Skip to main content

The Profound Contrast Between Fasting in Ramadan Driven by Faith and the Desire for Reward, Versus Merely Observing It as a Healthy Interlude

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

Abu Huraira [may Allah be pleased with him] reported that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him], “Whoever fasts the month of Ramadan due to faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven. Whoever stands in prayer during the Night of Decree due to faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven”. [Al-Bukhaaree 1901 and Muslim 760]

Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated about this hadith: “The reason behind this is the belief that Allah has ordained it and the desire for reward, in contrast to those who fast based on blind following. [1] “This is because fasting is a means of drawing closer to Allah, and having the intention is a prerequisite for its validity.” [2]

The intention, or Niyyah, is what distinguishes between different acts of worship. It sets apart prayer from fasting, obligatory prayer from optional prayer, and so on. [3] Moreover, it is also what differentiates acts of worship from customary deeds. For instance, taking a bath can be done for hygiene or comfort purposes, unrelated to worship, or it can be performed as a ritual purification. [4] Hence, the journalist ought to have emphasized the disparity between fasting as a religious practice and fasting for health reasons.

“His previous sins will be forgiven”, Imam An-Nawawi [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “It is well known – regarding what the jurists hold – that this specifically applies to the minor sins and not the major”. [5] Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “This forgiveness is attained on condition that one abandons the major sins”. [6] Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz also stated a principle related to the unrestricted narrations in which a mention is made regarding the expiation of sins that they are restricted by the texts regarding the abandonment of major sins – either restricted by the statement of Allah:

[إِنْ تَجْتَنِبُوا كَبَائِرَ مَا تُنْهَوْنَ عَنْهُ نُكَفِّرْ عَنْكُمْ سَيِّئَاتِكُمْ – If you avoid the great sins which you are forbidden to do, We shall remit from you your (small) sins. (Surah An-Nisaa. Ayah 31)]; or by the statement of the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him], “The five prayers, Friday to Friday, and Ramadan to Ramadan will expiate the sins committed between them, as long as major sins are avoided”. [a]

Al-Allaamah Abdul Muhsin Al-Abbaad [may Allah preserve him] stated: The benefits of fasting are immense as it serves as a form of protection. According to the hadeeth reported by Imam Bukhaari and Imam Muslim, “Fasting is a shield.” [b] Fasting acts as a shield against the hellfire in the afterlife and guards against disobedience to Allah and His Messenger. By weakening a person’s desires, fasting helps to control their whims and prevents them from engaging in sinful acts that may result from excessive indulgence beyond the limits set by Allah and His Messenger. The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] mentioned that “Paradise is surrounded by hardships and the hellfire is surrounded by all kinds of desires and passions.” [c]

The path to paradise necessitates the exercise of patience in refraining from disobedience, while the path to hellfire is encompassed by forbidden desires. By distancing oneself from these forbidden desires, one will find safety. However, engaging in such forbidden desires will lead to falling into what Allah has prohibited. Although this forbidden enjoyment may provide temporary pleasure, its consequences will bring sorrow, remorse, and humiliation in both this life and the hereafter. According to a hadith narrated by Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud [may Allah be pleased with him], the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] advised the youth, saying, “O young people! Those among you who are capable of marriage should marry, and those who are unable to marry are encouraged to observe fasting as it will decrease their sexual desires.” [d]

Henceforth, the Prophet explicitly stated that if an individual is capable of entering into marriage, they should promptly pursue it to maintain their chastity and provide the opportunity for another individual (i.e. spouse) to also uphold their chastity. However, if one is unable to do so, they should dedicate themselves to the Prophetic solution that the Honorable Messenger advised, which is fasting. This practice serves as a safeguard and shield against succumbing to acts of disobedience. To summarize, this is a noble guidance bestowed by the Honorable Messenger to the younger generation, emphasising that they should marry if possible; but if not, they should exercise self-restraint through fasting.

The fasting of wealthy individuals serves as a reminder of hunger, prompting them to contemplate the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah. They are made aware of their Muslim brothers and sisters who experience hunger even without fasting. This awareness motivates them to show kindness to the less fortunate, providing for the destitute and needy. [7]

Hence, it is imperative for anyone discussing fasting in Islam to thoroughly elucidate its profound merits and differentiate it from other matters. Unfortunately, in today’s era, we are being tested by the words written by journalists using their pens and keyboards. Many of them delve into religious affairs without offering any evidence or insights from the esteemed scholars of the Muslim community – the scholars who adhere to the sound Prophetic methodology. It is of utmost importance that individuals either provide comprehensive explanations from these upright scholars or refrain from delving into the sacred aspects of our faith. Recently, a journalist from Turkey made a statement regarding fasting as follows “Its religious significance aside, fasting has become one of the most encouraged methods of replenishing health, with recent clinical studies citing countless physical and mental benefits, ranging from weight loss and mental clarity to reversing disease. While this historical month of fasting is certainly not new and in fact spans back thousands of years, there are many among us who have just recently boarded the fasting train and thus we may choose to embark on this annual tradition ourselves this year, whether it be as a spiritual practice or a healthy interlude”. [end of quote]

Certainly, it is crucial to provide further clarification regarding this statement to differentiate the great virtue of fasting as an act of worship from fasting as a method to enhance one’s health. This article has already presented authentic divine reports and statements from esteemed scholars of the Ummah, emphasising the importance of understanding this distinction. Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “There is no good thing except that the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] has clarified it and urged a person to it, and there is no evil except that he has warned the Ummah against it”. Imam Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen said, “This is correct because good is something one seeks to do, so he clarified it specifically and urged a person to do it. Regarding evil, we say, “There is no evil except that he warned against it” because there are certain evils that have been explicitly clarified and warned against, while others have been addressed in a general manner. For instance, acts like fornication and murder, along with other similar deeds are manifest evils. Innovation in religious matters is a manifest evil, however, did he mention every bidah specifically by their descriptions in texts or mentioned in general? Instead, they are generally mentioned and warned against. The distinction between (evil) and good deeds is that good is something one seeks to do and, therefore, requires specific clarification. On the other hand, evil deeds are to be abandoned, and thus they may be mentioned in detail and sometimes in general”. [8]

And Allah knows best


[1] Al-Hulal Al-Ibreeziyah Min at-Ta’leeqaat al-Baaziyyah alaa Saheeh al-Bukhari. 2/130. Footnote 6

[2]Sharh Al-Arba’een by Shaikh Saaleh Aala Ash Shaikh. page 12. Publisher: Maktabah Al-Hadyi Al-Muhammadee. 1st Edition 1428AH (2007)]

[3] Bahjatul Quloob Al-Abraar. By Imaam As-Sadi. page 10. 1st Edition 1414AH (1994)]

[4] Sharh Saheeh Muslim Vol 6. Page 36. Publisher: Daarul Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. 1421AH (2000)]

[5] Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min Ta’leeqaat Al-Baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree Vol 2. Page 120. Footnote 6. Slightly paraphrased]

[6] https://binbaz.org.sa/audios/45/1–%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%AD%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%AB-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D9%85%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D9%85%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D9%83%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D9%84%D9%85%D8%A7-%D8%A8%D9%8A%D9%86%D9%87%D9%85%D8%A7

ال النبيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم: «العمرةُ إلى العمرة كفَّارةٌ لما بينهما، والحجُّ المبرور ليس له جزاء إلا الجنة»، هذا يُبين فضل الحج والعمرة، وأن العمرة كفَّارة لما بينهما، يعني: عند اجتناب الكبائر.
قاعدة: الأحاديث المطلقة في تكفير الذنوب مُقيَّدة بترك الكبائر، إما بقوله سبحانه: {إِنْ تَجْتَنِبُوا كَبَائِرَ مَا تُنْهَوْنَ عَنْهُ نُكَفِّرْ عَنْكُمْ سَيِّئَاتِكُمْ} [النساء:31]، وفي قوله صلى الله عليه وسلم: «الصَّلوات الخمس، والجمعة إلى الجمعة، ورمضان إلى رمضان كفَّارات لما بينهنَّ إذا اجتنب الكبائر»، وفي اللفظ الآخر: «ما لم تُغْشَ الكبائر»، فالعمرة إلى العمرة كفَّارة لما بينهما عند اجتناب الكبائر.
«والحج المبرور ليس له جزاء إلا الجنة» يعني: عند اجتناب الكبائر، كما قال صلى الله عليه وسلم: «مَن حجَّ فلم يرفث ولم يفسق رجع كيوم ولدته أمه»، فالحج المبرور هو الذي ليس فيه رفثٌ ولا فسوقٌ، هذا الحج المبرور، ليس فيه ما يُبطله، وليس فيه ما ينقصه من المعاصي، هذا هو الحج المبرور الذي يُوجب الجنة

[7] An Excerpt from أثر العبادات في حياة المسلم pages: 4-20

[8] An Excerpt from ‘Ad-Duratu Al-Uthaymeeniyyah Bi-Sharhi Fat’hi Rabbil Bariyyati Bi-Talkhees Al-Hamawiyya. Page 34. Slightly paraphrased]

[a] Bukhaari No1894 and Muslim No: 1151]

[b] Sahih Al-Bukhari 1894

[c] Muslim No: 2822 and Bukhaari No: 6487]

[d] Bukhaari No: 5065]

Cannot give one another false hopes nor engage in wishful thinking and flattery when frank advice is needed

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

Umar Ibn Abdul Azeez [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: Whoever advises his brother to rectify affairs related to his religion and gives him insight into a worldly affair of his, then indeed he has perfected their relationship and fulfilled his obligation towards him. [Taareekh At-Tabari 6/572]

Imaam Al-Barbahaaree [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: It is not permissible to hide sincere advice from any of the Muslims, whether pious or impious, in matters of religion. Whoever hides that has acted deceitfully towards the Muslims. Whoever acts deceitfully towards the Muslims has done so towards the religion. Whoever acts deceitfully towards the religion has behaved treacherously towards Allah, His Messenger, and the Believers.

Al-Allaamah Ahmad Bin Yahyah An-Najmi [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: I say: The meaning of An-Naseehah is ‘Purity’ and ‘Clearness.’ It is said: [  نصح اللبن – the milk is pure] when it is clear. This is the linguistic meaning of An-Naseehah. In the Shariah, (it means) to inform a Muslim regarding what is obligated on him in relation to the (rights of Allah or his relationship with Allah) and His creation without slyness and false courtesy. An-Naseehah is obligatory, even though its obligation varies, and its opposite is Al-Ghish [deception].

Indeed, the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said in the authentic Hadeeth, “The religion is Naseehah, the religion is Naseehah, the religion is Naseehah; so, the Sahaabah said, ‘O Messenger of Allah! To who?’ He said, ‘To Allah, His Book, His Messenger, to the leaders of the Muslims and their common folk.’”

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] narrated that the Messenger of Allah [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] passed by a pile of foodstuff, he put his hand in it and found that it was wet. He said, ”What is this, O seller of the foodstuff?” He said, ”It became wet due to the rain O Messenger of Allah!” He said, ”Why do you not put it on top of the food so that people can see it? Whoever deceives [people] is not from me.” [Muslim 102]

Deception in trade is when one hides a defect [found in the commodity]. And with regards to consultation, it is when one recommends something to a person that is harmful to his religious or worldly affairs.

As for Naseehah Lil-Laah – [sincerity to Allah]: It is to believe in Allah [The Most High], single Him out in [His Lordship, Names and Attributes and to single Him out in worship], give precedence to obeying Him over obedience to the creation, fearing the standing in His presence [on the Day of judgement] and to be mindful of Him in private and public.

As for An-Naseehah Li-kitaabihee-[Sincerity to His Book]: It is to recite it, ponder upon its meanings, act upon it and believe in the information it contains. As for Naseehah Li-Rasoolihee – [Sincerity to His Messenger]: It is to testify to that which he has informed [us], fulfil what he  commanded, keep away from what he has forbidden, exalt and honour him [salawaatu wasalaamuhu alayhi].

An-Naseehah Li-A’immatil Muslimeen- [Sincerity to the leaders of the Muslims]: It is to obey them in that which does not necessitate disobedience to Allah, to refrain from betraying them, send them advice through those who are able to advise them in private, because that is the manner that will be more suitable for advice to be accepted. An-Naseehah Li-Aammatil Muslimeen- [sincerity to the common Muslims]: It is to call them to the path of Allah, teach them what is beneficial and warn them against that which will harm them.


Ir’shaad As-Saariy Fee Sharhis Sunnati Lil-Barbahaaree. Pages 157-158

[12] These people are either unaware of or concealing some realities regarding the legacy of Erudite Salafi Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz

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

The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: “Indeed, the scholars are the inheritors of the prophets, for the prophets do not leave behind a dinar or a dirham for inheritance, but rather, they leave behind knowledge. So whoever takes hold of it, has acquired a large share (i.e. of inheritance)”. [(1)]

The anonymous writers at Wikipedia stated: “In 1966, when Ibn Baz was vice-president of the Islamic University of Medina, he wrote an article denouncing Riyadh University for teaching the “falsehood” that the earth rotates and orbits the sun. In his article, Ibn Baz claimed that the sun orbited the earth, and that “the earth is fixed and stable, spread out by God for mankind and made a bed and cradle for them, fixed down by mountains lest it shakes”. As a result of the publication of his first article, Ibn Baz was ridiculed by Egyptian journalists as an example of Saudi primitiveness, and King Faisal was reportedly so angered by the first article that he ordered the destruction of every unsold copy of the two papers that had published it. In 1982 Ibn Baz published a book, Al-adilla al-naqliyya wa al-ḥissiyya ʿala imkān al-ṣuʾūd ila al-kawākib wa ʾala jarayān al-shams wa al-qamar wa sukūn al-arḍ (“Treatise on the textual and rational proofs of the rotation of the sun and the motionlessness of the earth and the possibility of ascension to other planets”). In it, he republished the 1966 article, together with a second article on the same subject written later in 1966, and repeated his belief that the sun orbited the earth. In 1985, he changed his mind concerning the rotation of the earth (and, according to Lacey, ceased to assert its flatness), when Prince Sultan bin Salman returned home after a week aboard the space shuttle Discovery to tell him that he had seen the earth rotate”. [End of quote]

Response:

First of all, if the Imam did reprimand someone at Riyadh University for claiming that the earth rotates, then that was undoubtedly a justifiable rebuke against those who oppose what has been established based on divine texts.

Second, the Imam’s position that the sun rotates is a fact rather than a claim since everything stated in the divine revelation—the Qur’an and Sunnah—is an unquestionable fact and reality, not a statement of opinion. Read on the links:

https://abuiyaad.com/a/bin-baz-motion-sun-around-earth

http://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/auazc-disbelief-of-the-one-who-denies-suns-motion-around-the-earth.cfm

https://abukhadeejah.com/the-motion-of-the-sun-around-the-earth-and-the-islamic-belief/

https://abuiyaad.com/a/motion-of-the-sun-timelapse

Third, if it is true that Egyptian media made fun of the Imam, then it is not at all unusual for learned Salafi scholars to face scorn from ignorant people when they present real evidence. Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: “All praise is due to Allah, who in every age and interval between the Prophets, raises up a group from the people of knowledge, who call the misguided to guidance, patiently bear ill-treatment and harm. With the Book of Allah they give life to the dead and with the Light of Allah they give sight to the blind. How many a person killed by Iblees (the Devil) they have revived, how beautiful their effect has been upon the people, and how vile the people have been towards them! They remove from Allah’s Book the alterations of those going beyond bounds, the false claims of the liars, and the false interpretations of the ignoramus- those who uphold the banner of innovation and let loose the trials and discords, who oppose the Book and agree upon opposing the Book. They speak about Allah and his Book without knowledge, argue about what is ambiguous in the Book, and deceive the ignorant ones with such ambiguities. We seek refuge in Allah from the trials of the misguided ones”. [(2)]

Fourthly, if the cretins at Wikipedia are correct in their claim that King Faisal [may Allah have mercy upon him and enter him into Jannatul Firdaws] was angered by the Imam’s position, then indeed the upright Scholars are an example of how the rulers are treated in that they are not obeyed in anything that is contrary to the Shariah, but rather they are advised in private and have supplications made for them. No one is to be obeyed in disobedience to Allah, as Imam Al-Barbahaaree [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated, “From the Sunnah is that you do not help anyone in disobedience to Allah, whether they be parents or any of the creation. There is no obedience to a human in disobedience to Allah and no one is to be loved for that; rather all of that is to be hated for [the sake of Allah], the Blessed and Most High”. Al-Allaamah Saalih Al-Fawzaan [may Allah preserve him] stated: This is a fundamental principle from the fundamental principles of Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah that has been derived from the statement of the (Prophet) that, “There is no obedience to the creation in disobedience to the Creator”. And he [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “Obedience is only in that which is good”. So, whoever commands disobedience to Allah is not to be obeyed. He is not to be obeyed in disobedience, whether your father, mother, or from the closest of the people to you, or a Ruler or a King. He is not to be followed in disobedience. [(3)]

Regarding the statement that the Imam reaffirmed his position in 1982 that the sun rotates and the earth is stationary, it is true that the upright Scholars do not forsake any evidence in order to appease others or follow the crowd. As for the claim by the unknown writers and cretins at Wikipedia that “In 1985 the Imam changed his mind concerning the rotation of the earth (and, according to Lacey, ceased to assert its flatness) when Prince Sultan bin Salman returned home after a week aboard the space shuttle Discovery to tell him that he had seen the earth rotate”, then indeed, the burden of proof is on the claimant, and the cretins at Wikipedia must present a statement from the Imam for what they attribute to him because the only position known from the Imam till his death was that the earth does not move and that it is the sun and moon that rotate.

As for the statement of the Imam regarding the flatness of the earth, he himself stated as follows: “According to the scholars, the Earth is spherical. Ibn Hazm and a group of other (scholars) have transmitted that the scholars hold a consensus that it is spherical. Meaning: Some of it is joined together with some and rolled up like a ball. However, Allah spread out the top of it for us and placed on it firm mountains, animals, and seas out of mercy for us. This is why Allah says: [وَإِلَى الأَرْضِ كَيْفَ سُطِحَتْ – And at the earth, how it has been spread out (to facilitate habitation and travel)?] It is flat and visible to us (i.e. the top) so that people can live on it and be calm (without worry). The fact that it is spherical does not exclude that its surface is not flat because if a large, great thing is flat, it will have a wide back”. [(4)]

May Allah enter the Imam into Jannatul Firdaws! His remark is quite obvious for everyone to see. Them read Shaikh Abu Iyaad’s (may Allah preserve him) article on the link for more information about the statements of other Scholars regarding the shape of the earth. “Ibn Taymiyyah on the Shape of the Heaven and Earth and the Concept of Time and Related Issues:

https://salafitalk.net/st/printthread.cfm?Forum=6&Topic=1859

If after reading Shaikh Abu Iyaad’s post in the aforementioned link you believe that the explanation offered by the other scholars is more persuasive or that the Imam’s position is incorrect, then you should know that every upright Mujtahid is rewarded for striving to reach the correct position, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “If a Mujtahid gives a verdict according to the best of his knowledge and his verdict is correct, he will receive a double reward, and if he gives a verdict according to the best of his knowledge and his verdict is wrong, even then he will get a reward”. [Bukhari Number 7352]

Finally, as for the debate that people have been able to reach the moon, listen here:

To be continued…InShaaAllah


[(1)]: Sunan At-Tirmidhee 2682

[(2)]: Ar-Radd Alal Jahmiyyah Waz-Zanaadiqah. page 2

[(3)]: An Excerpt from It-haaful Qaaree Bitta’liqaat Alaa Sharhis Sunnah Lil Imaam Barbahaaree. 2/297-299

[(4)]:

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/5966/%D9%83%D8%B1%D9%88%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%B6#:~:text=%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%A8%3A%20%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D8%B1%D8%B6%20%D9%83%D8%B1%D9%88%D9%8A%D8%A9%20%D8%B9%D9%86%D8%AF%20%D8%A3%D9%87%D9%84,%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B8%D8%A7%D9%87%D8%B1%20%D9%84%D9%86%D8%A7%20%D9%84%D9%8A%D8%B9%D9%8A%D8%B4%20%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%8A%D9%87%D8%A7%20%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%B3

[11] These people are either unaware of or concealing some realities regarding the legacy of Erudite Salafi Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz

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

The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: “Indeed, the scholars are the inheritors of the prophets, for the prophets do not leave behind a dinar or a dirham for inheritance, but rather, they leave behind knowledge. So whoever takes hold of it, has acquired a large share (i.e. of inheritance)”. [(1)]

The anonymous writers at Wikipedia stated: His obituary in The Independent said “His views and fatwas (religious rulings) were controversial, condemned by militants, liberals and progressives alike”. He was also criticised by hard line Salafi jihadists for supporting the decision to permit U.S. troops to be stationed in Saudi Arabia in 1991. [End of quote]

Response:

First, we have already established in this series that there is no benefit in saying that an affair is contentious while offering no solid knowledge-based proof to differentiate truth from untruth based on the Qur’an and Sunnah as understood by the Sahaabah.

Second, the mere usage of the word militant is enough to disprove the Imam’s opponents because there is no militancy in Islam; rather, the Khawaarij are the ones on the path of militancy. Visit the website prepared by Shaikh Abu Iyaad [may Allah protect him]: https://www.kharijites.com/kj/

Third, liberals and so-called progressives in our time are well-known for their misguidance and extreme immorality, so there is no need to go into detail about their affairs. Listen to Shaikh Abu Khadeejah’s clarification.

https://abukhadeejah.com/modernity-western-liberalism-materialism-in-islamic-discourse-abu-khadeejah/

Fourth, cretins on Wikipedia and elsewhere are always keen to repeat that there is a group called Salafi Jihadists, despite the fact that it has already been robustly refuted by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah [may Alla preserve him].

Read here:

https://abukhadeejah.com/a-response-to-western-academics-who-categorise-salafis-into-quietists-politicos-and-jihadists-and-why-this-is-a-false-categorisation/

Finally, the cretins at Wikipedia once again failed to provide any explanation regarding the Shariah position on admitting non-Muslim soldiers in Muslim countries, whether in Saudi Arabia or any other Muslim country; instead, they just stated that this was a point of contention. However, unlike the cretins and pseudo-researchers at Wikipedia, the Salafiyyoon provide detail and educate the Ummah. Read the article by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah [may Allah preserve him]:

https://abukhadeejah.com/ibn-baaz-allowed-the-american-military-into-saudi-arabia/

Indeed, merely being on the opposing side is insufficient because the misguided opponents—the liberals, so-called progressives, and militants—who are all following divergent pathways of Bidah and misguidance, have not offered any unambiguous knowledge-based proof.

To be continued…InShaaAllah.


[(1)]: Sunan At-Tirmidhee 2682

[10] These people are either unaware of or concealing some realities regarding the legacy of Erudite Salafi Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz

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

The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: “Indeed, the scholars are the inheritors of the prophets, for the prophets do not leave behind a dinar or a dirham for inheritance, but rather, they leave behind knowledge. So whoever takes hold of it, has acquired a large share (i.e. of inheritance)”. [(1)]

The anonymous writers at Wikipedia stated, “Ibn Bāz was among the Muslim scholars who opposed regime change using violence. He called for obedience to the people in power unless they ordered something that went against God. During his career as the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, he attempted to both legitimise the rule of the ruling family and to support calls for the reform of Islam in line with Salafi ideals. Many criticised him for supporting the Saudi government when, after the Persian Gulf War, it muzzled or imprisoned those regarded as too critical of the government, such as Safar al-Hawali and Salman al-Ouda. His influence on the Salafi movement was large, and most of the current prominent judges and religious scholars in Saudi Arabia are his former students”. [End of quote]

First, the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] forbade rebellion against Muslim rulers, whether they be pious or sinful, so Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz’s [may Allah have mercy upon him] position on regime change is based on the sound Prophetic narrations. Therefore, there is no discussion of whether their rule is valid or not; rather, Muslims are instructed to consider all Muslim rule as legitimate, regardless of how such a Muslim ruler behaves, and rebellion is prohibited. Read articles by Shaikh Abu Iyaad and Shaikh abu Khadeejah [may Allah preserve him].

https://www.kharijites.com/kj/

https://abukhadeejah.com/ahlus-sunnah-wal-jamaah-believe-that-rebellion-against-the-rulers-is-forbidden/

https://abukhadeejah.com/the-tyranny-of-the-rulers-a-reason-for-rebellion/

https://abukhadeejah.com/revolt-of-the-early-scholars-against-the-tyranny-of-rulers-in-light-of-the-sunnah-and-salaf/

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

Second, regarding Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz’s revival efforts, his call was for the Ummah to return to Tawheed and that which the pious ancestors were on. During his lifetime, he was also supported in this endeavour by Imaam Al-Albaani, Imaam Muhammad ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen, and other scholars. Read below.

Rectification of Modern Societies – By Saudi Scholar Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz

As for those who criticised the Imaam for supporting the Saudi government to restrain the Qutubies, such as Safar al-Hawali and Salman al-Ouda, these critics are either ignorant of the destructive methodology of these two callers to bidah or they are upon the same methodology as them. Read below.

http://www.ikhwanis.com/articles/plbqrxl-extremist-qutbi-safar-al-hawali-outed-as-a-liar-by-musa-abd-al-azeez-in-interview.cfm

http://www.ikhwanis.com/articles/upypzld-ikhwani-muhammad-al-areefee-exposed-lying-upon-the-messenger-and-lying-upon-imaam-al-nawawi.cfm

As for the statement that “His (Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz) influence on the Salafi movement was large, and most of the current prominent judges and religious scholars in Saudi Arabia are his former students”, then indeed we remind these ignorant people that Salafiyyah is not a movement, rather, it is the methodology of the Salafus Saalih [the pious predecessors]. Read below.

 http://www.salafis.com/authors/Abu.Iyaad.cfm

Finally, there is no doubt that Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz alongside Imaam Al-Albaani and Imaam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allah have mercy upon them] had a great impact on the Ummah during their lifetime due to their piety and knowledge. Indeed, the positive outcomes of their knowledge and piety in the Ummah is well-known.

To be continued InShaaAllah


[(1)]: Sunan At-Tirmidhee 2682

So and So Identifies as a Dog or a Cat! [What is the basis of this absurd behaviour?]

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

Imam As-Sadi [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated:

The statement of many materialists (atheists) and those who blindly follow them is that “There should be freedom of thought, everyone should be free to hold the opinion he sees fit and the proposal he makes”. This has also manifested its great harm. Indeed, freedom of thought – giving everyone his freedom (i.e. based on desires) – has shown to be the very reason behind anarchy; rather that is its basis. Animals become better than them (i.e. humankind and Jinn) when they are given freedom in that which corrupts their morals and (sound) beliefs, thus their deeds become chaotic. This is the reality in every country where freedom has been let loose and not restricted by the divine legislated restrictions that conform with (sound) intellect because the souls command evil, incline towards arrogance and insolence, and approach every desire whether it harms individuals and groups or not. Just as giving one the freedom to do as he pleases unrestrictedly cannot remain because if everyone was left with his freedom that he can murder, injure or hit, or take the wealth of the people or violate their honour, the state of affairs would have been corrupted, the world would be in anarchy, chaos, disturbance and great harm will occur; likewise, the freedom of thought has brought evil, and from its filthy fruits is dispensing with religion and the Messengers [peace and blessings of Allah be upon them], rejecting what they brought and that which sound intellect indicates, such as the obligation of restraining and guarding oneself against the harmful affairs related to creed, morals and deeds. Among the outcomes of freedom of thought are the statements heard from the atheistic and vile newspapers that shake the hearts of the people of sound intellect, and indeed they have done great harm to the beliefs and morals; rather it has harmed governments, groups and individuals. As for the Islamic legislation, then indeed it – and praise be to Allāh – came to alert the intellects and urge towards (sound) reflection on those affairs that are useful for one to reflect on, such as the signs Allah has created in the creation and the signs conveyed in the divine revelation; pursues the sound paths of reflection and examining them, and thus it affirms the beneficial sciences and truthful understandings- urges towards every beautiful character, warns against every evil character and places a sound restriction on ideas, which if encroached will result in destructive things and various types of misguidance. If ideas are not restricted by sound intellects and religion – which Allāh has provided for the servants in which is the rectification of their affairs and perfection of their circumstances, then indeed they give birth to chaos and error, misguidance, misery, folly and insanity.

[An Excerpt from “Ad-Dalaa’il Al-Qur’aaniyyah”. page 22]

[7] These people are either unaware of or concealing some realities regarding the legacy of Erudite Salafi Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz

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

The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “Indeed, the scholars are the inheritors of the prophets, for the prophets do not leave behind a dinar or a dirham for inheritance, but rather, they leave behind knowledge. So whoever takes hold of it, has acquired a large share (i.e. of inheritance)”. [Sunan At-Tirmidhee 2682]

The anonymous writers at Wikipedia stated that among the controversial views and rulings of Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allah have mercy upon him] is the subject matter of women’s rights!

Response: Militant Secularists, modernists, and proponents of immorality continue to argue that segregating the two biological sexes in the arena of work is unprogressive. The Salafi Scholars, in particular Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allah have mercy upon him], have responded to this viewpoint of theirs, which is solely motivated by a desire to either reject the infallible divine revelation or pursue so-called equality and progress at the expense of sound morality. When asked if a woman is considered to be pursuing her whims and desires if she works without a need for money, the Imaam responded: “Her engagement in work is not tantamount to following desires if it is a noble and safe occupation, and carried out amongst women, without free mixing with men, and she only works amongst women without any injustice and hostility, with the permission of her husband. There are different types of work, and if the work includes disobedience to Allah, then it is obligatory for her to abandon it. If it includes free mixing between men and women and showing her beauty, then this is also evil. But if it is work that is allowed or legislated by Islamic law amongst her Muslim sisters, such as teaching girls, or working as a nurse, or working as a doctor for women, then there is no harm in this and all praise is due to Allah. Even if she is not in need of money, it is still allowed because she may want more money, or need it to give away in charity and so on. http://www.binbaz.org.sa/audio/noor/033907.mp3

To be continued…InShaaAllah

Weaponizing Basic Necessities and Seeking to Assume Authority Over Life and Death- [An Inheritance of Netanyahu’s Zionist Far-right Regime From the Obstinate Polytheists and Callous Despots of Bygone Eras]

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

Allah [The Exalted] says:

أَلَمْ تَرَ إِلَى الَّذِي حَاجَّ إِبْرَاهِيمَ فِي رَبِّهِ أَنْ آتَاهُ اللَّهُ الْمُلْكَ إِذْ قَالَ إِبْرَاهِيمُ رَبِّيَ الَّذِي يُحْيِي وَيُمِيتُ قَالَ أَنَا أُحْيِي وَأُمِيتُ ۖ قَالَ إِبْرَاهِيمُ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْتِي بِالشَّمْسِ مِنَ الْمَشْرِقِ فَأْتِ بِهَا مِنَ الْمَغْرِبِ فَبُهِتَ الَّذِي كَفَرَ ۗ وَاللَّهُ لَا يَهْدِي الْقَوْمَ الظَّالِمِينَ

Have you not seen (contemplated with your heart) him who disputed with Ibrahim (Abraham) about his Lord (Allah), because Allah had given him the kingdom? When Ibrahim (Abraham) said (to him): “My Lord (Allah) is He Who gives life and causes death.” He said, “I give life and cause death.” Ibrahim (Abraham) said, “Verily! Allah causes the sun to rise from the east; then cause it you to rise from the west.” So the disbeliever was utterly defeated. And Allah guides not the people, who are Zalimun (wrong-doers, etc.). [Surah Al-Baqarah. Ayah 258]

Imam Al-Baghawi [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated that there is a difference of opinion among Qur’an commentators regarding the timing of this debate. Muqatil [may Allah have mercy upon him] mentioned that when Ibraahim [peace be upon him] destroyed the idols, Namrood imprisoned him and later attempted to burn him with fire. Namrood asked Ibraaheem [peace be upon him], “Who is your Lord that you call us to worship?” Ibraaheem [peace be upon him] replied, “My Lord is the one who gives life and causes death.” Other commentators suggest that this incident occurred after Ibraaheem [peace be upon him] was thrown into the fire. Subsequently, people suffered from drought and would seek food from Namrood. When a man approached Namrood for food, he would inquire, “Who is your Lord?” If the man responded, “You are my Lord,” Namrood would agree to sell him food. [1]

[أَلَمۡ تَرَ إِلَى ٱلَّذِى حَآجَّ إِبۡرَٲهِـۧمَ فِى رَبِّهِۦۤ – Have you seen (contemplated with your heart and eyes) him who disputed with Ibrahim (Abraham) about his Lord (Allah)]- Meaning, his impudence, ignorance, and obstinacy, along with his incessant arguments on matters that are unquestionable?! His behaviour can only be attributed to the fact that “Allah had bestowed upon him the kingdom,” thus he exceeded his limits, rebelled, and even went as far as challenging Prophet Ibraaheem on Allah’s sovereignty, arrogantly claiming that he possessed the same power as Allah.

Prophet Ibraheem said to him, “My Lord is He Who gives life and death” – Meaning, Allah is the sole authority over everything, then Ibraaheem specifically mentioned two significant matters – life and death – as they hold the utmost importance in Allah’s complete control. This is because the bestowal of life marks the commencement of worldly existence, while death signifies the beginning of what awaits in the afterlife. Hence, the individual who attempted to dispute Ibraaheem’s statement asserted, “I possess the ability to grant life and cause death,” but never proclaimed, “I am The One Who grants life and death.” This is because he could not assert that he did not require any external intervention in these matters. Instead, he merely claimed that he could replicate what Allah does by taking someone’s life or sparing it.

Prophet Ibraaheem recognised the flaw in his opponent’s argument and the statement he uttered, which is not even worthy of being a doubt let alone proof. Ibraaheem then responded by stating, “Indeed, Allah causes the sun to rise from the east.” This statement was something that could be observed and confirmed by everyone, including the disbeliever. Ibraaheem further challenged him by saying, “Then cause it to rise from the west.” This compelled the disbeliever to provide evidence if he truly believed in his claim. However, the disbeliever was unable to present any ambiguity to undermine Ibraaheem’s proof or find any fault with it. As a result, he was completely defeated, unable to respond, and his argument crumbled. [2] The One who has power over life and death (Allah) possesses complete authority over all creation, bringing forth everything within it, including full control over the planets and their orbits. As the sun consistently rises in the east each day, if you truly were a deity who grants life and administers death, then command the sun to rise from the west. [3]

This describes a stubborn liar who seeks to challenge the truth and emerge victorious, as he will ultimately be vanquished and humbled. This is why Allah says: [وَٱللَّهُ لَا يَہۡدِى ٱلۡقَوۡمَ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ – And Allah guides not the people, who are Zalimun (wrong-doers, etc.)]; rather He abandons them to their disbelief and misguidance. [4]

 

The Quraish Starved The Prophet and His Near Relatives

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] reported: On the Day of Nahr at Mina, the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “Tomorrow we shall stay at Khaif Bani Kinana where the pagans had taken the oath of disbelief”. He meant (by that place) Al-Muhassab where the Quraish tribe and Banu Kinaanah concluded a contract against Banu Haashim and Banu Abdul-Muttalib or Banu Al-Muttalib that they would not intermarry with them or deal with them in business until they handed over the Prophet to them. [5]

Usaamah Bin Zayd [may Allah be pleased with him] said: I asked the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] during his Hajj, “O Allah’s Messenger! Where will you stay tomorrow?” He said, “Has Aqeel left for us any house?” He then added, “Tomorrow we will stay at Khaif Bani Kinana, i.e. Al-Muhassab, where Quraish (polytheists) took an oath of disbelief in that Banu Kinaanah allied with Quraish against Banu Hashim on the terms that they would not deal with the members of the tribe or give them shelter”. [6]

The incident mentioned in the above narrations took place when the Makkan polytheists had a meeting at a place called the Valley of Al-Muhassab, where they established an alliance against Banu Haashim and Banu Al-Muttalib. They agreed not to have any business transactions with them, no marriage ties, no visits, and no verbal communication with the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] and those who aided him. So, Abu Taalib – the Prophet’s uncle who stood by him at the time – decided to move to a valley in the eastern suburbs of Makkah, then Banu Haashim and Banu Al-Muttalib also moved and they were all confined to a narrow passage. They remained in that situation for three years- from the 7th year of the Prophet’s Prophethood until the 10th year. It was a very repressive embargo that brought extreme hardship, and in addition to this, the vile polytheists bought everything that reached Makkah so that nothing reached Banu Al-Mutallib and Banu Haashim. The situation became so bad that they had to eat the leaves of trees and animal skins, and children constantly cried due to hunger. They had nothing besides very little provision that was sometimes delivered secretly by some people in Makkah who sympathised with them. During the sacred months when fighting was not permitted, they used to go and buy provisions, but the prices of goods were inflated so that they would not be able to afford them. However, this great hardship never stopped the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] from calling to the truth, rather he used to go to the Ka‘bah and call people to Islam. By the grace of Allah, the agreement between the polytheists ended in the 10th year of the Prophet’s Prophethood because some of them could no longer bear to see their relatives in that situation. [7]

 

The Excellent Character of The Prophet When Allah Gave Him The Upper Hand

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] reported: “The Prophet sent a troop of fighters towards Najd and they brought a man from the tribe of Banu Haneefah who was called Thumamah bin Uthaal. He was then tied to one of the pillars of the Masjid. The Prophet went to him and said, “What have you got, O Thumama?” He replied, “I have got a good thought, O Muhammad! If you should kill me, you would kill a person who has already killed somebody, and if you should set me free, you would do a favor to one who is grateful, and if you want property, then ask me whatever wealth you want.” So, he was left till the next day when again the Prophet (ﷺ) said to him, “What have you got, O Thumama?” He said, “What I have already told you”. The Prophet (ﷺ) left him till the day after, and said to him again, “What have you got, O Thumama?” He said, “I have got what I told you. So the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Set him free”. Then Thumamah) went to a garden of date palm trees near the Masjid, took a bath, entered the Masjid, and then said, “I testify that None has the right to be worshipped except Allah, and also testify that Muhammad is His Messenger! By Allah, O Muhammad! There was no face on the surface of the earth most disliked by me than yours, but now your face has become the most beloved face to me. By Allah, there was no religion more disliked by me than yours, but now it is the most beloved religion to me. By Allah, there was no town more disliked by me than your town, but now it is the most beloved town to me. Your troops arrested me (at the time) when I was intending to perform the `Umra. And now what do you think?” The Prophet (ﷺ) gave him good tidings of good in this world and the next, and ordered him to perform the `Umra. So when he came to Makkah, someone said to him, “You have become a Sabian?” He replied, “No! By Allah, I have submitted to Islam with Muhammad, Allaah’s Messenger. No, by Allah! Not a single grain of wheat will come to you from Yamamah unless the Prophet gives his permission”. [8]

The Prophet asked Thumaamah, “What have you got O Thumaamah?” He replied that he has good thoughts about the Prophet- Meaning, “You O Muhammad never oppress anyone, rather you are from those who pardon and do good”. So after he was set free, he entered Makkah to perform Umrah and then pronounced the Talbilya and was the first to enter Makkah in that manner, so Quraish grabbed him and said, “You dare to do this to us”, and they wanted to kill him; then a person amongst the Quraish said, “Leave him because you need food from Yamaamah (i.e. from his land)”, so they released him. Then he said to them, “By Allah! Not a single grain of wheat will come to you from Yamamah unless the Prophet gives his permission.” Ibn Hishaam said, “Then Thumaamah returned to Yamaamah and prevented the Quraish from bringing any food to Makkah, so the Quraish wrote to the Prophet saying, “Indeed, you command people to keep good the ties of kinship”, so the Prophet wrote to Thumaamah to allow them to transport their food”.

 

This hadeeth provides the following benefits:

[I] It is permissible for the Muslim ruler to imprison an unbeliever prisoner of war in the Masjid due to some benefit; the permissibility of allowing an unbeliever in the Masjid to drink water and listen to lectures.

[II] To treat a non-Muslim prisoner of war kindly. Even though Thumaamah was an arch-enemy, he was forgiven, and this shows the great virtue of forgiveness. When the Prophet saw that Thumaamaah was constantly having good thoughts, he pardoned him and this was a pardon in its right place and perfect circumstances. This also shows that the Muslim ruler can pardon a non-Muslim prisoner of war due to an overriding benefit or execute him based on an overriding benefit.

[III] In this hadeeth, we also learn that one should closely watch those prisoners of war who desire to accept Islam, especially those amongst them who – when they accept Islam, others will follow them. [9]

 

True Believers’ Attitude Towards Feeding Those in Need, Including Captured Combatants

Allah [The Exalted] informs us of some of the qualities of the Abraar [The pious, who fear Allah and avoid evil]: ويُطۡعِمُونَ ٱلطَّعَامَ عَلَىٰ حُبِّهِۦ – And they give food, despite their love for it]- Meaning, they are in a state in which they love wealth and food, but they give precedence to the love of Allah over the what their souls love and seek to feed the people who deserve and need it the most; [مِسۡكِينً۬ا وَيَتِيمً۬ا وَأَسِيرًا – the Miskin (poor), the orphan, and the captive (10)]; saying, [إِنَّمَا نُطۡعِمُكُمۡ لِوَجۡهِ ٱللَّهِ -We feed you seeking Allah’s Countenance only. We wish for no reward, nor thanks from you] – Meaning, to seek Allah’s Reward. Mujaahid and Ibn Jubayr [may Allah have mercy upon them] said, “As for these people, they did not utter this statement, but Allah knows this is what is in their hearts, so He praised them for it as an exhortation for the one who desires to do so”. [لَا نُرِيدُ مِنكُمۡ جَزَآءً۬ – We wish for no reward]- Meaning, by way of actions; [وَلَا شُكُورًا – nor thanks]- Meaning, by way of statement. [11]
[إِنَّا نَخَافُ مِن رَّبِّنَا يَوۡمًا عَبُوسً۬ا قَمۡطَرِيرً۬ا – Verily, We fear from our Lord a Day, hard and distressful, that will make the faces look horrible (from extreme dislikeness to it)].

[فَوَقَٮٰهُمُ ٱللَّهُ شَرَّ ذَٲلِكَ ٱلۡيَوۡمِ وَلَقَّٮٰهُمۡ نَضۡرَةً۬ وَسُرُورً۬ا – So Allah saved them from the evil of that Day, and gave them Nadratan (a light of beauty) and joy]. [Surah Al-Insaan. Ayaat 8-11]

Indeed, the path of Allaah Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] is the only perfect path to follow in all affairs. We’ve witnessed and heard – in our era – the brutal manner in which Netanyahu’s Zionist Far-right regime continues to murder, starve, and brutalise Palestinians with impunity. O Allah! Send the obstinate disbeliever Netanyahu and his henchmen your swift justice from above, below, on their right, left, in front, and behind; and grant our Palestinian brothers and sisters complete relief that leaves no trace of this painful affliction Aameen.

Truly, the guidance of Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings be upon him] is the sole flawless path to adhere to in every aspect. In our present time, we have witnessed and heard of the merciless methods employed by Netanyahu’s Zionist Far-right government, which persistently inflicts violence, starvation, and oppression upon the Palestinians without facing any consequences. O Allah! May you swiftly administer your divine justice upon the stubborn disbeliever Netanyahu and his accomplices, from every direction – above, below, right, left, in front, and behind. Grant our Palestinian brothers and sisters complete relief, eradicating every trace of this agonising affliction. Aameen. Nevertheless, we do not condone any acts of violence towards civilians and non-combatants by individuals who identify as Muslim, regardless of their beliefs or race.

Read article by Shaikh Abu Iyaadh [may Allah preserve him]:

Just Rules of Fighting in the Sharīʿah of Islām Compared to Genocidal, Ethnic-Cleansing, Tribal-Vengeance Doctrines and Excesses of Trojan-Horse Muslim Extremists

https://abuiyaad.com/a/amalekite-genocide-doctrine-gaza


[1] An Excerpt from “Tafseer Al-Baghawi”

[2] An Excerpt from “Tafseer As-Sadi”

[3] An Excerpt from “Tafseer Ibn Katheer”

[4] An Excerpt from “Tafseer As-Sadi”

[5] Saheeh al-Bukhaari. Hadeeth Number 1590

[6] Al-Bukhaari. Hadeeth Number 3058

[7] Zaadul Ma’aadh 3/31 and Seerah Ibn Hishaam 1/350

[8] Al-Bukhaari. Number 4372

[9] Fat-hul Baaree Sharh Saheeh Al-Bukhaari Vol 8. Pages 110-111 and Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min at-taleeqaat al-Baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree vol 3. Page 319]

[10] Tafseer As-Sadi

[11] Zaadul Maseer Fee Ilmit Tafseer

[15] Imam Fudayl Ibn Iyaadh: [Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication With The Rulers]

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

Imaam Ibn Rajab [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated about the Salaf: “There is not to be found in the statements of those who came after the Salaf (any) truth, except that it is found in their statements with a more concise wording and a shorter expression. There is not to be found in the statements of those who came after them (any) falsehood, except that there is in their statements that which clarifies its falsity for the one who understands and contemplates. There are wonderful meanings found in their statements and precise observations, which those who came after them were neither guided to nor knew about. The one who does not take knowledge from their statements will miss all that goodness, alongside the numerous falsehoods he will fall into due to following those who came after them”. [i.e. those who came after the Salaf]. [1]

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


[1] An Excerpt from “Fadl Ilm As-Salaf Alaa Ilm Al-Khalaf”. page 61

[2] Hilyah Al-Awliya 8/91

Young man asked about an affair that once worried us in our youth but no longer affects us by the Tawfeeq of Allah

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

“There is a plot being devised to speak against the Masjid at any moment with the help of a certain influential individual”. When Shaikh Wasiyullah initially visited the UK, this message was delivered to the Masjid Committee. However, it is no longer a cause for concern, especially when one is innocent in the Sight of Allah and has clear unambiguous knowledge-based proof to defend the truth by the Tawfeeq of Allah. Indeed, the deeds and intentions of humankind and Jinn are not hidden from Allah.

وَأَسِرُّوا قَوْلَكُمْ أَوِ اجْهَرُوا بِهِ ۖ إِنَّهُ عَلِيمٌ بِذَاتِ الصُّدُورِ
أَلَا يَعْلَمُ مَنْ خَلَقَ وَهُوَ اللَّطِيفُ الْخَبِيرُ

And whether you keep your talk secret or disclose it, verily, He is the All-Knower of what is in the breasts (of men). Should not He Who has created know? And He is the Most Kind and Courteous (to His slaves) All-Aware (of everything). [Surah Al-Mulk. Ayaat 14-15]

If you believe that He is your Creator and the Creator of your hearts and all they contain, how can (anything) be concealed from Him?! The statement [بِذَاتِ الصُّدُورِ – what is in the breasts (of men)] includes what the breasts carry in terms of beliefs, intentions, love, and hate. [1]

The Fruits of Taqwah and Sabr After Being Plotted Against

Allah [The Most High] informs us about Yusuf [peace be upon him] and his brothers:

قَالُوا أَإِنَّكَ لَأَنْتَ يُوسُفُ ۖ قَالَ أَنَا يُوسُفُ وَهَٰذَا أَخِي ۖ قَدْ مَنَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْنَا ۖ إِنَّهُ مَنْ يَتَّقِ وَيَصْبِرْ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يُضِيعُ أَجْرَ الْمُحْسِنِينَ

They said: “Are you indeed Yusuf?” He said: “I am Yusuf, and this is my brother (Benjamin). Allah has indeed been gracious to us. Verily, he who fears Allah and is patient, then surely, Allah makes not the reward of the good-doers to be lost”.

They knew that the one who addressed them was Yusuf, so they said: [ أَإِنَّكَ لَأَنْتَ يُوسُف – Are you indeed Yusuf? He said: [أَنَا يُوسُفُ وَهَٰذَا أَخِي ۖ قَدْ مَنَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْنَا – I am Yusuf, and this is my brother (Benjamin). Allah has indeed been gracious to us]- Meaning, Allah granted us Imaan, piety and authority in the worldly life, and that is due to patience and piety.

[ۖ إِنَّهُ مَنْ يَتَّقِ وَيَصْبِرْ-Verily, he who fears Allah and is patient]- Meaning: One who keeps away from what Allah has forbidden, exercise patience when facing pain and calamities, and when fulfilling the commandments (of Allah).

[فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يُضِيعُ أَجْرَ الْمُحْسِنِين – then surely, Allah makes not the reward of the good-doers to be lost]- Meaning, because that is from Ihsaan (perfection in worship) and Allah makes not the reward of the one who perfects his deeds to be lost. [2]

It used to be said that whoever perpetrates these three acts will be haunted by them:

Rebellion against Allah’s commandments

Allah [The Exalted] says: [يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ إِنَّمَا بَغْيُكُمْ عَلَىٰ أَنْفُسِكُمْ – O mankind! Your rebellion (disobedience to Allah) is only against your ownselves]. [Surah Yunus Ayah 23]

 

Evil plotting

Allah [The Exalted] says: [وَلَا يَحِيقُ الْمَكْرُ السَّيِّئُ إِلَّا بِأَهْلِهِ – But the evil plot encompasses only him who makes it]. [Surah Faatir Ayah 43]

Breaking pledges

Allah [The Exalted] says: [فَمَنْ نَكَثَ فَإِنَّمَا يَنْكُثُ عَلَىٰ نَفْسِهِ – Then whosoever breaks his pledge only breaks it to his own harm]. [Surah Al-Fath Ayah 10] [3]


[1] An Excerpt from Badaa’i At-Tafseer Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibnul Qayyim (rahimahullaah) 3/173

[2] An Excerpt from Tayseer Al-kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer Kalaam al-Mannaan’. Slightly paraphrased

[3] An Excerpt from “Kitaab Uyoon Al-Akhbaar” Ibn Qutaybah (rahimahullaah) 1/149