and protection (unless Allah bestows it on them and makes it effective by His Will), therefore, it must be understood that attaching the heart to them with fear, veneration, awe, fervent desire, and reverence is a loss, rather it is harm. A person is required to attach their fear, hope, expectation, and awe to Allah (Alone), Who (alone) owns everything. Allah is The One who wants the best for you even when you don’t want it for yourself, knows (with perfect, all-encompassing knowledge) what is best for you even when you don’t know it, and makes it possible for you to attain what you are unable to receive on your own. The individual comes to understand that cowardice is a disease and a weakness of the heart that results in the loss of good and advantageous things -affects the helpless, and those affected resemble timid women.

And among the benefits of bravery are the fulfilment of Allah’s and His Messenger’s commands, and (as a result) one is described with the qualities of the people of insight among the men of (sound) understanding. There is no greater way to achieve what is desired and a way to safety from obstacles and troubles when the heart is strengthened by the relief and tranquility Allah places in it. The brave individual is able to guide and benefit the people with wisdom and fair speech in accordance with their various social statuses, but as for the coward, he misses out on a lot of good since fear prevents him from reaping the benefits of his knowledge and from guiding and giving sincere advice to Allah’s servants.

Bravery saves a person from a lot of hardships! When faced with afflictions and calamities, the person finds peace and responds with what Allah loves: patience and firmness, while hoping for Allah’s reward, (but) as for a coward, he becomes distracted when confronted with these affairs, and what is beneficial to him is wasted away. He becomes unsettled due to harbouring harmful thoughts (or views), which result in (other) painful things along with calamities and difficulties, and he loses the benefit and reward for enduring difficulty. This praiseworthy quality (bravery) stems from the excellent and all-inclusive quality of patience. And Allah knows best. [1]

Whenever asked by the youth as to why “person a” refrains from openly supporting “person b” through retweets, despite their remarkable bravery and the bitter truths they express? We reply:

It’s important to understand that there are times when only a handful of individuals openly support the statement of an utterer of bitter truths, even though numerous people privately express their agreement with what he articulates. If someone else had made the same statement, it could have been exploited by certain individuals to create significant chaos, divert attention from more pressing issues, and inflict harm on those who speak the truth, or portray the matter as a personal vendetta. Some people are always eager to twist words, disseminate propaganda, and further alienate the general public from the truth, allowing them to cover their tracks swiftly. Also, sometimes those who refrain from publicly endorsing the bitter truth uttered by a brave person may be individuals who employ careful deliberation. They may resonate with the views of the person but are taking the time to analyse his words, and will eventually support his statements when the timing is right or when absolutely necessary.

At times, the challenge lies specifically within the circumstances of the speaker’s domain and the personal experiences that others have encountered, allowing them to comprehend his sentiments. However, engaging in these matters may be akin to intruding into a situation without the expectation of any subsequent benefits in another domain. Alternatively, the deceivers might perceive their participation as a signal to an impartial observer that those who offer the speaker assistance are merely motivated by a shared adversary. Furthermore, there are instances where some individuals who resonate with the bitter truths uttered by the speaker will bide their time, awaiting the complete context of his assertions, scrutinising them meticulously to avoid a collective oversight that could be exploited by someone lacking evidence.

Therefore, the most important thing is to tell the speaker not lose heart simply because it seems to him that he lacks support because there are situations that demand immediate action without consequences, while others require a more measured response to ensure that the potential harm does not outweigh the intended benefits in specific circumstances and places. However, every honest observer knows that the subject of the remarks is either already recognised for the truths being spoken about him or has previously demonstrated this in particular situations. Therefore, adding any additional words could provide them with a reason to shift focus.

In addition, Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, stated:

The obligation of refuting the Mukhaalif is not lifted from the scholar due to anticipation of harm unless it is harm he is not able to bear. Then (in this case), Allah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear. The earth is not devoid of people of knowledge who will carry out refutation against the Mubtadi and the Mukhaalif. [2]

Ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الثَّبَاتَ فِي الْأَمْرِ، وَالْعَزِيمَةَ عَلَى الرُّشْدِ

O Allah! Indeed, I ask You for steadfastness in this affair (regarding sound adherence to the religion) and firm resolve to adhere to the path of guidance.

[1] An Excerpt from “Fat’hul Raheemil Malikil Allaam Fee Ilmil Aqaa-id Wat-Tawheed Wal Akhlaaq Wal Ahkaam. page 40

An Excerpt from “Al Ajwibah Al Mukhtasar Alaa As’ila Al-Ashrah” page 43-44

The leader is a shield

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, said, “The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Verily, the leader is a shield behind whom they fight and he protects them. If he commands (people to) fear Allah, The Exalted, and justice, then he will have a reward. If he commands something else, then it will be against him'”. [S‌ah‌ih Muslim 1841]

“The leader is a shield”.  Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, he is like a shelter because he prevents the enemy from harming the Muslims, preventing the people from (harming) one another, protecting the Muslim nation and the people fearing his authority. “Behind whom they fight”, meaning, alongside him they fight against the disbelievers (i.e. those at war with his country), the rebels, the kharijites and all the perpetrators of corruption and oppression. (1)

Abdus Samad Bin Yazid Al-Baghdadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: I heard Al-Fudayl Bin Iyaadh, may Allah have mercy upon him, saying, “If I had a supplication that would be accepted, I would not make it except for the leader”. It was said to him, “O father of Ali! Why is that?” He said, “When I make it for myself, it would be only for me, but if I make it for the leader, the rectification of the leader would consequently result in the rectification of the people and the country”. It was said to him, “O father of Ali! How is that? Explain this to us”. He said, “As for the wellbeing of the land, if the people are safe from the ruler’s tyranny, they will develop abandoned areas and settle in the land. With regards to the rectification of the people, one observes the affair of a people among the ignoramuses and says, they have been distracted by the pursuit of livelihood instead of seeking what will benefit them, such as learning the Qur’an and other things. Thus, he gathers them together in a house – fifty in number, less or more, and says to a man, ‘You have what will make your affair upright and teach these people their religion’. Then you’ll see what Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, brings forth among them that would make the land righteous and that would return to them (i.e. they’ll receive its benefits). This would be the rectification of the people and the country”. Imam Ibn Al-Mubarak, may Allah have mercy upon him, kissed Imam Fudayl’s forehead and said, “O teacher of goodness! Who else would be able to (say or do) this better than you?!” (2)

May Allah protect and strengthen the rulers of Pakistan, and its citizens, as well as the Muslim rulers and citizens of all other Muslim countries Aameen.

(1) Sharh Sahih Muslim 12/193. Publisher, Daar Al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah. 1st Edition 1421AH (2000)

(2) Hilyah Al-Awliya 8/91

Seeking out the most elderly and senior scholars

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on . Posted in Basics, Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Fatawa-Rulings, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul.

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

The question: This questioner, Ahmad Kashuqah from Amman, Jordan, says: O revered Shaikh, when the statements of the scholars differ regarding the ruling on a particular issue—some saying it is Makruh (disliked), some say it is Haraam (unlawful) and some say Laa Yajuz (it is not allowed), is the verdict Haraam the best of these statements and is this always the case? And if they differ regarding a matter being allowed, recommended and that there is no harm regarding it, is the verdict recommended the best statement, and is this always the case?

Response: There is a detail clarification regarding this matter. It is incumbent upon the one seeking a verdict to examine the matter [ويتحرى من هو أقرب إلى الخير والعلم والفضل وأقرب إلى إصابة الحق – and carefully seek for the one closest to goodness, knowledge and virtue, and closer to reaching the truth] in order to follow their fatwa. If one exercises caution, while the matter is a situation where this one says “haraam”, that one says “It is not Haraam”, he exercises caution and leaves it. This would be better. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt.” [a] “So whoever took caution regarding the ambiguous matters has absolved himself regarding his religion and his honour”.[b]

However, if he is able, he carefully seeks until he knows [من هو أكثر علمًا، ومن هو أكثر ورعًا، ومن هو أقرب إلى الصواب – who has more knowledge, has more of that fear of Allah that makes a person abandon doubtful matters out of fear of falling into Haram, and the one who is closer to reaching what is correct] in order to follow his statement and so that his heart is at ease, similar to what the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Consult your heart”. [c] Righteousness is that about which the soul feels tranquil and the heart feels tranquil. If faced with differing fatwas, if the Fatwa differs, a believer examines and contemplates, and he is not hasty; [يتحرى من هو أقرب إلى الناس للإصابة من أهل العلم والبصيرة والورع والذي يرجح في قلبه أنه أقرب إلى الخير وأقرب إلى إصابة الحق – he seeks among the people of knowledge the one closest to reaching the truth, the possessors of clear-sightedness and that fear of Allah that makes a person avoid doubtful matters out of fear of falling into what is forbidden – the one his heart considers to be closer to good and closer to reaching the truth].

Similarly, in matters of recommendation, if there is disagreement regarding whether something is recommended or permissible, one should carefully consider the opinions. If his heart holds an overwhelming inclination -based on what is apparent – towards the statement of the one who says that the matter is recommended, he should act on the recommendation. If your heart is at ease that the matter is permissible only, it should be treated as permissible. The goal (intent) regarding all of this is that the one who seeks fatwa or the listener should examine and contemplate without haste, he examines the situation and circumstances of the Muftis, and he examines what is closer to good in terms of them having that fear of Allah that makes a person avoid doubtful matters out of fear of falling into Haram, their careful pursuit of the truth, and their good reputation, among other things. [end of quote]

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Footnotes:

[a] https://www.nawawis40hadith.com/nw/hadith/11/leaving-doubt
[b] https://www.nawawis40hadith.com/nw/hadith/6/the-doubtful-matters
[c] https://www.nawawis40hadith.com/nw/hadith/27/righteousness-and-sin
[d] https://www.alfawzan.af.org.sa/ar/node/15726

السؤال: هذا السائل أحمد كشوقة من الأردن عمان يقول: سماحة الشيخ: إذا اختلفت أقوال العلماء في حكم مسألة ما، فمنهم من قال: مكروه، ومنهم من قال: حرام، ومنهم من قال: لا يجوز، فهل أحسن القول في هذه الأحكام هو الحرام؟ وهل هذا دائمًا؟ وإذا اختلفوا على مسألة بأنها جائزة مستحبة لا بأس بها فهل الأحسن القول هو الاستحباب؟ وهل هذا دائمًا، وجهونا بهذا مأجورين؟

الجواب: هذا فيه تفصيل على المستفتي أن ينظر في الأمر، ويتحرى من هو أقرب إلى الخير والعلم والفضل وأقرب إلى إصابة الحق حتى يأخذ بفتواه، وإذا احتاط والمسألة: هذا يقول: حرام، وهذا يقول: ليس بحرام، واحتاط وترك ذلك فهذا حسن؛ لقول النبي ﷺ: دع ما يريبك إلى ما لا يريبك من اتقى الشبهات فقد استبرأ لدينه وعرضه ولكن إذا تيسر له أن يتحرى حتى يعرف من هو أكثر علمًا، ومن هو أكثر ورعًا، ومن هو أقرب إلى الصواب حتى يأخذ بقوله، حتى يطمئن قلبه، مثلما قال ﷺ: استفت قلبك البر ما اطمأنت إليه النفس واطمأن إليه القلب، إذا اختلفت عليه الفتاوى، إذا اختلفت الفتوى فالمؤمن ينظر ويتأمل ولا يعجل، يتحرى من هو أقرب إلى الناس للإصابة من أهل العلم والبصيرة والورع والذي يرجح في قلبه أنه أقرب إلى الخير وأقرب إلى إصابة الحق، وهكذا في الاستحباب إذا اختلفوا هذا سنة أو مباح يتحرى، فإذا غلب على قلبه واطمأن قلبه إلى قول من قال: إنه مستحب، عمل عمل المستحب، وإذا اطمأن قلبك إلى أنه مباح فقط عامله معاملة المباح.
والمقصود من هذا كله أن المستفتي أو السامع ينظر ويتأمل ولا يعجل، وينظر حال المفتين وأحوالهم، وينظر ما هو أقرب إلى الخير من جهة ورعهم ومن جهة تحريهم الحق، ومن جهة سمعتهم الحسنة، إلى غير ذلك

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/8821/%D9%85%D9%88%D9%82%D9%81-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B3%D8%AA%D9%81%D8%AA%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D8%B0%D8%A7-%D8%A7%D8%AE%D8%AA%D9%84%D9%81%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D9%81%D8%AA%D9%8A%D9%86

“Treat others as you would love to be treated” – Admonitions from Senior Scholars

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on . Posted in Basics, Brotherhood, Featured, 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.

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”. [(1)]

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. [(2)]

Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Hadi Al-Madkhali, 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 affairs and affairs related to the Afterlife, then it is obligated on him to do the same for them, so that the statement of the Prophet, “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 affair), good manners and good dealings. [(3)]

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: And from the signs of well-being and success is that whenever the slave is increased in his knowledge, he increases in humility and mercy; and whenever he is increased in action, he increases in his fear and caution; and whenever his age is increased, he decreases in eagerness; and whenever he is increased in wealth, he increases in his generosity and spending; and whenever his status and honour is increased, he increases in coming close to the people, in fulfilling their needs and being humble in (their presence). And the signs of wretchedness are: Whenever he is increased in knowledge, he increases in pride and haughtiness; and whenever he is increased in actions, he increases in his boasting, mockery of the people and having a good opinion of himself; and whenever he is increased in his status and honour, he increases in pride and haughtiness. These affairs of [well-being and wretchedness] are a trial and a test from Allah by way of which He puts His slaves to trial. He brings about well-being and wretchedness to a people by way of these affairs. [(4)]

Imam Muhammad Al-Amin Ash-Shanqeetee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Contemplate what the great leader [Muhammad (peace blessings of Allah be upon him)] has been commanded and how he should deal with his society. Allah, The Most High, said:

فَبِمَا رَحْمَةٍ مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ لِنتَ لَهُمْ وَلَوْ كُنتَ فَظًّا غَلِيظَ ٱلْقَلْبِ لَٱنفَضُّوا۟ مِنْ حَوْلِكَ فَٱعْفُ عَنْهُمْ وَٱسْتَغْفِرْ لَهُمْ وَشَاوِرْهُمْ فِى ٱلْأَمْرِ

And by the Mercy of Allah, you dealt with them gently. And had you been severe and harsh-hearted, they would have broken away from about you; so pass over (their faults), and ask (Allah’s) Forgiveness for them; and consult them in the affairs. [Aal Imran. 159]

Contemplate what a person has been commanded and how he should deal with his leader. Allah [The Most High] said: [يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ أَطِيعُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ وَأَطِيعُوا۟ ٱلرَّسُولَ وَأُو۟لِى ٱلْأَمْرِ مِنكُمْ – O you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger (Muhammad), and those of you (Muslims) who are in authority]. [An-Nisaa.59] [Footnote a]

Contemplate what a person has been commanded to do (in order to safeguard close members) of his society, such as his children and wife. Allah [The Most High] said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ قُوٓا۟ أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَارًا وَقُودُهَا ٱلنَّاسُ وَٱلْحِجَارَةُ عَلَيْهَا مَلَٰٓئِكَةٌ غِلَاظٌ شِدَادٌ لَّا يَعْصُونَ ٱللَّهَ مَآ أَمَرَهُمْ وَيَفْعَلُونَ مَا يُؤْمَرُونَ

O you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones, over which are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who disobey not, (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allah, but do that which they are commanded. [at-Tahreem. 6]

Contemplate how (the Qur’an) has informed the person about cautiousness and resoluteness when dealing his (close) social group in particular- that if he comes across what is not befitting, he is commanded to pardon and forgive. Firstly, the Qur’an commands him to be cautious and resolute, and secondly, it commands him to pardon and forgive. Allah [The Most High] said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِنَّ مِنْ أَزْوَٰجِكُمْ وَأَوْلَٰدِكُمْ عَدُوًّا لَّكُمْ فَٱحْذَرُوهُمْ وَإِن تَعْفُوا۟ وَتَصْفَحُوا۟ وَتَغْفِرُوا۟ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ

O you who believe! Verily, among your wives and your children there are enemies for you (i.e. may stop you from the obedience of Allah), therefore beware of them! But if you pardon (them) and overlook, and forgive (their faults), then verily, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. [at-Taghabun. 14]

Contemplate how individuals in society have been commanded to deal with one another in general. Allah (The Most High) said:

إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَأْمُرُ بِٱلْعَدْلِ وَٱلْإِحْسَٰنِ وَإِيتَآئِ ذِى ٱلْقُرْبَىٰ وَيَنْهَىٰ عَنِ ٱلْفَحْشَآءِ وَٱلْمُنكَرِ وَٱلْبَغْىِ يَعِظُكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَذَكَّرُونَ

Verily, Allah enjoins Al-Adl (i.e. justice and worshipping none but Allah Alone – Islamic Monotheism) and Al-Ihsan [i.e. to be patient in performing your duties to Allah, totally for Allah’s sake and in accordance with the Sunnah (legal ways) of the Prophet in a perfect manner], and giving (help) to kith and kin (i.e. all that Allah has ordered you to give them e.g., wealth, visiting, looking after them, or any other kind of help, etc.): and forbids Al-Fahsha’ (i.e. all evil deeds, e.g. illegal sexual acts, disobedience of parents, polytheism, to tell lies, to give false witness, to kill a life without right, etc.), and Al-Munkar (i.e. all that is prohibited by Islamic law: polytheism of every kind, disbelief and every kind of evil deeds, etc.), and Al-Baghy (i.e. all kinds of oppression), He admonishes you, that you may take heed. [An-Nahl. 90]

Allah [The Most High] said: [يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ ٱجْتَنِبُوا۟ كَثِيرًا مِّنَ ٱلظَّنِّ إِنَّ بَعْضَ ٱلظَّنِّ إِثْمٌ وَلَا تَجَسَّسُوا۟ وَلَا يَغْتَب بَّعْضُكُم بَعْضًا – O you who believe! Avoid much suspicions, indeed some suspicions are sins. And spy not, neither backbite one another.[Al-Hujuraat. 12] [Footnote b]

Allah said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ لَا يَسْخَرْ قَوْمٌ مِّن قَوْمٍ عَسَىٰٓ أَن يَكُونُوا۟ خَيْرًا مِّنْهُمْ وَلَا نِسَآءٌ مِّن نِّسَآءٍ عَسَىٰٓ أَن يَكُنَّ خَيْرًا مِّنْهُنَّ وَلَا تَلْمِزُوٓا۟ أَنفُسَكُمْ وَلَا تَنَابَزُوا۟ بِٱلْأَلْقَٰبِ بِئْسَ ٱلِٱسْمُ ٱلْفُسُوقُ بَعْدَ ٱلْإِيمَٰنِ وَمَن لَّمْ يَتُبْ فَأُو۟لَٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلظَّٰلِمُونَ

O you who believe! Let not a group scoff at another group, it may be that the latter are better than the former; nor let (some) women scoff at other women, it may be that the latter are better than the former, nor defame one another, nor insult one another by nicknames. How bad is it, to insult one’s brother after having Faith [i.e. to call your Muslim brother (a faithful believer) as: “O sinner”, or “O wicked”, etc.]. And whosoever does not repent, then such are indeed Zalimun (wrong-doers, etc.). [Al-Hujuraat. 11]

Allah said:

وَتَعَاوَنُوا۟ عَلَى ٱلْبِرِّ وَٱلتَّقْوَىٰ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوا۟ عَلَى ٱلْإِثْمِ وَٱلْعُدْوَٰنِ

Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa (virtue, righteousness and piety); but do not help one another in sin and transgression. [Al-Maa’idah. 2] [Footnote c]

Allah said: [إِنَّمَا ٱلْمُؤْمِنُونَ إِخْوَةٌ – The believers are nothing else than brothers (in Islamic religion). [Al-Hujuraat. 10]

Allah said: [وَأَمْرُهُمْ شُورَىٰ بَيْنَهُمْ – And who (conduct) their affairs by mutual consultation. [Ash-Shuraa 38] [Footnote d]

When it is the case that the individuals of a society are not safe – regardless who they may be-from the hostility and enmity of others in their Jinn or human society, and it is the case that every individual is in need of a remedy for this problem whose trial affects everyone, therefore Allah [The Most High] clearly prescribed its remedy in three places in His Book. The remedy for human hostility is that (a person) should turn away from the hostile one and responds to them with what is better. Allah [The Most High] said in Surah Al-A’raf 199: [خُذِ ٱلْعَفْوَ وَأْمُرْ بِٱلْعُرْفِ وَأَعْرِضْ عَنِ ٱلْجَٰهِلِينَ – Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish (i.e. don’t punish them].

Allah said Surah Al-Muminun 96: [ٱدْفَعْ بِٱلَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ ٱلسَّيِّئَةَ نَحْنُ أَعْلَمُ بِمَا يَصِفُونَ – Repel evil with that which is better. We are Best-Acquainted with the things they utter].

Allah [The Most High] made it more evident that this divine remedy cuts off this satanic ailment and He also made it more (evident) that this divine (remedy) is not bestowed upon every person, except a person who has been granted in abundance and a great portion (of the happiness in the Hereafter). Allah [The Most High] said:

ٱدْفَعْ بِٱلَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ فَإِذَا ٱلَّذِى بَيْنَكَ وَبَيْنَهُۥ عَدَٰوَةٌ كَأَنَّهُۥ وَلِىٌّ حَمِيمٌ
وَمَا يُلَقَّىٰهَآ إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ صَبَرُوا۟ وَمَا يُلَقَّىٰهَآ إِلَّا ذُو حَظٍّ عَظِيمٍ

Repel (the evil) with one which is better (i.e. Allah ordered the faithful believers to be patient at the time of anger, and to excuse those who treat them badly), then verily! he, between whom and you there was enmity, (will become) as though he was a close friend. But none is granted it (the above quality) except those who are patient, and none is granted it except the owner of the great portion (of the happiness in the Hereafter i.e. Paradise and in this world of a high moral character)” [Fussilat. 34-35]

And there is no remedy against a devil amongst the Jinn except through seeking refuge with Allah. Allah [The Most High] said: [وَإِمَّا يَنزَغَنَّكَ مِنَ ٱلشَّيْطَٰنِ نَزْغٌ فَٱسْتَعِذْ بِٱللَّهِ إِنَّهُۥ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ – And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaitan (Satan) then seek refuge with Allah. Verily, He is All-Hearer, All-Knower]. [Al-A’raf 200]

Allah [The Most High] said Surah Al-Muminun 97-98]:

وَقُل رَّبِّ أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ هَمَزَٰتِ ٱلشَّيَٰطِينِ
وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ رَبِّ أَن يَحْضُرُونِ

And say: “My Lord! I seek refuge with You from the whisperings (suggestions) of the Shayatin (devils). “And I seek refuge with You, My Lord! lest they may attend (or come near) me.”

Allah [The Most High] said:

وَإِمَّا يَنزَغَنَّكَ مِنَ ٱلشَّيْطَٰنِ نَزْغٌ فَٱسْتَعِذْ بِٱللَّهِ إِنَّهُۥ هُوَ ٱلسَّمِيعُ ٱلْعَلِيمُ

And if an evil whisper from Shaitan (Satan) tries to turn you away (O Muhammad) (from doing good, etc.), then seek refuge in Allah. Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower. [Fussilat, 36] [An Excerpt from ‘Al-Islam Deenun Kaamilun. Pages: 10-12]

———————————————-

Footnote a:

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

Footnote b:

Imam As-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Allah [The Most High] has forbidden much evil suspicion towards the believers because some suspicions are sins, such as the suspicion devoid of reality and factual evidence, and the suspicion accompanied by much forbidden speech and action, for indeed the settlement of evil suspicion in the heart does not restrict the one (in whose heart is that evil suspicion) only to that; rather, he does not cease until he utters and does that which is not permissible. [Tafseer As-Sadi]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Not every suspicion is a sin and there is no harm regarding the suspicion that is based on clear indications regarding the validity of a matter. As for mere assumption, it is not permissible. For example, if a man – who is known to be upright – is seen with a woman by another man, it not permissible to accuse him that the woman he is seen with is a stranger because this is the type of suspicion that is tantamount to sin. [Fataawaa Islaamiyyah 4/537]

Spying: The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Whoever listens to the talk of some people who do not like him (to listen) or they run away from him, then molten lead will be poured into his ears on the Day of Resurrection”. [Sahih Al-Bukhaari Number 7042].

Al-Allaamah Saleh Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, said, “This is a severe threat, so one should not listen to the speech of the people if they do not want anyone to know what they are talking about”. [An Excerpt from It’haaf At-Tullaab Bi-Sharhi Mandhoomah Al-Aadaab. page 149]

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

It may be that two or more people gather to speak about a particular affair that concerns them, and they do not want anyone else to know about it; but then a person or more than one person becomes an obstacle by listening to their speech and [wants] to know what they are talking about, whilst they are not pleased with that. This is an act of transgression and foolishness – that a person involves himself into something that does not concern him. And from the perfection of a person’s Islam is to leave that which does not concern him. However, there is an exception to this prohibition such as when a person listens into the speech of those who are focused or (involved) in seeking to breach the state of safety and security of the Muslims”. [An Excerpt from ‘Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharh Al-Adabil Mufrad’ 3/281]

Backbiting: Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, ‘’Do you know what backbiting is?’’ They (i.e. the Sahaabah) replied Allah and his Messenger know best’’; he said said, “It is to mention your brother what he dislikes’’. Someone asked, ‘’What if what I said is true?’’ He replied, “If what you said about him is true you have backbitten him, and if it is not true you have slandered him’’. [Muslim]

When is speaking about someone behind his back not considered backbiting? It is not considered backbiting when a person makes a complaint about an oppressor to a person who has the ability to stop the oppression; when seeking help to stop an evil- by making that known to the person who has the ability to stop the evil; when seeking for a fatwa; when warning the Muslims so that they are not deceived; when mentioning a person who commits his evil openly or one who calls to bidah and when identifying someone with a physical defect, whilst not intending defamation. [Subul As-Salaam. 4/553]

Footnote c:

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: This verse contains all the Masaalih (things that will bring about benefit and repel harm) for the servants of Allah in their worldly affairs and in the Hereafter – amongst themselves or reharding their relationship with their Lord. This is because every servant of Allah finds himself within two circumstances and obligations – either to fulfil the obligations owed to Allah or the obligations owed to Allah’s creation. As for the obligations owed to the creation, they include (righteous) association, companionship, aiding one another in Allah loves and obedience to Allah, and that is the goal behind one’s search for happiness and success in the afterlife. There can be no happiness in the afterlife except through Bir and Taqwaa because it is basis of all affairs of the religion. [An Excerpt from Bada’i at-Tafsir Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah. 1/307. Publisher: Daar Ibn Al-Jawziyyah 2nd Edition. 1431AH]

Footnote d:

Consultation: Al-Hasan al-Basree [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: “By Allah! Never have a people sought advice except that they were guided to the best of what was available to them.” Then he recited [the statement of Allaah]: [وَأَمۡرُهُمۡ شُورَىٰ بَيۡنَہُمۡ – And (the Believers) who (conduct) their affairs by mutual consultation].

Al-Allamah Zaid Bin Haadee Al-Mad’khalee [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] commanded His Messenger Muhammad [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] to consult his companions in some affairs. Allah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] said:

[وَشَاوِرۡهُمۡ فِى ٱلۡأَمۡرِ‌ۖ فَإِذَا عَزَمۡتَ فَتَوَكَّلۡ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ‌ۚ – and consult them in the affairs. Then when you have taken a decision, put your trust in Allah.

He [i.e. the Messenger] is the example to be followed by the Ummah, therefore when it is the case that Allah commanded him to consult his companions, then there is even a greater reason that the Muslims are in need of consultation amongst themselves. When a difficulty that is related to a Muslim’s religious and worldly affairs occurs, then indeed it is fitting that he consults someone whom he considers reliable, wise, truthful and sincere. He examines [the advice] given by that person, then he makes a choice – either to take that advice or decides not to take it based on what he is satisfied with, in relation to his personal affairs.

The hadeeth places emphasis on the fact that consultation guides to the best outcomes, and due to this it is said: ”The one who consults [others] does not regret [thereafter InShaaAllaah] and the one who performs Istikhaarah will not fail [to achieve good]”. Both Istikhaarah and consultation are legislated and a lot of good is achieved by way of them, as opposed to when affairs are pursued in a rigid and haphazard manner, for indeed this might lead to regret and harm. [An Excerpt from ‘Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharh Al-Adab Al-Mufrad’ 1/285]

[1] Ṣaḥih Muslim 1844]
[2] Sharh Sahih Muslim 12/196
[3] at-Ta’leeqaat Al-Maleehah Alaa Silsilati Al-Ahaadeeth As-Saheehah. 2/29-33
[4] Al-Fawaa’d. page: 228

The importance of verification

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on . Posted in Basics, Brotherhood, Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam.

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

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

والتثبت أيضا من أهم الأمور إن لم يكن أهمها
فالتثبت فيما يُنْقَلُ عن الغَيْرِ أَمْرٌ مُهِمْ ، لأن النَّاقِلِينَ تَارَةً تَكونُ لهم إِرادَاتٌ
سَيِّئَةٌ، يَنقُلُونَ مَا يُشَوِّهُ سُمْعَةَ المَنْقُولِ عنه قَصْدًا وعَمْدًا، وتارة لا يكون عندهم
إرادات سيئة، لكنهم يَفْهَمُونَ الشَّيْءَ عَلى خِلَافِ مَعْنَاهُ الذي أُرِيدَ به
ولهذا يجب التثبت، فإذا ثَبَتَ بالسَّنَدِ ما نُقِل فحينئذ يناقش صاحب الكلام الذي نقل عنه قَبْلَ أَنْ تَحْكُمَ على هذا القول بأنه خَطَأً أو غير خطأ، وذلك لأَنَّهُ رُبَّما
يظهر لك بالمناقشة أن الصواب مع هذا الذي نقل عنه الكلام
وإلا فمن المعلوم أن الإنسان لو حكم على الشيء بمجرد السماع من أول وهلة لكان ينقل أشياء عن بعض العُلَماء الذين يُعْتَبَرُونَ مَنَارَاتٍ للعلم تَنْفِرُ منها
لكن عندما يَتَثَبِّتُ ويتأمل ويتصل بهذا الشيخ مثلا يتبين له الأمر

Verification is one of the most important matters, if not the most important. Verifying what is transmitted from others is an important matter, as those who transmit information may sometimes have evil intentions – intentionally and deliberately transmitting what may tarnish the reputation of the one transmitted from. At other times, they may not harbour an evil intention, but they understand something the opposite of what is intended. Due to this, it is obligatory to verify. Once the transmission is verified through the (reliable) source, one can then engage in discussion with the individual from whom the information was transmitted before concluding whether the statement is erroneous or not. This is because, through discussion, one may discover that the truth aligns with the one from whom the statement is transmitted; otherwise, it is well known that if one were to pass judgement on something solely based on what is heard at the first instance, he might transmit some things from some of the scholars, who are regarded as beacons of knowledge, that which would cause aversion to such transmissions. But, upon verification, reflection, and communication with this Shaikh in question, the matter becomes clear to the person. [Paraphrased]

Sharh Hilyah Talib Al-Ilm 75-76. 1st Edition Rabi Al-Awwal 1434

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

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, 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.

All praise is due to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon Allah’s Messenger, his family, companions, and those who follow his guidance. To proceed:

I advise myself and you to fear Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, to be sincere to Him in every statement and action, and to truthfully adhere to the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and to be steadfast upon that. And that you learn beneficial knowledge derived from the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger, which will aid us upon this firmness and steadfastness upon Allah’s true religion.

I advise my children and brothers to pursue the truth and search for it in every matter, whether it is a point of agreement or differing. A believer who seeks the face of Allah and the home of the Hereafter does not find peace of mind or relaxation in his conscience (or inner self) until he reaches the truth, especially in matters of differing and during times of Fitna. He does not make a move on any basis other than truth, knowledge and clear-sightedness.

If two individuals differ, even if it is his father or Shaikh, it is not permissible for him to take his side or against him until he studies the affairs and becomes acquainted with it based on its complete reality. Thereafter, he determines his stance and aligns himself with the truth that has become clear to him. This is what is obligated to a Muslim, and anything contrary to it is considered one of the behaviours (or traits) of the pre-Islamic era of ignorance and the (traits) of false pre-Islamic alliances. It is not permissible for a Muslim to follow such an evil path.

O our sons and brothers! I advise you to fear Allah, and advise you with what I mention with regards to loving the truth and the pursuit of it in its rightful places until you reach the reality. I advise our sons and brothers to honour the Salafi methodology and be steadfast in it. Honour its scholars, and if they utter truth, it is not permissible to oppose them. When they speak about a matter and present evidence, there is no excuse for anyone to oppose them, nor is it permissible for anyone to hesitate or abstain. This (hesitation or abstaining) is a deed of the people of vain desires, those who endeavour to undermine the Salafi methodology and topple its scholars.

Regarding matters of Al-Jarh Wa-Ta’deel, it is sufficient for a single scholar to issue (a critique), and the recommendation of a single scholar is sufficient. If two truthful scholars – respected and free from vain desires – differ about some individual, it is incumbent upon other than them among the carries of knowledge to seek clarification from the critic and request evidence. If the evidence is provided, it is obligated to them to submit to this evidence and proof. If the one who gives recommendation or any other individual opposes, his position is dropped. This one who (deliberately) rejects the evidence, his trustworthiness is undermined and he cannot be trusted with Allah’s Religion. Even if a single scholar presents proof and evidence, while numerous individuals oppose him through falsehood, lies, and trickery, they are not heeded. These are the established principles of Al-Jarh Wa-Tadeel – in the subject matter of criticism and praise – which we are obligated to adhere with regards to the likes of these Fitan.

A person may be criticised by numerous scholars who present clear evidence regarding his falsehoods and Fitna, yet some people do not listen to them, claiming that the truth has not been made clear. This is not permissible. It is not permissible in Allah’s religion. Then let us approach the books of Al-Jarh Wat-Tadeel, evaluate every biography and say: “By Allah, the truth has not been made clear for me”. Examine every (criticised) belief and say: “By Allah, it is not made clear to me”. (For example) the differing between the Rafidah and the Salafis, or between the Rafidah and the Jahmiyyah, or between the Salafis and the Mu’tazilah, or between the Salafis and the Khawarij, or between the Salafis and the Murji’ah, or between the Salafis and the Sufis (is examined), a person  says: “By Allah, it has not been made clear to me.” This behaviour would not be accepted from this person.

When two individuals among the Salafis differ, and the proof is with one of them, it is obligatory to support the one with the proof. I advise you to fear Allah, I advise you to uphold justice, and fairness, and distance from blind alliance and following desires.

ومن أضل ممن اتبع هواه

“And who is more misguided than one who follows his desires?” Rejecting the truth is a grave offense.
ومن أظلم ممن كذب على الله وكذب بالصدق إذ جاءه

And who is more unjust than one who lies about Allah and denies the truth when it comes to him?

Denial of the truth is a (deed, characteristic, behaviour or trait) of the proponents of misguidance, the disbelievers and the rawafid. Shaikh al-Islam describes the Rawaafid by stating, “No group is as prone to reject the truth and accept falsehood as the Rawaafid.”

At present, it is obligated to the one who adheres to the Salafi methodology to free himself from following these corrupt paths – blind alliance, (traits) of pre-Islamic alliance, and rejecting the truth for the sake of so and so. By Allah, even if he is one of the senior scholars and one of the senior Imams of the Sunnah, and he errs, it is not permissible to reject the truth; then how about the ignorant, and those known for lying and Fitan; how can we be on their side? This is unbecoming of a Muslim, let alone a Salafi. What does the Salafi call signify if you are staunchly allied based on ignorance and vain desires. What is the meaning of this?

May Allah bless you. Abandon this, for it is foul. Search for the truth, adhere to it, and bear witness to it, even if it is against yourselves, your parents, or your relatives. Allah, the Blessed and Exalted, said:

يا أيها الذين ءامنوا كونوا قوامين بالقسط شهداء لله ولو على أنفسكم أوالوالدين والأقربين

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

O brother! When scholars approach you, whether it be one, two, or three, presenting the truth, you must not hesitate to accept it. If they come to you with truth supported by evidence and proofs, it is (obligatory to accept it). If they merely present claims without substantiation, you should not accept it. However, if they approach you with truth backed by evidence and proofs, then your rejection of him is tantamount to rejecting truth, denial of truthfulness and truth. There is no one more unjust or ignorant than someone whose condition is as such.

I ask Allah to grant us all the success to follow the truth, distance the trials from us, and unite our hearts upon truth. I ask Allah to make this a reality, for indeed, our Lord is All-Hearing of supplications. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his companions. [paraphrased]

Old Tazkiyah

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Basics, Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul.

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

A person approaches us and say: “Why do you support this individual?” We respond, “He is a Salafi, recognised for his adherence to Salafiyyah, sound Aqeedah, and Manhaj, as well as his integrity. He is respected by other well known students of knowledge and some of the senior scholars know him. The person counters, “But his Tazkiyah is old.” We acknowledge, “Yes, it is indeed quite old, yet he remains steadfast in 2025, just as he was many years ago. Do you have any evidence suggesting he has opposed what he followed with regards to Aqeedah, Manhaj, and honesty?” We pose this question gently, having learned from our past experiences of lengthy arguments in our youth. Instead, we suggest to him, saying: Please consider this straightforward statement from Al-Allaamah Ubaid Bin Abdillah Al-Jabiri, may Allah have mercy on him:

أقول: أنصحكم إن كنتم تحبون الناصحين ألاّ تقبلوا شريطا ولا كتابا إلا ممن عرفتم أنه على السنة مشهودٌ له بذلك واشتهر بها ولم يظهر منه خلاف ذلك، وهذه قاعدة مطَّردة في حياته وبعد موته، فمن مات وهو فيما نحسبه على السنة فهو عندنا عليها ونسأل الله أن يثبته عليها في الآخرة كما ثبته عليها حيا
آمين،

After quoting this statement of Al-Allamah Ubaid, may Allah have mercy upon him, which can be found in an audio of his titled “Dawabit at-Ta’aamul Ma’a Ahl As-Sunnah Wa Ahl Al-Baatil”, we say to him:

We invite correction if we are mistaken, but our understanding of this statement is that Al-Allamah Ubaid, may Allah have mercy on him, emphasises the importance of valuing good advisers and the wise counsel they provide. He advises us that we should only accept audio recordings or books from individuals who are recognised for adhering to the Sunnah—those who have been acknowledged, testified to, or are well-known for their commitment to it, with no evident opposition to the Sunnah from them. This principle remains applicable throughout this person’s life and after his death.

Anyone who dies and is known to be a follower of the Sunnah, based on what we know, is regarded as such in our view. The Shaikh supplicated to Allah to bless us with steadfastness upon the Sunnah and that it becomes a means of safety in the grave and the Hereafter, just as we ask Allah to keep us steadfast upon the Sunnah during our lives. This is the essence of the Shaikh’s message, and we must focus on what is clear and avoid venturing into uncertainties or assumptions. As a result, it doesn’t matter if a Tazkiyah is recent or from long ago; what we consider is the person’s condition. This is what we have been taught since 1995. After this exchange, which can hardly be seen as disrespectful, we choose to remain quiet.

We ask Allah:

اللهم كما حَسَّنْت خَلْقِي فَحَسِّنْ خُلُقِي

O Allah! Just as You made my external form beautiful, make my character beautiful as well.

We must cultivate the ability to ignore those who prolong disagreement on Twitter

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Fitnah, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq'.

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

Allah said:

وَلَقَدۡ خَلَقۡنَا ٱلۡإِنسَـٰنَ وَنَعۡلَمُ مَا تُوَسۡوِسُ بِهِۦ نَفۡسُهُ ۥ‌ۖ وَنَحۡنُ أَقۡرَبُ إِلَيۡهِ مِنۡ حَبۡلِ ٱلۡوَرِيدِ
إِذۡ يَتَلَقَّى ٱلۡمُتَلَقِّيَانِ عَنِ ٱلۡيَمِينِ وَعَنِ ٱلشِّمَالِ قَعِيدٌ۬
مَّا يَلۡفِظُ مِن قَوۡلٍ إِلَّا لَدَيۡهِ رَقِيبٌ عَتِيدٌ۬

And indeed We have created man, and We know what his ownself whispers to him. And We are nearer to him than his jugular vein (by Our Knowledge). (Remember!) that the two receivers (recording angels) receive (each human being after he or she has attained the age of puberty), one sitting on the right and one on the left (to note his or her actions). Not a word does he (or she) utter, but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it).

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

Allah informed us that He alone created humans -males and females- and He knows all their state of affairs. He knows everything that is hidden about them and what their souls whisper to them. Allah is nearer to them than their jugular veins by His knowledge, even though the jugular vein is the closest thing to the human. Therefore, this should make the human being mindful of Allah -the One Who knows all the hidden affairs in the soul and heart of the human being in all circumstances. This should also make the human being shy in the presence of Allah so that he (she) is not seen committing what Allah has forbidden or abandoning what Allah has commanded. [1]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“When the son of Adam wakes up in the morning, all the limbs humble themselves before the tongue and say, ‘Fear Allah for our sake, (for) we are with you; if you are upright, we will be upright; and if you are crooked, we will become crooked. [2]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Whoever can guarantee (the chastity of) what is between his two jaw bones and what is between his two legs (i.e. his mouth, his tongue, and his private parts), I guarantee Paradise for him.[3]

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

“This requires two affairs: profuse remembrance (of Allah) and keeping away from gatherings of heedlessness and doubts, and that which will result in fornication and nonsense speech”. [4]

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

“Neither hajj nor taking up positions during battle, nor Jihad is more difficult than restraining the tongue”. [5]

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

“Know that whoever is acquainted with the worth of his era and that it is his main capital will not seek an understanding except in what is beneficial. This acquaintance obligates one to restrain the tongue from speaking about that which does not concern him, for indeed the one who abandons the remembrance of Allah and busies himself with what does not concern him is like one who can get hold of a gem but exchanges it for a clod of earth. This is a loss of one’s lifespan”. [6]

Abdullah Ibn Tawus, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Tawus, may Allah have mercy upon him, used to find it difficult to speak for a very long time, and he would say: “I examined my tongue and found it to be malicious”. [7]

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

“Some of our companions used to guard their speech from one Jumu’ah to another Jumu’ah.” [8]

It was said to one of the scholars may Allah have mercy upon him, “Indeed, you do keep quiet for a long time!” He said: “Indeed, I consider my tongue as a wild voracious animal. I fear that if I let it loose, it will hurt me.” [9]

It is said that a man argued with Al-Ahnaf Ibn Qays- may Allah have mercy upon both of them- and said: “If you say one, you will hear ten.” Al-Ahnaf replied: “But if you say ten, you will not hear one!” [10]

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

“O student of knowledge! Likewise, it is obligated to you to abandon debate and argumentation because debate and argumentation is a means to cutting off the path to what is correct, and makes a person speak to give the upper hand to himself. Even if the truth is made clear to him, you will find him either rejecting it or misconstruing the truth -out of disliking it- to give himself the upper hand and to compel his opponent to accept his statement. Therefore, if you notice debate and argumentation from your brother when the truth is very clear, but he does not follow it, flee from him like you would flee from a lion, and say, ‘I do not have anything other than the truth I have mentioned to you’”. [11]

Ziyad Ibn Yunus, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“By Allah, Malik, may Allah have mercy upon him, was the greatest of people in terms of honourabe behaviour, and the one who kept silent the most. When he sat down, he would not get up until he had to, and I saw him as someone who was often silent, spoke little, and guarded his tongue”. Ibn Al-Mubarak said: “Malik was the most patient in dealing with people, and he would leave what did not concern him”. [12]

Al-Hasan Bin Salih, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“I scrutinised the affair regarding one refraining from doubtful matters out of fear of falling into haram and did it find it more lacking in anything than the tongue”. [13]

Yunus Ibn Ubayd, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Indeed, you see a man fasting a lot, abstaining from the forbidden deeds and praying the night prayer, whilst he testifies to falsehood in the morning.” [14]

Ibnul Mubaarak, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked about the statement of Luqmaan, peace be upon him, to his son: ‘’If speech is from silver, then silence is from gold.” So he said: ‘’It means that if speech in obedience to Allah is from silver, then silence (to refrain from) disobedience to Allah is gold’’. [15]

Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said:

“Verily, the worst act of usury is to attack the honour of a Muslim without a just cause”. [16]

Meaning: The greater in evil and the more strictly prohibited is to unleash your tongue against the honour of a Muslim by insulting him, acting haughtily towards him, and speaking ill of him through abusive language or slander. This becomes a stricter prohibition because honour is more valuable than wealth. “Without a just cause”. This shows there are instances in which it is allowed to refer to someone negatively by using language like “such and such is an oppressor or transgressor” or “such and such is an innovator (in religious affairs) and an open sinner” in order to warn others is allowed. [17]

This has been referred to as usury because the transgressor receives his honour and then goes above and beyond it as if he has added an increase that encroaches on the boundaries in regard to the honour of a Muslim, which is more valuable than his wealth. According to At-Teebee [may Allah have mercy upon him], “From the standpoint of emphasis, honour is included in the categories of wealth. Usury is classified into two types: that which is conventional and is described as what is added to debts, and that which is not unconventional, such as verbally disparaging someone’s honour.” Al-Qaadhee [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, ”Violating a Muslim’s honour means dealing with him more than he deserves of what is to be said about him, or more than is permitted to be said about him, which is why it is compared to usury and regarded as one of its types. Then it is considered to be worse because it contains more harm and is more serious in corruption”. [18]

Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud [may Allah be pleased with him] said:

“If there’s evil in anything, it is between the two Jaws, meaning the tongue. There is nothing more in need of prolonged imprisonment than the tongue”. [19]

Ibnul Akwaa came to Rabee Bin Khuthaym and said:

“Refer me to one who is better than you; he (Rabee) said: The one whose speech is a reminder for himself; his silence is (so that he can) think and his destination (in the Afterlife is a reason) for reflection. He (i.e. this type of person) is better than me. [20]

Ibnul Mubaarak, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked about the statement of Luqmaan, peace be upon him, to his son: “If speech is from silver, then silence is from gold”. He said, “It means that if speech in obedience to Allah is from silver, then silence (in order to refrain from) disobedience to Allah is gold”. [21] [end of quotes]

Certainly, if the above narrations do not convince us to avoid extending discussions online with those who wish to continue talking after everything has been made as clear as day, then what else could possibly persuade someone if Allah does not grant them the guidance to steer clear of unproductive arguments?!

We come across individuals online who enjoy arguing but mask their behaviour as a pursuit of good or a display of knowledge. This tendency has become quite prevalent online. As a result, it’s important for us to cultivate the ability to ignore such provocations. Recognizing when to disengage can save us a significant amount of time, especially once the necessary points have been made to conclude a debate or disagreement. These argumentative personalities thrive on platforms like Twitter, so it’s wise to avoid them. Blocking or unfollowing them on social media and steering clear of asking them questions can help prevent drawn-out discussions. This strategy can effectively address many challenges we face online at the moment.

Just like we choose to be around uplifting people in our daily lives, it’s equally important to connect with positive individuals online. With the internet filled with endless distractions and an overload of information, achieving peace of mind and staying focused can be quite difficult. That’s why we need to develop the skill of selective attention, tuning out the noise to sharpen our focus and concentrate on what genuinely matters once we have established evidence online.

Cultivating the ability to ignore troublesome and confrontational individuals on twitter, even when they present their opinions under the guise of knowledge or useful discussion, is a valuable internal strength. It enables us – by the Tawfiq of Allah – to concentrate on what truly matters while intentionally ignoring distractions or negativity. It involves honing our discernment to distinguish between what is worthy of our focus and what is not. By doing so, we retain control over our mental environment and foster a sense of tranquility, even in the midst of the turmoil created by those who frequently seek validation or approval online through various tactics.

It’s important for us to prioritise and establish boundaries by recognising what matters most and managing our time and focus accordingly. We should set limits on unnecessary debates. It is essential to make it very clear to individuals online, irrespective of their knowledge, credentials or the good opinion held about them, that genuine attention should be earned and focused on meaningful interactions. This should not be driven by a need to showcase superiority in discussions, self-importance, or stubbornness. Failing to impart a valuable lesson online through silence once evidence has been presented only encourages peoples’ idle pusuits. Instead of establishing clear boundaries about our availability and the communication we wish to foster, we inadvertently enable their actions. We must not feed the egos or emotional turmoil of those who incessantly argue online; otherwise, they will relentlessly seek our validation and attention, pulling us into a situation we wish to avoid.

Indeed, we must come to terms with the fact that online dissenting voices will always exist, but by the Tawfiq of Allah, steadfastness in our determination to ignore can teach us the value of remaining focused on our goals, irrespective of outside opinions. By tuning out the critics and naysayers online, we liberate ourselves from the need for external validation. Once we have established our stance in a debate or disagreement – based on knowledge based unambiguous proofs, we don’t need to be inundated with numerous opinions, particularly from those who ought to know better. It’s remarkable that in our everyday lives, many of us set clear boundaries in our interactions as we navigate our routines, choose which study circles attend, and manage other important pursuts. Yet, some of us allow ourselves to be distracted by someone -online- thousands of miles away, who, from the comfort of their home, orchestrates controversy on twitter and seeks to provoke our thoughts. After stirring up trouble, they move on with their life while we find ourselves troubled by their words. Instead of placing blame on them, reflect on why you chose to engage with their words in the first place.

Do not let anyone make you feel guilty for choosing to disregard them online, as if doing so implies disdain or superiority. Instead, it is a matter of exercising control over whom you choose to prioritise and give your attention. The status of an individual, their provocative statements, or even their seemingly powerful and persuasive words online should not be the focal point. A discerning individual recognises that it is not merely the surface of a person or their online persona that matters; rather, when evaluating their stance on a specific issue, we must focus on the evidence. All their other positive contributions online should not distract us from the fact that they are mistaken on this or that particular matter, regardless of the multitude of supporters rallying behind them, inundating us with various narratives and tactics to distort the reality. This does not imply that we are ignoring the potential harm caused by anyone; rather, we are deliberately choosing where to invest our attention and energy. However, when their online harm becomes overwhelming, it is those who can engage with them wisely, thoughtfully, and equitably who will effectively address them without diverting us from the most pressing issues.

It is essential to recognize that, despite the bold or captivating rhetoric of any prominent figure online, subjecting them to silence can be a deeply distressing experience for them. We have witnessed that when someone they wish to target ignores them, it evokes feelings of inadequacy, leading to futile attempts at emotional manipulation or scapegoating. In their struggle, they become engulfed in uncertainty, rage, and a diminishing sense of self-worth, often attempting to pull us down to their level. Just as we consciously distance ourselves from individuals known for their anti-social behavior in our everyday lives, we must also choose to ignore online bullies, particularly those who conceal their true intentions behind a facade of knowledge and wisdom.

However, it is important to reiterate that ignoring such individuals online does not equate to total disengagement; rather, it signifies that they will be addressed appropriately at the right moment by those whose voices hold greater significance, ensuring that they do not distract us from what truly matters. Thus, reflecting on the Prophetic narrations and the statements of the senior scholars at the outset of this article, we turn to Allah for guidance, seeking the wisdom to temper our words and focus solely on what is constructive, while denying any opportunity to those on twitter who thrive on conflict, even when the weakness of their arguments are as clear as the midday sun. We ask Allah: [اللهم كما حَسَّنْت خَلْقِي فَحَسِّنْ خُلُقِي – O Allah! Just as You made my external form beautiful, make my character beautiful as well].

[1] An Excerpt from ‘Tafsir As-Sadi

[2] Sahih at-Tirmidhee 2407

[3] Al-Bukhari 6474

[4] Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min At-Taliqaat Al-Baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh al-Bukhari. Vol 4. Page:244. Footnote:2

[5] Jami’ul Uloom Wal-Hikam 145

[6] Mukhtasar Minhaaj Al-Qaasideen’ page 176

[7] As-Samt page 86

[8] As-Samt page 223 By Ibn Abi Dunyah

[9] As-Samt page 299

[10] Siyar A’lam An-Nubula 4/93

[11] Sharh Hilyati Taalibil Ilm’ page 246

[12] Tarteeb Al-Madaarik Wa Taqreeb Al-Masaalik 1/127-128

[13] Siyar A’laam An-Nubulaa 7/368

[14] Hilyatul Awliyaa 3/20]

[15] Jami-ul Uloom Wal-Hikam 155]

[16] Abu Daawud 4876

[17] An Excerpt from ‘Awnul Mabood Sharh Sunan Abee Daawud’ 13/152

[18] An Excerpt from ‘Mirqaatul Mafaateeh Sharh Mishkaat Al-Masaabeeh’ 8/3157

[19] Musannaf Abdur Razzaaq 19528

[20] Siyah A’laam An-Nubulaa: 4/261

[21] Jami al-Ulum Wal-Hikam. 155

Focused on the speck and diverted from the stump

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “One of you looks at the speck in his brother’s eye while forgetting the stump in his own eye.” [a]

Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Haadee Al-Madkhalee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

This narration shows that it is obligated to  (a person) to pre-occupy himself with his own faults before looking at that of others. It is severe heedlessness that a Muslim is heedless of his faults and delays rectification of himself, yet he criticises others and even though his faults are more and greater than that of others. Therefore, what is obligated to a Muslim and a Muslimah is to strive to prevent oneself from violating Allah’s commands and prohibition. Also, one should strive to call others to the (path of) Allah, so that they are distanced from sins, as sins are a heavy burden on a person in this life and the next, and make them incline towards obedience to Allah that would make their scales of good deeds heavy, earn a person paradise and the pleasure of Allah, and saves him from the anger of Allah and His painful punishment. However, it must be borne in mind that warning against ahlul bidah – those who call to their bidah through speech and books – is not tantamount to seeking after the faults of others, for indeed to warn against ahlul bidah is an established Sunnah- obligated by the Qur’an and the Sunnah. This is because to abandon the mention of a Mubtadi in order to warn against him is tantamount to abandonment of enjoining good and forbidding evil”. Therefore, we must make a distinction in order to know what is commanded and what is prohibited, and the difference between warning and seeking after the faults of others.

Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharh Al-Adab Al-Mufrad’ 2 /205

[a] Imaam Albaani (rahimahullaah) stated (in As-Saheehah 1/74-75) about this Hadith:  ‘Saheeh Mawqoofan’.