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Cosmetic Surgery

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

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked: “The correspondence as follows was sent by our brother Ismaa’eel Al-Bashir Ali Sudani, working in Qatar. Our brother has three questions. In his first question, he asks about Islam’s ruling on cosmetic surgery?”

The response:

This matter requires (detail) clarification: If a surgical procedure does not alter anything that Allah has decreed to remain as it is (i.e. its natural state), then it is permissible. For instance, if the beautification neither involves tattooing on the face of a person nor the amputation of a body part, but rather, it is for a face-lift or body enhancement, or to reshape a deformity, such as a deformed hand, a leg, or reshaping a deformed nose, there is no harm in this; or teeth that have some defect, such as uneven lengths or misalignment, or removing dark spots on the lips, or something that can be removed to attain a fine appearance without opposing Allah’s command in anything of that, then there is no harm. The Prophet, peace and blessing of Allah be upon him, prohibited tattooing and hair extensions but did not forbid beautification.

Also, if there is a growth on the hand or foot, it is permissible to remove it if a doctor determines that the procedure poses no risk. Similarly, if there is a tumor on the face or hand that can be treated, there is no harm in that, or if there are dark spots on the body or face that can be treated. There is no harm in all this because it is beautification; it does not oppose Allah’s command. [Paraphrased]


An Excerpt from this link:

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/17659/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%B3%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%85-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%AC%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AD%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D8%AC%D9%85%D9%8A%D9%84#:~:text=%D8%A5%D8%B0%D8%A7%20%D9%83%D8%A7%D9%86%D8%AA%20%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AD%D8%A9%20%D9%84%D8%A7%20%D8%AA%D8%BA%D9%8A%D8%B1,%D9%85%D9%8A%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%86%20%D8%A8%D8%B9%D8%B6%D9%87%D8%A7%D8%8C%20%D8%A3%D9%88%20%D8%B3%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AF%20%D9%81%D9%8A

Violence is most likely to breed more violence – Reminder to Cookie Schwaeber-issan

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

Allah [The Exalted] said:

وَإِذَا قُلۡتُمۡ فَٱعۡدِلُواْ وَلَوۡ ڪَانَ ذَا قُرۡبَىٰ‌ۖ

And when you testify, be just, even if (it concerns) a near relative.

Imam As-Sadi, may Allah preserve him, said:

When you testify by way of a statement to judge between people, differentiate between them in a discourse, and speak regarding matters and circumstances, be just in your speech, adhere to truthfulness regarding those you love and those you hate, be fair and do not conceal what needs to be made clear because it is forbidden and tantamount to injustice to divert (from justice and fairness) when speaking against the one you hate. [Tafsir As-Sadi]

It is incumbent upon Cookie to ensure that both perspectives are represented when discussing events. Regardless of the validity of the report, it is disheartening to witness children being exposed to one of the most heavily armed armies in the world, especially when the reasons behind this conflict are well known. At the same time, while these children are in need of people who will teach them the correct methodology in order to safeguard their lives and well-being, there are also some Zionists who have a greater need of being educated to abandon their path. Please refer to the link below for more information.

Must take a look at what is happening in their own backyard first

Loving Sports Personalities Until It Leads to Major Shirk

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

Allah, The Exalted, said:
وَمِنَ النَّاسِ مَن يَتَّخِذُ مِن دُونِ اللّهِ أَندَاداً يُحِبُّونَهُمْ كَحُبِّ اللّهِ وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ أَشَدُّ حُبًّا لِّلّهِ

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

It is reported that Lionel Messi said that he doesn’t like being called ‘God’ by fans and that he said: “I’m not worried by it, but it’s true that I don’t like it. It’s nice to be praised because people are being respectful. They don’t say it with any ill intent, but actually, with the complete opposite. But I think it’s very exaggerated to call me that.” [End of quote]

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

Allah, The Exalted, said:
أَمْ اتَّخَذُوا آلِهَةً مِنْ الأَرْضِ هُمْ يُنشِرُونَ
لَوْ كَانَ فِيهِمَا آلِهَةٌ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ لَفَسَدَتَا فَسُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَرْشِ عَمَّا يَصِفُونَ
لاَ يُسْأَلُ عَمَّا يَفْعَلُ وَهُمْ يُسْأَلُونَ
أَمْ اتَّخَذُوا مِنْ دُونِهِ آلِهَةً قُلْ هَاتُوا بُرْهَانَكُمْ هَذَا ذِكْرُ مَنْ مَعِيَ وَذِكْرُ مَنْ قَبْلِي بَلْ أَكْثَرُهُمْ لاَ يَعْلَمُونَ الْحَقَّ فَهُمْ مُعْرِضُونَ
وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَا مِنْ قَبْلِكَ مِنْ رَسُول ٍإِلاَّ نُوحِي إِلَيْهِ أَنَّهُ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنَا فَاعْبُدُونِ

Or have they taken (for worship) aliha (gods) from the earth who raise the dead? Had there been therein (in the heavens and the earth) gods besides Allah, then verily both would have been ruined. Glorified be Allah, the Lord of the Throne, (High is He) above what they attribute to Him! He cannot be questioned as to what He does, while they will be questioned. Or have they taken for worship (other) aliha (gods) besides Him? Say: “Bring your proof:” This (the Qur’an) is the Reminder for those with me and the Reminder for those before me. But most of them know not the Truth, so they are averse. And We did not send any Messenger before you (O Muhammad) but We inspired him (saying): La ilaha illa Ana [none has the right to be worshipped but I (Allah)], so worship Me (Alone and no one else).” [Al-Anbiyaa. 21-25]

Allah, The Exalted, stated His disapproval of the polytheists – those who (worship things adopted as)gods in the earth, even though these gods are absolutely incapacitated and powerless. Neither are they are able to bring them back to life nor resurrect them, and this is further explained by the statement of Allah:

وَاتَّخَذُوا مِنْ دُونِهِ آلِهَةً لاَ يَخْلُقُونَ شَيْئًا وَهُمْ يُخْلَقُونَ وَلاَ يَمْلِكُونَ ِلأَنفُسِهِمْ ضَرًّا وَلاَ نَفْعًا وَلاَ يَمْلِكُونَ مَوْتًا وَلاَ حَيَاةً وَلاَ نُشُورًا

Yet they have taken besides Him other aliha (gods) that created nothing but are themselves created, and possess neither hurt nor benefit for themselves, and possess no power (of causing) death, nor (of giving) life, nor of raising the dead. [Al-Furqan. 3]

Allah said:
وَاتَّخَذُوا مِنْ دُونِ اللَّهِ آلِهَةً لَعَلَّهُمْ يُنصَرُونَ
لاَ يَسْتَطِيعُونَ نَصْرَهُمْ وَهُمْ لَهُمْ جُندٌ مُحْضَرُونَ

And they have taken besides Allah aliha (gods), hoping that they might be helped (by those so-called gods). They cannot help them, but they will be brought forward as a troop against those who worshipped them (at the time of Reckoning). [YaaSin 74-75]

A polytheist worships a created thing that can neither benefit nor harm, and he abandons worshipping Allah sincerely – The One Who is Perfect, and in His Hand is the absolute control over all benefit and harm. This shows that a polytheist is not blessed, his ignorance is clearly established as well as the severity of his unjust behaviour towards Allah, for indeed it is only befitting that there is only one [true] deity, just as there cannot be except one [true] Lord. And because of this, Allah [The Exalted] said:

لَوْ كَانَ فِيهِمَا آلِهَةٌ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ لَفَسَدَتَا فَسُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَرْشِ عَمَّا يَصِفُونَ

Had there been therein (in the heavens and the earth) gods besides Allaah, then verily both [i.e. the heavens and the earth] would have been ruined. Glorified be Allah, the Lord of the Throne, (High is He) above what they attribute to Him! [Al-Anbiyaa. 22]- Meaning, both the heavens and the earth would have been ruined as well the creation within them. The heavens and the earth – as one can see – are in a perfect state, intact and in perfect order. Neither is there any defect in them and obstacles (to its perfect order) nor conflict in its organisation. Thus, this shows that the One who controls and regulates its affairs is One- its Lord is one and the deity (under whose control they are maintained) is One. If it were the case that the heavens and the earth have two (deities) that control and regulate its affairs- two lords or more, then its perfect order would have been ruined and its foundations would have been undermined. This is because they would have been obstacles and opponents to one another; so if one of them wishes to plan and administer something and the other one wishes that it should not take place, it would be impossible for both their wishes to be fulfilled. The fulfilment of the wishes of one would have shown that the other one is weak and unable do whatever he wants, and it is impossible that both of them will agree on everything. Therefore, the wish of The Irresistible [i.e. Allah- the only True Lord and besides Him every other deity is false]- is what will be fulfilled without anyone being able to prevent or repel it. This is why Allah [The Exalted] said:

مَا اتَّخَذَ اللَّهُ مِنْ وَلَدٍ وَمَا كَانَ مَعَهُ مِنْ إِلَهٍ إِذًا لَذَهَبَ كُلُّ إِلَهٍ بِمَا خَلَقَ وَلَعَلاَ بَعْضُهُمْ عَلَى بَعْضٍ سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ عَمَّا يَصِفُونَ

No son (or offspring or children) did Allah beget, nor is there any ilah (god) along with Him; (if there had been many gods), behold, each god would have taken away what he had created, and some would have tried to overcome others! Glorified be Allah above all that they attribute to Him! [Al-Muminun. 91] [1]

Allah said:
يُولِجُ ٱلَّيۡلَ فِى ٱلنَّهَارِ وَيُولِجُ ٱلنَّهَارَ فِى ٱلَّيۡلِ وَسَخَّرَ ٱلشَّمۡسَ وَٱلۡقَمَرَ ڪُلٌّ۬ يَجۡرِى لِأَجَلٍ۬ مُّسَمًّ۬ىۚ ذَٲلِڪُمُ ٱللَّهُ رَبُّكُمۡ لَهُ ٱلۡمُلۡكُۚ وَٱلَّذِينَ تَدۡعُونَ مِن دُونِهِۦ مَا يَمۡلِكُونَ مِن قِطۡمِيرٍ
ن تَدۡعُوهُمۡ لَا يَسۡمَعُواْ دُعَآءَكُمۡ وَلَوۡ سَمِعُواْ مَا ٱسۡتَجَابُواْ لَكُمۡۖ وَيَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ يَكۡفُرُونَ بِشِرۡڪِكُمۡۚ وَلَا يُنَبِّئُكَ مِثۡلُ خَبِيرٍ۬

He merges the night into the day (i.e. the decrease in the hours of the night are added to the hours of the day), and He merges the day into the night (i.e. the decrease in the hours of the day are added to the hours of the night). And He has subjected the sun and the moon, each runs its course for a term appointed. Such is Allah your Lord; His is the kingdom. And those, whom you invoke or call upon instead of Him, own not even a Qitmir (the thin membrane over the date-stone). If you invoke (or call upon) them, they hear not your call, and if (in case) they were to hear, they could not grant it (your request) to you. And on the Day of Resurrection, they will disown your worshipping them. And none can inform you (O Muhammad ) like Him Who is the All-Knower (of each and everything). [Al-Fatir. 13-14]

Allah [The Exalted] says:

حُنَفَآءَ لِلَّهِ غَيۡرَ مُشۡرِكِينَ بِهِۦ‌ۚ وَمَن يُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ فَكَأَنَّمَا خَرَّ مِنَ ٱلسَّمَآءِ فَتَخۡطَفُهُ ٱلطَّيۡرُ أَوۡ تَهۡوِى بِهِ ٱلرِّيحُ فِى مَكَانٍ۬ سَحِيقٍ۬

Hunafaa’ Lillah (i.e. to worship none but Allah), not associating partners with Him; and whoever associates partners to Allah, it is as if he had fallen from the sky, and the birds had snatched him, or the wind had thrown him to a far-off place. [Al-Hajj 31] fall_from_the_sky_snatched_by_birds

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

If the heart loves Allah and devotes all the religion sincerely to Him, it will not give a share of this love to anyone else, let alone being afflicted with infatuation; but when afflicted with infatuation, this is due to its deficient love of Allah. This is why due to Yusuf’s, peace be upon him, love of Allah and sincerely devoting all the religion to Allah alone, he did not depart from it; rather Allah said:

ڪَذَٲلِكَ لِنَصۡرِفَ عَنۡهُ ٱلسُّوٓءَ وَٱلۡفَحۡشَآءَ‌ۚ إِنَّهُ ۥ مِنۡ عِبَادِنَا ٱلۡمُخۡلَصِينَ

Thus it was, that We might turn away from him evil and illegal sexual intercourse. Surely, he was one of Our chosen, guided slaves.

But as for the wife of the Azeez, she and her people were polytheists, and due to this she was afflicted with infatuation. [2]

Those people whose hearts are infatuated with images receive the greatest punishment and the smallest reward. This is because if the heart of the one who is infatuated with images continues to be attached and is enslaved, various types of evils, loss and corruption will be gathered for him, which none besides Allah can enumerate. Even if he is safe from committing a major lewd act, the continuous attachment of the heart to the image without committing a lewd act is a greater than the harm that afflicts a person who commits a sin and then repents, thus the effect of that sin ceases to exist in his heart. The greatest aspect of this calamity is when the heart turns away from Allah. This is because when the heart tastes the worship of Allah and being sincere to Him, there will never be anything sweeter than that- neither tastier and enjoyable nor better. A person does not abandon something beloved to him except due to another beloved thing that is more beloved to him, or due to fearing harm. The heart is turned away from a corrupt love by an upright love or due to fearing harm. Allah, The Exalted said about Yusuf, peace be upon him:

ڪَذَٲلِكَ لِنَصۡرِفَ عَنۡهُ ٱلسُّوٓءَ وَٱلۡفَحۡشَآءَ‌ۚ إِنَّهُ ۥ مِنۡ عِبَادِنَا ٱلۡمُخۡلَصِينَ

Thus it was, that We might turn away from him evil and illegal sexual intercourse. Surely, he was one of Our chosen, guided slaves. [Yusuf. 24]

Thus, Allah turned His servant away from that which would plunge one into evil due to inclining towards an image and being attached to it, and turns him away from lewd conduct due to his sincerity to Allah. [3]

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

Hearts that are emptied of love for Allah, turned away from Him and seeking remedy from others besides Him, are afflicted with infatuation with images. This is because when the heart is filled with love for Allah and a strong love for meeting Him, this infatuation with images is repelled from it. For this reason, Allah, The Most High, stated about Yusuf, peace be upon him:

كَذَٰلِكَ لِنَصْرِفَ عَنْهُ السُّوءَ وَالْفَحْشَاءَ ۚ إِنَّهُ مِنْ عِبَادِنَا الْمُخْلَصِينَ

Thus it was, that We might turn away from him evil and illegal sexual intercourse. Surely, he was one of Our chosen, guided slaves.

This shows that sincerity is a means to repelling (evil). Because of this, some of the pious predecessors said: “Infatuation is an agitation in empty hearts”. Meaning: emptied of other than what they crave for. [4]

Abu Bakr As-Siddiq, may Allāh be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, said, “By the One in whose hand my soul is, Shirk is more hidden than the creeping of an ant. Shall I not guide you something that, if you were to do it, would remove it from you – get both minor and major? Say:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ أَنْ أُشْرِكَ بِكَ وَأَنَا أَعْلَمُ وَأَسْتَغْفِرُكَ لِمَا لا أَعْلَمُ

O Allah! I seek refuge in You lest I associate partners with You while I know, and I seek Your forgiveness for what I do not know. [Sahih Adab Al-Mufrad 554]

There  is also another hadith reported by Abu Musa Al-Ash’ari, may Allāh be pleased with him, that testifies to the text of this hadith. He said, “One day, Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, gave us a sermon and said, ‘O people! Beware of this Shirk, for indeed it is more hidden than a creeping ant’. Then the one whom Allah wished to speak said to him, ‘O Messenger of Allah! How can we beware of it whilst it is more hidden than a creeping ant?’ He said, ‘Say:

 اللَّهُمَّ
إِنَّا نَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ أَنْ نُشْرِكَ بِكَ شَيْئًا نَعْلَمُهُ ، وَنَسْتَغْفِرُكَ لِمَا لَا نَعْلَمُ

O Allah! We seek refuge in You lest we associate partners with You through something we know and we seek Your forgiveness for what we do not know. [Sahih at-Targhib Wat-Tarhib 36]

This hadith highlights the greatest evil for which an individual seeks protection from Allah, as Shirk is the greatest wrong and the gravest sin.

Allah [The Exalted] said:

وَإِذۡ قَالَ لُقۡمَـٰنُ لِٱبۡنِهِۦ وَهُوَ يَعِظُهُ ۥ يَـٰبُنَىَّ لَا تُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ‌ۖ إِنَّ ٱلشِّرۡكَ لَظُلۡمٌ عَظِيمٌ۬

And (remember) when Luqman said to his son when he was advising him: “O my son! Join not in worship others with Allah. Verily! Joining others in worship with Allah is a great Zulm (wrong) indeed. [Luqmaan. 13]

Allah [The Exalted] said:
إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَا يَغۡفِرُ أَن يُشۡرَكَ بِهِۦ وَيَغۡفِرُ مَا دُونَ ذَٲلِكَ لِمَن يَشَآءُ‌ۚ وَمَن يُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ فَقَدِ ٱفۡتَرَىٰٓ إِثۡمًا عَظِيمًا

Verily, Allah forgives not that partners should be set up with him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He pleases, and whoever sets up partners with Allah in worship, he has indeed invented a tremendous sin. [An-Nisaa. 48]

Allah [The Exalted] said:
وَمَن يُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ فَقَدۡ ضَلَّ ضَلَـٰلاَۢ بَعِيدًا
Whoever sets up partners in worship with Allah, has indeed strayed far away. [An-Nisaa. 116]

The verses of the Qur’an regarding the danger of Shirk and the greatness of its crime are numerous. In the hadith, there is a clarification regarding the fact that Shirk can be hidden in a manner similar to the hidden crawling ant. It may be so hidden that a person commits it and enters into it discreetly without knowing. This shows the great caution one should have regarding it and the obligation of knowing it, so that one is cautious of it and keeps away from it, whilst adhering to the path of Allah path, asking Allah to protect you from all the types of Shirk, from its evil and its disastrous consequences. [5]


[1] An Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi.

[2] Majmu Al-Fataawaa 10/135

[3]Al-Ubudiyyah 114-115

[4] at-Tib An-Nabawi. page180

[5] An Excerpt from ‘Fiqh Al-Ad’iyah Wal Ad’kar’ 4/501-502

Meat is lawful nourishment

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

Allah said:

وَٱلۡأَنۡعَـٰمَ خَلَقَهَا‌ۗ لَڪُمۡ فِيهَا دِفۡءٌ۬ وَمَنَـٰفِعُ وَمِنۡهَا تَأۡڪُلُونَ
وَلَكُمۡ فِيهَا جَمَالٌ حِينَ تُرِيحُونَ وَحِينَ تَسۡرَحُونَ
وَتَحۡمِلُ أَثۡقَالَڪُمۡ إِلَىٰ بَلَدٍ۬ لَّمۡ تَكُونُواْ بَـٰلِغِيهِ إِلَّا بِشِقِّ ٱلۡأَنفُسِ‌ۚ إِنَّ رَبَّكُمۡ لَرَءُوفٌ۬ رَّحِيمٌ۬

“And the cattle, He has created them for you; in them there is warmth (warm clothing), and numerous benefits, and of them you eat. And wherein is beauty for you, when you bring them home in the evening, and as you lead them forth to pasture in the morning. And they carry your loads to a land that you could not reach except with great trouble to yourselves. Truly, your Lord is full of Kindness, Most Merciful”.

Allah created them for you – for your benefit and wellbeing. And from its great benefits is that you have warmth from them by making clothing, beddings and tents from their wool, hirsute, their hairs and skins. You have other benefits from them, and eat from their (meat).

وَلَكُمۡ فِيهَا جَمَالٌ حِينَ تُرِيحُونَ وَحِينَ تَسۡرَحُونَ

“And wherein is beauty for you, when you bring them home in the evening, and as you lead them forth to pasture in the morning”.

At the time when they are going to take a rest in the evening and when they are being taken out to graze. This is because the cattle do not (enjoy) any of that beauty, but rather you are the ones who enjoy their beauty, just as you beautify yourselves with your clothing, children and wealth, and you adore that.

وَتَحۡمِلُ أَثۡقَالَڪُمۡ إِلَىٰ بَلَدٍ۬ لَّمۡ تَكُونُواْ بَـٰلِغِيهِ إِلَّا بِشِقِّ ٱلۡأَنفُسِ‌ۚ ۬

“And they carry your loads to a land that you could not reach except with great trouble to yourselves. Truly, your Lord is full of Kindness, Most Merciful”.

You ride on some of them and others carry what you desire of heavy loads to faraway lands and regions.

إِنَّ رَبَّكُمۡ لَرَءُوفٌ۬ رَّحِيمٌ۬

“Truly, your Lord is full of Kindness, Most Merciful”.

He subjugated to you that which you need and cannot do without.

وَٱلۡخَيۡلَ وَٱلۡبِغَالَ وَٱلۡحَمِيرَ لِتَرۡڪَبُوهَا وَزِينَةً۬‌ۚ

(He has created) horses, mules and donkeys, for you to ride and as an adornment”.

Sometimes you utilise them for riding and at other times for beauty and beautification.

وَيَخۡلُقُ مَا لَا تَعۡلَمُونَ

“And He creates (other) things of which you have no knowledge”.

The things utilised by the people as means of transportation on land, at sea and in the air, and that which they utilise for their benefit and wellbeing after the revelation of the Qur’an, because Allah did not mention them specifically; rather He – in His Book – only mention what His servants knew at the time or its similarity. As for if he mentioned that which had no similarity at the time, then they would neither have known nor understood what is intended by it; therefore he mentioned the basis [of something] which included the things they know and the things they do not know, just as Allah mentioned the bliss in paradise and named the things we know and have seen their similarity, such as date palm trees, grapes and pomegranates, and then He mentioned in general the things whose similarity is unknown to us, as He stated in another Ayah:

فِيہِمَا مِن كُلِّ فَـٰكِهَةٍ۬ زَوۡجَانِ

“In them (both) will be every kind of fruit in pairs”.

Also, in this Ayah [i.e. An-Nahl Aayah 8], Allah mentions the transportation we know, such as horses, mules, donkeys, camels and ships, and mentioned in general the others, saying:

وَيَخۡلُقُ مَا لَا تَعۡلَمُونَ

“And He creates (other) things of which you have no knowledge”.

After mentioning the tangible path and that He created for the servants that which they utilise for journeys, such as camels and other them, He then mentioned the religious path that leads to His (Pleasure); so He said:

وَعَلَى ٱللَّهِ قَصۡدُ ٱلسَّبِيلِ وَمِنۡهَا جَآٮِٕرٌ۬‌ۚ

And upon Allah is the responsibility to explain the Straight Path (i.e. Islamic Monotheism for mankind i.e. to show them legal and illegal, good and evil things, etc. so, whosoever accepts the guidance, it will be for his own benefit and whosoever goes astray, it will be for his own destruction), but there are ways that turn aside (such as Paganism, distorted Judaism and Christianity after the departure of Musa and Eesaa etc.

Meaning, the straight path, and that is the only right path that leads to the (Pleasure) of Allah. As for the path that turn aside with regards creed and deeds, it is everything that opposes the straight path, because it severs a person from the path of Allah and leads to the destination of misery, thus, those who are rightly guided follow the straight path by the permission of their Lord, and the deviated ones deviate from it.

وَلَوۡ شَآءَ لَهَدَٮٰڪُمۡ أَجۡمَعِينَ

And had He willed, He would have guided you all (mankind).

Meaning, but He guided some out of His kindness and Grace, and did not guide others based on His Perfect Wisdom and Justice. (1) This happens based on Allah’s Perfect Wisdom and Just Decree, as recompense for one’s wickedness. (2) Such a person was not forced to go astray, rather he made a choice, even though his choice is under the Will of Allah. We do not know what was in the hearts of those who deviated, but we know – with absolute certainty – that Allah passes Just Judgments and He does not commit injustice against anything; rather it is the people who wrong themselves. (3)

Az-Zujaaj said, “It is Allah who will clarify the straight path and call to it with Hujaj [i.e. clear and overwhelming proofs that defeats all the obstinate and stubborn ones] and Burhaan [i.e. proofs that clarify and distinguish between truth and falsehood in everything]; “But there are ways that turn aside”.

Ibn Abbaas said, “They are the different types of desires [i.e. evil desires]”.

Ibnul Mubaarak said, “They are the (evil) desires and the innovations in religion”. (4)

Meat is not murder, it is nourishment – a rebuke against the extremist animal rights activist

Declaring Something Halal or Haram is the right of Allah

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah said:

The foundation of the religion of Islam is that the permissible things are those that Allah and His Messenger have made permissible, and the impermissible things are those that Allah and His Messenger have made impermissible. It is not allowed for anyone to leave the straight path Allah sent His Messenger with. Allah [The Most High] said:

وَأَنَّ هَـٰذَا صِرَٲطِى مُسۡتَقِيمً۬ا فَٱتَّبِعُوهُ‌ۖ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُواْ ٱلسُّبُلَ فَتَفَرَّقَ بِكُمۡ عَن سَبِيلِهِۦ‌ۚ ذَٲلِكُمۡ وَصَّٮٰكُم بِهِۦ لَعَلَّڪُمۡ تَتَّقُونَ

And verily, this is my Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not [other] paths, for they will separate you away from His Path. This He has ordained for you that you may become pious.

Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, drew a line for us and said, “This is Allaah’s Straight Path”. Then he drew lines to its right and left and then said, “These are other paths. Upon every one of them there is a devil calling towards it”. Then he recited:

وَأَنَّ هَـٰذَا صِرَٲطِى مُسۡتَقِيمً۬ا فَٱتَّبِعُوهُ‌ۖ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُواْ ٱلسُّبُلَ فَتَفَرَّقَ بِكُمۡ عَن سَبِيلِهِۦ‌

Indeed this is My Straight Path, so follow it. And do not follow other paths; they will separate you from His Path”. [Hadeeth reported by Imaam Ahmad in Al-Musnad 4437]

Indeed, Allah mentioned – in Surah Al-An’aam, Surah Al-A’raaf and other them – those deeds the idol worshipers were rebuked for, when they declared impermissible the things Allah did not declare impermissible, such as the Bahirah [i.e. a she-camel whose milk was spared for the idols and nobody was allowed to milk it] and the Saa’ibah [i.e. a she-camel let loose for free pasture for their false gods, e.g. idols, etc., and nothing was allowed to be carried on it]. They declared permissible (deeds) which Allah declared impermissible, such as the killing of their children and they instituted a religion Allah did not allow. Allah said:

أَمۡ لَهُمۡ شُرَڪَـٰٓؤُاْ شَرَعُواْ لَهُم مِّنَ ٱلدِّينِ مَا لَمۡ يَأۡذَنۢ بِهِ ٱللَّهُ‌ۚ

Or have they partners with Allah (false gods), who have instituted for them a religion which Allah has not allowed]. (5)

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Haadee Al-Mad’khalee stated about lies and liars:

All these people propagate mighty lies – which cannot be enumerated here – related to matters of legislation and in declaring what is lawful and unlawful, such as what Allah has stated regarding the pagan Arabs, who made judgements about the Bahirah [a she-camel whose milk was spared for the idols and that nobody was allowed to milk it] or a Sa’ibah [a she-camel let loose for free pasture for their false gods and that nothing was allowed to be carried on it], or a Wasilah [a she-camel set free for idols because it has given birth to a she-camel at its first delivery and then again gives birth to a she-camel at its second delivery]. Allah stated in declaring this a lie:

مَا جَعَلَ ٱللَّهُ مِنۢ بَحِيرَةٍ۬ وَلَا سَآٮِٕبَةٍ۬ وَلَا وَصِيلَةٍ۬ وَلَا حَامٍ۬‌ۙ وَلَـٰكِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ يَفۡتَرُونَ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ ٱلۡكَذِبَ‌ۖ وَأَكۡثَرُهُمۡ لَا يَعۡقِلُونَ

Allah has not instituted things like Bahirah (a she-camel whose milk was spared for the idols and nobody was allowed to milk it) or a Sa’ibah (a she-camel let loose for free pasture for their false gods, e.g. idols, etc., and nothing was allowed to be carried on it), or a Wasilah (a she-camel set free for idols because it has given birth to a she-camel at its first delivery and then again gives birth to a she-camel at its second delivery) or a Ham (a stallion-camel freed from work for their idols, after it had finished a number of copulations assigned for it, all these animals were liberated in honour of idols as practised by pagan Arabs in the pre-Islamic period). But those who disbelieve invent lies against Allah, and most of them have no understanding]. [Surah Al-Maa’idah. 103]

By Allah, they are liars and they are foolish people deprived of sound intellect. Allah said:

فَكُلُواْ مِمَّا رَزَقَڪُمُ ٱللَّهُ حَلَـٰلاً۬ طَيِّبً۬ا وَٱشۡڪُرُواْ نِعۡمَتَ ٱللَّهِ إِن كُنتُمۡ إِيَّاهُ تَعۡبُدُونَ
إِنَّمَا حَرَّمَ عَلَيۡڪُمُ ٱلۡمَيۡتَةَ وَٱلدَّمَ وَلَحۡمَ ٱلۡخِنزِيرِ وَمَآ أُهِلَّ لِغَيۡرِ ٱللَّهِ بِهِۦ‌ۖ فَمَنِ ٱضۡطُرَّ غَيۡرَ بَاغٍ۬ وَلَا عَادٍ۬ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ غَفُورٌ۬ رَّحِيمٌ۬
وَلَا تَقُولُواْ لِمَا تَصِفُ أَلۡسِنَتُڪُمُ ٱلۡكَذِبَ هَـٰذَا حَلَـٰلٌ۬ وَهَـٰذَا حَرَامٌ۬ لِّتَفۡتَرُواْ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ ٱلۡكَذِبَ‌ۚ إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ يَفۡتَرُونَ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ ٱلۡكَذِبَ لَا يُفۡلِحُونَ
مَتَـٰعٌ۬ قَلِيلٌ۬ وَلَهُمۡ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ۬

So eat of the lawful and good food which Allah has provided for you. And be grateful for the Graces of Allah, if it is He Whom you worship. He has forbidden you only Al-Maytatah (meat of a dead animal), blood, the flesh of swine, and any animal which is slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allah (or has been slaughtered for idols etc. or on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering). But if one is forced by necessity, without wilful disobedience, and not transgressing, then, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. And say not concerning that which your tongues put forth falsely: “This is lawful and this is forbidden,” so as to invent lies against Allah. Verily, those who invent lies against Allah will never prosper. A passing brief enjoyment (will be theirs), but they will have a painful torment. [An-Nahl. 114-117]

This was an address to the Arabs who instituted things like Bahirah or a Sa’ibah, and due to this Allah declared this affair of theirs a lie, determined the unlawful things in relation to that which they stated, made it known that what they declared unlawful or lawful is tantamount to lies invented against Allah, that the liars will not be successful, their enjoyment through lies and slanders is a brief enjoyment and an eternal punishment awaits them – a painful punishment. (6)

Indeed, the above suffices as rebuke against the one who declares that “Meat is Murder” while intending that meat should be banned or that it is inhumane to slaughter those animals – for food -which Allah has permitted. The enemies of the Prophets are well-known for portraying evil as good and good as evil. Allah [The Exalted] said:

وَكَذَٲلِكَ جَعَلۡنَا لِكُلِّ نَبِىٍّ عَدُوًّ۬ا شَيَـٰطِينَ ٱلۡإِنسِ وَٱلۡجِنِّ يُوحِى بَعۡضُهُمۡ إِلَىٰ بَعۡضٍ۬ زُخۡرُفَ ٱلۡقَوۡلِ غُرُورً۬ا‌ۚ وَلَوۡ شَآءَ رَبُّكَ مَا فَعَلُوهُ‌ۖ فَذَرۡهُمۡ وَمَا يَفۡتَرُونَ

And so We have appointed for every Prophet enemies – Shayaateen (devils) among mankind and jinns, inspiring one another with adorned speech as a delusion (or by way of deception). If your Lord had so willed, they would not have done it, so leave them alone with their fabrications.” [Al-An’aam 112]

Allah [Glorified be He] stated that they aid one another in opposing the command of the Prophets with what some of them inspire others of adorned speech, so that the gullible and feeble minded people are misled by it. He [The Most High] stated the reason behind a perpetrator’s (adorned speech) and the reason why it is accepted by the people; then He [The Most High] mentioned [in Ayah 113 Al-An’aam] the effects it has on those ignorant souls. When those souls incline towards such adorned speech and become pleased with it, they carry out what it calls them to do -in speech and action. Therefore, ponder upon these verses and the sublime meanings they convey, for they clarify the roots of false principles and alert a person against them. And if you ponder upon the statements of the people of falsehood, you will indeed find them clothed with expressions and presented in a good light with sophisticated terms, which are quickly accepted by those deprived of sound discernment-to the extent that the wicked sinners would give [good] names to the greatest types of wicked deeds. (7)


1: Tafsir As-Sadi.

2: Tafsir As-Sadi. Surah Israa. Ayah 5.

3: Sharh Al-Arba’een pages 55-56- 1st edition 1428 (2007)-by Shaikh Saaleh Aala Ash-Shaikh

4: Zaad Al-Maseer’ by Imaam Ibnul Jawzi.

5: An Excerpt from ‘Al-Ibaadaat Ash-Shar-iyyah Wal-Farqu Baynahaa Wa Baynal Bid’ah page: 7-9

6: https://youtu.be/c0BMdgvMDBI

7: An Excerpt from As-Sawaa-‘q al-Mursalah by Imaam Ibn Al- Qayyim 2/438

Anonymous online identities

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

One of our beloved younger brothers and colleagues shared with us a tweet from Ustaadh Moosaa Richardson regarding the use of anonymous identities online. Many of us, including myself, are well acquainted with circumstances behind the guidance given by Al-Allamah Ubaid Bin Abdillah Al-Jabiri, may Allah have mercy upon him, when this matter first occurred over 20 years ago. Included in that thread on salafitalk.net were also the statements of Al-Allamah Ahmad Bin Yahyah An-Najmi, may Allah have mercy on him, and Al-Allamah Rabee, may Allah preserve him. Then when this matter came up again in 2014, we shared the same link from Salafitalk. Therefore, we share the same sentiment in emphasizing that discussions should be grounded in honesty, avoiding the use of tactics like anonymity. May Allah bless all of us with sincerity and truthfulness in all our endeavours Aameen.

Here is the link we shared in 2014 when this matter started again.

Fataawa Scholars regarding those who hide their identities! —Will Naveed Ayaaz and Masjid As-Sunnah Reveal the identity of their Unknown Companion and Narrator?!

A team of wild guessers at it again!

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

A Team of Wild Guessers at it again

They said, “We have killed the Messiah, son of Maryam, Allah’s Messenger”
https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2024/12/25/they-said-we-have-killed-the-messiah-son-of-maryam-allahs-messenger-part-1/

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

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

[1] Poets and Poetry

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

Allah, The Exalted, said:

هَلْ أُنَبِّئُكُمْ عَلَىٰ مَن تَنَزَّلُ ٱلشَّيَٰطِينُ
تَنَزَّلُ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ أَفَّاكٍ أَثِيمٍ
يُلْقُونَ ٱلسَّمْعَ وَأَكْثَرُهُمْ كَٰذِبُونَ
وَٱلشُّعَرَآءُ يَتَّبِعُهُمُ ٱلْغَاوُۥنَ
أَلَمْ تَرَ أَنَّهُمْ فِى كُلِّ وَادٍ يَهِيمُونَ
وَأَنَّهُمْ يَقُولُونَ مَا لَا يَفْعَلُونَ
إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ وَعَمِلُوا۟ ٱلصَّٰلِحَٰتِ وَذَكَرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرًا وَٱنتَصَرُوا۟ مِنۢ بَعْدِ مَا ظُلِمُوا۟ وَسَيَعْلَمُ ٱلَّذِينَ ظَلَمُوٓا۟ أَىَّ مُنقَلَبٍ يَنقَلِبُونَ

Shall I inform you (O people!) upon whom the Shayatin (devils) descend? They descend on every lying (one who tells lies), sinful person. Who gives ear (to the devils and they pour what they may have heard of the unseen from the angels), and most of them are liars. As for the poets, the erring follow them; see you not that they speak about every subject (praising others right or wrong) in their poetry? And that they say what they do not do. Except those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds, and remember Allah much, and reply back (in poetry) to the unjust poetry (which the pagan poets utter against the Muslims). And those who do wrong will come to know by what overturning they will be overturned. [Ash-Shu’araa 221-227]

After Allah freed the Prophet that the devils do not descend on him, He also cleared him of any association with poetry, stating: “As for the poets”, Meaning, shall I not also inform you regarding the condition and established traits of the poets, for indeed “the erring follow them” away from the path of guidance, while embracing the path of deviation and destruction. Thus, they themselves are upon error and you will find that their followers are all misguided and corrupt individuals. [1]

Based on the apparent meaning of the verse, most poets behave in this manner; they say what they do not practice. They speak about every subject (praising others right or wrong) in their poetry. You see them speaking here and there without truth, instead imagining things and the speaking about them, or lying due to personal needs or other motivations. [إِلَّا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ – Except those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds].

Allah made them an exception. They are the ones whose poetry is both good and beneficial, such as Hassan Ibn Thabit, the poet of the Messenger, Ka’b Ibn Malik, Abdullah Ibn Rawaha, and other poets of the believers. Then those after them during the era of the Tabi’un and the followers of the Tabi’un to the present day of ours. The poetry of the believers is both beneficial and valuable, as the Prophet stated, “Indeed, there is wisdom in poetry.” The Prophet instructed Hassan to lampoon the Quraysh and the disbelievers, saying: “For it (i.e. lampooning them) is more severe against them than the raining arrow.” He said: “O Allah! Aid him (i.e. Hasan) with the Ruhul Qudus”. (i.e. Jibreel). The poetry from a believer in defense of truth and in condemnation of falsehood is something (commanded or recommended), and its composer is thanked and rewarded. These are the ones referred to in Allah’s statement: “Except those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds]. [2]

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

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, once urged the poets among his companions to disparage the Quraish. Aishah narrated that Allah’s Messenger said, “Lampoon the Quraish, for it will hurt them more than arrows”. He sent word to Ibn Rawaahah, saying, “Lampoon them”. So, he lampooned them but it was not good enough. Then he sent word to Kab Bin Malik, then he sent word to Hassaan bin Thaabit. When he entered upon him, Hassan said, “Now you have sent for this lion who wreaks vengeance then waves his tail about”, then he stuck out his tongue and moved it. He said, “By the One Who sent you with the Truth, I shall tear them with my tongue as leather is torn”. Allah’s Messenger said, “Do not be hasty. AbuBakr is most knowledgeable about their lineage, and I share a lineage with them. (Wait) until he summarizes my lineage for you”. Hassan went to him, then he came back and said, “O Allah’s Messenger! He has summarized your lineage for me. By the One Who sent you with the Truth, I shall draw you out from among them as a hair is drawn out of the dough”. Aishah said, “I heard Allaah’s Messenger say to Hassan, “The Ruhul Qudus (i.e. Jibreel) will continue to support you, so long as you are defending Allah and His Messenger”. She said, “I heard Allah’s Messenger say, “Hassan has lampooned them and has satisfied himself and others”. [Sahih Muslim Number 2490]

Al-Baraa’ah Bin Aazib narrated that he heard Allah’s Messenger of Allah saying to Hassan Bin Thaabit, “Lampoon them and Jibril is with you”. [Al-Bukhari 3213]

Thus, when the people of falsehood become overbearing towards the people of truth through evil speech, defamation, lies and praising (other) people of falsehood, the people of truth cannot except to subdue the people of falsehood- clarifying their oppressive (behaviour, views etc), their barefaced lies and unveiling their falsehoods. [3]


[1] Tafsir As-Sadi

[2]https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/14482/%D8%AA%D9%81%D8%B3%D8%B1-%D9%82%D9%88%D9%84%D9%87-%D8%AA%D8%B9%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%89-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%B9%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D9%8A%D8%AA%D8%A8%D8%B9%D9%87%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%BA%D8%A7%D9%88%D9%88%D9%86

[3] An Excerpt from Bayaan Maa Fee Naseehati Ibraaheem Ar-Ruhayli Minal Khalal Wal Ikhlaal. Pages 23-25

Insights on Zionism from Muslim/Arab Researchers- Part 5

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

In 1649, the Puritan theologians John and Eliezer Cartwright sent a memorandum to the British government, urging the implementation of the Jewish restoration from the English people.

This memorandum states: “The English nation and the Dutch population should become the first and most prepared countries to transport the sons and daughters of Israel in their processions to the promised land of their ancestors: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, so that they may inherit their legacy forever.” This memorandum was adopted and supported by Oliver Cromwell, who initiated the return of the Jews to Britain, with backing from Menasseh ben Israel, followed by Chaim Weizmann and Lloyd George. [Footnote a]

Barbara Tuchman stated: England’s Puritanical commitment to the restoration of Israel is undoubtedly rooted in religious motivations. The impetus that drove Cromwell to support the proposal is the same motivation that prompted Lloyd George to take an interest in Weizmann’s proposal a decade later, specifically the assistance that both believed the Jewish people could provide in times of war. Since the time of Cromwell, British interest in Palestine has been primarily motivated by commercial, military, or colonial ambitions, alongside a religious objective rooted in ancient traditions. However, during periods devoid of both motivations—such as the notably secular climate of the eighteenth century—little was accomplished”. The revolutionary renaissance was not limited to beliefs and worship; it also manifested in the literary realm. Notable poets emerged, some of whom predicted the establishment of the state of “Israel.” Among these figures was John Milton. [Footnote b]

William Blake and others

This fertile ground for beliefs and literature gave rise to the “London Society for Promoting Christianity Among the Jews,” led by Shaftesbury. This organization supported the idea of Jewish revival through human efforts and adopted the slogan “A land without a people for a people without a land.” [Footnote c]

In the nineteenth century, several politicians supported this idea, including Palmerston and William Gladstone. In France, this call found justification from figures such as Napoleon Bonaparte. Despite the significant failure of his efforts to establish a homeland for the Jews in Palestine, the notion was promoted during the reign of Louis XIV. [Footnote d] Under the influence of “Jean Colbert, and later during the reign of Napoleon through his advisor, Laharpe. In America, the early Puritan pilgrims brought Hebrew ideas with them, and among those who embraced the concept of Jewish revival in Palestine was Joseph Smith. [Footnote e] Subsequently, American calls were made by Warder Chrison, Clorinda Minor, and William Blackstone. The settlement movements received backing from American businessmen, including Moses Montefiore and the Rothschild family. [Footnote f]

There are numerous evangelical movements; however, it is essential to focus on the most significant ones. One of the most notable movements is Pietism. This religious movement emerged within the church, founded by Philipp Jakob Spener, who gathered a small group to pray and study the Bible in his home to deepen their spiritual lives. This gathering was referred to as the “Pietistic Institute,” and the movement derived its name from this institute. The situation evolved to the establishment of small churches within the Lutheran church in Germany due to the challenges faced by the Lutheran community. Pietism encountered opposition from within the church, prompting Spener to seek a new location where he might find support. His efforts were rewarded when he moved to Berlin, where he formed a friendship with Frederick III, which allowed him to influence the university established by Frederick in Halle. Additionally, another individual who followed in Spener’s footsteps was August Hermann Francke, who gathered his peers to study the Bible. He later met Spener, learned the principles of Pietism from him, and subsequently disseminated these teachings among students and educators in Leipzig. [Footnote g]

He faced opposition like his predecessor; however, “Espiner” secured a position for himself at the University of Hull. He began to attract various members of the university community and did not stop there; he established a school for underprivileged children, an orphanage, and a Bible institute. The influence of the university extended to Lutheran churches in “Norway,” “Sweden,” and “Denmark.” [Footnote h]

The movement of strengthening spread to America, and the efforts of the reformers did not stop with Frank. Among those who studied under him at the university was Zinzendorf, who had developed a religious awareness from a young age. He joined the Moravians, who established the community of Herrnhut, and regarded them as soldiers of Christ advancing His message both domestically and internationally. Despite his attempts to remain connected to the Lutheran Church, his situation did not improve, as the Moravians insisted on separating and being recognized as an independent denomination. Upon their return to Saxony, he acknowledged and supported them. His support went beyond mere assistance; he donated all his wealth to their cause. [Footnote i] This movement emerged as a response to the deteriorating religious conditions within the Church of England at the beginning of the eighteenth century. The rationalist trend permeated all levels of religious thinkers, leading to Christianity being perceived merely as a moral framework. The Methodist movement was founded by John Wesley and his brother Charles. [Footnote j] To uphold the spirit of reform, both individuals joined the Holy Club, along with George Whitefield. This club was dedicated to prayer, fasting, and Bible study. Its members took a meticulous and systematic approach to religious principles, often visiting the sick and imprisoned. Their peers mockingly referred to them as the Methodists due to their strict practices. [Footnote k]

John Wesley encountered the Moravians during his journey to Georgia in America, where he was influenced by their evangelical piety, prompting him to translate some of their hymns into English. Upon returning to England, he met with them at a gathering and experienced a spiritual awakening that convinced him of the possibility of salvation for all through faith in Jesus Christ. He excelled in delivering evangelical sermons to large audiences. In 1739, he, along with his colleagues, established the first Methodist congregation, which subsequently spread throughout Britain, necessitating a central organization. By the end of that year, the central hub was designated as “the Foundation,” serving as a central leadership. The congregations were organized and leaders were appointed, leading to the establishment of annual conferences to oversee the activities and growth of these groups. Wesley had disagreements with the Moravians and also with George Whitefield. This denomination eventually separated from the Church of England in 1748 when Thomas Coke was appointed as the first superintendent of the Methodist Church in America. [Footnote l]

One of the Protestant denominations, governed by distinguished elders who hold equal ranks, is characterized by its division into congregations, each led by its own elder. Adherents follow the Calvinist doctrine and are referred to outside English-speaking countries as “Reformed Churches” or “Correct Churches.” There is a notable distinction between this denomination and the Lutheran tradition; the Reformed Church does not believe in transubstantiation—neither in a spiritual nor a symbolic sense. Instead, it views the act of partaking in bread and wine as a commemoration of the Last Supper shared by Christ and his disciples, and it has also rejected certain church rituals. The Bible is regarded as the ultimate authority in religious matters, with a focus on evangelical practices related to baptism and the Eucharist. [Footnote m]

Puritanism emerged with the aim of returning to the original principles of Christianity. It appeared in England during the 16th and 17th centuries, influenced by Calvinism. During the reign of Queen Mary Tudor, Puritans faced persecution from Catholics, prompting many of its followers to flee to Switzerland, where they established a congregation under the leadership of John Knox. [Footnote n] Upon her return to England, efforts were made to instill their ideas in her. A Presbyterian church was established in Scotland, influenced by John Knox, and Puritanism spread through the distribution of pamphlets and preaching. If we examine these evangelical denominations, we can identify several commonalities among them, the most significant of which include: Reliance solely on the Bible, as it is well-known that the authoritative sources in Christianity are: a) The Bible. b) Church councils. The interpretation of the Bible was traditionally reserved for papal authority, and this monopolization of religious power prompted Martin Luther to oppose the Church, as he advocated for the Bible to be accessible to all, granting everyone the right to interpret it. [Footnote o] Salvation is attained solely through faith, not by works. Those who believe in Christ, recognizing Him as the Son of God who redeemed humanity, have received salvation—exalted be God above what they claim. There is a rejection of the need for a priest among the people; rather, every faithful Christian is considered a priest in their own right. Faith encompasses freedom of thought, education, and doctrine for the believer. This perspective denies any mediation in the relationship between the believer and God, affirming the teachings of Christ alone. Consequently, it dismisses the intercession of the Pope, the veneration of the Virgin Mary, and the worship of angels. Additionally, there is a belief in the millennial reign of Christ upon His second coming. All church rituals are rejected except for the Lord’s Supper and baptism, although there are varying beliefs regarding the specifics of these practices. [Footnote p]

———————————

Footnote a: The Bible and the Sword: 1/137, Non-Jewish Zionism: p. 55, Evangelical Fundamentalism: pp. 41-42.
Oliver Cromwell: Born in 1599 and passed away in 1658, he was the leader of the republic established in England in 1654. He became a member of Parliament in 1628 and proposed a re-organisation of the army. In 1645, he defeated King Charles I and expelled the royalist Presbyterian leaders from Parliament through Pride’s Purge in 1649. He confiscated land from the Irish and granted it to the English. Although he leaned towards religious tolerance, he primarily extended this to Jews and non-Anglican Protestants. Encyclopedia of Politics: 115/5-116, and the Arab World Encyclopedia: 238/19.

Chaim Weizmann was born in 1874 and passed away in 1952. He was a prominent Zionist leader, a chemist, and the first President of the State of Israel. Following Theodor Herzl’s unsuccessful diplomatic efforts to establish a Jewish state within the Ottoman Empire, Weizmann advocated for a more practical approach to Zionism. During World War I, he was appointed as the director of the British Navy’s laboratories, where he played a significant role in the development of the explosive substance acetone. He was also involved in the negotiations between Zionist representatives and the British government, which led to the issuance of the Balfour Declaration. Among his written works is “Trial and Error,” and his correspondence is currently being published in successive volumes. For further reference, see the Dictionary of Zionist Terminology, pages 170-171, the Encyclopedia of Concepts, page 429, and the Encyclopedia of Politics, pages 254/255 onwards.

Lloyd George was born in 1863 and passed away in 1945. He was a prominent British politician known for his eloquent speeches. He represented his constituency for an uninterrupted period of forty-five years. His ministerial career began in 1906 when he was appointed Minister of Trade. During World War I, he became Minister of Munitions in 1915 and later assumed the role of Minister of War following the death of Lord Kitchener in 1916. He negotiated a treaty with Ireland that granted it self-governance. Shortly before his death in 1945, he was bestowed the title of Earl. Refer to: Al-Mawsooa Al-Arabiya Al-Muyassara: 1582/2, and Al-Mawsooa Al-Siyasiya: 5/529.

Footnote b: Barbara Tuchman was born in 1912 and passed away in 1989. She was an American historian who served as a research assistant at the Institute of Pacific Relations from 1934 to 1935. Subsequently, she worked as a journalist for “The Nation,” where she reported on the Spanish Civil War. Tuchman received two Pulitzer Prizes for her non-fiction works in history, philosophy, and the arts. The first award was granted in 1963 for her book “The Guns of August,” which discussed World War I, and the second was awarded in 1972 for “Stilwell and the American Experience in China.” Her notable publications include “The Lost British Policy,” “The Proud Tower,” and “Practicing History,” among others. For further details, refer to the Arab Encyclopedia, page 6/335. Additionally, see her work “The Bible and the Sword,” 1/168-169.

John Milton was born in 1608 and passed away in 1674. He was an English poet who focused on social and political themes in his prose, with some of his ideas contributing to the execution of King Charles I. Milton authored four treatises on divorce and held a significant position during the Cromwellian era. His notable works include “Paradise Lost” and “Paradise Regained,” with the former depicting the rebellion of Satan against God and the expulsion of Adam and Eve from Eden, while the latter narrates the temptation of Christ. Additionally, he wrote “Samson Agonistes,” a play in the classical Greek style. Most of his works reflect the Puritan era. For further details, refer to the Comprehensive Arabic Encyclopedia, page 2/ 1740

Footnote c: William Blake was born in 1757 and passed away in 1827. He was an English poet and mystic, as well as a renowned artist known for his illustrations and metal engravings. For further information, refer to “Summary of Jewish Thought,” page 430, and the “Arab World Encyclopedia,” volume 5, page 119. Refer to: Evangelical Fundamentalism, p. 45. For further insight into the significance of this organization and its activities, see: The Bible and the Sword, 50/2-065. Shaftesbury: Born in 1801 and passing away in 1885, he was Anthony Ashley Cooper, a British politician and Christian Zionist, and the brother-in-law of Prime Minister Palmerston. He was appointed as a member of Parliament and supported the Conservative Party, serving as the leader of the Evangelical faction. He advocated for Jewish interests and was deeply committed to their cause, presenting a significant document aimed at restoring the Jewish people and addressing the Eastern Question. He initiated a project to direct Jews towards “Palestine” under the auspices of Protestant England and became the president of the Palestine Exploration Fund. Refer to: Encyclopedia of Jews, Judaism, and Zionism, Vol. 2, pp. 256-257. Palestine under the Mandate, p. 10, as cited in Non-Jewish Zionism, p. 91, and Evangelical Fundamentalism, p. 46.

Footnote d: Palmerston: Born in 1784 and passed away in 1865, he was a British Zionist politician who received the title of Lord in 1802. Over the course of fifty years, he held various governmental positions, starting as Minister of War and later serving as Foreign Secretary. He oversaw Britain’s policy against Muhammad Ali Pasha and his son Ibrahim Pasha, and he instructed his ambassador in Istanbul, Ponsonby, to negotiate with the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire regarding the establishment of a Jewish state between Egypt and the Arab East in Palestine. He later took on the role of Minister of the Interior and eventually became Prime Minister. See: Encyclopedia of Politics: 482/1

William Gladstone: Born in 1809 and passing away in 1898, he was a British politician who served as Chancellor of the Exchequer and held the position of Prime Minister in 1868. During his first term, he separated the Anglican Church in Ireland from the state. He was succeeded by Disraeli but returned to the premiership in 1880, serving until 1885. In his fourth term, which spanned 1886 and 1893, he faced opposition from the House of Lords regarding the self-governance bill, leading to his resignation from the premiership in 1894 and his retirement from politics the following year. For further details, refer to “Al-Munjid fi Al-A’lam,” page 392, “Diaries of Her Majesty,” pages 514-515, and “Encyclopedia of Politics,” pages 355/4-0356.

Louis XIV: Born in 1638 and passing away in 1715, he reigned as the King of France from 1661 until 1715. He studied the history of France and its political institutions; however, the events he experienced during his childhood had a significant impact on him. Under his rule, French civilization flourished across various fields, including science, literature, and the arts. In terms of foreign policy, war with Spain resumed after a peace treaty that lasted eight years. Historians have debated the reasons for this conflict, which stemmed from the legacy of his father, Louis XIII. He maintained the throne for an impressive 72 years. Refer to: Al- Mawsoo’ah Al-Arabiya Al-Muyassara: 2/1585, Al-Mawsoo’ah Al-Siyasiya: 532/5 – 535, and Al-Mawsoo’ah Al-Arabiya Al-Alamiya: 237/21.

Footnote e: Jean Colbert was born in 1619 and passed away in 1683. He was a French politician who served as the agent for Cardinal Mazarin, who introduced him to King Louis XIV. In 1661, he gained the loyalty of the Council of State and subsequently took charge of financial matters. By 1665, he was appointed as the overseer of the treasury, and in 1668, he became the Minister of Finance. In 1669, he assumed the role of Minister of Marine. Colbert significantly reduced the national debt, enhanced the naval fleet, and established several academies. However, he faced criticism from industrialists due to his demands for the repayment of treasury debts, the imposition of specific productivity levels, and the introduction of taxes to support the state’s economic policies, which became known as “Colbertism.” Refer to: Encyclopedia of Politics, pages 240-241.

Napoleon III was born in 1808 and passed away in 1873. He served as the Emperor of France from 1852 until 1870. As the brother of Napoleon I, he attempted to overthrow the government of Louis-Philippe in Strasbourg in 1836. He authored works such as “The Napoleonic Ideas” and “The Extinction of Poverty.” Following the revolution of 1848, which led to the establishment of the Second French Republic, he returned to France and was elected to the council. His reign is characterized by significant economic activity and advancements in material and industrial progress. For further details, refer to “Al-Munjid fi al-A’lam,” page 568, “Al-Mawsoo’ah Al-Arabiya Al-Muyassara,” volume 2, page 1813, and “Al-Mawsoo’ah Al-Arabiya Al-Alamiya,” volume 11, pages 25-12.

Refer to: Non-Jewish Zionism: pages 111-112, and Evangelical Fundamentalism: pages 46-47. Joseph Smith: Born in 1805 and passed away in 1844, he was the founder of the Mormon Church, officially known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 1830, he established his church and subsequently moved to Kirtland, Ohio, in 1831. He and his followers founded the city of Nauvoo in Illinois, where they enacted a law permitting polygamy. However, in 1890, the church deemed this practice a violation of the law. Refer to: The Arab World Encyclopedia: 124/13.

Footnote f: Born in 1798 in Carbon, he passed away in 1860. He was a Christian Zionist from a wealthy Christian family. In his quest for a stable religious belief, he initially joined a group known as the “Awakened,” later becoming part of the “Mormon” community and other sects. Ultimately, he found his place in Judaism. He attained the position of honorary consul in Jerusalem and began advocating for the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine by engaging with the Ottoman authorities. After converting to Judaism, he settled in Jerusalem, although his son accused him of insanity. However, he received support from his friend Mordecai Noah, who filed a lawsuit arguing that Christianity could not deem someone insane solely for converting to Judaism; this lawsuit was ultimately dismissed. For further details, refer to “Christianity and the Torah,” pages 149-150.

Clorinda Maynor: An American fundamentalist with strong religious convictions, she left her wealthy husband and children in Philadelphia to establish a kibbutz in Palestine, anticipating the arrival of the Second Coming of Christ for salvation. However, she returned after seven years of waiting. Refer to Christianity and the Torah: pp. 150-151.

William Blackstone: Born in 1723 and passed away in 1780, he was an English judge, author, and law professor. He served as a member of Parliament and lectured on law at the University of Oxford. His notable works include “Commentaries on the Laws of England,” which received acclaim for providing a comprehensive overview of English law during his time. Refer to: The Arab World Encyclopedia: 60/5-61. Refer to: Evangelical Fundamentalism: pp. 63-67.

Footnote g: For more information on the status of the Lutheran Church, refer to: History of the Church: 5/74. Frederick III: Born in 1515 and passed away in 1576, he reigned from 1559 until 1576. A proponent of Calvinism, he commissioned the documentation of the religious teachings known as the Heidelberg Catechism in 1563. See: The Arabic Encyclopedia: 2/1284-1285. Halle, a city located in the province of Prussia, became the capital of the new state of Saxony-Anhalt under Russian occupation. During the Middle Ages, it was governed by the prominent archbishops of Magdeburg. In 1648, it was incorporated into the territory of Brandenburg. Halle is notable for being the site of the first Evangelical congregation. Among its existing structures are the Red Gothic Tower and the Virgin Mary Church, which are situated near significant salt and potash mines. For further details, refer to the previous source: 2/1884

Hermann Franck was born in 1663 and passed away in 1727. He was a Protestant theologian and a German educator who studied philosophy and theology. He served as a professor at the University of Leipzig and later at the University of Halle, where he taught Greek and Eastern languages. Franck opposed the prevailing scholastic methods and favored the instruction of practical scientific subjects. He established educational institutions for orphans and the underprivileged, which became known by his name and significantly influenced educational practices during his time. Refer to the previous source: 2/1281. Leipzig is a city located in the eastern part of central Germany, specifically in the northwestern corner of the German state of Saxony. It serves as a commercial, industrial, and cultural hub, renowned for its large trade fairs. Among its industrial products are wood carvings and various types of scientific instruments. Refer to the previous source: 2/1588-1589, and the Arab World Encyclopedia. 21/ 248/250.

Footnote h: University of Halle: Located in East Germany and named after Martin Luther, it was established in 1694 to serve as a hub for free thought and beneficial scientific study. The university attracted a significant number of professors who had been expelled from older institutions. It expanded its curriculum to include natural sciences, agriculture, economics, law, theology, medicine, as well as subjects relevant to workers and farmers. Refer to: Al-Ma’ir Encyclopedia: 2/1884

Norway is a European country situated on the northwestern edge of the continent, with its capital being Oslo. A significant portion of its northern territory lies above the Arctic Circle, earning it the nickname “Land of the Midnight Sun.” Among its agricultural products are barley, figs, and oats, while its industrial outputs include aluminum and non-crude oil products. For further details, refer to the sources: Al-Mutajid in the flags, page 573; Encyclopedia of Politics 6/ 562-571; and the Arab World Encyclopedia, 25/291-305.

Sweden is an industrial nation located in Northern Europe along the Baltic Sea, with Stockholm as its capital. The country produces various agricultural products, including barley, sugar beets, and wheat. Its industrial outputs encompass items such as aircraft, furniture, and glass. Additionally, Sweden is rich in minerals, including iron, gold, and zinc. For further information, refer to “Al-Munjid fi al-A’lam,” page 317, “Encyclopedia of Politics,” pages 341-347, and “The Arab World Encyclopedia,” volumes 13/277-294.

Denmark is a small kingdom situated in Northern Europe, almost entirely surrounded by water. Its capital city is Copenhagen. The country is renowned for its agricultural products, including potatoes, wheat, and barley, as well as its industrial outputs, such as canned foods and electronic electrical equipment. For further information, refer to Al-Munjid Fil A’lam, pages 239-240, and the Arab World Encyclopedia, 10/398-409.

Footnote i: Zinzendorf was born in 1700 and passed away in 1760. He was a religious and social reformer associated with the German Pietist movement. As the leader of the Moravian Church, he aimed to establish a global Protestant movement. He opposed orthodoxy and founded communities in the Baltic provinces, the Netherlands, England, and North America. For further details, refer to the Major Religions Dictionary, p. 815, and Encyclopaedia Britannica, 12/921-922.

Moravians are the Czechs, primarily residing in Bohemia and Moravia. They fell under Austrian rule but regained their independence in 1918, leading to the establishment of Czechoslovakia by the Czechs and Slovaks. Subsequently, the Czechs separated from the Slovaks, resulting in the formation of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The Moravians were influenced by the Lutheran movement. For further details, refer to the Christian Faith Dictionary, page 488, and the Arab World Encyclopedia, 6/357.

Scania: This name refers to the region inhabited during ancient and medieval times, known as Sconia, located in East and Central Germany. The eastern part was governed by the Wettin family and, in 1871, it became part of the German Empire. Subsequently, it was occupied by the Soviet Union and divided into the districts of Leipzig, Dresden, and Chemnitz.

Footnote j: The Rationalist Movement: This refers to the reliance on reason for acquiring knowledge. Notable figures associated with this movement include Plato, Descartes, and Spinoza. For further details, see the Comprehensive Arabic Encyclopedia, 2/1222. For additional information, refer to Church History, pages 74/5-80.

John Wesley: Born in 1703 and passed away in 1791, he was a Christian clergyman who joined the Church of Christ at Oxford University in 1720. He was ordained in the Church of England in 1728 and became a fellow at Lincoln College in 1729. Wesley was a prominent leader of the Evangelical Revival, a movement within 18th-century Protestantism that emphasized personal faith and good works. He traveled extensively for missionary purposes and preached at numerous gatherings. His significant contributions included organizing the movement through the establishment of societies and convening annual conferences to monitor its progress and discuss doctrinal issues and practices. For more information, see Al-Munjid in the Notables, page 615, the Comprehensive Arabic Encyclopedia, page 1953/2, the Dictionary of Major Religions, page 794, and the Global Arabic Encyclopedia, 27/244-245.

Charles Wesley: Born in 1707 and died in 1788, he was an English clergyman from the Church of England, born in Epworth. He, like his brother, was educated at Oxford University and collaborated with John in leading the Methodist movement. He was well-known for his religious hymns and was ordained as a priest in 1749 after his marriage. He opposed any ideas that sought to separate from the Church of England. For further details, see the Comprehensive Arabic Encyclopedia.

Footnote k: George Whitefield was born in 1714 and passed away in 1770. He was an English Protestant evangelist from Gloucester, England. During his studies at Oxford University in the 1730s, he was influenced by John Wesley. He was ordained as an Anglican priest and became known for his bold and critical sermons. Due to his views, he was barred from preaching in certain Anglican churches. He adopted the Methodist practice of preaching outdoors.

Footnote l: Georgia is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States, with its capital being Atlanta. The state is known for its key industrial products, which include transportation equipment, food products, and chemicals. In terms of agriculture, Georgia produces corn, tobacco, and cotton. Historically, it was under British control. For further details, refer to Al-Munjid in Al-A’lam, page 206, the Concise Arab Encyclopedia, 1/662, and the Arab World Encyclopedia, 8/595.

Thomas Cook, born in 1808 and passing away in 1892, was a British businessman who became a Protestant reformer and an advocate for religious moderation. He organized an exploratory trip from Leicester to La Vabre and established a travel agency in Leicester, England, in 1841, which later relocated to London in 1852. His business expanded to include operations in Europe and the United States. For more information, see the Concise Arab Encyclopedia, volume 2, page 1506, and the Arab World Encyclopedia, 20/232.

For additional insights, refer to Church History, pages 81-90, and Christian Sects and Doctrines, pages 178-181. For more extensive information on this denomination, refer to the encyclopedia of American Religions.

Footnote m: This will be discussed in the second chapter of this section; see pages 162-168. For a brief overview, refer to “Differences and Christian Denominations,” pages 182-185. For further information, consult “The Encyclopedia of American Religions, 1/124-143.

Footnote n: Mary Tudor: Born in 1516 and passed away in 1558, she became Queen of England in 1553. She was the daughter of Henry VIII and his wife Catherine. Following her parents’ divorce, she was declared illegitimate and believed she was unworthy of the English throne. However, the Pope refuted these claims. She earned the nickname “Bloody Mary” due to her persecution of her father’s followers.

John Knox: Born in 1505 and died in 1572, he was a prominent leader of the Protestant Reformation in Scotland. He became a Catholic priest in 1536, during a time when the Scottish church was experiencing weakness, relying on his declaration of Christian doctrine. Influenced by the teachings of John Calvin, he was exiled to France during the reign of Mary of Guise. He was appointed as a pastor for the British refugee church in Germany and received support from the English government to oppose the Catholic Queen Mary. He was well-known for his political and religious influence and authored an unfinished work titled “The History of the Reformation in the Scottish Kingdom.”

Footnote o: Scotland is the northern region of Great Britain, with its capital being Edinburgh. Its agricultural products include barley and wheat, while its industrial outputs consist of textiles, electronic equipment, and petroleum products. Church History, 4/278-294, and Christian Sects and Doctrines, pages 185-193.

Footnote p: “Insights on Reform,” pages 47-61, and “Christian Sects and Doctrines,” pages 193-196. The term “Pope,” meaning “father,” was originally used to refer to all bishops but later became specific to the Bishop of the Alexandrian See. By the end of the sixth century, it was designated for the Bishop of the Catholic Church in Rome. For more information, see “Christian Faith Dictionary,” page 91, and “Encyclopedia of Major Religions,” page 602. Baptism is a religious rite that involves either immersing a person in water or sprinkling them with water, symbolizing their entry into Christianity and their acknowledgment of the three divine persons. For additional context, consult “Christian Faith Dictionary,” page 472, and “Encyclopedia of Major Religions,” page 75.

An Excerpt from “Wan-Nasraniyyah As-Suhruniyyah Nash’atuha Wa Ahammu Aqa’idiha” 1/116-129- By Jawharah Bint Muhammad Jam’aan Al-Qahtani.

NB: The information presented in this article is derived from the findings of the researcher. While she has made significant efforts to include numerous references and viewpoints, it is important to acknowledge that no text, apart from the Qur’an and Sunnah, is entirely free from errors, omissions, or lapses in memory on the part of any researcher. The information articulated in the article reflect the researcher’s personal views, and not all assertions can be independently verified by the individual who published this article (Abdullah Jallow). Therefore, those who find the information unsatisfactory are encouraged to conduct additional research or reach out to the author for further clarification. Nonetheless, the existing knowledge regarding Zionism in contemporary times is substantial, particularly in light of over seventy years of oppression faced by the Palestinians.

Some factors of security and peaceful coexistence

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]

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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