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Some issues of methodology elucidated for us since 1995

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Basics, Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

A Precise Definition of Hizbiyyah Constantly Fought By The Salafiyyoon In The West – By The Tawfeeq of Allah – Under The Guidance of The Senior Scholars, Such as Al-Allamah Rabee, Al-Allamah Ubaid and Others, During The Various Fitan and Applied to This Day, Including The Fitna of The Qutubiyyah, Sururiyyah, Salman, Safar, Abdur Rahman Abdul Khaliq, Al-Maribi, Al-Maghrawi, Al-Halabi, Al-Hajuri and Others Who Came After Them

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

Bigoted partisanship for a particular idea that opposes the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of the Messenger; allegiance and enmity based upon it, this is Tahazzub (illegal partisanship). This is Tahazzub even if it is not (under an) organisation. To formulate deviated ideas and gather the people on it, this is a hizb, regardless of whether it is (under an) organisation or not. [1] 

A Matter Fully Understood For Nearly Three Decades In The West – By The Tawfeeq of Allah – Under The Guidance of Senior Scholars, Such as Al- Allaamah Rabee, Al-Allamah Ubaid and Others Whenever The Proponents of Illegal Partisanship Sought to Obscure It, Including The Likes of Adnan Ar’ur, Ali Halabi, Al-Maribi and Others Who Came After Them

Al-Madkhalee, may Allah preserve him, stated:

After speaking about those – amongst the different factions of the Jahmiyah, the Khawaarij, the Rawafid and the Qadariyyah, and the reason behind such Takfeer – who excommunicate (Muslims) based on falsehood , Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated, “On the opposite side of these people who make Takfeer based on falsehood, there are a people who do not know the creed of Ahlus Sunnah Wal-Jamaa’ah as it should be; or they know some of it and are ignorant of some. And perhaps what they know of it, they do not clarify for the people, rather they conceal it. They do they forbid innovations in religious affairs- neither censure the proponents of innovation in religious affairs nor chastise them; rather they may censure speech regarding the Sunnah and the fundamental principles of the religion – completely – and not differentiate between what the true adherents to the Prophetic tradition say and what proponents of religious innovations and schism say; or they would affirm all their differing paths in a manner similar to how the scholars would affirm the different opinions related to affairs of Ijtihaad in which difference of opinion is justified (or allowed). This path has overwhelmed many of the Murji’ah, some of the jurists, those pursuing the path of asceticism and the philosophers, just as it has overwhelmed – first and foremost – many amongst the people of desires and rhetoric. Both these paths are perverted, outside the Kitaab [i.e. The Qur’aan] and the Prophetic tradition”. [2]

After quoting the statement of Shaikh Al-Islam, Al-Allamah Rabee stated, “I say, may Allaah have mercy on Ibn Tamiyyah. Indeed, he clarified the situation of the people of his era and those before them, then what if he saw the situation of many amongst the Al-Jamaa’aat Al-Hizbiyyah Wal-Bid’iyyah [The Groups of Illegal Partisanship and Innovations in religious affairs] who ascribe themselves to true adherents to the Prophetic tradition and take cover behind him- in particular – to promote their falsehoods. What if he saw them whilst they have definitely gathered between the paths of the two groups- the khawaarij and those who follow their way in pronouncing Takfeer in the subject matter of Al-Haakimiyyah and the way of the Mur’jiah in the manner they approach the affair of people who are upon the major and numerous innovations in religious affairs, and equating innovation in religion to those affairs of the religion in which Ijtihaad is justified, whose people are rewarded alongside a refutation against their mistakes. In the view of these people, the leaders of Misguidance and innovation in religion are just like the Imams of Guidance and Sunnah. [3] 

Finally, Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah stated: Rather what is obligatory is to clarify that which Allah sent His Messengers with and (revealed) in His Books – propagate that which the Messengers brought from Allah and fulfill the covenant which Allah took from the scholars. Therefore, it is obligatory to know that which the Messengers brought, believe in it, propagate it, call to it, striving with it, weigh up all that which the people embark upon – (statements, actions, religious fundamentals and subsidiary issues pertaining to the apparent actions of the Limbs and affairs related to actions of the heart)- under the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger; neither following desires (through) customs, a school of law, a religious order, a leader or a predecessor; neither following conjecture through a weak hadith nor corrupt analogy, regardless whether it is an analogy that offers some degree of certainty or not; nor blindly following someone whom it is not obligated to follow his statement and deed, because indeed Allaah -in His Book – censured those who follow conjecture and that which their souls desire, whilst they abandon that which came to them from their Lord of Guidance. [4] 

A Path Understood and Followed By The Salafiyyoon – By The Tawfeeq of Allah – in The West For Nearly Three Decades Under The Guidance of The Senior Scholars, Such as Al-Allamah Rabee, Al-Allamah Ubaid and Others, Whenever Individuals Committed Wrong and Wanted Special Treatment or to Escape With Their Wrong doings, Such as Suhaib Hasan, and Others

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

ﻭﻟﻴﺲ ﻟﻠﻤﻌﻠﻤﻴﻦ ﺃﻥ ﻳﺤﺰﺑﻮﺍ ﺍﻟﻨﺎﺱ
ﻭﻳﻔﻌﻠﻮﺍ ﻣﺎ ﻳﻠﻘﻲ ﺑﻴﻨﻬﻢ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﺍﻭﺓ ﻭﺍﻟﺒﻐﻀﺎﺀ،
ﺑﻞ ﻳﻜﻮﻧﻮﻥ ﻣﺜﻞ ﺍﻷﺧﻮﺓ ﺍﻟﻤﺘﻌﺎﻭﻧﻴﻦ ﻋﻠﻰ
ﺍﻟﺒﺮ ﻭﺍﻟﺘﻘﻮﻱ ﻛﻤﺎ ﻗﺎﻝ ﺗﻌﺈﻟﻰ
وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَى وَلا تَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الإثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ
وليس لأحد منهم أن يأخذ على أحد عهداً بموافقته على كل ما يريده وموالاة من يواليه ومعاداة من يعاديه،بل من فعل هذا كان من جنس جنكز خان وأمثاله الذين يجعلون من وافقهم صديقاً واليا، ومن خالفهم عدوَّا باغيا، بل عليهم وعلى أتباعهم عهد الله ورسوله بأن يطيعوا الله ورسوله ويفعلوا ما أمر الله ورسوله ويحرموا ما حرم الله ورسوله ويرعوا حقوق المعلمين كما أمر الله ورسوله، فإن كان أستاذ أحد مظلوماً نصره، وإن كان ظالماً لم يعاونه على الظلم بل يمنعه منه كما ثبت في الصحيح أنه قال:
(انصر أخاك ظالماً أو مظلوماً. قيل: يا رسول الله: أنصره مظلوماً فكيف أنصره ظالماً؟. قال تمنعه من الظلم فذلك نصرك إياه).
وإذا وقع بين معلم ومعلم أو تلميذ وتلميذ أو معلم وتلميذ خصومة ومشاجرة لم يجز لأحد أن يعين أحدهما حتى يعلم الحق، فلا يعاونه بجهل ولا بهوى، بل ينظر في الأمر، فإذا تبين له الحق أعان المحق منهما على المبطل سواء كان المحق من أصحابه أو أصحاب غيره، وسواء كان المبطل من أصحابه أو أصحاب غيره، فيكون المقصود عبادة الله وحده وطاعة رسوله واتباع الحق والقيام بالقسط
قال تعالى
يا أيها الذين آمنوا كونوا قوامين بالقسط شهداء لله ولو على أنفسكم أو الوالدين والأقربين، إن يكن غنياً أو فقيراً فالله أولى بهما، فلا تتبعوا الهوى أن تعدلوا وإن تلووا أو تعرضوا فإن الله كان بما تعملون خبيراً

It not allowed for the teachers to initiate (illegal) partisanship between the people and do that which would cause enmity and hatred between them; but rather they should be brothers who cooperate upon righteousness and piety, as Allah [The Exalted] said: [وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَىٰ ۖ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْإِثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ – Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa [virtue, righteousness and piety]; but do not help one another in sin and transgression]. [Al-Ma’idah. 2]

It is not allowed for anyone of them to receive a pledge from anyone to be in agreement with him in everything he wants – having allegiance to the one he is allied to and enmity against the one he harbours enmity, and whoever does this is similar to Genghis Khan and his ilk (in this affair), who take as their loyal friends the one in agreement with them and the one who oppose them as a rebellious enemy; rather it is obligated on them and their followers (i.e. the teachers) to fulfil the covenant of Allah and His Messenger by obeying Allah and His Messenger, doing that which Allah and His Messenger have commanded, declare unlawful that which Allah and His Messenger have declared unlawful, and preserve the rights of the teachers in the manner commanded by Allah and His Messenger. So, if one’s teacher is oppressed, he should help him; but if the teacher is the oppressor, he should not aid him in his act of oppression; rather he forbids him from it, as it has been established in the authentic books of hadeeth that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is an oppressed one. People asked, “O Allah’s Messenger! It is all right to help him if he is oppressed, but how should we help him if he is an oppressor?” The Prophet said, “By preventing him from oppressing others.” [Sahih Al-Bukhaari 2444]

If an argument and dispute occurs between a teacher and another teacher, or between a student and another student, it is not permissible for anyone to help one of them until he knows the truth – neither to aid him based on ignorance nor desires; rather he he examines the affair, so if the truth becomes clear to him, he helps the one who deserves to be helped (due to him being upon the truth) against the one upon error – regardless whether the one who deserves to be helped is one of his companions or the companion of someone else, or whether the one upon error is one of his companions or the companion of someone else. Therefore, the aim is only to worship Allah alone, obedience to Allah’s Messenger, adherence to truth and establishment of justice. Allah [The Exalted] says:

يا أيها الذين آمنوا كونوا قوامين بالقسط شهداء لله ولو على أنفسكم أو الوالدين والأقربين، إن يكن غنياً أو فقيراً فالله أولى بهما، فلا تتبعوا الهوى أن تعدلوا وإن تلووا أو تعرضوا فإن الله كان بما تعملون خبيراً

O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah; even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, be he rich or poor, Allah is a Better Protector to both (than you). So follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest you may avoid justice, and if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allah is Ever Well-Acquainted with what you do. [An-Nisaa. 135] [5] [End of quotes]

May Allah keep us safe and protect us from every evil. May Allah bless the elder brothers at Salafipublications whom Allah – by His great Mercy – enabled to clarify numerous issues of Manhaj in the mid 90s at the website  Salafipublications.com, under the guidance of the senior scholars in the East, such as Al-Allamah Rabee and others. May Allah bless and protect all the students in the East and the West Amin.

Read:

Part 3: To Abandon Innovations, Hizbiyyah (Partisanship), Differing, Sectarianism, and Establishing the Call to Unity: Imām Ahmad bin Hanbal’s Usūl As-Sunnah (The Foundations of the Sunnah) with the explanation of Shaikh An-Najmi. – Abu Khadeejah أبو خديجة

https://abukhadeejah.com/ahmad-hanbal-usool-sunnah-innovations-hizbiyyah-differing-sectarianism-call-to-unity-part-3/

“Why do the Salafīs say that it’s impermissible to blindly follow the Great Imāms such as Abu Hanīfah, Mālik, Ash-Shāfi’ī and Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, yet they blindly follow the scholars such as Ibn Bāz, Ibn Uthaymīn, Al-Albānī, etc?” Question 4 in the Manhaj. – Abu Khadeejah أبو خديجة
https://abukhadeejah.com/taqleed-blind-following-four-imams-salafis/

Cling To The Sunnah And Avoid Taqleed – Tele-link with Abu Khadeejah ‘Abdul-Wāhid – Salafi Sounds
https://www.salafisounds.com/cling-to-the-sunnah-and-avoid-taqleed-tele-link-with-abu-khadeejah-abdul-wahid/

[1]An Excerpt from ‘Kash As-Sitaar page 19-20’. Quoted from question number 8]

[2]Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 12/467-468]

[3] Al-Mukhtaaraat Al-Bahiyyah Min Kutub Shaikh Al-Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah. Pages 62-63]

[4] Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 12/467-468

[5] Majmoo Al-Fataawaa. 28/15-17. paraphrased

Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Madkhali [48 of 80]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

The books of the pious predecessors are present, from the early period up to this present day of yours. There exists numerous books. By Allah, your time is insufficient to thoroughly engage with all these works and these paths to the different sciences.

O my brothers! Do not squander your time on the books of misguidance, neither defend falsehood nor the proponents of Bidah.

Marhaban Yaa Talib Al-Ilm 406

A basic principle regarding worship

Written by abuaisha on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

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

Indeed, there has been much confusion in this subject matter, just as it is the case in the subject matter of halal and haram. A group of people make permissible some of the things that Allah has declared impermissible and others declare impermissible some of those things that Allah has made permissible. Likewise, some people innovate acts of worship that are not legislated by Allah, rather Allah, The Most High, prohibited them. The foundation of the religion of Islam is that the permissible things are those that Allah and His Messenger have made permissible, and the impermissible things are those that Allah and His Messenger have made impermissible. It is not allowed for anyone to leave the straight path that Allah sent His Messenger with.  Allah, The Most High, said:

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

And verily, this is my Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His Path. This He has ordained for you that you may become pious]. [Al-An’am 153]

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

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

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

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

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

Or have they partners with Allah (false gods), who have instituted for them a religion which Allah has not allowed.” [42:21]

There were impermissible deeds they established as acts of worship, such as shirk, and lewd behaviour, such as Tawaf around the Kabah, whilst naked.

The acts of worship through which a person seeks to get close to Allah are those that are beloved and pleasing to Allah and His Messenger- whether obligatory or recommended – as reported in Sahih [Al-Bukhari] that Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: Allah, The Blessed and Exalted, said: “The most beloved things which My slave comes nearer to Me, is what I have enjoined upon him; and My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing Nawaafil (praying or doing extra deeds besides what is obligatory) till I love him, then I become his sense of hearing with which he hears, and his sense of sight with which he sees, and his hand with which he grips, and his leg with which he walks; and if he asks Me, I will give him, and if he asks My Protection (Refuge), I will protect him”.[a]

It is well known regarding the prayer that it can either be obligatory, such as the five daily prayers, or optional such as the Qiyaamul Layl [i.e. Tahajjud prayer].

Also regarding fasting, it can either be obligatory, such as fasting in the month of Ramadan, or it can be optional such as fasting three days every month. Also travelling to the Masjid Al-Haram [i.e. The kabah] is obligatory and travelling to the other two Masajid- Masjid of the Prophet and Masjid Al-Aqsaa- is recommended. Also, charity can be an obligation, or a recommendation such as the surplus beyond (what is) needed, as Allah [The Most High] said:

وَيَسْأَلُونَكَ مَاذَا يُنفِقُونَ قُلِ الْعَفْوَ

And they ask you what they ought to spend. Say: That which is beyond (what they need).

It has been reported in an authentic Hadih that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “O son of Adam! It is better for you if you spend (your) surplus (wealth), but if you withhold it, it is evil for you. And there is no blame (on you) if you withhold the surplus in accordance with a need, in order to spend on yourself and poor relatives. The upper hand (i.e. the one who spends) is better than the lower hand (i.e. the one who asks without a need as opposed to the self-sufficient one); and begin (charity) with your dependents”. [b]

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

[a]: Regarding the statement: “And My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing Nawaafil (praying or doing extra deeds besides what is obligatory) till I love him, then I become his sense of hearing with which he hears, and his sense of sight with which he sees, and his hand with which he grips, and his leg with which he walks…”

This statement is understood to mean that when a person becomes a Wali (close friend) of Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, when the command of Allah is mentioned with regards to what Allah loves or hates, he protects his hearing from what Allah hates and lends an ear to what Allah loves. He does the same with regards to what he looks at, what he grips with his hand and where he walks to; or Allah guides him, thus he only looks at what Allah loves, listens to what Allah loves and walks towards what Allah loves. [Sharh Arba’een by Imaam Muhammad Bin Saaleh Al-Uthaymeen.. Pages 376-381 and Sharh Arba’een by Shaikh Salih Aala Shaikh pages 256-258] [Also see, Jaami’ul Ulum Wal-Hikam by Imaam Ibn Rajab pages 619-641 Daar Ibn Rajab 2002].

[b] Sahih Muslim Hadeeth No 1036 as well as ‘Sharh Saheeh Muslim Vol 7-8 pages 111-113]

Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [26 of 80]

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

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

Question: I am a young man at the beginning of my adherence to the right path, and I would like you to clarify the correct methodology for me.

Answer: Hold fast to the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of the Messenger, and the consensus of the pious predecessors. Seek knowledge and you will know the correct methodology. [See footnote a] [1]

The Shaikh, may Allah preserve him, also stated: The means to Dawah are the Quran and the Sunnah – Allah said, Allah’s Messenger (صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ) said. This is the call of the prophets, which is based on clarity, evidence, and proof. It is not established on [رقص – evil, random, uncertain, unreliable, sporadic speech etc], frivolity, and lying. [See footnote b] [2]

————————————-

Footnote a: Journey of gaining knowledge – By Al-Allamah Rabee and Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin: https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2024/11/03/journey-of-gaining-knowledge-by-al-allamah-rabee-and-imam-muhammad-ibn-salih-al-uthaymin/

Footnote b: Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali: https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2024/11/29/reflections-from-some-statements-of-al-allamah-rabee-bin-hadi-al-madkhali-22-of-80/

[1] An Excerpt from Al-Wasaayaa Al-Manhajiyyah…Question 19. Page 354

[2] An Excerpt from Marhaban Yaa Talibal Ilm 328

The Comprehensive, All-Encompassing and Universal Message

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Charity (Sadaqah), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Eid, Fasting, Hajj, Dhul Hijjah, Eid al Adha, Hijrah (Migration), History of Islam, Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Islamic Jurisprudence - 'Fiqh', Jahannam (Hell Fire), Jannah (Paradise), Khawaarij, Literature, Marriage (Nikkah), Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Muharram and Ashoorah, Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Ramadhan, Refutations, Repentance, Salaah - Prayer, Seeking Knowledge, Shi'a, Shirk, Sin, Sufis, Taraweeh, Worship - 'Ibaadah', Zakaat, Zuhd (Abstinence).

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

The Ummah of Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, does not require anyone after him; their sole necessity is for someone to convey his teachings. The message of Muhammad is all-encompassing, universal, and (perfectly) preserved. This universality, comprehensiveness, and preservation are not confined to any (specific time, place, or circumstance); instead, they extend to all those to whom Muhammad was sent, as well as addressing all the fundamental and subsidiary matters of the religion.

Muhammad’s message is sufficient, all-encompassing, and universal—there is no requirement for anything beyond it. It has addressed every aspect of truth necessary for his Ummah in their knowledge and actions. Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, did not depart from this world without imparting to his Ummah all that they needed to know. He taught them the etiquettes of using the toilet, sexual relations, the etiquettes of sleep and waking, eating, drinking, and traveling. He acquainted them with the etiquettes of speech and silence; the etiquettes of keeping company with the people and seclusion. He acquainted them with matters regarding illness, good health, poverty and wealth, and all matters regarding life and death.

He described Allah’s throne, the angels, the jinn, the fire of hell, and the Day of Judgment in a way that made them feel as though they were witnessing these realities with the naked eye. He conveyed knowledge about their Lord, His Perfect Names and Attributes, emphasising that Allah is the only One who deserves their worship. He acquainted them with the ancient Prophets and their respective nations- the events that transpired between them as if one were witnessing those moments firsthand. He informed them of all the avenues leading to righteousness and the various paths of wrongdoing, both broadly and specifically, in a manner that no other prophet had conveyed to his people. He acquiainted them with death and will take place in the grave, whether they be of joy or torment. Additionally, he presented the evidences and proofs of Tawhid (pure Islamic Monotheism). He acquainted them with Prophethood and the matters concerning the Afterlife, while also countering all factions of disbelief and misguidance. He acquainted them with war strategies- how to confront the enemy, the way to achieve victory and conquests. If they were aware of and comprehended these matters appropriately, they would not be defeated by their adversary.

He acquainted them with the schemes of Iblees, the methods by which he seeks to influence them, and the strategies to counteract those schemes and plans. He acquainted them with the soul- its characteristics and faults- in such a manner that they are not in need of anyone else to tell them about it.

He instructed them on how to navigate their everyday existence, and had they recognized and implemented his teachings, their worldly matters would have been securely established. He provided them with all the means necessary for success in both this life and the hereafter, rendering them independent of any other guidance. Therefore, it is unfounded to assert that the path of Muhammad requires any external support. Such claims stem from a limited and insufficient understanding on the part of the individual. Allah said:

أَوَلَمْ يَكْفِهِمْ أَنَّا أَنزَلْنَا عَلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ يُتْلَىٰ عَلَيْهِمْ ۚ إِنَّ فِي ذَٰلِكَ لَرَحْمَةً وَذِكْرَىٰ لِقَوْمٍ يُؤْمِنُونَ

Is it not sufficient for them that We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) which is recited to them? Verily, herein is mercy and a reminder (or an admonition) for a people who believe. [29:51]

Allah [The Most High] said:
وَنَزَّلْنَا عَلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ تِبْيَانًا لِّكُلِّ شَيْءٍ وَهُدًى وَرَحْمَةً وَبُشْرَىٰ لِلْمُسْلِمِينَ

And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) as an exposition of everything, a guidance, a mercy, and glad tidings for those who have submitted themselves (to Allah as Muslims)]. [16:89]

Allah [The Most High] said:
يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ قَدْ جَاءَتْكُم مَّوْعِظَةٌ مِّن رَّبِّكُمْ وَشِفَاءٌ لِّمَا فِي الصُّدُورِ وَهُدًى وَرَحْمَةٌ لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ

O mankind! There has come to you a good advice from your Lord [i.e. the Qur’an, ordering all that is good and forbidding all that is evil], and a healing for that [disease of ignorance, doubt, hypocrisy and differences, etc.] in your breasts, – a guidance and a mercy [explaining lawful and unlawful things, etc.] for the believers. [10:57]

An Excerpt from “i’lam al-muwaqqi’in 4/375-377

Current Affairs

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

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

Some people say that someone who does not grasp current affairs is not a scholar, yet they forget what the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Whoever Allah wishes good for, He grants them understanding in the religion”. They lose sight of the reality that preoccupying oneself with current affairs distracts a person from understanding the religion and may even keep people from engaging in correct worship, which is to worship Allah alone while devoting one’s heart to Allah, contemplating Allah’s divine revelation (i.e. the Qur’an and the Sunnah) and His universal signs (i.e. the things He has created). In reality, preoccupying the youth with current affairs prevents them from understanding the religion Allah has ordained because the heart is a vessel that does not take another thing when it is filled with something else, thus, it is not possible to fill it with this and that. Being preoccupied with seeking understanding in the religion, fulfilling acts of worship, pure Islamic monotheism, and sincerity are the better to do for the individual than learning about current affairs and what such and such a person is about.

It is possible that one receives knowledge of current affairs through flimsy and fabricated media narrations, or bases knowledge of current affairs on the analysis and speculations of a person. The one engaged in the subject of current affairs may seek to establish an analysis that is far from what the current affairs are or they look into affairs that have been concocted for them by the enemies (regarding) a specific event, but this event turns out to be something else and does not exist at all, thus, all those plans come to naught.

Therefore, it is important that one learns what Islam expects of them- the understanding related to one’s self, rectification of the heart through sound belief and wishing good for the Muslims, and this is related to the understanding of halal, haram, and other affairs of a similar nature. (However), if necessary, one can acquire knowledge about current affairs; but when it comes to matters that haven’t actually happened yet, such as lies, deception, analysis, and speculation, attaching absolute emphasis to it has no foundation. (1)

Analysing The Plots Against Islam Is A Fard Kifaayah to Be Carried Out By The Scholars and Their Outstanding Students

 

Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadee Al-Madkhalee, may Allah preserve him, says:

So it is not permissible for the Ulamaa to remain heedless of their plans (i.e. the enemies of Islaam), their actions, their publications, their missionary activities and their various calls (to the Muslims). And also the various poisons they are infusing – which are in opposition to the Qur’aan and the Messenger (sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) and his Sunnah. And nor of what plans they have for (the destruction of) the beliefs and methodologies of Islaam. It is not permissible either, to remain heedless of their concentrated efforts to Christianize or secularize the Muslim youth. And along with that, the Muslim youth and the students are not able to oppose this plan and strategy. Rather it is necessary that the distinguished Ulamaa – those who are experienced and shrewd – it is for such people, in all the places to undertake this duty. So it is obligatory for some of the intelligent and ingenious people from the field of Aqeedah to be mobilised for opposing these plans. And likewise it is a must that the intelligent and distinguished from amongst the specialists in the Sunnah – that they be mobilised for the refutation of these and similarly the eminent and distinguished from amongst those in the fields of Orientalism for the refutation of the plans of the Orientalists.” (Ahl ul-Hadeeth, p.102)

He also says: “I myself believe that it is a benefit – rather it is of necessity – that we know what the enemies are planning for us, and that it is necessary for us to prepare (ourselves in strength) to destroy their plans. However, I do not exaggerate in this matter, rather my view is the view of our Ulamaa and they have all agreed upon this – that amongst the obligatory matters there are some that are Fard Ain and others that are Fard Kifaayah – and even if knowing the state of the enemies is harmful – it is still necessary for us to know it – but it is treated as Fard Kifaayah. When some attend to it, then the harm is removed from the rest” up until he said: “So I consider that there is no criticism for the Ulamaa and the students of knowledge who take great concern for preserving the Sharee’ah of Allaah – in terms of the Book, the Sunnah and its understanding – for this is one of the duties of the Kifaayah actions. And I believe that these people are more superior, noble, truthful and of more benefit to Islaam than those who are weak in their knowledge of the religion of Allaah or those who have no share in acquainting themselves with it.” (2)

(1) An Excerpt from ‘Sharh Hilyati Taalibil Ilm’ pages 194-195

(2) An excerpt from an article at www.salafipublications.com titled: The Salafis and Looking into the Affairs of the Ummah]

Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi al-Mad’khali [16 of 80]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Indeed everyone and even the fish in the sea seek forgiveness for the scholar because he benefits the people. Even the fish in the sea benefits from him. He clarifies (distinguishes) between the lawful animals (that can be eaten) and (that which is) haraam, the manner to utilise a riding beast and how to deal with this animal, and how to slaughter an animal properly, thus, love is placed in the souls of everyone – in the heavens and the earth – who is beloved to Allah, so they seek forgiveness for the scholar. You are a Miskeen (i.e. one in complete need of Allah, weak, deficient etc) and Allah (favoured) you with these hosts (i.e. the righteous inhabitants of the heavens and the earth) who supplicate for you and seek forgiveness for you, and the angels humble themselves to you. So, after knowing this, you should increase in humility, love of Allah and eagerness for knowledge.

An Excerpt from “Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm” page 253

Journey of gaining knowledge – By Al-Allamah Rabee and Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, was asked: Which books do you advise the student of knowledge to read-those that give special attention in making clear the Salafi Methodology for him?

Response: Firstly, I advise myself and my brothers (to concentrate on memorising and studying) the Book of Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, for in it is guidance and light. It is the main foundation of Islam and the Sunnah is its explanation and clarification. Thereafter, study the guidance of Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, from the Saheehayn [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim], the four Sunan [Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah, at-Tirmidhi and An-Nasa’i], the Masaaneed [Musnad Ahmad and others], the Jawami (see footnote a) and other than them.

I advise the students of knowledge to study these three Books of the Sunnah that have been (transmitted) with authenticity from Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and that they study some sections in these Ummahaat [i.e. in Bukhaari, Muslim, Nasaa’ee, Abu Dawood, Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah] and firmly concentrate on them in particular. This is because they are connected to the fundamental principles of the religion, such as kitab Al-Ilm [the Book of Knowledge] in Saheeh Al-Bukhaari and kitab Al-Iman because Imam Al-Bukhaari narrated – in this kitab Al-Iman- ahaadith to clarify the methodology of Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama’ah in the subject matter of Iman, and in their chapter headings he rebutted the Murji’a- those who oppose this fundamental. He firmly placed in this great book [i.e. Saheeh Al-Bukhari] the Book of Itisam [.e. the book of holding onto the way of the Prophet], the Akhbar Al-Aahad and kitaab At-Tawheed. This is because these are connected to the fundamentals of the religion and they are very important. It is obligatory to have an understanding of them after acquiring understanding of the Book of Allah [The Most High].

Likewise, concentrate on kitab As-Sunnah in Sunan Abee Dawud because it is a very important fundamental and it agrees with Saheeh Al-Bukhari in these affairs that we have mentioned. In it is a notification about bidah-the bidah of the Jahmiyyah, the khawarij and other than them. It distinguished the Aqeedah of Ahlus Sunnah and its Madhab from the deviated Madhabs. So the fundamentals in this subject matter are to be studied.

Likewise, kitab Al-Ittiba by Ibn Maajah [i.e. adherence to the Messenger’s path] and khalq Af’aal Al-Ibaad by Al-Bukhari because through them a person becomes acquainted with great fundamentals from the fundamental principles of Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah regarding matters related to the Qur’an, (sound) creed, the Jahmiyyah and other than them amongst the people of bidah and misguidance. Likewise, the first section of Sharh As-Sunnah of Al-Baghawi because it concentrates on this subject matter. As-Sunnah by Al-khallaal, Sharh Usool Al-ittiqaad Ahlis Sunnah of Laalikaa’ee, Al-Hujja of Asfahaanee, Al-Ibaanah of Ibn Battah and what is similar to that.

Then the books of Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Al-Qayyim because in them there is an unequivocal and sufficient clarification of the fundamental principles of the religion and its subsidiary affairs, and all praise is due to Allah. In these affairs of knowledge there is life [for the hearts]. Learn the Qur’an, the (sound) creed, the (sound) methodology, the (sound) fundamentals and the (sound) subsidiary issues (of the religion) in a manner as if you were acquiring them from the mouth of Allah’s Messenger, and likewise all the books we have mentioned in a manner as if you were acquiring them (directly) from the mouth of the Messenger, the Sahabah and those who followed their path. Ibn Taymiyyah did not become outstanding, vast in knowledge and well established in clarifying the truth except after learning these books. So we should study these books and these chapters from them, and may Allaah bless you.

Then we study all the Sunan. We look into the books of Fiqh, the books of Tafsir, the books of Hadeeth-all of them are beneficial; but (one gives) specific concentration to these affairs [i.e. the creed and methodology], especially in these times because many deviations are (seen from) the people of innovated thought and politics- the Soofiyyah, the Rawaafid and other than them. These innovations, deviations and trials cannot be confronted except through knowledge that is acquired properly from the book of Allah, the Sunnah of Messenger of Allaah and the understanding of the Salaf. I ask Allaah to grant us and you understanding of His Religion and “Whoever Allaah wishes good for, He gives him understanding of the religion.’ [end of quote] [An Excerpt from ‘Fataawaa Al-Mar’atil Muslimah Page: 71-72]

Imaam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated in Sharh Hilyati Taalibil Ilm- [see page 77 onwards, under the section: كيفية الطلب والتلقي]– that a person should learn the Usool and establish his knowledge on sound Usool- the Qur’aan and the Sunnah etc. A person should not approach knowledge, whilst intending to acquire everything at once because that is not possible; rather one should acquire knowledge little by little. Likewise, one should not rely solely on books and his personal efforts, rather one should have a reliable Shaikh- one who is reliable in his understanding and is trustworthy- because the Shaikh who teaches you has already studied, taught, revised and understood. The Shaikh also mentioned that students have different abilities and some may be able to study more advanced books -under a Shaikh- than others. Likewise, the path followed in the path of seeking knowledge under the scholars vary depending where a person is residing and the method adopted by the scholars of that country.

[a] Aqeedah: Thalaathatul Usool, Qawaa’idul Arba’ah, Kash Ash-Shubuhaat, Kitaab At-Tawheed. Tawheed Al-Asmaa Was-Sifaat: Aqeedah Al-Waasitiyyah, then Al-Hamawiyyah and then At-Tadmuriyyah.

[b] Arabic Grammar: Al-Aajurroomiyyah, then Mulhatul I’raab’ by Al-Haraaree, then Qatr An-Nadaa’ by Ibn Hishaam and then Alfiya’ by Ibn Maalik with the explanation of Ibn Aqeel.

[c] Hadeeth: Arba’een of Imaam An-Nawawi, then Umdatul Ahkaam and then Buloogh Al-Maraam. Shaikh Uthaymeen [rahimahullaah] said he prefers that one limits himself [or herself] to Buloogh al Maraam because Umdatul Ahkaam enters Buloogh al Maraam-the majority of the ahaadeeth in Umdatul Ahkaam can be found in Buloogh Al-Maraam. If one is not able to memorise Buloogh al-Maraam, he [or she] has Umdatul Ahkaam because it is short and most of its ahaadeeth are found in Bukhaari and Muslim, so one is not burdened with checking their authenticity. Then one moves to Al-Muntaqaa’ by Ibn Taymiyyah, which is much bigger than Buloogh al-Maraam but weaker in its grading of the ahaadeeth found in it. Then one moves to the Ummahaat As-Sitta [Al-Bukhaari, Muslim, Abu Daawud, At-Tirmidhee, An-Nasaa’ee and Ibn Maajah].

[d] Mustalah: Nukhbatul Fikr and then Al-Fiyyah’ by Al-Iraaqee

[e] Fiqh: Aadaabul Mashee ilas Salaah’ by Shaikhul Islaam Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab [rahimahullaah], then Zaad Al-Mustaqni or Umdatul Fiqh, then Al-Muqni to study the difference of opinions in the madhaahib and further higher studies of this subject matter in Al-Mughnee. Order: Al-Umdah, then Al-Muqnee, then Al-Kaafee and then Al-Mughnee.

[f] Usool Al-Fiqh: Al-Waraqaat and then Rawdah An-Naadhir. But Shaikh Uthaymeen [rahmahullaah] said that there are other good and concise books on Usool al-Fiqh that can suffice a person.

[g] Tafseer: Ibn Katheer

[h] Usool At-Tafseer: Al-Muqaddimah’ by Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah

[i] Seerah: Mukhtasar Seerah An-Nabiy’ by Shaikhul Islaam Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab [rahimahullaah]. The source of this work is based on Ibn Hishaam’s work and Ibn Qayyim’s Zaadul Ma’aad. Zaadul Ma’aad -in particular- contains Fiqh in relation to the Seerah, in Tawheed and the deeds [acts of worship, dealings, manners, etiquetes etc] of the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam)]. [End quote]

What Some of The Students and Beginners Have Stated Regarding Their Studies

We asked some of those brothers, who are on Shaikh Khalid’s online course and whose level in the Arabic language enables them to understand the teacher as well as the text they are studying (someone who has finished Madeenah books 2 and 3), so they mentioned the following subject matters: Qur’aan memorisation, Qawaa’id Al-Arba’ah, Usool Ath-Thalaatha, Usool As-Sitta, Fiqh Muyassar, Seerah, Manhajul Anbiyaa and Mudhakkarah Al-Hadeeth An-Nabawiyyah Fil Aqeedah Wal-Itti’baa (by Allaamah Rabee Bin Bin Haadi) etc Shaikh Khaalid [may Allaah protect him] studied under Al-Allaamah Rabee [may Allaah protect him] for over 20 years, and this is the likes of that which he has set up for those on his course. Alhamdulil laah, we know some of youth have made good progress – may Allaah bless them and their parents Aameen.

Ustaadh Abu Humaid Saalim [may Allaah preserve him] stated: I heard our Shaykhs Abdullah Al-Ghudayan, Salih Al-Luhaydan and Salih Al-Fawzan and others all being asked similar questions – about what to focus on as it relates to various sciences and in particular for the beginner – does he focus on Quran first, Arabic, Aqeedah or Fiqh etc – and all had a uniformed answer: a person is to learn the fundamentals of the religion first, tawheed, aqeedah and manhaj – if he is to able to do all at same time – meaning give each science an equal amount of time – no problem – but if not, and a person has limited time/ability – then he must learn that which keeps him upright in his religion and aids him to fulfil the fundamental obligations of the religion – so he has to learn Tawheed/the pillars of Eemaan/the general beliefs of the people of Sunnah in creed – as well as after learning the meaning of the Shahaadah (which would come into the aqeedah anyway) and what it necessitates, he would also need to learn the rulings of the prayer hand in hand with his ongoing study of the Aqeedah, because that us binding upon him immediately and from the greatest of obligation upon him. Thus learning Arabic and Quran and focusing on them so much that a person neglects the above matters, is incorrect and out of place. A person can be proficient in Arabic, even born with an Arabic tongue, haafidh of Quran, yet misguided in creed and methodology. On other hand, you have a person who has zero Arabic and little Quran, yet guided and upright in Aqeedah and manhaj. So, arabic and the mere memorisation of Quran do not prevent a person from being misguided but it is the acquiring of the fundamentals, be that via English or any other language that give the person the tools to deal with doubts and fitan. Without doubt learning the other sciences should not be done at the expense of these fundamental usool. Allāh preserve our 1st teacher and our Shaykh Abū Iyyād, truly a blessing for us here in the UK and West in general. Many students have graduated and sat with numerous scholars over many years yet haven’t benefitted the English speaking Salafi communities in the West in the way he has and continues to. This is the Fadl of our Lord, He gives it to whosoever He pleases. May Allāh grant him a long life upon His Obedience and preserve him upon the Sunnah and protect him from the haters.

Shaikh Abdul Wahid Abu Khadeejah [may Allaah preserve him] said: To solidify your foundations upon Salafiyyah from day one, begin your journey with the well-known books of Aqeedah and Manhaj. Start reading and studying the following: The three fundamental principles- explanations of Al-Allaamah Ubayd Al-Jaabiri, Al-Allaamah Al-Fawzan or Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saaleh Al-Uthaymeen, alongside this, the explanation of the Creed (Sharhus Sunnah) of Imaam Al-Barbahari with explanation of Al-Allaamah Saaleh Al-Fawzaan or Al-Allaamah Rabee. Kitaab at-Tawheed: Explanation by Al-Allaamah Ahmad An-Najmi or Al-Allaamah Saaleh Al-Fawzaan, alongside this: The Foundations of the Sunnah (Usulus Sunnah)- explanation of Al-Allaamah Ahmad An-Najmi or Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadi. Aqeedah Al-Wasitiyyah- explanation by Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saaleh Al-Uthaymeen, alongside this to strengthen your methodology regarding the call of the Prophets, Manhaj Al-Anbiya Fid Dawah ilallaah (The Methodology of The Prophets in Calling to Allaah) by Al-Allaamah Rabee Al-Madkhali (introduction by Al-Allamah Saleeh Al-Fawzaan). The audio explanations of these books taught by the scholars, students of knowledge and Shaikhs are available at salafisounds.com for free download. Alongside this, you should not neglect the Book of Allaah; read it, memorise it and understand it with a reliable Tafsir such as Ibn kathir, As-Sadi, and Ibn Uthaumeen. Also study the books of Fiqh (from a hdith perspective) such as Buloogh Al-Maraam of Ibn Hajr and Umdatul Ahkaam etc [End of quote from this booklet pages 7-8: https://abukhadeejah.com/advice-to-those-who-have-turned-to-the-way-of-the-salafand-a-weapon-in-the-hands-of-the-salafi-against-those-who-throw-doubts-at-his-methodology/

One Should Not Be Disheartened

The questioner [may Allaah bless him] said to Al-Allamah Salih Aala Ash-Shaikh [may Allah preserve him]: “I have been seeking knowledge for a number of years, but despite this, neither have I consolidated the knowledge-based information (sought after) nor am I aware of the benefit (acquired from that). What do you advise me? May Allaah reward you”.

The Shaikh replied: Do not say that you are not aware of a benefit because a student of knowledge is (considered to be engaged) in worship. The aim behind seeking knowledge is that the person receives Allah’s [The Mighty and Majestic] Pleasure.

You all know about the man who went away to repent, so the angel of death came to him (i.e. took his soul); then the angels of mercy and the angels of punishment disputed about his affair- angels of mercy said, “He came along being repentant and remorseful in his heart in the presence of Allah” but the angels of punishment said, “He has done no good at all”. Then another angel came in the form of a human being in order to decide between them and said, “Measure between the two lands” (i.e. to find out which of them he was closer to). They measured it and found him nearer to the land where he intended to go (i.e. the land of the pious people), so the angels of mercy took him. This repentant man was forgiven because his steps (towards repentance) were recorded for him; therefore the steps of a student of knowledge towards knowledge are an act of worship similar to the steps of the repentant migrator towards the land of goodness. Seeking knowledge is better for you than supererogatory prayer or some of the supererogatory acts of worship; therefore there has to be a truthful intention (behind it). Then the benefit will (be acquired) bit by bit. And the aim is not to become a scholar or a student of knowledge initially; rather the aim behind your seeking knowledge is to remove ignorance from yourself-worshiping Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] with correct acts of worship and that your Aqeedah is sound, become submissive to Allah, safeguarded from doubtful affairs that are made to resemble the truth and from seeking fame. Allah (The Most High) said:

يَوۡمَ لَا يَنفَعُ مَالٌ۬ وَلَا بَنُونَ
إِلَّا مَنۡ أَتَى ٱللَّهَ بِقَلۡبٍ۬ سَلِيمٍ۬

The Day whereon neither wealth nor sons will avail; except him who brings to Allah a clean heart [clean from Shirk (polytheism) and Nifaq (hypocrisy)].

Allah (The Mighty and Exalted) said: [إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَعَمِلُواْ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ إِنَّا لَا نُضِيعُ أَجۡرَ مَنۡ أَحۡسَنَ عَمَلاً – Verily! As for those who believe and do righteous deeds, certainly! We shall not suffer to be lost the reward of anyone who does his (righteous) deeds in the most perfect manner].

If you never benefited except yourself and your family, then there is great good in this.[الوصايا الجليّة للاستفادة من الدروس العلميّة للشيخ العلامة صالح آل الشيخ- Question 3. Page 24-25]

Finally, we remind ourselves of an important advice by Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi [may Allah preserve him] when he stated as follows: When you embark on the path towards seeking knowledge- seeking (sound) understanding of it and acting upon it, this indeed is one of the signs that Allah wishes good for you. Therefore, receive glad tidings, have good thoughts about Allah and be sincere to Allah [The Blessed and Exalted] in your statements, deeds and knowledge. Neither be deceived (by yourself) – we seek Allah’s Refuge from self-deception – nor 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. Aayah 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 (Allah)! 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 (true) understanding – that a person does not feel safe about himself, for indeed Satan flows through the human being like blood. (a) 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 authority to look after his own affairs, it is obligated on him 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 Aal Imraan’ Aayah 8] [An Excerpt from Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm’ pages 75-76]

I warn my brothers against the Fitan (trials, temptations) and that they turn to Allah (for help) to keep them steadfast upon the Religion. They should supplicate a lot (just as Allaah taught the believers that they say),[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 Imran’ Aayah 8]

They should make this tremendous supplication often and the supplication which Allah’s Messenger used to make often. Anas said that Allah’s Messenger used to say a lot, “O Turner of the hearts, keep my heart firm upon your religion”. So the companions said, “O Allah’s Messenger! Do you fear for us?” He said, “Yes, indeed the hearts are between two fingers from the fingers of Allah, and He turns them however He wills”.

Therefore, the believer does not feel secure 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, Aayah 99]

The believer always fears Allah – fears that Allah may not accept his deeds and he is not deceived by hope [i.e. hoping whilst not striving sincerely]. The spending carried out in the path of Allah and the strenuous effort made through acts of obedience to Allah is nothing in the eyes of the truthful believer, for they are not equal to the smallest blessing amongst the (uncountable) blessings of Allah. Allah’s Messenger said, “Glorified be You (O Allah) and free are You from all imperfections! I cannot fully praise you, for you are as you have praised yourself”. [Saheeh Muslim 486]

This was Muhammad [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] – the one whose past and future sins were forgiven, but he feared Allah the most. He said, “I swear by Allah that I am the most fearful of Allah and the most conscious of Him than you”. He used to stand for so long that his feet became swollen. Aishah said, “O Allah’s Messenger! Why are you doing this when Allah has forgiven your past and future sins?” He said, “Should I not be a thankful slave?” [An Excerpt from Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm. Pages 204-205]

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Footnote a: The Jawaami [i.e. First category: Those books that gather different types of narrations on the subject matter of creed, rulings, affairs of the heart, manners of eating and drinking, travel, residence, subject matter of tafseer, history, affairs of trials and tribulations, signs of the hour, virtues of the companions etc]. Some Imaams who compiled these works and their titles include: Saheeh Al-Bukhaari; Saheeh Muslim; Al-Muwatta; Musnad Ahmad; Sunan An-Nasaa’ee; Sunan Abu Daawud; Sunan At-tirmidhee; Sunan Ibn Maajah; Sunan Ad-Daarimi; Saheeh Ibn Khuzaymah; Saheeh Ibn Hibbaan]; [Second category: Those are books whose authors intended to gather a large number of Prophetic Ahaadeeth, or gather Ahaadeeth of specific books, or gather different Ahaadeeth in a specific subject matter, such as ‘Jaami-ul Ahaadeeth of As-Suyooti; Jaami-ul usool Fee Ahaadeeth Ar-Rasool of Ibnul Atheer; Silsilah As-Saheehah of Albaanee; Sharh Mushkilah Al-Aathaar of Tahaawi; Al-Musnad Al-Jaami of Nawawi; Nailul Awtaar of Shawkaanee etc

NB: All these books mentioned by Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadee [may Allah preserve him] are to be studied under the scholars and students, and not merely reading and deriving one’s own understanding from them.

Who saw the shooting star last night?

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

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

Husayn Bin Abdir Rahmaan narrated: I was with Sa’eed Bin Jubair when he said, “Who amongst you saw a shooting star last night?” I said, “I did”. Then I said, “I was not in prayer, but was stung by a scorpion”. He said, “Then what did you do?” I said, “I performed Ruqyah…” [1]

Question: Why did Husayn Bin Abdir Rahman mention that he was not in prayer after informing Sa’eed Bin Jubayr that he saw the shooting star last night?!

Answer:

Imam Sa’di, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “This is because the pious predecessors were far removed from praising a person for something he does not possess”. [2]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: He (Husayn) made this statement to prevent people from thinking that he was engaged in prayer, and thus he is praised for what he did not do. This is the opposite of what some people do, as they rejoice when others think they were praying. This behaviour reflects a deficiency in one’s Tawhid. Husayn’s statement is viewed as showing off, but rather as a virtuous deed. It is not comparable to someone who avoids acts of obedience due to the fear of showing off, as Shaytan manipulates them and convinces them to abandon good deeds due to fear of showing off. Instead, one should perform acts of obedience, but nothing should be in your heart that you desire to be seen by people. [3]

Al-Allamah Salih Aala Ash-Shaykh, may Allah preserve him, said, “He (Husayn) uttered these words due to his fear that those who were present may assume that he saw the shooting star during his prayer. Thus, he disclaimed any association with it. This highlights the virtue of pious predecessors, their eagerness for sincerity, distance from ostentation, and adorning oneself with something not possessed”. [4]

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, said: O my brothers! Sincerity is a mighty affair. It is obligated to a Muslim to protect it and self-reflect at all times. One of the pious predecessors: “I used to think that the hadith required an intention [i.e. sincerity when seeking hadith in general], but then I realised that every hadith requires an intention.” So, when you convey or speak, do you desire praise from the people or do you desire the Face of Allah? Do you desire that it is said, “He is a scholar, intelligent, a jurist”, or do you seek the pleasure of Allah and fulfill the duty you bear? [5]

Read: https://abukhadeejah.com/chapter-36-concerning-riya-showing-off-ones-good-deeds-kitab-at-tawheed-ibn-abdul-wahhab/

[1] Saheeh Muslim 220
[2] An Excerpt from “Al-Qawlus Sadeed Sharh Kitaab At-Tawheed”. page 77
[3] An Excerpt from “Al-Qawlul Mufeed Alaa Kitaab At-Tawheed”. 1/97
[4] An Excerpt from “Sharh Fat-hul Majeed Li-Sharh Kitaab At-Tawheed”. 1/162
[5] An Excerpt from “Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm” pages 53-55

Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi al-Mad’khali [15 of 80]

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

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

Ibn Abbas and Aa’isha, may Allah be pleased with them, stated: When the last moment of the life of Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, approached, he started putting his Khameesah (a woollen blanket) on his face and when he felt hot and short of breath he took it off his face and said, “May Allah curse the Yahud and Nasaaraa because they built the places of worship at the graves of their Prophets”. (The Prophet was warning against what those people had done).

They (i.e. companions) understood that the Messenger was issuing a warning message. Aa’isha and Ibn Abbas said, “He (the Prophet) was cautioning against what those people had done.” Therefore, given that the Yahud and Nasaaraa were cursed and incurred Allah’s intense wrath, (as indicated by the statement), “Allah’s severe wrath is upon a people who take the graves of their Prophets as places of worship,” despite their love for the Prophets and their construction of places of worship on their graves; so, what about those who defile (the purity) of the greatest religion (Islam) through acts of shirk, akin to the actions of the Yahud?! Therefore, it follows that Allah’s curse and intense wrath currently applies to them (those who engage in grave worship) when they adopt the graves of others as places of worship. When it is the case that Allah disapproved of the actions of the Yahud, who revered the Prophets and erected places of worship over their graves, how can this act be accepted from those who build places of worship over the graves of those who (hold a status) inferior to that of the Prophets?!

O brothers! This is a deviation from the meaning of [لا إله إلا الله – There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah. Therefore, we appeal to the students of knowledge and the callers to Islam not to betray this Ummah, and not to conceal this clarification and guidance that was revealed by Allah to Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him- the explanation of Tawhid, the distinction between Tawhid and Shirk because if we lose this knowledge, all the other sciences will have no value. [An Excerpt from “Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm”. 110-111]