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[6] Al-Hasan Al-Basri and others: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

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

The Importance of Safety And Security In a Country

Security is a great blessing without which a person would not be able to lead a productive, fulfilling, and joyful life. As a result, Makkah and the Masjid Al-Haraam have been blessed by Allah, becoming a safe and sacred sanctuary. Allah says:

وَإِذْ جَعَلْنَا الْبَيْتَ مَثَابَةً لِّلنَّاسِ وَأَمْنًا وَاتَّخِذُوا مِن مَّقَامِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ مُصَلًّى ۖ وَعَهِدْنَا إِلَىٰ إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَإِسْمَاعِيلَ أَن طَهِّرَا بَيْتِيَ لِلطَّائِفِينَ وَالْعَاكِفِينَ وَالرُّكَّعِ السُّجُودِ

And [remember] when We made the House (the Ka’bah at Makkah) a place of resort for mankind and a place of safety. And take you (people) the Maqam (place) of Ibrahim (Abraham) [or the stone on which Ibrahim (Abraham) stood while he was building the Ka’bah] as a place of prayer (for some of your prayers, e.g. two Rak’at after the Tawaf of the Ka’bah at Makkah), and We commanded Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma’il (Ishmael) that they should purify My House (the Ka’bah at Makkah) for those who are circumambulating it, or staying (I’tikaf), or bowing or prostrating themselves (there, in prayer). [Surah Al-Baqarah. Ayah 125]

Allah says:
فِيهِ آيَاتٌ بَيِّنَاتٌ مَّقَامُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ ۖ وَمَن دَخَلَهُ كَانَ آمِنًا ۗ وَلِلَّهِ عَلَى النَّاسِ حِجُّ الْبَيْتِ مَنِ اسْتَطَاعَ إِلَيْهِ سَبِيلًا ۚ وَمَن كَفَرَ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ غَنِيٌّ عَنِ الْعَالَمِينَ

In it are manifest signs (for example), the Maqam (place) of Ibrahim (Abraham); whosoever enters it, he attains security. And Hajj(pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka’bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who can afford the expenses (for one’s conveyance, provision and residence); and whoever disbelieves [i.e. denies Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah), then he is a disbeliever of Allah], then Allah stands not in need of any of the ‘Alamin (mankind and jinns)]. [Surah Al-Imran. Ayah 97]

Allah [The Most High] says:
وَقَالُوا إِن نَّتَّبِعِ الْهُدَىٰ مَعَكَ نُتَخَطَّفْ مِنْ أَرْضِنَا ۚ أَوَلَمْ نُمَكِّن لَّهُمْ حَرَمًا آمِنًا يُجْبَىٰ إِلَيْهِ ثَمَرَاتُ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ رِّزْقًا مِّن لَّدُنَّا وَلَٰكِنَّ أَكْثَرَهُمْ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ

And they say: “If we follow the guidance with you, we would be snatched away from our land.” Have We not established for them a secure sanctuary (Makkah), to which are brought fruits of all kinds, a provision from Ourselves, but most of them know not. [Surah Al-Qasas. Ayah 57]

Allah [The Most High] says:
أَوَلَمْ يَرَوْا أَنَّا جَعَلْنَا حَرَمًا آمِنًا وَيُتَخَطَّفُ النَّاسُ مِنْ حَوْلِهِمْ ۚ أَفَبِالْبَاطِلِ يُؤْمِنُونَ وَبِنِعْمَةِ اللَّهِ يَكْفُرُونَ

Have they not seen that We have made (Makkah) a sanctuary secure and that men are being snatched away from all around them? Then do they believe in Batil (falsehood – polytheism, idols and all deities other than Allah), and deny (become ingrate for) the Graces of Allah?] [Surah Al-Ankabut. Ayah 67]

Allah [The Most High] says:
لِإِيلَافِ قُرَيْشٍ
إِيلَافِهِمْ رِحْلَةَ الشِّتَاءِ وَالصَّيْفِ
فَلْيَعْبُدُوا رَبَّ هَٰذَا الْبَيْتِ
الَّذِي أَطْعَمَهُم مِّن جُوعٍ وَآمَنَهُم مِّنْ خَوْفٍ

(It is a great Grace and Protection from Allah), for the taming of the Quraish; (And with all those Allah’s Grace and Protections for their taming, We cause) the (Quraish) caravans to set forth safe in winter (to the south), and in summer (to the north without any fear). So let them worship (Allah) the Lord of this House (the Ka’bah in Makkah). (He) Who has fed them against hunger, and has made them safe from fear. [Surah Quraish]

If someone has been granted physical well-being and safety in their surroundings, they have achieved all the blessings of this world. Salamah Bin Ubaidullaah Ibn Mihsan Al-Khatmiy narrated from his father that the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: “Whoever among you wakes up (in the morning) safe in his property, healthy in his body and has his daily nourishment, it is as if he has been granted the entire world”. [1]

When our upright leader Ibraaheem [peace be upon him] settled some of his offspring at this valley [i.e. Makkah], the first of his supplications was:

رَبِّ اجْعَلْ هَٰذَا بَلَدًا آمِنًا وَارْزُقْ أَهْلَهُ مِنَ الثَّمَرَاتِ مَنْ آمَنَ مِنْهُم بِاللَّهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الْآخِرِ ۖ قَالَ وَمَن كَفَرَ فَأُمَتِّعُهُ قَلِيلًا ثُمَّ أَضْطَرُّهُ إِلَىٰ عَذَابِ النَّارِ ۖ وَبِئْسَ الْمَصِيرُ

“My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day.” He (Allah) answered: “As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to the torment of the Fire, and worst indeed is that destination!] [Surah Al-Baqarah. Ayah 126]

This highlights the importance of safety for individuals, otherwise, Prophet Ibraaheem [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] would not have repeatedly asked Allah to make it a reality in this land. If you observe lands where safety has been compromised, you will notice that people are unable to carry out their daily activities. Schools and markets are closed, and everyone remains in their homes. Those who have the means would quickly leave this land and relocate elsewhere. If you ask them, they will express their inability to live with their loved ones in a place where safety is absent. Security can only be ensured through two things: following Allah’s laws and obeying the rulers. The Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) emphasized the importance of these two aspects in a Muslim’s life in the hadith reported by Irbaad Ibn Saariyah [may Allah be pleased with him] who said: Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] gave us an admonition after the morning prayer –an admonition that made our hearts fearful and our eyes tearful. So, a man said, “Indeed, is this a farewell sermon, so what do you advise us?” He said, “I enjoin you to fear Allah and that you listen and obey, even if an Abyssinian slave (is made a ruler over you); for indeed he among you who lives long enough will see many differences. So, beware of newly invented matters (in the religion) because indeed it is misguidance. And whoever among you witnesses that, then it is obligated on him to adhere to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly guided Caliphs [i.e. AbuBakr, Umar, Uthmaan, and Ali], adhere to it with your molar teeth”. [2]

This hadeeth establishes the basis of security in Islam and it includes two important aspects: fear of Allah and obedience to the rulers. Fear of Allah rectifies a Muslim’s relationship with Allah, neighbors, and everything around them, and in the absence of Allah’s Shariah, destruction and corruption will prevail. Allah has warned those who abandon His Shariah and disobey His Messenger. Allah says:

وَضَرَبَ اللَّهُ مَثَلًا قَرْيَةً كَانَتْ آمِنَةً مُّطْمَئِنَّةً يَأْتِيهَا رِزْقُهَا رَغَدًا مِّن كُلِّ مَكَانٍ فَكَفَرَتْ بِأَنْعُمِ اللَّهِ فَأَذَاقَهَا اللَّهُ لِبَاسَ الْجُوعِ وَالْخَوْفِ بِمَا كَانُوا يَصْنَعُونَ

And Allah puts forward the example of a township (Makkah), that dwelt secure and well content; its provision coming to it in abundance from every place, but it (its people) denied the Favours of Allah (with ungratefulness). So Allah made it taste the extreme of hunger (famine) and fear, because of that (evil, i.e. denying Prophet Muhammad) which they (its people) used to do. [Surah An-Nahl. Ayah 112]

By listening to the rulers and obeying them (in good), all the affairs of the person’s life in his society will be in a state of normality. Listening to the rulers and obeying them (in good) is included in the subject matter of fear of Allah. Al-Hasan Al-Basri [may Allah have mercy upon him] used to say, “Indeed, Al-Hajjaaj is the punishment of Allah, so do not repel the punishment of Allaah with your own hands; rather you must submit and show humility because Allah [The Most High] said: [وَلَقَدْ أَخَذْنَاهُم بِالْعَذَابِ فَمَا اسْتَكَانُوا لِرَبِّهِمْ وَمَا يَتَضَرَّعُونَ – And Indeed We seized them with punishment, but they humbled not themselves to their Lord, nor did they invoke (Allaah) with submission to Him]”. [Surah Al-Muminoon. Ayah 76]

So, you meet someone who understands what security means and their understanding increases because of fear of Allah, and they are eager to obey the rulers in a good way. But when they don’t fully live up to their fear of Allah, their sense of security becomes lacking. When fear of Allah is fulfilled, they will receive the promise that Allah has mentioned in Surah An-Noor.

وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنكُمْ وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ لَيَسْتَخْلِفَنَّهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ كَمَا اسْتَخْلَفَ الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِهِمْ وَلَيُمَكِّنَنَّ لَهُمْ دِينَهُمُ الَّذِي ارْتَضَىٰ لَهُمْ وَلَيُبَدِّلَنَّهُم مِّن بَعْدِ خَوْفِهِمْ أَمْنًا ۚ يَعْبُدُونَنِي لَا يُشْرِكُونَ بِي شَيْئًا ۚ وَمَن كَفَرَ بَعْدَ ذَٰلِكَ فَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْفَاسِقُونَ

Allah has promised those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practice their religion, that which He has chosen for them (i.e. Islam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear (provided) they (believers) worship Me and do not associate anything (in worship) with Me. But whoever disbelieved after this, they are the Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah). [Surah An-Noor. Ayah 55]

It is a well-known fact that (some aspects of the religion dealing with societal issues) cannot be established properly without a strong community of Muslims. And a strong community of Muslims cannot exist without a leader. This leader can only be effective if people listen to him and obey him in good. However, when people refuse to obey the ruler and prioritise their desires, it leads to corruption and a deviation from the right path. This disobedience is one of the major reasons for the downfall of both the land and its people. Al Hasan Al Basri [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “By Allah! The religion cannot be established except by way of rulers, even if they commit tyranny and oppression, due to the many affairs that Allah rectifies through them more than what they corrupt”.

Ibn Rajab [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “There is (good and great advantage) in the worldly life when rulers are obeyed. And by way of it, the beneficial affairs related to the livelihood of the people are established and they utilise them as an aid through which they manifest their religion and obey their Lord”.

Disobedience to the rulers and putting oneself before them by fighting or other than that (is tantamount) to disobeying Allah and His Messenger, and opposition to that which Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah were upon – the pious predecessors. Preservation of security leads to brotherhood and mutual alliance between the Muslims. Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] says: [إِنَّمَا الْمُؤْمِنُونَ إِخْوَةٌ فَأَصْلِحُوا بَيْنَ أَخَوَيْكُمْ ۚ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ – The believers are nothing else than brothers (in Islamic religion). So, make reconciliation between your brothers, and fear Allah, that you may receive mercy]. [Surah Al-Hujuraat. Ayah 10]

Allah [The Most High] says:
وَالْمُؤْمِنُونَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتُ بَعْضُهُمْ أَوْلِيَاءُ بَعْضٍ ۚ يَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنكَرِ وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَاةَ وَيُؤْتُونَ الزَّكَاةَ وَيُطِيعُونَ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ ۚ أُولَٰئِكَ سَيَرْحَمُهُمُ اللَّهُ ۗ إِنَّ اللَّهَ عَزِيزٌ حَكِيمٌ

The believers, men, and women are Auliya’ (helpers, supporters, friends, protectors) of one another, they enjoin (on the people) Al-Ma’ruf, and forbid (people) from Al-Munkar; they perform As-Salat and give the Zakat, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah will have His Mercy on them. Surely Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise. [Surah At-Tawbah. Ayah 71]

Imaan is neither wishful thinking nor mere claims, rather it is what settles in the heart and actions testify to it. A person cannot be a true believer until he loves for his Muslim brother what he loves for himself and until he deals with the people in a manner he loves to be dealt with! It is well known that security is something sought after by everyone, therefore it is the responsibility of a Muslim that he is eager for the security of others so that he can receive security and safety for himself.

Also, preserving security in the land necessitates the fulfilment of trusts, whereas bringing about a state of insecurity is tantamount to treachery. Allah [The Most High] says:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَخُونُوا اللَّهَ وَالرَّسُولَ وَتَخُونُوا أَمَانَاتِكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ تَعْلَمُونَ
وَاعْلَمُوا أَنَّمَا أَمْوَالُكُمْ وَأَوْلَادُكُمْ فِتْنَةٌ وَأَنَّ اللَّهَ عِندَهُ أَجْرٌ عَظِيمٌ
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا إِن تَتَّقُوا اللَّهَ يَجْعَل لَّكُمْ فُرْقَانًا وَيُكَفِّرْ عَنكُمْ سَيِّئَاتِكُمْ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ ۗ وَاللَّهُ ذُو الْفَضْلِ الْعَظِيمِ

O you who believe! Betray not Allah and His Messenger, nor betray knowingly your Amaanaat (things entrusted to you, and all the duties which Allah has ordained for you). And know that your possessions and your children are but a trial and that surely with Allah is a mighty reward. O you who believe! If you obey and fear Allah, He will grant you Furqan a criterion [(to judge between right and wrong), or (Makhraj, i.e. making a way for you to get out from every difficulty)], and will expiate for you your sins, and forgive you, and Allah is the Owner of the Great Bounty. [Surah Al-Anfaal. Ayaat 27-29] [3]

Shaikhul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “Indeed it has been stated that ninety-nine years with an oppressive ruler is better than a single night without a ruler”. [4]

Al-Allaamah Saalih Al-Fawzaan [may Allaah preserve him] was asked: How do we reconcile the Hadith: “Whoever is killed while protecting his property, then he is a martyr”. [5] And the Hadith, “You should listen and obey the ruler even if he flogs your back and takes your wealth, then still hear and obey” [6]

Answer: “You should listen and obey the ruler even if he flogs your back and takes your wealth”, this is with the Muslim Ruler. (i.e. this is the manner the Muslim is expected to behave with the Muslim Ruler). As for protecting one’s wealth (by way of resistance), this is (done) with other than the Muslim Ruler. If an oppressor, a thief, a robber, or a highway robber wants to take your wealth, you defend (yourself) even if you are killed. If killed, you are a martyr. As for the Muslim Ruler, you do not resist. Even if your wealth is taken, you do not resist; rather exercise patience due to the greater evil (i.e. the greater evil that may come about from resisting). So, there is differentiation between the Muslim Ruler and someone among the people (i.e. oppression received from someone among the people).

Question: What do you say to the one who says: “Indeed, the hadith (i.e. the above hadith) nurtures the Muslim upon weakness”?

Answer: The Hadith nurtures the Muslim with obedience and strength because obedience to the Muslim Ruler is strength and not weakness. He leaves this (i.e. this resistance against the Muslim Ruler) for the sake of a universal good and (for the sake of) uniting the word of the Muslims. The people of vain desires want to do away with the authentic proofs so that they can safeguard their views. This is their intention. They bring doubts in the verses of the Qur’an and the ahaadith to safeguard their deviated views. [7]

Al-Allaamah Al-Izz Bin Abdis Salaam [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “Had it not been for the appointment of a ruler, the beneficial universal affairs would have been lost, universal corruption would have become the reality, the strong would have overcome the weak and the (immoral) ones would have overcome the noble (mannered) ones”. Shaikh Abdus-Salaam Burgess [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “The explanation of this is that the majority of the children of Adam are inclined towards injustice and love of vengeance, and had it not been that there was a ruler who administers their affairs, they would have become like the beasts of the wild and fish of the sea—the strong eat the weak”. [8]

To be continued…InShaaAllah


[1] As-Saheehah. 2318

[2] Reported by Ahmad 3/126

[3] An Excerpt from “Silsilah Ar-Rasaa’il Al-Manhajiyyah Fin-Nus’hi Wal-Irshaad Wat-Taw’iyah”. pages 7–27

[4] Al-Fataawaa: 14/268

[5] Al-Bukhaari. Number 2480

[6] Sahih Muslim 4554

[7]: Explanation of the hadith: ‘’We were in a state of ignorance p.46-47. Questions and Answers section

[8] Aqeedah Ahlil Islam Feemaa Yajibu Lil-Imam: page 11

Certain things we did not examine thoroughly in our youth during different periods of enthusiasm, slackness, achievement, and disappointment

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

Self-deception and Self-amazement 

Allah [The Exalted] says:

رَبَّنَا لَا تُزِغْ قُلُوبَنَا بَعْدَ إِذْ هَدَيْتَنَا وَهَبْ لَنَا مِن لَّدُنكَ رَحْمَةً ۚ إِنَّكَ أَنتَ الْوَهَّابُ

Our Lord! Let not our hearts deviate (from the truth) after You have guided us, and grant us mercy from You. Truly, You are the Bestower]. [Surah Aal Imraan. Ayah 8]

Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadi Al-Mad’khalee [may Allah preserve him] said:

When you start your journey to gain knowledge – to understand and apply it, this is one of the signs that Allah wants good for you. So, receive glad tidings, have good thoughts about Allah, and be sincere to Allah in your statements, actions, and knowledge. Don’t let yourself be fooled – we seek Allah’s protection from self-deception – and do not feel safe from Allah’s plan. [فَلَا يَأۡمَنُ مَڪۡرَ ٱللَّهِ إِلَّا ٱلۡقَوۡمُ ٱلۡخَـٰسِرُونَ – None feels secure from the Plan of Allah except the people who are the losers]. [ Surah Al-A’raaf. Ayah 99]

A believer always fears that his situation will change. It has been reported from Aa’isha and Anas [may Allah pleased with them] that the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] often (supplicated) [يَا مُقَلِّبَ الْقُلُوبِ ثَبِّتْ قَلْبِى عَلَى دِينِكَ – O turner of the hearts (Allaah)! Keep my heart firm upon your religion]. I [i.e. Aa’isha or Anas] asked, “O Allah’s Messenger! We believe in you and what has been revealed to you, so do you fear for us?” He said, “Yes, indeed the hearts are between two fingers among the fingers of Allah and He turns them how He pleases”. By Allah! This is understanding that a person does not feel safe about himself, for indeed Satan flows through the human being like blood. Therefore, a person should guard his heart, intellect, and deeds ardently more than the (manner in which) he guards his wealth and honour. Whoever is given the ability to look after his own affairs is obligated to guard his heart before everything else. [رَبَّنَا لَا تُزِغْ قُلُوبَنَا بَعْدَ إِذْ هَدَيْتَنَا وَهَبْ لَنَا مِن لَّدُنكَ رَحْمَةً ۚ إِنَّكَ أَنتَ الْوَهَّابُ – Our Lord! Let not our hearts deviate (from the truth) after You have guided us, and grant us mercy from You. Truly, You are the Bestower]. [ Surah Al Imraan. Ayah 8] [1]

Constantly Supplicating to Allah and Not Being Heedless of Our Weak Selves

يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّومُ بِرَحْمَتِكَ أَسْتَغيثُ أَصْلِحْ لِي شَأْنِيَ كُلَّهُ وَلاَ تَكِلْنِي إِلَى نَفْسِي طَرْفَةَ عَيْنٍ

O Ever Living! O The Self Subsisting, Upon Whom Everything Depends! By Your mercy I seek assistance; rectify for me all of my affairs and do not leave me to myself, even for the blink of an eye. [2]

Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: The most perfect (person) is that one who is more perfect in his servitude (to Allah), the greatest in his acknowledgment of his poverty, dependence, and neediness (in the presence of Allah). He never (considers himself) self-sufficient in the presence of his Lord in the twinkling of an eye. And that is why among the supplications of the Prophet is that he is used to say:

أَصْلِحْ ِلي شَأِني كُلَّهُ ، وَلاَ كلْنِي إِلَى َنفْسِي َطرْفَةَ عَيْنٍ وَلاَ إِلَى أَحَدٍ مِنْ خَلْقِكَ

“Rectify for me all of my affairs and neither leave me to myself, even for the blink of an eye, nor to anyone among your creation”.

He used to supplicate saying:
يَا مُقَلِّبَ ٱلْقُلُوبَ ثَبِّتْ قَلْبِي عَلَى دِينِكَ

“O Turner of the hearts! Keep my heart firm upon Your Religion”.

He knew (with absolute certainty) that his heart is in the control of Allah’s [The Mighty and Majestic] Hand and he has no control over it, and that Allah alternates it (alternates it from one state to another based on His perfect justice, knowledge and wisdom) how He pleases. [3]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated: “Given that the Messenger’s firmness (depends on Allah’s bestowal of it), what about us? We, who are weak in faith and certainty, while exposed to vain desires and falsehoods that are made to resemble the truth. As a result, we are in grave peril and must ask Allah for steadfastness upon truth, and to protect our hearts from straying (due to our manifest and hidden flaws, sins, and wrongdoings)”. [4]

Not Paying Close Attention to Our True Reality

A man [may Allah be pleased with him] among the companions of the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] used to say when he was praised: [اللهم لا تؤاخذني بما يقولون و اغفر لي ما لا يعلمون – O Allah! Do not take me to account for what they say and forgive me for what they do not know (about me)].

Al-Allaamah Zaid Bin Haadee Al-Madkhalee [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: This is one of the invocations, especially when (someone) is praised and he hears it. For instance, when it is said, “So and so is upright and righteous,” and the person hears what was said about them, or they receive such praise, or it is said, “So and so is very truthful, a good person, charitable, knowledgeable, and so on.” If they hear this, a believer becomes afraid for themselves and feel embarrassed that they might be the opposite of what people say about them. Because of this, they reflect on themselves and become active in doing good deeds to become righteous, a doer of good, and deserving of the praise given to them by others. If he does this, he will be successful and blessed. However, if he becomes deceived by what others say and oblivious to his mistakes and shortcomings, shaytaan will afflict him with self-importance. As a result, when a believer hears people praising him for his righteousness, he makes innovation: “O Allah! Do not take me to account for what they say”, meaning, do not hold me to account due to this praise and the good characteristics (stated about me). That is because he fears for himself. The human soul is fragile, so he says, “And forgive me for what they do not know (about me)”. This means that people commend a person based on what people know about him outwardly, so the person fears that he has Mukhaalafaat (deeds that go against the teachings of the Shariah), which are unknown to others. Therefore, he asks his Lord not to hold him accountable and to forgive their sins, shortcomings, and mistakes that are hidden from people. The children of Adam are deficient, but some fall short and then repent and strive to do good again. Others, however, continue to make mistakes and persist in sin until they face punishment. [5]

Umar Bin Abdil Azeez [may Allah have mercy upon him] said to Khaalid bin Safwaan [may Allah have mercy upon him], “Admonish me”. Khaalid said, “O leader of the believers! There are a people who have been deceived by Allah’s concealment of (their sins, faults etc) and good praise (received from people) has put them to trial; therefore, do not let the ignorance of others (about you) overcome what you know about yourself (in reality). May Allah protect us and you from being deceived by Allah’s concealment of (our sins, faults etc), and from being pleased with the praise (received from) people, falling short and being neglectful of that which Allah has obligated to us and inclining towards (vain) desires”. So he (Umar) wept and said, “May Allah protect us and you from following (vain) desires”. [6]

Imaam Sufyaan Ath-Thawree [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: “Be cautious of what corrupts your deeds, as Riyaa is indeed what corrupts your deeds. If it’s not Riyaa, then it might be your self-amazement that leads you to believe you are more virtuous than your brother. Perhaps you haven’t accomplished the same deeds as him, and he may have more righteous actions and a genuine fear of Allah that keeps him away from doubtful matters. If it’s not self-amazement, then be wary of seeking the praise of others, desiring their recognition for your deeds, and wanting to be seen as noble and esteemed in their hearts. Remembering death frequently is sufficient to reduce your concern for worldly matters and ignite a strong desire for the afterlife. Having prolonged hope for worldly things is enough to diminish fear of Allah and engage in disobedient acts, and the distress and regret on the Day of Judgment are sufficient for those who have knowledge but fail to act upon it”. [7]

Imaam As-Sadi [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: “How many people know about love of Allah, its rulings, and everything it entails, but their hearts are devoid of it?! How many servants (of Allah) know and testify to Allah’s Qadaa Wal-Qadar and the virtue of relying solely on Him, but when what has been decreed goes against their desires, they become anxious and lose their peace and certainty?! Only those whose hearts truly understand and are aware of Allah can find solace in the fact that Allah is sufficient for them, and they submit to His judgments regardless of the outcome. How many people know the rules and intricacies of trade, but when it comes to actual transactions, they fail to deal beautifully with others?! So, don’t be deceived when you know something that you will be attributed to it. That’s why a person is obligated to ask Allah for beneficial knowledge- knowledge that leads to righteous actions. And Allah knows best”. [8]

Not Paying Enough Attention to Self-rectification Regardless of The Circumstances

Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: “Every deed has a period of enthusiasm, and every period of enthusiasm is followed by a slackening off. If a person’s enthusiasm is for my Sunnah, then he has succeeded, but whoever chooses something else when he slackens off is doomed”. [9] “Every deed has a period of enthusiasm, and every period of enthusiasm is followed by a slackening off. If a person is moderate and avoids extremes, then you may have hope for him, but if fingers are pointed at him, then do not count him as anything”. [10]

Al-Allaamah Al-Mubaarakfooree [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: “Every deed has a period of enthusiasm” means, enthusiasm and energy for doing a thing, whether it is for good or evil”. “And every period of enthusiasm is followed by a slackening off” means, one becomes tired, weak and lethargic”. “If a person is moderate and avoids extremes” means, if he controls his enthusiasm and avoids the extremes of excess and negligence when his enthusiasm wanes”, “then you may have hope for him” means, there is the hope that he will succeed, for he can continue to adhere to something moderate, and the most beloved of deeds to Allaah are those which are done consistently”. [11]

Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “The most beloved deed to Allah is the most regular and constant even if it were little”. [12]

Caution Regarding Attachment to Personalities of The Era and Not Paying Close Attention to The Salafus Saalih 

Abdullah Ibn Mas‘ud [may Allah be pleased with him] stated, “Whoever (desires to follow a path), let him follow the path of one who has passed away because the living is not safe from Fitnah (trial and temptations that will lead them astray). They (i.e. those to follow) are the Companions of Muhammad [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him]. They were the best of this ummah, purest in heart, most profound in knowledge, and plainspoken. Allah chose them to accompany His Prophet and establish His religion, therefore, acknowledge their status and follow in their footsteps and adhere as much as you can to their example in conduct and attitude because they followed true guidance”. [13]

Imaam Ibn Rajab [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: “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 [i.e. the one who understands the statements of the Salaf]. There are wonderful meanings found in their statements and precise observations, which those who came after them were neither guided to nor knew about it. The one who does not take knowledge from their statements will miss all that goodness, alongside the numerous (affairs) of falsehood he will fall into due to following those who came after them”. [i.e. those who came after the Salaf]. [14]

A man said to Imaam Maymoon Ibn Mehraan [may Allaah have mercy upon him], “The people will not cease to be upon good as long as Allaah keeps you (alive) for them”. He replied, “The people will not cease to be upon good as long as they fear their Lord”. [15]

Finally, in regards to those of us who have entered our early, mid, and late 50s and mid-60s, our primary concern – as mentioned by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah – is to remain upon Salafiyyah and not to stray at this stage of life. Some wise people stated, “There are three types of days: “Yesterday, today and tomorrow. Yesterday serves as a moral lesson, an admonition, and a lesson for you. Today is like a friend who gives you good advice. It was hidden from you for a long time and will pass by quickly, so make the most of it by doing good. As for Tomorrow, you are uncertain of what Allah has planned. You do not know if you will be among its people or not”. [16]

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ بِعِلْمِكَ الْغَيْبَ وَقُدْرَتِكَ عَلَى الْخَلْقِ أَحْيِنِي مَا عَلِمْتَ الْحَيَاةَ خَيْراً لِي وَتَوَفَّنِي إِذَا عَلِمْتَ الْوَفَاةَ خَيْراً لِي، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ خَشْيَتَكَ فِي الْغَيْبِ وَالشَّهَادَةِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ كَلِمَةَ الْحَقِّ فِي الرِّضَا وَالْغَضَبِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ الْقَصْدَ فِي الْغِنَى وَالْفَقْرِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ نَعِيماً لَا يَنْفَذُ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ قُرَّةَ عَيْنٍ لَا تَنْقَطِعُ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ الرِّضِا بَعْدَ الْقَضَاءِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ بَرْدَ الْعَيْشِ بَعْدَ الْمَوْتِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ لَذَّةَ النَّظَرِ إِلَى وَجْهِكَ وَالشَّوْقَ إِلَى لِقَائِكَ فِي غَيْرِ ضَرَّاءَ مُضِرَّةٍ وَلَا فِتْنَةٍ مُضِلَّةٍ، اللَّهُمَّ زَيِّنَّا بِزِينَةِ الْإِيمَانِ
وَاجْعَلْنَا هُدَاةً مُهْتَدِينَ

O Allah! By Your Knowledge of the unseen and by Your Power over creation, let me live if life is good for me, and let me die if death is good for me; O Allah! I ask You to grant me (the blessing of having) fear of You in private and public, and I ask You (to make me utter) a statement of truth in times of contentment and anger, and I ask You for moderation when in a state of wealth and poverty, and I ask You for blessings that never ceases, and I ask You for the coolness of my eye that never ends, and I ask You (to make me pleased) after (Your) decree; Aand I ask You for a life of (ease, comfort, tranquillity, etc) after death; I ask You for the delight of looking at Your Face (i.e. in the Hereafter) and yearning to meet You without any harm and misleading trials (coming upon me); O Allah! Adorn us with the adornment of Eemaan, and make us (from those who are) guided and guiding (others). [17]

اللَّهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ لِي دِينِي الَّذِي هُوَ عِصْمَةُ أَمْرِي
وَأَصْلِحْ لِي دُنْيَايَ الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَاشِي
وَأَصْلِحْ لِي آخِرَتِي الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَادِي
وَاجْعَلِ الْحَيَاةَ زِيَادَةً لِي فِي كُلِّ خَيْرٍ
وَاجْعَلِ الْمَوْتَ رَاحَةً لِي مِنْ كُلِّ شَرٍّ

O Allah! Rectify my religion for me, which is the safeguard of my affairs; rectify my worldly [affairs], wherein is my livelihood; and rectify my Afterlife to which is my return, and make life for me [as a means of] increase in every good and make death for me as a rest from every evil. [18]


[1] An Excerpt from Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm’ pages 75-76

[2] Silsilah As-Saheehah Number 227

[3] An Excerpt from “Tareeq Al-Hijratayn”. pages 25-26

[4] Sharh Mumti 5/388

[5] Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharh Al-Adab Al-Muf’rad 2/389

[6] Hilyatul Awliyaa 2/485

[7] Hilyatul Awliyaa. 6/391

[8] Majmoo Al-Fawaa’id Waqtinaas Al-Awaabid. Number 14

[9] Saheeh at-Targheeb. 56

[10] Saheeh at-Targheeb, 57.

[11] Tuhfah Al-Ahwadahy 7/126

[12] Saheeh Al-Bukhaari 6464

[13] Jaami Bayaan Al-Ilm Wa Fad’lihi 2/947, no. 1810

[14] Fadl Ilm As-Salaf Alaa Ilm Al-Khalaf. page 61

[15] Siyar A’laam An-Nubulaa. 5/75

[16] Bahjatul Majaalis 3/330.

[17] As-Saheehah Number 1301

[18]Saheeh Muslim. 2720

 

 

[4] Muhammad Bin Kab, Rajaa Bin Haywah and Saalim Bin Abdillah: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

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

Sufyan Bin Uyaynah [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “Upon assuming the position of Khaleefah, Umar Bin Abdil Azeez [may Allah have mercy upon him] reached out to Muhammad Bin Kab, Rajaa Bin Haywah, and Saalim Bin Abdillah [may Allah have mercy upon them] and said, “You witness the trial I face and it has fallen upon me, therefore, what do you advise?” Muhammad Bin Kab said, “Regard the elderly as your own father, treat the youth as your brother, and care for the young ones as your own children; therefore, be good to your father, maintain strong bonds with your brother, and be compassionate towards your child”. Rajaa said, “Wish for the people what you wish for yourself, detest for them what you detest for yourself, and interact with them in a manner that you would appreciate in return.” Saalim said, “Focus on one matter by diminishing the desires of worldly life and let your natural inclination lead you to contemplate death.” Umar proclaimed, “Laa Hawla Walaa Quwwata Illaa Billaah”.

An Excerpt from Al-Bidaayah Wan-Nihaayah. Vol 9. Pages 193-202. Publisher: Maktabah Al-Ma’aarif and Daar ibn Hazm. 9th Edition. 1414 AH (1994)

Imam Ibn Baz on the Manhaj of Correcting the Rulers

https://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?subsecID=MNJ16&articleID=MNJ160003&articlePages=1#:~:text=The%20followed%20path%20with%20the,is%20directed%20towards%20the%20good.

Is the Tyranny of the Rulers a Reason for Rebellion? The Duty of a Muslim Towards the Muslim Leaders in Light of the Qur’ān, Sunnah, and the Scholars of the Salaf.
https://abukhadeejah.com/the-tyranny-of-the-rulers-a-reason-for-rebellion/

To be continued InShaaAllah

[2] Imam Al-Awzaa’ee: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

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

In another letter written to the governor Abu Abaydillah, Imam Al-Awzaa’ee [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated: To proceed: May Allah portion out for you protection against His displeasure and the state in which you are, and (protect) you in the intention you make to fulfil the right of one you are obliged to fulfil in that which you find a way for him- asking for relief on his behalf if he asks for help, and you are his hope (for this assistance) by the Permission of Allah (i.e. regarding that which Allah has placed within your ability by His Will).

Indeed, those people have not ceased asking for my intercession for them through you. I would not be able to give you advice on the day (of Judgement) when the punishment is meted out and the reckoning is witnessed; neither consider (good) deeds to be abundant nor consider a sin to be insignificant; so may Allah inspire you to remember Him and seek a means of approach to him by doing good deeds. Indeed, Yazid Bin Yahya Al-Khushani is in the custody of the “Al-Ameerul Mumineen” [The Leader of the believers (The khalifah)]- may Allah rectify him. He was one of Ibn Al-Azraq’s helpers, and I have not heard anything bad about him. He was accused and has stayed in there (i.e. prison) for a long time. If you consider (it to be something worthwhile, just, obligatory, etc)- may Allah have mercy on you- that there should be a letter from Mahdi to “The leader of the believers” – may Allah rectify him- mentioning his affair (i.e. Yazid) regarding that which we hope will save him from the situation he is in due to the harmful (effects) of imprisonment, then do so. May Allah help you to do good and make that to be the case with most of the affairs, and their (good effects) on you. Was-Salaamu alayka Warahmatullaah.

An Excerpt from “Muqaddimah Al-Jarh Wat-Tadeel” By Ibn Abee Haatim Ar-Raazee (rahimahullaah) 2/89-90

To be continued…InShaaAllah

[1] Imam Al-Awzaa’ee: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

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

Imaam Al-Awzaa’ee [may Allah have mercy upon] wrote to Abu Abaydillaah – a governor of the khalifah- as follows: “I ask Allah [The Mighty and Exalted] to neither deprive you of sound intellect nor religion; make the best for you in what you are in- safeguard what you are acquainted with (i.e. upright deeds) and (safeguard you against) what you hate (i.e. the unpraiseworthy affairs) before being afflicted. And that Allah does not make you unaware of Him due to the fitna of covetousness or excessive work, bless you with recalling the little enjoyment in this world, bring to your attention the close approach of separation from it, makes your time within it influential (in a good way) and shows you compassion when it is taken away from you. Indeed, you are a person about whom I love to obligate myself to mention to him what Allah may bring about of good for him. So, I hope to advise you in private, love that your religious affairs are protected and evil is averted from you by the will of Allah. Idrees – the one who wrote to you – asked if you were able – may Allah have mercy upon you – to….” Then the Imam mentioned the request and finally supplicated for the governor”.

An Excerpt from “Muqaddimah Al-Jarh Wat-Tadeel” By Ibn Abee Haatim Ar-Raazee (rahimahullaah) 2/87-88

The path to relief during severe calamity – [Battle of the Confederates]: By Imaam Ash-Shanqeetee

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

Imaam Muhammad Ameen Ash-Shanqeetee [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated regarding the causes of weakness in the Ummah: The Great Qur’an provides guidance on how to resolve this issue through the most suitable and upright path. Allah explained that the solution to this is related to turning to Him truthfully, one’s degree of faith in Him, and reliance upon Him. That is because Allah is All-Strong and All-Mighty, the Overwhelming and Absolute Subduer of everything, Who is never overcome. Consequently, it is impossible to prevail over someone who is truly an ally of Allah. One glaring example of this was during the Battle of the Confederates when the Muslims were under siege by the unbelievers. Allah says:

إِذْ جَآءُوكُم مِّن فَوْقِكُمْ وَمِنْ أَسْفَلَ مِنكُمْ وَإِذْ زَاغَتِ ٱلْأَبْصَٰرُ وَبَلَغَتِ ٱلْقُلُوبُ ٱلْحَنَاجِرَ وَتَظُنُّونَ بِٱللَّهِ ٱلظُّنُونَا۠
هُنَالِكَ ٱبْتُلِىَ ٱلْمُؤْمِنُونَ وَزُلْزِلُوا۟ زِلْزَالًا شَدِيدًا

When they came upon you from above you and from below you, and when the eyes grew wild and the hearts reached to the throats, and you were harbouring doubts about Allah. There, the believers were tried and shaken with a mighty shaking. [Surah Al-Ahzaab. Ayaat 10-11]

Aside from the fact that the Muslims were cut off politically and economically at the time by everyone on Earth, consider the severity of this military siege and its effects on them! When you realise this, you should be aware that Allah said in Surah Al-Ahzaab the following as the solution to this enormous affair that ended this great difficulty. Allah says:

وَلَمَّا رَءَا ٱلْمُؤْمِنُونَ ٱلْأَحْزَابَ قَالُوا۟ هَٰذَا مَا وَعَدَنَا ٱللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُۥ وَصَدَقَ ٱللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُۥ وَمَا زَادَهُمْ إِلَّآ إِيمَٰنًا وَتَسْلِيمًا

And when the believers saw Al-Ahzaab (the confederates), they said: “This is what Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad) had promised us, and Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad) had spoken the truth, and it only added to their faith and to their submissiveness (to Allah). [Surah Al-Ahzaab. Ayah 22]

That enormous difficulty was ended by this perfect belief in Allah, great submission to Him, and dependence and reliance on Him. And in fact, Allah made clear the benefits of this treatment. Allah mentioned the fruits of this remedy, saying:

وَرَدَّ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا۟ بِغَيْظِهِمْ لَمْ يَنَالُوا۟ خَيْرًا وَكَفَى ٱللَّهُ ٱلْمُؤْمِنِينَ ٱلْقِتَالَ وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ قَوِيًّا عَزِيزًا
وَأَنزَلَ ٱلَّذِينَ ظَٰهَرُوهُم مِّنْ أَهْلِ ٱلْكِتَٰبِ مِن صَيَاصِيهِمْ وَقَذَفَ فِى قُلُوبِهِمُ ٱلرُّعْبَ فَرِيقًا تَقْتُلُونَ وَتَأْسِرُونَ فَرِيقًا
وَأَوْرَثَكُمْ أَرْضَهُمْ وَدِيَٰرَهُمْ وَأَمْوَٰلَهُمْ وَأَرْضًا لَّمْ تَطَـُٔوهَا وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍ قَدِيرًا

And Allah drove back those who disbelieved in their rage; they gained no advantage (booty, etc.). Allah sufficed for the believers in the fighting (by sending against the disbelievers a severe wind and troops of angels). And Allah is Ever All-Strong, All-Mighty. And those of the people of the Scripture who backed them [the Quraish disbelievers] Allah brought them down from their forts and cast terror into their hearts, (so that) a group (of them) you killed (during the battle), and a group (of them) you made captives. And He caused you to inherit (as war booty) their lands, and their houses, and their riches, and a land which you had not trodden (before). And Allah is Able to do all things. [Surah Al-Ahzaab. Ayaat 25-27]

This is how Allah supported them in their fight against their adversaries. They had no idea nor aware that they were aided by the wind and the angels. Allah says:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ ٱذْكُرُوا۟ نِعْمَةَ ٱللَّهِ عَلَيْكُمْ إِذْ جَآءَتْكُمْ جُنُودٌ فَأَرْسَلْنَا عَلَيْهِمْ رِيحًا وَجُنُودًا لَّمْ تَرَوْهَا وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ بَصِيرًا

O you who believe! Remember Allah’s Favour to you, when there came against you hosts, and We sent against them a wind and forces that you saw not [i.e. troops of angels during the battle of Al-Ahzab (the Confederates)]. And Allah is Ever All-Seer of what you do. (1) [End of quote]

Therefore, we can never lose hope because the oppressed believers will receive help one day regardless of the difficulties. However, because it was Iman and complete submission that brought about relief in those trying circumstances during the battle of the confederates, let us strive to increase in Iman and submission, while also doing everything we can within the boundaries of the Sunnah to aid the oppressed.


[1] An Excerpt from ‘Adwaa Al-Bayaan Vol 3. pages 301-302

The People of Bidah On The Day of Aa’shooraa (Rawaafid, Nawaasib, and other Ignoramuses)

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

Hishaam Bin Urwah [may Allah have mercy upon him] used to say, “Do not question the people about what they have innovated (in the religion) today because they have prepared answers for it; rather, question them about the Sunnah because they do not know it.” (1)

Ibn Aqeel [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “If the truthful ones were to keep silent and the falsifiers speak, then the creation would have relinquished what they have witnessed (of truth) and reject what they have not witnessed. So when the devout ones desire to revive the Sunnah, the people would reject it and think that it is bidah”. (1.1)

Shaikh Al Islam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allah have mercy upon him] was asked if there is any authentic hadeeth from the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] regarding what people do on the day of Aashooraa, such as applying kohl and Hena, shaking hands, taking a bath, preparing food such as barley and other grains, and manifesting happiness; if there are no authentic proofs, is this considered bidah or not? And do the deeds of the other group (i.e. the Raafidah Shiites) have a basis in the religion or not, such as mourning, showing grief, purposefully making oneself thirsty and scarring oneself, sobbing, reciting (poems), fainting as a result of that and slapping the face?

Response: All the praises and thanks be to Allah, Lord of the entire existence. There is no authentic hadeeth from the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] or his companions in this regard, and none of the Imams, including the four Imams (Abu Hanifah, Malik, Ahmad, and Shaafi’ee), have recommended it.  Neither the scholars who authored and collated the texts that are relied on for their authenticity nor the companions and their students reported anything authentic or weak regarding this from the Prophet, neither in the authentic books of hadith nor in the Sunan. The virtuous first three generations of Islam knew nothing about these reports; however, some of those who came after the first three virtuous generations of Islam have transmitted reports to this effect, such as “Whoever applies kohl on the day of Aashooraa will not be sore-eyed in that year.” “Whoever bathes on Aashooraa will not get sick that year.” They also transmitted reports that Adam’s repentance took place on the day of Aashooraa, the virtue of prayer on this day, and that it was the day Nuh’s ark landed on Mount Judi, the day Ya’qub was reunited with Yusuf, and the day Ibraaheem was saved from the fire, etc. They also transmitted fabricated reports and lies attributed to the Prophet saying, “Whoever gives to his family on the day of Aashooraa, Allah will give him throughout the year.” All of these reports are lies attributed to the Prophet. (2)

Then an ignorant and transgressive group arose, consisting of either disbelieving hypocrites or misguided individuals. They declared (so-called) allegiance to the Prophet’s household and observed Aashooraa as a day of mourning, misery, and wailing. They practice pre-Islamic ignorance-related deeds such as slapping the face, tearing their clothes, and calling to pre-Islamic ignorance-related slogans and disbelief. However, Allah and His Messenger instructed that when new disasters occur, (one) exercises patience, hopes for Allah’s reward, recalls one’s misdeeds, and repents, as Allah (The Most High) said:

وَبَشِّرِ الصَّابِرِينَ
الَّذِينَ إِذَا أَصَابَتْهُم مُّصِيبَةٌ قَالُوا إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ
أُولَٰئِكَ عَلَيْهِمْ صَلَوَاتٌ مِّن رَّبِّهِمْ وَرَحْمَةٌ ۖ وَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْمُهْتَدُونَ

But give glad tidings to As-Saabireen (the patient ones, etc.). Who, when afflicted with calamity, say: “Truly! To Allah, we belong and truly, to Him, we shall return.” They are those on whom are the Salaam (i.e. blessings, etc.) (i.e. who are blessed and will be forgiven) from their Lord, and (they are those who) receive His Mercy, and it is they who are the guided ones. [Soori Al-Baqarah: Ayaat 55-57]

And it has been reported in the Saheehayn (Bukhaari and Muslim) from the Prophet that he said, “He is not from us, he who slaps his cheeks, tears his clothes and calls to the slogans of the pre-Islamic period of ignorance” (3)

They also recite mournful poems and relate reports that are full of lies. And the truth in them merely renews their (exaggerated and mistaken way of grieving), bigoted allegiance, incitement to hatred and conflict, initiating trials between the people of Islam as a result of that, and reviling those who were first to enter Islam. Even an eloquent person cannot explain the evil of these people (i.e. the Raafidah) and their harm to the people of Islam. [Visit http://www.shia.bs/index.cfm ]

However, they (i.e. Raafidah) are opposed by another group of people who are either Nawaasib (footnote a) or ignoramuses, thus they confront corruption with corruption, lying with lies, evil with evil, and bidah with bidah. On the day of Aashooraa, they write poems conveying joy and happiness, apply kohl, dye their garments a different colour, spend extra on their families, and cook the food they do not normally cook. These people regard the day of Aashooraa as an occasion comparable to the days of celebration and happiness [i.e. the two Eids]. The Raafidah, on the other hand, observe it as a day of mourning, grief, and suffering [i.e. inflicting injuries on oneself]. In this matter, both groups are mistaken and have exited the authentic Prophetic path. Allah’s Messenger, the rightly guided Khulafaa, or any of the Muslims’ Imams, such as Maalik, Ath-Thawree, Al-Layth Bin Sa’d, Abu Haneefah, Al-Awzaa’ee, Ash-Shaafi’ee, Ahmad Bin Hanbal, and Ishaaq Bin Raahawayh, never legislated these deeds. (4)


Footnote a: Imam Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: The Nawaasib are the ones who propagate hostility towards the Prophet’s family, slander and revile them, so they are the opposite of the Rawaafid (i.e. those who exaggerate the status of the Prophet’s family until they worship them). (5)

Ref 1: Quoted by Imaam Aloosee (may Allah have mercy upon him) in “Ghaayatul Amaanee Fee Ar-Radd Alaa An-Nabahaanee”. 1/367

Ref 1.1: Shifaa As-Sudoor Fee Ziyaaratil Mashaahid Wal-Quboor. Page 148

Ref 2: Majmoo al-Fataawaa 25/299-312

Ref 3: Al-Fataawaa Al-Kubraa page 1/200

Ref 4: Majmoo al-Fataawaa 25/299-312

Ref 5: Sharh Al-Aqeedah Al-Waasitiyyah 2/283

Are you Harooriyyah?

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

Mu’aathah [may Allah have mercy upon her] asked Aa’ishah [may Allah be pleased with her], “Why does the menstruating woman make up for the missed days of fasting but not for the missed prayers?” She said, “We used to menstruate during the lifetime of the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] and we were commanded (by him) to make up for the missed days of fasting and not to make up for the missed prayers”. And in another report, Mu’aathah said that Aa’isha said to her, “Are you a Harooriyyah?”

Harooriyyah: The word Harooriyyah is the female noun of Harooree, and it is attributed to Harooraa – a town 2 miles from Kufa. The one who believed in the path of the Khawaarij was referred to as Harooree because they were the first sect – amongst them – that rebelled against Ali [may Allaah be pleased with him] at that town (Harooraa). The khawaarij are numerous groups and one of their fundamental principles- which they agreed upon amongst themselves – is that they accepted what is stated in the Qur’aan and rejected the additional text found in the Hadeeth. Aaisha’s disapproval against her (i.e. against Mu’aathah due to the question she asked) was either due to her (i.e. Aa’isha’s) knowledge of the fact that they (i.e. the Khawaarij of Harooraa) used to obligate on the women to make up for the missed prayers after menstruation, because indeed Ibn Abdul Barr [may Allaah have mercy upon him] reported a statement about this from a group amongst the Khawaarij, or due to her knowledge that their fundamental principle necessitated that. (1)

 

Many Amongst Ahlul Bidah – Including The Khawaarij – Went Astray Due to Their Misguided Intellects

Question to Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] Shaikh, are the ones who depend on their intellects in understanding many of the affairs of the religion considered to be from those who are mistaken?
Answer: Yes; it is obligated on him not to depend on his intellect, rather he studies the texts and relies on the divine texts from the speech of Allaah and that of Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him], because there is guidance in it and direction towards good. As for the intellect, it can be right or wrong. The sects that oppose Ahlus sunnah were destroyed due to their intellects. They thought that they had good intellects and that their intellects arrived at what is correct and thus they opposed the texts by way of their stagnant intellects which they thought were sound. What was that which made the Jahmiyyah negate the Perfect Names and Attributes of Allaah, except due to their corrupt intellects?!

What was it that led the Mutazilah to negate the attributes of Allaah and declared that the sinners [i.e. those who die whilst committing the major sins that are lesser that major kufr and major shirk] will remain in the fire forever, except due to their corrupt intellects?! Likewise, is the case of their followers who utter this same speech.

What led the Khawaarij to excommunicate the people due to committing sins – that the sinner is a disbeliever and that he will remain in the fire forever, except due to their corrupt intellects. Likewise. this is the case regarding other than them amongst the proponents of Bidah. The intellects which they depend upon is that which destroy them, because they think that their intellects are safe, sound, good and infallible, whereas that is not the case; rather it is not infallible – commits mistakes a lot; however they hold a good suspicion regarding their intellects and an evil suspicion regarding the texts and thus they are destroyed.

It is obligatory to harbour a good suspicion regarding the texts and an evil suspicion regarding the intellect, and to submit the intellects to the texts. The texts are infallible if their chain of transmission are established to be authentic. As for the intellects, they are fallible. A person susceptible to mistakes, shortcoming and desires. As for the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him], what he conveyed from Allaah is infallible. and likewise the Qur’aan is infallible- the speech of Allaah. Therefore, it is obligatory that the Qur’aan and Sunnah passes a judgement on your intellect and that you give precedence to the Qur’aan and Sunnah over your intellect- over the intellect of the Shaikh, the Mashaayikh, your forefathers, ancestors and all the people. The texts are given precedence over all the intellects. (2)

Al-Allaamah Saaleh Al-Fawzaan [may Allaah preserve him] said: “The khawaarij are of different types: Amongst them are those who carry weapons; there are those who speak like the who said to the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him], ”Be Just”. Amongst them are those who write and amongst them is the one who believes in his heart, but he neither speaks nor does anything; however he has the belief of the khawaarij in his creed. But some of them are worse than others”. (3)

Read: The Khawarij Past and Present- By Shaikh Abdul Waahid Abu Khadeejah [may Allaah preserve him]
https://www.abukhadeejah.com/isis-in-iraq-syria-ibn-kathir-died-774-ah-if-the-khawaarij-ever-gained-strength-in-iraq-and-syria-there-would-be-mass-killing/


[Ref1: Irwaa Al-Ghaleel- By Imaam Al-Albaanee (may Allaah have mercy upon him). An Excerpt from Vol 1. Page 220-221. slightly paraphrased. Publisher: Al-Maktabah Al-Islaamiy. 2nd Edition 1405 (1985)]

[Ref2:https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/28730/%D9%8A%D8%AC%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7-%D9%8A%D8%B9%D8%AA%D9%85%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%86%D8%B3%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%B9%D9%82%D9%84%D9%87-%D8%A8%D9%84-%D9%8A%D8%B9%D8%AA%D9%85%D8%AF-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B5%D9%88%D8%B5

[Ref 3: Al-Ijaabaat Al-Muhimmah Fil-Mashaakil Al-Mulimmah: page: 10-11]

The Obligation of Hijrah (Migration) to Daarul Islaam (A Muslim Country)

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

The Obligation of Hijrah to Daarul Islaam – by Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz and Al-Allaamah Ubaid al-Jaabiri

Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] was asked: What is your advice to brothers and sisters who live in England and do not work, and receive financial aid from the government? Sometimes they get a job, but they do not inform the government. Is this work of theirs a right thing?

Answer: It is obligated on all Muslims residing in Daarul Kufr (1) to migrate to Bilaad Al-Islaamiyyah (2) – if they are able to do so – in which duties of Islam are established. If not able to do that, then (they migrate) to the countries that are lesser in evil, just as a group of the companions migrated – when commanded by the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] – from Makkah to Abyssinia, because the land of Abyssinia at that time was lesser evil than the evil that befell the Muslims in Makkah before the conquest of Makkah. But, if they cannot, then they must fear Allaah in their place (of residence), beware of what Allah has forbidden them and fulfil what Allaah has enjoined upon them. And there is no sin on them in accepting help and assistance from the non-Muslim state if this does not result in abandoning an obligation or committing a prohibited act, (but) they are not entitled to take assistance except officially as decided by the state, and they are not allowed to lie to obtain it. And it is obligated on all of them to fear Allaah in everything, beware of what Allaah forbids, seek understanding in the Qur’an and Sunnah among themselves and ask the people of knowledge (i.e. the scholars) about what is difficult for them to understand (or regarding a difficult situation that requires a verdict) , even if by correspondence or by phone. May Allaah rectify the circumstances of all Muslims, preserve their religion for them, grant them understanding in it, and protect them from the evil of themselves and the evil of their enemies, for indeed He is magnanimous and generous. [Majmoo Fataawaa Wa Maqaalaat Ash-Shaikh Ibn Baaz 28/238]

Al-Allaamah Ubaid Bin Abdillaah Al-Jaabir [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated: In the name Allaah and all praise is due to Allaah. May Allaah send His salaah and salaam upon our Prophet Muhammad and his family and all his companions. I say: The establishment of this affair is not excluded from that which the Book of our Lord and the Sunnah of our Prophet demonstrated; and [that which] the Imaams of Knowledge and the Religion [past and present follow(ed), pertaining to migration from the lands of kufr to the lands of Islaam, or from a kaafir land or to another kaafir land in which the Muslim’s Religion and honour is safe. In summary, the one who sits and accompanies me knows that of me. I say, and with Allaah is facilitation of Tawfeeq (i.e. guidance and the ability to act upon it):

Firstly: This Hijrah is from the legislated ordinances of Allaah and He has not abrogated it. He [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] said: “Hijrah will not cease to continue until repentance ceases to continue, and repentance will not cease to continue until the sun rises from the west”. So, it [hijrah] remains.

Secondly: What is apparent to me concerning Hijrah at present is of two examples [affairs]; [a] Obligation [b] Sunnah. The Obligatory Hijrah: If a person is in a kaafir land (being) put to trial in his religion and honour, and he is unable to establish that which Allaah has enjoined upon him pertaining to his Religion and worship of his Lord, then Hijrah is obligatory upon him on the basis of what has already been clarified; if he is able to make Hijrah, yes, then he migrates to a Muslim land and this is the Asl, or to a Kaafir land in which his Religion and honour is safe, just as the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] commanded the Muslims to migrate to Habasha [Ethiopia] when the Quraish harmed them; and (he) mentioned that there was a king [in Habasha] who oppresses no one under his protection, or as he said: “(oppresses no one) next to him.” This is what I affirm and adhere to as [religion] to Allaah.

As for the recommended prescribed Hijrah: It is the Hijrah from the land of the disbelievers to the lands of Islaam in order to strengthen his religion, or to gain knowledge, or to earn lawful earnings in the land of Islaam. So when this is established- and if I did say on a day from the days about making hijrah to Birmingham unrestrictedly- then this is a slip [mistake] and I seek Allaah’s forgiveness from this if it was an upright transmission of the trustworthy people of Sunnah. This is the third point or affair.

The Fourth Point: Many amongst the people in Europe or in the Asian States in India or other than it ask; they are put to trial in their Religion by some of the innovators from the brelviyyah- the extremist soofees from the people of Wahdatul Wujood and other than them. So I say them [i.e. those put to trial]: Make Hijrah to Birmingham because Maktabatus Salafiyyah is there. Therefore, my answer to them is not that Birmingham is a land of Hijrah unrestrictedly, for Birmingham is from the cities of Britain and Britain is a Kaafir Land. I urge them to make Hijrah to where they will find the Maktabah, where they will affiliate with Maktabatus Salafiyyah over there [in Britain], and to participate in lessons and muhaadaraat within which are scholars of excellence, from them: Ash-Shaikh Abdullaah Bin Abdur Rahmaan Al-Ghudiyaan from the Committee of Major Scholars and Fatwah Committee of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He delivered lessons to them and has died [rahimahullaah]. So the likes of this Maktbah is worthy of being affiliated to [for] the one who cannot find a place to seek shelter; especially if he has a desire to attain knowledge of the Sharee-ah, particularly in the affair of Aqeedah, the Sunnah and waging war against innovation and its people. This is what I mentioned and I affirm it. And I repeat: if I did establish [affirm] the opposite of that, then it is one of two affairs: [a] It is either a slip [mistake] from me or [b] a distortion [misrepresentation] of (my speech). And that which is from me, then indeed I seek the forgiveness of Allaah from it; and that which is a distortion [misrepresentation] of my speech and a forged saying on me, then I ask Allaah to set it aside between me and my adversaries on yaumul qiyaamah. [End of quote] http://www.salafitalk.net/st/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=9&Topic=12027

Footnotes 1 and 2: Daarul Islaam (or Bilaad Al-Islaamiyyah) is a country whose people are predominantly Muslims, even if the ruler is either a polytheist or does not ascribe to any religion. This land is a Muslim land and it is considered Daarul Islam. As for Daarul Kufr, it is a country whose people are predominantly disbelievers [in Allaah, or disbelievers in both Allaah and His final Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)]. For further details listen here:

 

Let’s Recall Two Qualities From The Lofty Qualities of AbuBakr and Umar When Speaking About Them!

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

Let’s Recall Two Qualities From The Lofty Qualities of AbuBakr and Umar When Speaking About Them and Strive to Emulate!


Quote from Al-Allaamah Zayd Bin Haadi regarding a worldly dispute between Abu Bakr and Rabeea’ah Al-Aslami: “This story also shows that the companions of the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] were not infallible. Mistakes did occur from them unintentionally, but they were a people whom Allaah favoured with the companionship of the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam], and they did not persist upon mistakes as it is seen in this story. Indeed, disagreement did occur between them (see footnote a), but they humbled themselves to the truth- neither repelled the truth with falsehood nor indulged in oppression; rather they hastened to Allaah’s Messenger [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] to resolve the [disagreements] that occurred between them. The Messenger [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] resolved those issues and all of them were pleased with the judgement and submitted with full submission”.

Quote regarding Umar’s character: The Messenger of Allaah [peace and blessings be upon him] said to Umar [may Allaah be pleased with him], “By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, whenever Satan sees you taking a path, he follows a path other than yours.” Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “Shaytaan (misguides) a person through  desires, but Umar [may Allaah be pleased with him] subdued his desires”.


Rabee’ah Al-Aslami [radiyallaahu-anhu] narrated, “I used to serve the Messenger of Allaah [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam], so he gave me a piece of land and gave Abu Bakr a piece of land. Then, the worldly life came and we argued over a bunch of palm trees, so Abu Bakr said, ‘It is in my piece of land!’ and I said, ‘It is in my piece of land!’ Then there was an exchange of words between Abu Bakr and myself, so Abu Bakr said something to me that I disliked, and he regretted that. So, he said to me, ‘O Rabee’ah! Say in return to me what I said to you so that it becomes a retribution’. I said, ‘I will not do so!’ Abu Bakr said, ‘Say it, or I will call the Messenger of Allaah on you!’ I said, ‘I will not do so’. So Abu Bakr abandoned the piece of land and went to the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] and I followed him. The people from [the tribe of] Aslam came and said, ‘May Allaah have mercy on Abu Bakr! Why would he call the Messenger of Allaah on you when he has said to you what he has said?’ So I said, ‘Do you know who that is? That is Abu Bakr -the Truthful [as-Siddeeq]! He is the one who was in the Cave with the Prophet [sallal laahu-alayhi wasallam], and he is the elder of the Muslims! So beware that he turns around and see you helping me against him and it makes him angry, then the Messenger of Allaah [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] comes along and become angry because of Abu Bakr’s anger, and then Allaah becomes angry due to their anger, and thus Rabee’ah is destroyed!’ So, they said, ‘So what do you want us to do?’ I said, ‘Go back to where you came from.’ So Abu Bakr went to the Messenger of Allah and I followed him by myself and continued until he got to the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] and informed him of our conversation as it happened. So he [the Prophet] raised his head to me and said, ‘O Rabee’ah! What is going on between you and as-Siddeeq?’ So I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah! This happened and that happened, so he said something to me that I disliked, and he told me to say the same thing back to him so that it be would be a retribution’. So the Messenger of Allaah said, ‘Do not return his comment to him, rather say ‘May Allaah forgive you O Abu Bakr! May Allaah forgive you O Abu Bakr!’ So Abu Bakr turned his face and began to cry’”.

Beneficial Reminders From This Hadeeth By Shaikh Zayd Bin Haadi [rahimahullaah]

This hadeeth contains an amazing story from which we can take an exhortation and a lesson. Firstly, it is a proof regarding the purity of the hearts of the Sahaabah towards one another, and that when disagreement occurred between them regarding a worldly affair, they did not boycott one another – neither harboured resentment nor hatred; rather one gave sincere advice to the other.

This story shows that the Sahaabah were people of fair play and justice, and they feared falling into disobedience and evil deeds. And if punishment was legislated for an evil deed, they wished that such punishment is received in this worldly life and not the afterlife.

This story shows the virtue of AbuBakr [radiyallaahu-anhu] – his status in the eyes of the Sahaabah, in the eyes of the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] and also in the sight of Allaah, for indeed the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] use to hold him in high esteem and raised him to his rightful status, just as Allaah stated in the Qur’aan: [إِذۡ هُمَا فِى ٱلۡغَارِ إِذۡ يَقُولُ لِصَـٰحِبِهِۦ لَا تَحۡزَنۡ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ مَعَنَا‌ۖ – The second of two, when they were in the cave, and he [Muhammad (sallal laahu alayhi wasallam)] said to his companion [Abu Bakr (radiyallaahu-anhu)], “Be not sad [or afraid], surely Allaah is with us”. [Surah At-tawbah. Aayah 40]

AbuBakr [radiyallaahu-anhu] was the Prophet’s [sallal-laahu-alayhi- wasallam] companion in the cave. He is the most virtuous person in the Ummah after the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] based on the consensus of Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah – past and present. Indeed, the Prophet [sallal laahu- alayhi wasallam] said to some of his companions regarding AbuBakr’s [radiyallaahu-anhu] affair, “Would you not leave my companion for me” – meaning AbuBakr [i.e. refrain from annoying or harming AbuBakr (radiyallaahu-anhu)] [Bukhari 3661]

This story shows the virtue of being forgiving and pardoning the one who wrongs you when you are able to do so and based on [a lawful and overriding] benefit, for indeed being forgiving and pardoning others will not increase you in anything except honour and a higher status in the sight of Allaah.

This story also shows that the companions of the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] were not infallible. Mistakes did occur from them unintentionally, but they were a people whom Allaah favoured with the companionship of the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam], and they did not persist upon mistakes as it is seen in this story. Indeed, disagreement did occur between them, but they humbled themselves to the truth- neither repelled the truth with falsehood nor indulged in oppression; rather they hastened to Allaah’s Messenger [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] to resolve the [disagreements] that occurred between them. The Messenger [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] resolved those issues and all of them were pleased with the judgement and submitted with full submission.

This story shows the virtue of supplicating for others, especially for the one who wronged you. So, you supplicate for him that [Allaah] rectifies his affairs and forgives him, for indeed you have an angel who says, “Aameen and may Allaah grant you the same”. Therefore, one should be eager for this!

This story shows that to fulfil the rights of the people in this worldly life is better than leaving the affair until the day of judgement when none will pardon another person, even if such person is the closest relative to him.

This story shows the virtue of Rabee’ah Al-Aslami [radiyallaahu-anhu] who advised his companions that neither should they be his supporters nor argue on his behalf against AbuBakr [radiyallaahu-anhu], because he knew the status of AbuBakr [radiyallaahu-anhu] in the sight of Allaah and the Messenger.

What do we derive as benefit from this story: We should pardon and maintain love for one another when disagreement occurs between us regarding an affair of the Dunyaa. A person should be eager to give people their rights and also seek the forgiveness of the one he disputed with. [An Excerpt from ‘At-taleeqaat Al-maleehah Alaa Silsilah Al-Ahaadeeth as-Saheehah. Pages 42-44]

 

Umar Ibnul Khattaab

Hadeeth 1: Umar [may Allaah be pleased with him] asked the people, “Who remembers the narration of the Prophet [peace and blessings be upon him] about the affliction?” Hudhaifa said, “I heard the Prophet [peace and blessings be upon him] saying, ‘The affliction of a person in his property, family and neighbours is expiated by his prayers, fasting, and giving in charity.” `Umar said, “I do not ask about that, but I ask about those afflictions which will spread like the waves of the sea.” Hudhaifa replied, “There is a closed gate in front of those afflictions.” `Umar asked, “Will that gate be opened or broken?” He replied, “It will be broken.” `Umar said, “Then the gate will not be closed again till the Day of Resurrection.” We said to Masruq, “Would you ask Hudhaifa whether `Umar knew what that gate symbolized?” He asked him and he replied “He (`Umar) knew it as one knows that there will be night before tomorrow, morning. [Ref 1]

Brief Comment On The Above Hadeeth

a: Regarding the statement: “The affliction of a person in his property, family and neighbours is expiated by his prayers, fasting, and giving in charity”, Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated that the unrestricted narrations in which a mention is made regarding the expiation of sins are restricted by the texts regarding the abandonment of major sins – either restricted by the statement of Allaah: [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. Aayah 31)]; or by the statement of the Messenger [peace and blessings 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”. [Ref 1.1]

b: Regarding the statement: Hudhaifa replied, “There is a closed gate in front of those afflictions.” `Umar asked, “Will that gate be opened or broken?” He replied, “It will be broken.” `Umar said, “Then the gate will not be closed again till the Day of Resurrection”, Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: The gate is Umar and his murder is when the door is broken. So, after he was murdered, the gate of the afflictions was opened. [Ref 2]

Hadeeth 2: The Messenger of Allaah [peace and blessings be upon him] said to Umar [may Allaah be pleased with him], “By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, whenever Satan sees you taking a path, he follows a path other than yours.” [Ref 3]

Brief Comment On The Above Hadeeth: Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “Shaytaan (misguides) a person through desires, but Umar [may Allaah be pleased with him] subdued his desires”. [Ref 4]

Hadeeth 3: Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings be upon him] said, “While I was sleeping, I saw myself drinking (i.e. milk), and I was so contented that I saw the milk flowing through my nails. Then I gave (the milk) to `Umar.” They (i.e. the companions of the Prophet) asked, “What do you interpret it?” He said, “Knowledge.” [Ref 5]

Brief Comment On The Above Hadeeth: Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: This is a great virtue of Umar [may Allaah be pleased with him] and that which Allaah granted him of knowledge, and the proofs in this regard are clear. [Ref 6]

Hadeeth 4: Ibn Abbaas [may Allaah be pleased with him and his father] said: When (the dead body of) `Umar was placed on his deathbed, the people gathered around him and invoked (Allah) and prayed for him before the body was taken away, and I was amongst them. Suddenly I felt somebody taking hold of my shoulder and found out that he was `Ali bin Abi Talib. `Ali invoked Allah’s Mercy for `Umar and said, “O `Umar! You have not left behind you a person whose deeds I like to imitate and meet Allah with more than I like your deeds. By Allah! I always thought that Allah would keep you with your two companions, for very often I used to hear the Prophet (ﷺ) saying, ‘I, Abu Bakr and `Umar went (somewhere); I, Abu Bakr and `Umar entered (somewhere); and I, Abu Bakr and `Umar went out.”‘ [Ref 7]

Brief Comment On The Above Hadeeth: Imaam Abdul Azeez bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “May Allaah be pleased with the companions. In this hadeeth is the fact that the noble and righteous people are afflicted with trials like the Prophets, and this is what happened to Umar [may Allaah be pleased with him] – the best person in the Ummah after the Prophet and As-Siddeeq [i.e. Abu Bakr]. [Ref 8]

Hadeeth 5: Abu Sa`eed Al-Khudri [may Allaah be pleased with him] said: I heard Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings be upon him] saying, “While I was sleeping, the people were presented to me (in a dream). They were wearing shirts, some of which were merely covering their (chests). and some were a bit longer. `Umar was presented before me and his shirt was so long that he was dragging it.” They asked, “How have you interpreted it, O Allah’s Messenger?” He said, “Religion.” [Ref 9]

Brief Comment On The Above Hadeeth: Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: This a great blessing for Umar [may Allaah be pleased with him]. Allaah bestowed knowledge and religion on him. [Ref 10]

Hadeeth 6: Narrated Abu Musa: While I was with the Prophet (ﷺ) in one of the gardens of Medina, a man came and asked me to open the gate. The Prophet (ﷺ) said to me, “Open the gate for him and give him the glad tidings that he will enter Paradise.” I opened (the gate) for him, and behold! It was Abu Bakr. I informed him of the glad tidings the Prophet (ﷺ) had said, and he praised Allah. Then another man came and asked me to open the gate. The Prophet (ﷺ) said to me “Open (the gate) and give him the glad tidings of entering Paradise.” I opened (the gate) for him, and behold! It was `Umar. I informed him of what the Prophet (ﷺ) had said, and he praised Allah. Then another man came and asked me to open the gate. The Prophet (ﷺ) said to me. “Open (the gate) for him and inform him of the glad tidings, of entering Paradise with a calamity which will befall him. ” Behold ! It was `Uthman, I informed him of what Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) had said. He praised Allah and said, “I seek Allah’s Aid.” [Ref 11]

Brief Comment On The Above Hadeeth: Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said after quoting this hadeeth: “Allaahu Akbar! Allaahul Mus’ta’aan, Allaahul Musta’aan [Allaah’s Aid is sought, Allaah’s Aid is sought]. [Ref 12]

Hadeeth 7: Narrated Al-Miswar bin Makhrama: When `Umar was stabbed, he showed signs of agony. Ibn `Abbas, as if intending to encourage `Umar, said to him, “O Chief of the believers! Never mind what has happened to you, for you have been in the company of Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and you kept good relations with him and you parted with him while he was pleased with you. Then you were in the company of Abu Bakr and kept good relations with him and you parted with him (i.e. he died) while he was pleased with you. Then you were in the company of the Muslims, and you kept good relations with them, and if you leave them, you will leave them while they are pleased with you.” `Umar said, (to Ibn “Abbas), “As for what you have said about the company of Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and his being pleased with me, it is a favour Allah did to me; and as for what you have said about the company of Abu Bakr and his being pleased with me, it is a favour Allah did to me; and concerning my impatience which you see, is because of you and your companions. By Allah! If (at all) I had gold equal to the earth, I would have ransomed myself with it from the Punishment of Allah before I meet Him.” [Ref 13]

Brief Comment On The Above Hadeeth: Regarding the statement of Umar: “As for what you have said about the company of Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and his being pleased with me, it is a favour Allah did to me; and as for what you have said about the company of Abu Bakr and his being pleased with me, it is a favour Allah did to me; and concerning my impatience which you see, is because of you and your companions. By Allah! If (at all) I had gold equal to the earth, I would have ransomed myself with it from the Punishment of Allah before I meet Him”, Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: O Allaah! Be pleased with him [i.e. Umar]. The one who has more knowledge about Allaah will fear Him more. [Ref 14]

Hadeeth 8: Narrated Anas bin Maalik [radiyallaahu-anhu] that he heard ‘Umar [radiyallaahu-anhu] speaking, while standing on the pulpit of the Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] in the morning [following the death of the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam)], when the people had given the Bai’ah [pledge] to Abu Bakr. He [praised Allaah, testified that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah, and sent salutations upon the Prophet] before Abu Bakr, and said, ‘’To proceed; Allaah has chosen for His Messenger what is with Him [i.e. Paradise] rather than what is with you [i.e. the world]. This is that Book [the Qur’an] with which Allah guided your Messenger, so stick to it, for then you will be guided on the Right Path as Allaah guided His Messenger with it.” [Bukhari]

Benefits and Lessons Derived From The Above Hadeeth: Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadee Al-Madkhalee [may Allaah preserve him] said: The Messenger [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam], Abu Bakr [radiyallaahu-anhu] and all the companions [radiyallaahu-anhum] considered Umar [radiyallaahu-anhu] as one with great status, and because of this, he took [praiseworthy] stances during times of serious events in order to offer [sound] suggestions, such as during the Riddah [i.e. when some tribes left Islaam after the death of the Messenger]. And from them [i.e. those serious events] is that Umar [radiyallaahu-anhu] was the first one who gave the oath of allegiance to Abu Bakr [radiyallaahu’anhu]- he settled the affair as reported in the [following] hadeeth: ”When the Messenger of Allah [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] passed away, the Ansar said: ‘Let there be an Amir from among us and an Amir from among you.’ Then Umar came to them and said: ‘O Ansar! Do you not know that the Messenger of Allah [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] commanded Abu Bakr [radiyallaahu-anhu] to lead the people in prayer? Who among you could accept to put himself ahead of Abu Bakr?’ They said: ‘We seek refuge with Allah from putting ourselves ahead of Abu Bakr.’’ [Reported by Imaam Ahmad 3649]

On the second day, after the oath of allegiance was given to AbuBakr [radiyallaahu-anhu], he [Umar (radiyallaahu-anhu)] ascended the pulpit and delivered this great sermon, (saying): ”Amma Ba ‘du [to proceed]: Allah has chosen for His Messenger what is with Him (i.e. Paradise) rather than what is with you [i.e. the world]. This is that Book [i.e. the Qur’an] with which Allah guided your Messenger, so stick to it, for then you will be guided on the Right Path as Allaah guided His Messenger with it.”

This [statement of Umar] is Allaah’s command and the command of His Messenger other than (this) hadeeth, such as his [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] statement: ‘’I have left amongst you that which if you hold fast to it, you will never go astray after me: the book of Allah and my Sunnah.”

And likewise his [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] statement: ‘’The best speech is the Book of Allaah and the best guidance is the guidance of Muhammad. And the worst of all affairs are the newly invented matters (in the religion) and every innovation is misguidance.’’ [Muslim]

In the majority of his [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] sermons, he uttered this statement, in order to urge [mankind] towards adherence to the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam]. Therefore, Umar [radiyallaahu-anhu] followed this path in order to guide the people to adhere to the Book of Allaah, for indeed in it is guidance and light. Indeed Allaah guided his Messenger through it-[Allaah (The Most High)] said:

وَكَذَٰلِكَ أَوْحَيْنَا إِلَيْكَ رُوحًا مِّنْ أَمْرِنَا مَا كُنتَ تَدْرِي مَا الْكِتَابُ وَلَا الْإِيمَانُ وَلَٰكِن جَعَلْنَاهُ نُورًا نَّهْدِي بِهِ مَن نَّشَاءُ مِنْ عِبَادِنَا وَإِنَّكَ لَتَهْدِي إِلَىٰ صِرَاطٍ مُّسْتَقِيمٍ
صِرَاطِ اللَّهِ الَّذِي لَهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الْأَرْضِ ۗ أَلَا إِلَى اللَّهِ تَصِيرُ الْأُمُورُ

”And thus We have sent to you [O Muhammad] Ruhan [an Inspiration, and a Mercy] of Our Command. You knew not what is the Book, nor what is Faith? But We have made it [this Qur’an] a light wherewith We guide whosoever of Our slaves We will. And verily, you [O Muhammad] are indeed guiding [mankind] to the Straight Path [i.e. Allah’s religion of Islamic Monotheism]. The Path of Allah, to Whom belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. Verily, all the matters at the end go to Allah (for decision). [42:52-53]

The Book of Allaah [mentioned in this ayah] is the Qur’aan. Allaah [Glorified Be He and Free is He from all imperfections] did not guide him [i.e. the Messenger] except by way of His Mercy and by way of this Qur’aan. He [Allaah (The Most High)] said: [قُلْ إِن ضَلَلْتُ فَإِنَّمَا أَضِلُّ عَلَىٰ نَفْسِي ۖ وَإِنِ اهْتَدَيْتُ فَبِمَا يُوحِي إِلَيَّ رَبِّي ۚ إِنَّهُ سَمِيعٌ قَرِيبٌ – Say: “If [even] I go astray, I shall stray only to my own loss. But if I remain guided, it is because of the Inspiration of my Lord to me. Truly, He is All-Hearer, Ever Near (to all things).”] [34:50]

And He [Allaah (The Most High)] said:

اتَّبِعْ مَا أُوحِيَ إِلَيْكَ مِن رَّبِّكَ

‘’Follow what has been inspired to you (O Muhammad) from your Lord. [6:106]

And He [Allaah (The Most High)] said:

وَلَئِنِ اتَّبَعْتَ أَهْوَاءَهُم بَعْدَ الَّذِي جَاءَكَ مِنَ الْعِلْمِ ۙ مَا لَكَ مِنَ اللَّهِ مِن وَلِيٍّ وَلَا نَصِيرٍ

‘’And if you [O Muhammad] were to follow their desires after what you have received of Knowledge [i.e. the Qur’an], then you would have against Allah neither any Wali [protector or guardian] nor any helper.’’ [2:120]

The Messenger [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] followed the revelation and its texts just as Allaah commanded him; and the Ummah are obligated with this [i.e. to follow as well], just as Allaah commanded them. He [Allaah (The Most High)] said: [اتَّبِعُوا مَا أُنزِلَ إِلَيْكُم مِّن رَّبِّكُمْ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا مِن دُونِهِ أَوْلِيَاءَ ۗ قَلِيلًا مَّا تَذَكَّرُونَ – Say [O Muhammad] to these idolaters [pagan Arabs] of your folk:] Follow what has been sent down unto you from your Lord [the Qur’an and Prophet Muhammad’s Sunnah], and follow not any Auliya’ [protectors and helpers, etc. who order you to associate partners in worship with Allah], besides Him [Allah]. Little do you remember!] [7:3]

And just as Allaah commanded His Messenger to follow the revelation and to be guided by it, He [Allaah] also commanded the Ummah to follow the revelation and to be guided by it. Therefore, O Muslims! It is [obligated] on us to [take the] Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] as a [source of] guidance with truthfulness, sincerity, diligence and determination, and not with wishful thinking; rather we should be truthful to Allaah [The Blessed and Most High] with regards to holding fast to this Book [i.e. the Qur’aan] and the Sunnah, just as Allaah [Glorified and Exalted Be He] said to His slave Yahyah [alayhis-salaam]: [يَا يَحْيَىٰ خُذِ الْكِتَابَ بِقُوَّةٍ ۖ – O Yahya (John)! Hold fast the Scripture [the Taurat (Torah)].” [19:12]

Therefore, it is obligated on us to hold onto [the Qur’an] with diligence- neither with a slack nor lackadaisical [attitude] and nor through blameworthy blind following; rather it is obligated on us to ponder upon this Qur’aan just as He [Allaah (The Most High)] stated: [كِتَابٌ أَنزَلْنَاهُ إِلَيْكَ مُبَارَكٌ لِّيَدَّبَّرُوا آيَاتِهِ وَلِيَتَذَكَّرَ أُولُو الْأَلْبَابِ – ‘’(This is) a Book (the Qur’an) which We have sent down to you, full of blessings that they may ponder over its Verses, and that men of understanding may remember’’] [38: 29]

This Qur’aan was sent down to be pondered upon and to acquire (sound) understanding from it. And the one whom Allaah wishes good for, He gives him (or her) understanding in the religion.

It is incumbent upon you [to adhere] to this Book [i.e. the Qur’aan] and the Sunnah-give importance to them (by way of) memorization and acquiring understanding; utilise them as an aid in [seeking] a sincere and pure understanding based on the Messenger’s [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] statements and the understanding of the pious predecessors [may Allaah be pleased with all of them]. However, some of the pious predecessors may have some mistakes, so we seek Allaah’s Forgiveness for them and find excuses for them, however we do not follow them [in their mistakes], for everyone can have his statement accepted or rejected, except the Messenger of Allaah [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam].

(So) Umar (radiyallaahu-anahu) said: “Amma Ba‘du (to proceed): Allah has chosen for His Messenger what is with Him (Paradise) rather than what is with you (the world)….etc’’ and shortly before his death the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) delivered a sermon, as reported in the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed (radiyallaahu-anhu) – and said: ‘’Indeed Allaah gave a slave of His a choice between the Dunya and between what is with Him, so he (the slave) chose that which is with Allaah.’ So Abu Bakr (radiyallaahu-anhu) cried and said: ‘We sacrifice our fathers and mothers for your sake.’ We wondered why Abu Bakr (said such a thing). The people said: ‘Look at this old man! The Messenger of Allah says about a slave who was given the choice between the glitter of the worldly life and what He [Allaah] has with Him (of reward in the Hereafter); but he (i.e. Abu Bakr) says: We sacrifice our fathers and mothers for your sake!’ The Messenger of Allah (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) was the slave who was to make the choice and (we acknowledged) that Abu Bakr was the most learned among us about the Messenger (i.e. because he knew the reason behind the Messenger’s statement).’’

Umar-and Allaah knows best-was referring to this (above) hadeeth. There is no Prophet at the time of death except that he is given a choice between the (bliss of) this life and what is with Allaah has (i.e. Allaah good pleasure and reward in the afterlife), and the Prophets chose what is with Allaah. Abu Hurairah (radiyallaahu-anhu) said: ‘The Angel of Death was sent to Moosaa (alayhis-salaam); so when he came to Moosa, he (Moosaa) struck him in his eye. He (i.e. the Angel) returned to his Lord and said: You sent me to a slave who does not want to die.’ So Allah gave him back his eye and said: ‘Return to him and tell him to put his hand on the back of an ox and for every hair that will come under it, he will be granted one year of life.’ Moosaa (alayhis-salaam) said: ‘0 Lord! What will happen after that?’ Allah replied: ‘Then death.’ Moosaa said: ‘Let it come now!’ Moosaa then requested Allah to let him die close to the Holy Land so that he would be at a distance of a stone’s throw from it.” [Bukhari and Muslim] So he (alayhis-salaam) chose death.

The Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) was given a choice, just as he stated and just as Aa’isha (radiyallaahu-anhaa) said, ‘’The Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) used to say whilst he was healthy: Never a prophet dies in a state that he is not made to see his abode in Paradise, and then given a choice.’’ ‘A’isha said that when Allaah’s Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) was about to leave the world, his head was over her thigh and he had fallen into swoon three times. When he felt relief his eyes were fixed at the ceiling. He then said: O Allaah, along with the high companions (i.e. along with the Prophets who live in the most elevated place of the Paradise). (On hearing these words), I then said (to myself) He is not going to opt us and I remembered a hadith which he had narrated to us as he was healthy and in which he said: No prophet dies until he sees his abode in Paradise, he is then given a choice. ‘A’isha said: These were the last words which Allaah’s Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) spoke: O Allaah, with companions on High. [Bukhaari]

So he (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) chose the (company) of the high companions and departed from this worldly life. This affair that Umar (radiyallaahu-anhu) referred to is in harmony with what the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) stated about the Prophets and himself. He (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) chose that which is with Allaah (The Mighty and Majestic). He chose the afterlife over the worldly life after completing his message perfectly. Allaah perfected this religion (of Islaam) and then gave him a choice (between this world and the hereafter), so he chose that which is with Allaah (i.e. the afterlife).

And likewise Anas (radiyallaahu-anhu) narrated: “Abu Bakr (radiyallaahu-anhu) said to ‘Umar (radiyallaahu-anhu), after the death of the Messenger of Allah (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam), “Let us go and visit Umm Ayman [i.e. the wet nurse the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) during his childhood], as the Messenger of Allah (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) used to visit her.” When they finished visiting her (and were about to leave) she began to cry. So they asked her: “What is it that makes you cry? Is not that which is with Allah better for the Messenger of Allah (saw)?” So she replied, “I am not crying because I am unaware that that which is with Allah is better for the Messenger of Allah (saw) but I am crying because the revelation from the heavens has stopped.” This moved them to tears, so they both began to weep with her.” [Muslim]

So this is what Umar (radiyallaahu-anhu) referred to- the Prophet’s (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) choice regarding that which is with Allaah (in the afterlife).

We ask Allaah to grant us and you (success, wellbeing etc) in His Religion. And that He grants us (the blessing, ability) to adhere to His Book (i.e. the Qur’aan) and to follow the guidance of His noble Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam). Indeed, our Lord hears the supplication (of His slaves). [Ref 15]

Footnote a: https://safeshare.tv/x/ss5d4fde1296604


Ref 1: Bukhaari 1895

Ref1.1: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

Ref 2: Al-Hululul Ibreeziyyah Min at-Ta’leeqaat al-Baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaari. Vol 2. Page 118

Ref 3: Bukhaari 3294

Ref 4: Minhaaj As-Sunnah 6/55

Ref 5: Bukhaari 3681

Ref 6: Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min at-Ta’leeqaat Al-Baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh al-Bukhaari. Vol 3. Page 146

Ref 7: Bukhaari 3685

Ref 8: Al-Hululul Ibreeziyyah Min at-Ta’leeqaat Al-Baariziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaari. Vol 3. page 151

Ref 9: Bukhaari 3691

Ref 10: Al-Hululul Ibreeziyyah Min at-Ta’leeqaat Al-Baariziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaari.Vol 3. Page 153

Ref 11: Saheeh Al-Bukhaari 3693

Ref 12: Al-Hululul Ibreeziyyah Min at-Ta’leeqaat Al-Baariziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaari.Vol 3. Pages 153-154

Ref 13: Bukhaari 3692

Ref 14: Al-Hululul Ibreeziyyah Min at-Ta’leeqaat Al-Baariziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaari.Vol 3. Page 153

Ref 15: An Excerpt from ‘Bahjatul Qaariy Bi-Fawaa’id Manhajiyyah Wa Duroos Tarbawiyyah Min Kitaab Al-I’tisaam Bil-Kitaab Was-Sunnah Min Saheeh Al-Bukhaari. Pages: 11-17. By Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadi Al-Mad’khali]