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[2] Transmitted Principles For Nearly Thirty Years By Senior Teachers From Senior Scholars – Concerning Criticisms and Proofs

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, 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.

Imam Ash-Shawkaanee, may Allah have mercy on him, which the young learners do not know. The Imam stated:

Know that when differing arise among Muslims regarding whether this thing (matter) is a Bidah or not a Bidah, (something) disliked or not disliked, prohibited, or not prohibited, or other than that, there is a consensus among Muslims (i.e. their scholars) —both the early generations and those that followed, from the era of the Companions to the present day, which is the thirteenth century since the advent of the Prophethood—that the obligation in any differing – in any issue among the issues of the religion – between Imams of Ijtihad is to refer back to the Book of Allah, the Exalted, and the Sunnah of His Messenger, as stated in Allāh’s Book:

فَإِن تَنَٰزَعْتُمْ فِى شَىْءٍ فَرُدُّوهُ إِلَى ٱللَّهِ وَٱلرَّسُولِ

And if you disagree among yourselves over anything then refer it back to Allāh and the Messenger. [An-Nisa 59]

The meaning of referring back to Allah, the Exalted, is to refer to His Book, and the meaning of referring to His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, is to refer to his Sunnah after his passing. This is a matter about which there is no differing among the Muslims.

If a Mujtahid among the Mujtahideen says that this (thing) is lawful while another says this (thing) is unlawful, neither is any of the two more entitled to the truth than the other, even if he possesses more knowledge, older, or closer to the (early era of Islam). This is because each of them is a servant of Allāh among the servants of Allāh, (required) to worship (Allāh) based on what is found in the pure Sharia- that which is found in Allāh’s Book and the Sunnah of His Messenger, and what is required of him is required of other than him among Allāh’s servants. His abundant knowledge, the attainment of the level of Ijtihad, or even surpassing it, does not exempt him from any of the religious laws legislated by Allah for His servants, nor do they exclude him from those who have reached the age in which one is held accountable for his actions among the servants (of Allāh). [1] [Paraphrased]

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

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- 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 align 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] [2]

To be continued….InShaAllah

[1] Sharh As-Sudoor Bi-Tahreem Raf Al-Quboor pages 1-2

فاعلم أنه إذا وقع الخلاف بين المسلمين في أن هذا الشيء بدعة او غير بدعة ، أو مكروه او غير مكروه ، او محرم او غير محرم ، او غير ذلك ، فقد اتفق المسلمون : سلفهم وخلفهم ، من عصر الصحابة الى عصرنا هذا – وهو القرن الثالث عشر منذ البعثة المحمدية – أن الواجب الاختلاف في أي أمر من أمور الدين بين الأئمة المجتهدين : هو الرد الى كتاب الله سبحانه ، وسنة رسوله الناطق بذلك
الكتاب العزيز ( ٤ : ٥٩ فإن تنازعتم في شيء فردوه إلى الله والرسول ( ومعنى الرد الى الله سبحانه : الرد الى كتابه
ومعنى الرد إلى رسوله ال : الرد الى سنته بعد وفاته وهذا مما لا خلاف فيه بين جميع المسلمين . فإذا قال مجتهد من المجتهدين
هذا حلال . وقال الآخر : هذا حرام : فليس
أحدهما أولى بالحق من الآخر وإن كان اكثر منه علماً ، أو اكبر منه سنا ، او اقدم منه عصراً لأن كل واحد منهما فرد من أفراد عباد الله ، ومتعبد بما في الشريعة المطهرة، مما في كتاب الله وسنة رسوله ، ومطلوب منه ما طلب الله من غيره من العباد . وكثرة علمه وبلوغه درجة الاجتهاد او مجاوزته لها لا يسقط عنه شيئاً من الشرائع التي شرعها الله لعباده ، ولا يخرجه من جملة المكلفين من العباد

[2]

Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali – 93

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, 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.

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

It is incumbent upon the Ta’ifah Al-Mansurah (the victorious group)- which Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, stated would remain and triumph, neither harmed by those who betray them nor by those who oppose them until the promise of Allah, The Blessed and Most High, is fulfilled (i.e. the day of Judgement); it is incumbent upon this blessed and good group to establish brotherhood for the sake of Allah, collaborate on righteousness and piety, and diligently strive to maintain the great status of being manifest on the truth- neither harmed by those who betray them nor by those who oppose them. This truth cannot be recognised (or acknowledged) about them except through (their adherence) to the knowledge inherited from Allah’s Prophets and His Messengers, and from the Seal of the Prophets – peace and blessings be upon them. The scholars are the heirs of the Prophets in conveying Allah’s message and delivering His commandments with regards to enjoining good and forbidding evil. There is a great deal of goodness for the Ummah in calling to the path of Allah, enjoining good and forbidding evil. Enjoining good and forbidding evil requires abundant knowledge (with regards to what the person is enjoining or forbidding).

[An Excerpt from “Marhaban Yaa Talibal Ilm”.page 200]

May Allah Rectify Your Religion – Shaykh Al-‘Uthaymeen

Written by Amjad Khan on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Articles, Basics, Brotherhood, Monotheism - Tawheed, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy on him) said:

“If you want to ask Allah for someone’s well-being, say:

‘May Allah rectify your religion and your worldly life.’

Begin with the religion, because if the religion is sound, the worldly life will also be sound.”

Fath Dhee Al-Jalaal wa al-Ikraam bi Sharh Buloogh al-Maram v.6 pg.513

Acknowledging Allah’s Blessings In Manchester and Hoping for More

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Basics, Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues.

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

Allah, The Exalted, says:

وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَىٰ ۖ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْإِثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ

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-Ma’idah. 2]

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

This verse encompasses all the Masaalih (welfare and wellbeing) for the servants of Allah in their worldly matters and the Hereafter – whether it be in their interactions with one another or in their relationship with their Lord. This is because every servant of Allah is faced with two responsibilities and duties – either fulfilling the rights owed to Allah or fulfilling the rights owed to Allah’s creation. Regarding the responsibilities towards creation, they encompass righteous companionship, mutual assistance in what Allah loves, and obedience to Allah which are the ultimate purpose for seeking happiness and success in the hereafter. [1]

Concerning Dawah Salafiyyah in Manchester, Shaikh Abu Khadeejah, may Allah safeguard him, stated:

“Manchester has a long history of Salafi Da’wah, māshā Allāh Allāhumma bārik. Dr. Faisal Malik and myself were living in Rusholme — and Abu Iyaad (who was in Essex Uni at the time doing his Phd) would visit us. And we would visit him in Essex. Abu A’ishah (my elder brother who was doing his PhD in Manchester Uni) set up the Quran and Sunnah society because the Islamic ISOC was run by Ikhwanis. Murad Al-Jazā’irī was around in those days — and within months, he started fighting us and gathering his “files”. Then he had a change of heart after a few sittings, followed by several bouts of toing and froing between us and Jimas and Brixton causing corruption. Very active period: regular lectures at Ambrose (Manchester Uni prayer hall, a converted church building), also at Salford Uni and UMIST. A lot of battles on campus with Fosis, HT, Ikhwanis, takfīris, etc. It was in this period (late 1995 and early 1996) that we split from Jimas (after the Ali Tamimi visit) and we set up Oasis, which was dissolved in the same year (1996) after the Oasis conference in Birmingham. Then after that, we set up Salafi Publications: Myself, Abu Iyaad, Abu Talhah (rahimahullāh) along with our brother Abu Hakeem who was in Madinah. Dawah spread through the website, yahoo email groups, book publications, translations, audio, the “Blazing Meteor” series, etc. That was the era of Ibn Bāz, Al-Albāni, Ibn Uthaimīn, Muqbil, Rabee, An-Najmi, Ubayd, etc — visits from Abdus-Salām Burjis, etc Foundation years: from 1993 to 2001, I’d say. A lot of the brothers who stood firm are still around, although some have died since, may Allah protect the living and have mercy on the deceased”. [End of quote]

Since the departure of Shaikh Abu Khadeejah and others from Manchester – may Allah bless and reward them for establishing the foundation as much as they could, Salafiyyah has remained evident and clear through the various challenges posed by the Mubtadi’ah and the Hizbiyyoon. This is our current situation, and one must ask Allah for safety until we meet Him, Amin. Currently, one must express gratitude to Allah for the following blessings: a masjid, a bookstore, employment opportunities for some brothers and sisters, three lessons each week from the works of major scholars, Al-Allamah Ahmad An-Najmi and Al-Allamah Ubaid Al-Jabiri, may Allah have mercy on them, as well as all the scholars who have passed away, and our parents; the books of Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, as taught by Ustaadh Abdul Hakim, may Allah preserve him.

Additionally, there are visits from students outside of Manchester and the organised conferences with the local Mashayikh whenever possible, supported by numerous volunteers in the community. There is a Quran school at the masjid and the bookstore, the weekend school at the masjid, and the Tuition club for primary to GCSE years, as well as Arabic and Quran classes for both men and women, along with online education and tuition. All of these are purely the blessings of Allah. May Allah grant everyone the Tawfeeq to continue and to bring others along, through whom our Lord bestows even more blessings, fostering cooperation in Bir and Taqwah, brotherhood for the sake of Allah, and striving for all that is beloved to Allah, Amin.

As youth back in 1995, we never expected these blessings. Yet, a believer should always maintain a positive expectation of their Lord while doing their utmost, asking for forgiveness due to our numerous shortcomings and thanking Allah for His blessings. We look forward to more blessings, InShaAllah, especially with many young people returning from their studies to serve their communities, and others who are still pursuing their education abroad. InShaAllah, they will bring back the knowledge gained from the scholars, and we happily join them to visit our local Mashayikh in seeking guidance on how to enhance Dawah in our communities. The youth are the future bearers of Dawah, so they must be supported, shown kindness and embraced, and together we seek advice from the scholars and our local Mashayikh to pursue everything that will protect our Aakhirah. May Allah grant them success in completing their studies and returning to benefit all communities across the country, Amin.

Truly, my Mancunian brothers and sisters, the issue at hand goes beyond the length of a person’s stay, the impact of their efforts, or how quickly they surpass others in learning and Dawah. What is truly important is the ongoing supplication to Allah for Tawfeeq to fulfill one’s acts of worship, striving to gain knowledge to the best of one’s ability, and keeping a watchful eye on one’s intentions until we meet our Lord. May Allah bestow upon us Tawfiq, Ikhlas, Thabaat, and Husnul Khatimah.  Only Allah is aware of how much time each person has in this life, so we should support each other, offer advice to one another, and take actionable steps to empower one another in everything that is pleasing to Allah. Umar Ibn Abdul Azeez, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Whoever advises his brother to rectify affairs related to his religion and gives him insight into a worldly affair has perfected their relationship and fulfilled his obligation of (brotherhood) to him”. [2]

The feelings shared in this post are entirely my own, yet I am aware that many other brothers in their mid fifties, like myself, resonate with these thoughts. This includes my beloved Salafi brother, close companion, confidant, and colleague in the education sector, Ustaadh abu Tasneem Mushaf Al-Banghali. May Allah protect him and guide us all towards what is beloved and pleasing to Him. Amin.

Abu Mu’aawiyah/Abu Abee Bakr [Abdullah Jallow, Al-Fulani Al-Gambi]

[1] An Excerpt from “Bada’i at-Tafsir Al-Jami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah. 1/307. Publisher: Daar Ibn Al-Jawziyyah 2nd Ed, 1431AH

[2] Tarikh at-Tabari 6/572

Our heartfelt gratitude to our beloved brothers in Bradford for their warm hospitality and for fostering the strong bond of brotherhood

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

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

Allah, The Most High, said:
وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَىٰ ۖ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْإِثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ

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-Ma’idah 2]

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 in relation to 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 upon what Allah loves and obedience to Allah, and this is the goal behind one’s search for happiness and success in the Hereafter. There can be no happiness in the Hereafter except through Bir and Taqwaa, because it is basis of all matters of the religion. [1]

By His Grace, Allah guided us to this blessed Salafi Manhaj and blessed us with scholars, students of knowledge, families, brothers and friends upon this path. Undoubtedly, among those brothers we have cherished for many years are our brothers in Bradford, both those within and outside the Bradford Shurah. Our relationship has consistently been one of cooperation in righteousness and piety to the best of our abilities, along with a protective jealousy we have for one another and other people of Sunnah. Therefore, we express our gratitude to Allah for instilling this love in our hearts for them and for others, and may He strengthen this bond in all that is dear to Him until we meet Him. Lastly, we extend our thanks to our Bradford brothers for their warm hospitality during our visit and their unwavering positive attitude towards fostering brotherhood, love, and compassion. This post is a response to the tweet below. May Allah bless all the Salafiyyoon and the Ummah. Amin.

https://x.com/albaseerah/status/1946617036781588574?t=z5DifgWVjPbhYpFf37p_ww&s=35

https://x.com/albaseerah/status/1946617094272864453?t=lD0h52Klz0x4Llr40_XJoA&s=35

Al-Markazus Salafi Shurah:
Abu Khalid (Dawud Stonehouse)
Abul Farooq (kamal al-Libi)
Amjad Khan (Abu Aaisha)
Faisal kara (Abu Eesa)
Abdullah Jallow (Abu AbiBakr/Abu Mu’aawiyah)

[1] An Excerpt from “Bada’i at-Tafsir Al-Jami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah. 1/307. Publisher: Daar Ibn Al-Jawziyyah 2nd Ed, 1431AH

Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali 88

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Repentance, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Telephone Link Between Al-Allamah Rabee, may Allah have mercy upon him, and the “Strangers Brigade” dated 2nd Ramadan 1420 AH

Questioner: The brothers here have realised that there is no path to guidance and truth except by returning to the scholars — the scholars of Ahl As-Sunnah — in this era, asking them, and adhering to their statements thereafter. Now, we present to you the most critical issue currently unfolding on the Algerian scene, which is the ongoing conflict between us and the ruling regime for the past eight years. We seek to know your opinion on this matter together with the largest platoon.

We have questions that we urgently need you to clarify the truth for us, so we hope, dear Shaikh, for a thorough and clear explanation. Please open your heart to us and perhaps Allah may guide back to the truth those who have strayed from it, and Allah’s aid is sought!

First question: What is your opinion on the ongoing conflict in Algeria? On what basis do you form your statements and stance, dear Shaikh, knowing that we adhere to the Salafi methodology, uphold the banner of Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah, and disassociate ourselves from Jama’ah Takfir Wal-Hijrah that commit massacres and atrocities? We also disassociate ourselves from the proponents of illegal partisanship who revolve around elections and partisanship, among other things?

The Shaikh: May Allah reward you with goodness. I am currently preparing to go to the prayer at Masjid Al-Haram. I want to remind you of the fatwas from scholars and Imams of the Sunnah in this era, such as Shaikh Al-Albani, Shaikh Ibn Baz, and Ibn Uthaymeen. Have you heard and read their fatwas?

Questioner: Yes, we have received them, but some doubts have prevented us from benefiting from them, and we need your answers to these, O our Shaikh.

The Shaikh: “Therefore, the answers to these questions will be postponed until I return from prayer at the Masjid Al-Haram”. Then, the Shaikh made another appointment for later that same day. But before the call ended, the Shaikh added: “I have a quick question for you: What percentage of these individuals are Salafis?”

Questioner: They are a large group, O our Shaikh, a very large group!

The Shaikh: Good, if they are Salafis, why didn’t they refer to the scholars before getting involved in this problem?

Questioner: They were actually relying on a fatwa from Shaikh Nasir Ad-Din al-Albani — I mean — an old fatwa, but it has now become clear that it wasn’t — you know — as strong and sound as they thought, and Allah knows best.

The Shaikh: Good, InShaAlllah, in any case, the investigation will continue later. 

And at the appointed time, the revolutionaries contacted the Shaikh

Questioner: We would like to inform you that the ones speaking to you now are your brothers from Algeria, specifically the fighters of the “Salafi Group for Preaching and Combat”, and we are part of one of its brigades: “The Strangers Brigade” in Bouira. Of course, we’ll return after having received insights from the scholars, and we would like to present you with some questions. We had already given you the initial part this morning, and now we are providing you with the details, InShaAllah. Generally, I would like to provide you, our Shaikh, with an overview of the events that have transpired from the beginning until today; so that you have a complete picture of what has occurred, InShaAllah.

As you know, our Shaikh, the issue began with the emergence of the “Islamic Salvation Front” on the scene. The concept of partisanship and elections came into play, but then the elections were halted, leading to the events that unfolded during that time. In 1992, a group among the Takferis initiated acts of violence, while the “Islamic Salvation Front”, during that period, was only supporting the fight through media, encouraging the youth to participate. After that, it spread among the brothers that Shaikh Nasir Ad-Din al-Albani had issued a fatwa regarding this fighting, saying: “Hasten! Hasten!” There is an audio recording from that time, amidst the media circumstances and the changing conditions, I mean the youth began to join these fighters in waves.

The Shaikh: Let me hear the tape of al-Albani.

Questioner: What Shaikh?

The Shaikh: Let me hear the words of Shaikh al-Albani where he said “Hasten! Hasten”.  I say: Let me listen to the voice of Shaikh Al-Albani, whose fatwa you have relied upon.

Questioner: The tape is available, but it is based on a reality that does not correspond to the one that the Shaikh was asked about; it did not provide the correct circumstances. It was made to seem to him that there were certain provisions, and that there were 7 million and 3 million, and so forth. Thus, the Shaikh said: “Hasten! Hasten!” as if he understood the opposite of the true circunmstances, leading to the situation that occurred.

The Shaikh: I say, may Allah bless you: Praise be to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger, his family, and his companions, and those who follow his guidance. Now, I see that you distinguish between the Salafis and the Takfiris?

Questioner: Yes, indeed!

The Shaikh: From what you’ve said, I understand that you disassociate yourselves from those who declare an unrestricted takfir against the people. Does this imply that you also engage in takfir?

Questioner: Yes, indeed! Yes, indeed! We are not in that manner, but rather in a different way.

The Shaikh: What is your form of takfir?

Questioner: The group declares takfir on the ruler, which is why they have revolted against him.

The Shaikh: The ruler, the army, the ministers, and those around them?

Questioner: Yes indeed! Anyone who joins the ruler’s faction is fought alongside him!

The Shaikh: Do they fight him on the grounds that he is an unbeliever?

Questioner: No, not in the sense of a specific act of disbelief. Not every individual in the faction is considered specifically an unbeliever, O our Shaikh!

The Shaikh: Do you consider the ruler to be an unbeliever at present?

Questioner: Yes, indeed!

The Shaikh: Why do you label him as such?

Questioner: Based on the fact that he has set aside Islamic law and replaced it with man-made laws, and he has fought against Muslims, and Shaikh Nasir Ad-Din al-Albani has issued a fatwa on this matter, as I mentioned to you earlier.

The Shaikh: No! Now, what about the new fatwa from Al-Albani?

Questioner:  The new one? This is where our confusion and bewilderment lie, O our Shaikh!

The Shaikh: Al-Albani declares the rulers of Algeria to be disbelievers? Did Al-Uthaymeen or Al-Fawzan say that the rulers are disbelievers? Laa Hawla Walaa Quwwata Illaa Billaah!

Questioner: They did not say that, O our Shaikh.

The Shaikh: Good, and you believe that their disbelief is evident and that there is a proof from Allah, as if they said that Islam is not suitable, that it is backward, and that these laws are better than Islam. Did they say this?

Questioner: We have not heard this from them, O our Shaikh.

The Shaikh: Therefore, you have no clear evidence that they are unbelievers upon a clear (blatant) disbelief. This should be treated according to what has been mentioned in the hadiths that have been transmitted from Allāh’s messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, about the Muslim’s stance towards a deviated ruler – the rulers whose good deeds you know and approve and disapprove of their evil deed, about whom he (the Prophet) was said: “They are guided by other than my guidance and follow a path other than my Sunnah”. And there are many hadiths on this matter to the extent that when the Prophet was asked: “Should we fight them?” He replied: “No, not as long as they establish prayer among you”. This means they deviate while in Islam to the very end. If they continue to pray and claim to be Muslims, they should not be fought or rebelled against. Do you understand these points?

Questioner: We listen to you, our virtuous Shaikh, and we are learning from you now.

The Shaikh: Yes, may Allah bless you, study these hadiths, study the statements of the scholars, and study the speech of Al-Albani. You must seek knowledge. Then I ask you: after eight years, what are the fruits of this fighting? What have the Muslims gained from this Jihad?

Questioner: So far, nothing, Shaikh!

The Shaikh: How many have been killed, how much wealth has been lost, how many rights have been violated, and so on?

Questioner: A lot! A lot!

The Shaikh: So many! So many! You have supported this situation, you have backed the Takferis who shed blood, and they have been emboldened by your, and you aided them. You say that you are Salafis and that you oppose their views, but they benefit from your support, and their boldness (in committing crimes) against this society increases through you, crushing them, leaving them with neither (practice of the) religion nor worldly possessions! Is Islam pleased with these qualities?!

Questioner: No, our Shaikh! We have indeed had conflict and disputes with them.

The Shaikh: What led the Algerian people, including its youth, students, and others, to embrace Salafism? Was it this current situation or the time of the revolution and turmoil?

Questioner: The current situation is not better!

The Shaikh: Good, you fought to improve the situation compared to what it was?

Questioner: Yes, indeed! Yes, indeed! It’s an evil situation, O our Shaikh, it’s an evil situation until now!

The Shaikh: Do you not find a lesson in this?! Isn’t this proof that this jihad stemmed from ignorance, and (dubious) Fatwas, we ask Allah for safety. They did not seek guidance from scholars, and instead took the wicked ones – ignorant ones- as leaders – who issue rulings without knowledge, leading themselves and others astray, and they did not stop at misguidance only, but went further to spill blood and destroy Islam. Islam has been severely and horrifically destroyed in Algeria due to the actions of these people!! Perhaps if they had not rushed and had approached knowledge with insight, the Islamic state in Algeria might have been a reality. However, due to their ignorance and ill intentions—because their motives are corrupt and they seek only power—they do not aim to elevate the word of Allāh. They desire to ascend to the pinnacle of governance, which is why they have created elections, democracy, and empty rhetoric. Their only focus is on wrestling with the rulers, and their sole concern is to reach the heights of power. After achieving that, they turn their backs on Islam, just as their counterparts have done in Sudan, Turkey, and elsewhere.

If these individuals were to gain power, they would increase fear and oppression among the people, straying further from Islam…So now… take heed from what has transpired, and roll up your sleeves to gain knowledge and guide this good nation back to the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of the Messenger, so that it may return to its former state before this turmoil, and then advance towards achieving the goals that Islam aspires to.

Questioner: Our Shaikh! According to your statement, it seems that one cannot declare a ruler to be a disbeliever, even if he rules by laws other than what Allah has revealed, until the scholars make such a judgment.

The Shaikh: Yes! The scholars must first see a clear act of disbelief, and then after the fatwa is issued, the question arises whether to fight or not; because Allah says: 

وَأَعِدُّوا لَهُمْ مَا اسْتَطَعْتُمْ مِن قُوَّةٍ وَمِن رِبَاطِ الخَيْلِ تُرْهِبُونَ بِهِ عَدُوَّ اللهِ وَعَدُوَّكُمْ

And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of steeds of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy.  [Al-Anfal 60]

This applies if they are disbelievers. I had some young men come to me at the beginning of this conflict, and I asked them: Have you prepared for battle, considering they are disbelievers in your eyes? They replied: No! I said: You do not have power, while they possess aircrafts, tanks, and so much more, backed by Britain, America, and all the other nations. You have nothing at your disposal, so you haven’t prepared the necessary measures to instill fear in the enemy of Allah. Instead, you have only prepared what encourages the enemy of Allāh against you and Islam. Even if the ruler is openly a disbeliever, in Algeria or elsewhere, it is essential to refer to the scholars. They are the ones who can assess the benefits and harms, determining when fighting is justified and when it is not, and so on. It should not be left to the foolish, the ignorant, or those with ambitions for power. This is a mistake, and you have seen the consequences of this recklessness.

You must repent to Allah, the Exalted, for you may not escape accountability before Him regarding the blood that has been shed, the honour that has been violated, and the wealth that has been stolen and plundered. So turn to Allah with a sincere repentance — may Allah bless you — for you bear the responsibility before Allah, the Mighty and Majestic, because you have participated with these people. Therefore, repent to Allah with a sincere repentance for what has happened to the rights of the Muslims… the oppressed. Then roll up your sleeves, for Allah accepts repentance. And roll up your sleeves in earnest pursuit of knowledge, and call upon your brothers who remain in the mountains to repent and return to Allah. Convey to them the likes of this. [An except from this video: https://youtu.be/2-IZRfLsxwY?si=xrNXOqvl3OgmTchk ]

The motivation behind sharing this excerpt stems from a conversation I had with Ustaadh Zaid Khalid, may Allah preserve him, on Monday. We discussed how even senior scholars refer their elders, during which he recounted an incident and provided me with this Youtube video in which Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, directed these individuals to the Fatwa of the senior scholars prior to addressing their doubts.

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

Never allow anyone, especially in this era, to divert you from fulfilling what is found in this hadith

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Shirk, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Suhail Ibn Abi Salih narrated from his father, who narrated from Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Verily Allah loves three things for you and He hates three things for you. He loves that you worship Him alone and that you do not join anyone else in your worship of him and that you do not worship other than him; He loves that you hold tight altogether to the rope of Allah and that you do not be divided; and that you advice the one placed in charge over your affairs. And Allah hates for you Qeel Wa Qaal [i.e. he said and she said – spreading rumours]; He hates for you the wasting of wealth and He hates for you excessive questioning [i.e. questioning devoid of benefit]. [Sahih Muslim 1715]

Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Madkhali 84

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Sin.

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

“Whoever among you sees an evil, let him change it with his hand; if he cannot, then with his tongue; and if he cannot, then with his heart, and that is the weakest of faith” [Reported by Muslim (49)]

Nowadays, for instance, a scholar may not denounce certain things either out of fear or for other reasons; however, he hates it in his heart. Ahlul Ahwa [the followers of vain desires – i.e. misguided people] say about him (i.e. about this scholar): agent, spy, sycophant, flatterer, and other accusations, which, by Allah, they have adopted from none other than the communists. These Asaaleeb (conducts, behaviours, ways) are not from the Asaaleeb of the Muslims. These are Asaaleeb of the communists, revolutionaries, Ba’athists, nationalists, and the misguided parties. How can a Muslim youth accept this?

[videopress PYWwJadB]

حديث آخر (من رأى منكم منكرا فليغيره بيده، فإن لم يستطع فبلسانه، فإن لم يستطع فبقلبه وذلك أضعف الإيمان) (رواه مسلم (49))

الآن العالم مثلًا ما ينكر بعض الأشياء إما خائف أو شيء آخر؛ لكن كره بقلبه، يقول فيه أهل الأهواء: عميل جاسوس مجامل مداهن إلى آخر الاتهامات التي والله ما أخذوها إلا عن الشيوعيين، هذه أساليب ليست أساليب المسلمين، هذه أساليب الشيوعيين والثوريين والبعثيين والقوميين والأحزاب الضالة، كيف يقبل بها الشاب المسلم؟

Sharh Usul As-Sunnah

Quite straightforward when no hornswoggle or stratagem is involved

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood.

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

Cooperation Upon Bir and Taqwah, and Hastening to Excel One Another In Good Deeds

Allah, The Most High, said:
وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَىٰ ۖ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْإِثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ

Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa [virtue, righteousness and piety]; but do not help one another in sin and transgression. [5:2]

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

This verse contains all the Masalih for the servants of Allah in their worldly matters and their afterlife Hereafter amongst themselves or in their in 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 upon what Allah loves and obedience to Allah, which 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 matters of the religion. A deed cannot be considered an act of obedience to Allah and an act that draws one close to Allah until it is based on Iman, thus, what leads to the performance of the deed is solely due to Iman – neither (un-Islamic) customs nor desires, neither seeking praise nor status and other than it; instead, it should be solely based on Iman and the aim behind it should be to attain Allah’s reward, and seeking after Allah’s Pleasure. [1]

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allāh have mercy upon him, stated regarding praiseworthy competition:

Every competitor competes the other and is happy when joined, as the companions of the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, used to compete in good and they were pleased when others joined them; rather they used to encourage one another whilst competing. This is seeking to be foremost in (good deeds). Allah [The Most High] said: [ ۖ فَاسْتَبِقُوا الْخَيْرَاتِ-So hasten towards all that is good].

Allah [The Most High] said:

سَابِقُوا إِلَىٰ مَغْفِرَةٍ مِنْ رَبِّكُمْ وَجَنَّةٍ عَرْضُهَا كَعَرْضِ السَّمَاءِ وَالْأَرْضِ

Race one with another in hastening towards Forgiveness from your Lord (Allah), and towards Paradise, the width whereof is as the width of heaven and earth. [57:21]

Umar Ibn Al-Khattab, may Allāh be pleased with him, used to hasten towards (good deeds to compete) AbuBakr, may Allāh be pleased with him, but he never won. [2]

Umar, may Allāh be pleased with him, said: One day, Allāh’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, commanded us to give charity. At that time I had some property, so I said: “Today I shall surpass Abu-Bakr if I am to surpass him any day”. So I brought half of my property. The Messenger of Allah said: “What did you leave for your family?” I replied: “The same amount”. Then Abu-Bakr brought all that he had with him. So the Messenger of Allah said to him: “What did you leave for your family?” He replied: “I left Allah and His Messenger for them”. I said: “I shall never (excel you) in anything”. [3]

[1] An Excerpt from “Bada’i at-Tafsir Al-Jami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah” 1/307-311. Publisher: Daar Ibn Al-Jawziyyah 2nd Ed, 1431AH

[2]:Ar-Ruh 431-432]

[3] Sahih Abi Dawood 1678]