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[3] The Strangers

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, History of Islam, Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Sin, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Imam Ibn Rajab, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

Then, it became a common thing (or understanding) among many later scholars, both from Ahlul Hadith and others, that the term “Sunnah” refers to that which is free from Shubuhaat and Shahawaat in beliefs, particularly concerning matters of belief in Allah, His angels, His Books, His Messengers, and the Day of Judgment, and also issues related to Qadr and the virtues of the companions of the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Scholars have written in the knowledge of (this affair) under the title of Sunnah because its danger is great and the one in opposition is at the very edge of destruction.

As for the complete Sunnah, it is the path free from Shubuhaat and Shahawaat, as stated by Al-Hasan, Yunus Ibn Ubaid, Sufyan, Al-Fudayl, and others. Due to this, its adherents are described as strangers during the end of time because of their small number and strangeness (upon the complete Sunnah). Due to this, it has been transmitted in some of the narrations previously mentioned in the explanation of the (word) strangers (that they will be) “A righteous people, small in number among a large number of evil people. Those who disobey them are more numerous than those who obey them”. [a]

This demonstrates their small number, the few that will respond and accept them, and the numerous people who will oppose and disobey them. Due to this, commendation has been transmitted in several hadiths regarding the one who adheres to his religion during the end of time that he’ll be like one grasping hot coals; [b] and that the reward for one among them will be equivalent to that of fifty among those before them, as they will not find helpers in goodness (righteousness). These strangers (adhering to the Sunnah and righteousness) are two types of people: the first rectifies himself amidst the corruption of the people, while the second is the one who rectifies what has been corrupted by the people, and of the two, he is loftier and more virtuous in status. [1]

A Warning Against The Shubuhaat and The Shahawaat

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

Let us increase in obedience to (Allah); let us be mindful of Shubuhaat and Shahawaat because the Fitan (trials, tribulations, temptations) will be exposed to the hearts. Hudhaifah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “The Fitan (trials, temptations) will be presented to the hearts of the people like a reed mat woven stick by stick, and any heart afflicted by them will have a black mark put into it, but any heart that rejects them will have a white mark put into it. Thus there will be two kinds of hearts: one is pure like a white gemstone and it will not be harmed by any tribulation as long as the heavens and earth endure, and the other is black and dusty like a worn-out vessel, neither recognizing good nor rejecting evil, but rather immersed in its desires”. Sahih Muslim. Number 144]

The first type of heart is pure like a white gemstone and it will not be harmed by any trials long as the heavens and earth endure. This is because Allah grants them firmness and not due to their own power or strength; rather Allah grants them firmness. “Allah will keep firm those who believe, with the word that stands firm in this world (i.e. they will keep on worshipping Allah Alone and none else), and in the Hereafter]. [Ibraaheem. Ayah 27]

Allah bestows His favour upon them by granting them firmness, so they are not harmed regardless of the greatness of the trials. Let me give an example: I say, indeed amongst the people in the midst of these trials – just as Allah’s Messenger described the situation- are those who are firm like mountains; the winds, floods, hurricanes and storms come along, but they do not shake because the Iman in the hearts (of these people) is like the firm mountains. Allah keeps them away from the trials and make them firm, thus they are not harmed. However, there are other people who are like the trees that are moved by the wind to the right and the left until they finally fall. There are others who are like feathers and the Henna leaves- flying along with the trials when a small trial occurs, such as when a mild wind (blows) the fragile leaves to a far-off place. We ask Allah to keep us firm.

The second type of heart is described (as follows), “Black and dusty like a worn out vessel, neither recognising good nor rejecting evil, but rather immersed in its desires”. This is the state of the one whose heart is immersed in trials, agrees with them and does not reject them, thus the trial enters him gradually until his heart is worn out and becomes black like a worn-out vessel – a vessel whose mouth is turned upside down, so regardless the amount of water, butter fat and other things one attempts to pour, it will not accept anything. Indeed, we have often experienced the affair of this category of people whose hearts are worn out and regardless of the proofs and evidence from the Qur’an and Sunnah presented to nullify their falsehood, they do not accept that from you. This has to be the case because Allah’s Messenger described such a person as one with a heart that is similar to a worn-out vessel – a heart that neither recognises truth nor rejects evil; rather it is immersed in its desires. Whatever agrees with his desires, he accepts it – not because it is the truth, but rather only because it agrees with his desires. This (behaviour) is similar to that of the Yahud [i.e. those Yahud who rejected the clear message of the final Messenger] because they know the truth, but wage war against it, accept what agrees with their desires, reject what opposes their desires and wage war against it. This is something rife in this era amongst those whose hearts are worn out, thus they reach this state that has been described by Allah’s Messenger. It is as if we are witnessing this affair while Allah’s Messenger describes these people in our presence and we can see their deeds and dishonourable stances. [2]

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[a] Silsilah As-Saheehah. Number 1619]

[b] Anas Ibn Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “A time of patience will come to people in which adhering to one’s religion is like grasping a hot coal”. [Sahih Tirmidhee 2260]

Listen to the lecture by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah – may Allah preserve him:

https://www.salafisounds.com/living-in-times-when-holding-on-to-islam-is-like-holding-on-to-hot-coal-by-abu-khadeejah/

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; and 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 Iman, and make us (from those who are) guided and guiding (others). [3]

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. [4]

To be continued…InShaAllah

[1]Kash al-Kurbah Fee Wasf Ahl Al-Ghurbah page 7

[2]An Excerpt from ‘Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm’. pages 206-208

[3]https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2021/01/01/o-allaah-let-me-live-if-life-is-good-for-me-and-let-me-die-if-death-is-good-for-me/

[4]https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2020/12/29/o-allaah-rectify-my-religion-for-me-which-the-safeguard-of-my-affairs-a-tremendous-supplication/

[2] The Strangers

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

In the Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of mercy.

The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, “Islam began as a strange (thing) and it will return to be something strange just as it began”. [Sahih Muslim 145]

Imam Al-Awzaa’ee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Indeed, Islam will not vanish, but Ahlus Sunnah will vanish until only one man remains in a land”. This meaning can be found a lot in the speech of the pious predecessors, who praised the Sunnah, described it as strange and described its adherents as few. Al-Hasan, may Allah have mercy on him, used to say to his companions: “O Ahlus Sunnah! Be gentle (to one another), for you are the fewest among the people.”

Yunus Ibn Ubaid, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “There is nothing stranger than the Sunnah, and even stranger is the one who is acquainted with it”. 

Sufyan Ath-Thawri, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “Treat the people of the Sunnah with good, for they are indeed strangers”.

The intent of these Imams regarding the Sunnah is the path of the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, which he and his companions adhered to, free from Shubuhaat (beliefs and views that are made to resemble truth but are falsehood in reality) and Shahawaat (vain desires). [1]

A Warning Against The Shubuhaat and The Shahawaat

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

Let us increase in obedience to (Allah); let us be mindful of Shubuhaat and Shahawaat because the Fitan (trials, tribulations, temptations) will be exposed to the hearts. Hudhaifah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “The Fitan (trials, temptations) will be presented to the hearts of the people like a reed mat woven stick by stick, and any heart afflicted by them will have a black mark put into it, but any heart that rejects them will have a white mark put into it. Thus there will be two kinds of hearts: one is pure like a white gemstone and it will not be harmed by any tribulation as long as the heavens and earth endure, and the other is black and dusty like a worn-out vessel, neither recognizing good nor rejecting evil, but rather immersed in its desires”. [Sahih Muslim. Number 144]

The first type of heart is pure like a white gemstone and it will not be harmed by any trials long as the heavens and earth endure. This is because Allah grants them firmness and not due to their own power or strength; rather Allah grants them firmness. “Allah will keep firm those who believe, with the word that stands firm in this world (i.e. they will keep on worshipping Allah Alone and none else), and in the Hereafter]. [Ibraaheem. Ayah 27]

Allah bestows His favour upon them by granting them firmness, so they are not harmed regardless of the greatness of the trials. Let me give an example: I say, indeed amongst the people in the midst of these trials – just as Allah’s Messenger described the situation- are those who are firm like mountains; the winds, floods, hurricanes and storms come along, but they do not shake because the Iman in the hearts (of these people) is like the firm mountains. Allah keeps them away from the trials and make them firm, thus they are not harmed. However, there are other people who are like the trees that are moved by the wind to the right and the left until they finally fall. There are others who are like feathers and the Henna leaves- flying along with the trials when a small trial occurs, such as when a mild wind (blows) the fragile leaves to a far-off place. We ask Allah to keep us firm.

The second type of heart is described (as follows), “Black and dusty like a worn out vessel, neither recognising good nor rejecting evil, but rather immersed in its desires”. This is the state of the one whose heart is immersed in trials, agrees with them and does not reject them, thus the trial enters him gradually until his heart is worn out and becomes black like a worn-out vessel – a vessel whose mouth is turned upside down, so regardless the amount of water, butter fat and other things one attempts to pour, it will not accept anything. Indeed, we have often experienced the affair of this category of people whose hearts are worn out and regardless of the proofs and evidence from the Qur’an and Sunnah presented to nullify their falsehood, they do not accept that from you. This has to be the case because Allah’s Messenger described such a person as one with a heart that is similar to a worn-out vessel – a heart that neither recognises truth nor rejects evil; rather it is immersed in its desires. Whatever agrees with his desires, he accepts it – not because it is the truth, but rather only because it agrees with his desires. This (behaviour) is similar to that of the Yahud [i.e. those Yahud who rejected the clear message of the final Messenger] because they know the truth, but wage war against it, accept what agrees with their desires, reject what opposes their desires and wage war against it. This is something rife in this era amongst those whose hearts are worn out, thus they reach this state that has been described by Allah’s Messenger. It is as if we are witnessing this affair while Allah’s Messenger describes these people in our presence and we can see their deeds and dishonourable stances. [2]

Supplication of The Morning and Evening – Before Sunrise and Before Sunset
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. [Imaam Albaani declared it Hasan in Silsilah As-Saheehah Number 227]

To be continued..InShaAllah

[1] Kash al-Kurbah Fee Wasf Ahl Al-Ghurbah page 6 – By Imam Ibn Rajab (may Allah have mercy upon him)

[2] An Excerpt from ‘Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm’. pages 206-208

What did Some Upright Scholars Prohibit Many Years Ago, Long Before AI (Artificial Intelligence) Software That Distorts Realities?!

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, Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

A Fatwa On The Prohibition of Acting

Al-Allamah Ahmad Bin Yahyah An-Najmee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

All praise and thanks are due to Allah and may peace be upon Allah’s Messenger, the Messenger’s family, and companions. To proceed: First: what is clear to me is that it is unlawful, as it is founded on the following prohibited matters:

Lying: Acting is based on lying and cannot be concluded without it (i.e. the actor is not in reality the one he portrays himself to be). Lying is unlawful and a Muslim does not doubt its unlawfulness. Indeed, Allah – in His Mighty Book – dispraised lying and the one who commits the deed, rather He, The Exalted, cursed them. [ثُمَّ نَبۡتَہِلۡ فَنَجۡعَل لَّعۡنَتَ ٱللَّهِ عَلَى ٱلۡڪَـٰذِبِينَ- – then we pray and invoke (sincerely) the Curse of Allah upon those who lie]. [Aal Imran. 61]

In a hadith reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, he said, “Verily, lying leads to immorality and immorality leads to hellfire”. [Al-Bukhari 6049 and Muslim 2607]

Forgery and Falsehood: In an authentic hadith reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, he said, “He who made a claim of anything, which (in fact) did not belong to him (or he does not possess), is not from us…” [Muslim. 61]

The actor feigns (emotions such) as crying, laughter, sadness, joy, anger, or satisfaction while lying (i.e. not true in reality).

Assuming The Personality of Someone Else: A Muslim may adopt the persona of a disbeliever; a disbeliever or an immoral person may adopt the persona of a believer among the most senior figures in Islam, such as a companion of the Prophet, a noble scholar, or a just king. This is a grave offense. The actors legitimise these prohibited actions while knowing that mimicking another person’s appearance, gait, or speech through a narrative is tantamount to backbiting. [a] The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “I do not love that I imitate anyone even if I should get such and such”. [Sunan Abu Dawud 4875. Silsilah As-Saheehah 901]

It Teaches Deception and Immorality: The corrupt activities that arose from the viewing of these corrupt performances have either prevailed or undermined the assertion of reform.

The actors who ascribe to Islam provide significant assistance to orientalists- the enemies of Islam. This is because they take narratives that are fabricated regarding the leaders and (distinguished) men of Islam and the intent behind them is to degrade their status. Thus, the actors take these narratives and disseminate them, while either being aware or are amazed by them- either unaware or not thinking whether they are authentic. Through this, they definitely give service to orientalists and tarnish the reputation of Islam and its (distinguished) men. This behaviour represents a profound affront to Islam and its adherents, and it may even lead the performer toward disbelief.

The Prophet’s companions and those who came before them were influenced by listening to the Qur’an, the Sunnah, and admonitions, and they did not require plays (or dramas). [1]

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[a]: Backbiting: When is speaking about someone behind his back not considered backbiting? It is not considered backbiting when a person makes a complaint about an oppressor to a person who can stop the oppression; when seeking help to stop evil- by making that known to the person who can stop the evil; when seeking for a fatwa; when warning the Muslims so that they are not deceived; when mentioning a person who commits his evil openly or one who calls to innovations in religious matters and when identifying someone with a physical defect, whilst not intending defamation. [2]

We ask Allah:
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. [Saheeh Muslim Number: 2720]

[1] An Excerpt from Al-Fataawaa Al-Jaliyyah Anil Manaahij Ad-Da’wiyyah 1/55-57. Publisher: Dar Al-Minhaaj. 1st Edition 1425AH (2004)

[2] Subul As-Salaam- 4/553-554]

“Produce Your Proof That I Can’t Celebrate Mawlid, National Day, Happy Independence Day, Israa Wal-Miraaj”, etc

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Bid'ah (Innovation), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

“Produce Your Proof That I Can’t Celebrate Mawlid, National Day, Happy Independence Day, Israa Wal-Miraaj”, etc – [The Above is a Statement of Some of Those Who Waste Valuable Time to Argue Without Sound Principles]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Verily, Allah does not take away knowledge by snatching it from the people, but He takes it away by taking away death of the religious scholars till none of the scholars remains alive. Then the people will take ignorant ones as their leaders, who, when asked to deliver religious verdicts, will issue them without knowledge, the result being that they will go astray and will lead others astray”. [Bukhari and Muslim]

This text (proves) that the disappearance of knowledge will not be through its removal from the hearts, but through the death of the scholars. (Then) the ignorant people will remain- those who will occupy the place of the scholars in giving verdicts and teaching. They will teach and give verdicts based on ignorance, thus ignorance will spread and become manifest”. Therefore, if the sound Sunni knowledge is taken away, acting upon it will be taken away- is that not the case?! When ignorance manifests, acting upon it will become manifest, thus both knowledge and acting upon (Knowledge) will disappear, and ignorance will manifest, and acting upon (ignorance) will become widespread just as Al-Hafidh Al-Qurtubi clarified in Al-Mufhim. [1]

Indeed, it is a well-known principle among the scholars of Usoolul Fiqh that the default ruling concerning all matters of worldly life—such as clothing, food, and various other activities—is that they are permissible, unless there exists divine text that renders them impermissible. [2]

Al-Allamah Abdul Muhsin Al-Abbad, may Allah preserve him, said: “The initial ruling regarding acts of worship is that neither are they permissible nor legislated, except when there is proof to show that they are legislated by Allah and His Messenger; otherwise they are included in the statement of Allah: [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?!]” [3]

The aforementioned principle concerning acts of worship, which is well understood by the scholars of Usoolul Fiqh, highlights the ignorance and folly of the misguided Sufi youth who claimed, “Provide evidence that I cannot celebrate the Mawlid, rather than requiring me to demonstrate that I can’t.” This individual attempted to distort established principles, as the fundamental tenet regarding acts of worship is that they are neither permitted nor legislated unless explicitly sanctioned by the Qur’an and authentic Sunnah. The misguided young Sufi sought to manipulate this principle to mislead his audience and hide the fact that he was following vain desires.

Al-Allaamah Abdul Muhsin Al-Abbad said: Two conditions must be fulfilled for an act of worship to be accepted; the first of the two conditions is that the act of worship must be done sincerely for Allah, and secondly the act of worship must be in agreement with the Sunnah of the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. The act of worship has to be done sincerely for the sake of Allaah (alone) and no one is to be associated as a partner with Allah in worship. The act of worship must be done in conformity with what the Messenger conveyed (the Qur’an and the Sunnah). This is what the Shahaadah (لا إله إلا الله محمدا رسول الله) necessitates. (لا إله إلا الله) necessitates that acts of worship must be carried out sincerely for the sake of Allaah alone; and (محمدا رسول الله) necessitates that acts of worship must be carried out in conformity with what was revealed to the noble Messenger. Therefore, Allaah is not to be worshipped with bidah, newly invented matters in Religion, and evil acts, for which Allaah [The Most High] has sent down no authority; rather acts of worship must conform with the Sunnah of the noble Messenger. If any of these two conditions or both of them are not fulfilled, the act of worship will be rejected by Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] says: [وَقَدِمۡنَآ إِلَىٰ مَا عَمِلُواْ مِنۡ عَمَلٍ۬ فَجَعَلۡنَـٰهُ هَبَآءً۬ مَّنثُورً – And We shall turn to whatever deeds they disbelievers, polytheists] did, and We shall make such deeds as scattered floating particles of dust] [Soorah Al-Furqaan. Ayah 23]

The noble Messenger said: [مَنْ أَحْدَثَ فِي أَمْرِنَا هَذَا مَا لَيْسَ مِنْهُ فَهُوَ رَدٌ- He who innovates something in this matter of ours [i.e., Islam] that is not of it will have it rejected [by Allah].”[Saheeh Al-Bukhaari. Number 2697] [Saheeh Muslim. Number 1718]

And in another wording of this hadeeth in Saheeh Muslim the Prophet said: [مَنْ عَمِلَ عَمَلًا لَيْسَ عَلَيْهِ أَمْرُنَا فَهُوَ رَد – He who does an act (of worship) which we have not commanded (i.e. not commanded by the Prophet), will have it rejected].
The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said:

فَإِنَّهُ مَنْ يَعِشْ مِنْكُمْ فَسَيَرَى اخْتِلَافًا كَثِيرًا، فَعَلَيْكُمْ بِسُنَّتِي وَسُنَّةِ الْخُلَفَاءِ الرَّاشِدِينَ الْمَهْدِيينَ، عَضُّوا عَلَيْهَا بِالنَّوَاجِذِ، وَإِيَّاكُمْ وَمُحْدَثَاتِ الْأُمُورِ؛ فَإِنَّ كُلَّ بِدْعَةٍ ضَلَالَةٌ

Verily he lives long among you will see a lot of differing, so you must keep to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the Khulafaa Ar-Raashidoon [the rightly guided caliphs]. Adhere to it with your molar teeth (i.e. adhere to it firmly). And beware of newly invented matters [in the religion], for every newly invented matter [in the religion] is a bidah [innovation in the religion], and every bidah is misguidance. [Abu Dawood. Number 4607] [Tirmidhee. Number 2676]

The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him, has clarified -in the hadith about the seventy-three sects amongst whom seventy-two sects will enter the hellfire and one sect will be saved- the saved sect are those who adhere to the path him and his noble companions adhered to. [4]

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked: What is the intent behind the Messenger’s statement when he spoke about the Ummah in the hadith: “All of them (the sects) are in the fire except one” and what is that one?. Also, will all the other 72 (deviant) sects be in the fire for eternity? Benefit us.

Response: The prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “The Jews split into 71 sects, meaning all of them are astray and their affair ruined, except one. The Christians split into 72 sects, meaning all of them are astray and their affair ruined, except one. And this Ummah will split into 73 sects- all of them in the fire, except one. This one group is Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’a [those who firmly adhere to the authentic Prophetic Sunnah and are united upon that] – the companions of the Prophet and those who follow them exactly in faith, the adherents to pure Islamic monotheism and sound faith”.

As for the other 72 sects that have been threatened with the fire, among them is one who is a disbeliever (see footnote a), among them is one who is a sinner, and among them is one about whom it is established with clear evidence that he is an innovator in religious affairs. So, the one – among them – that dies in a state of disbelief (see footnote b) will be in the fire for eternity, and the one that dies in a state of adherence to religious innovation that is lesser than major disbelief (see footnote c) or sins is under the will of Allah, while still threatened with the fire. So, based on this it is known that not all of them are disbelievers, but rather among them is a disbeliever and other than him among the sinners and the innovators in religious affairs. [5]

Imam Malik, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “The latter part of this Ummah [i.e. those who will come after the Sahabah] will not be rectified except by way of that which rectified its earlier part [i.e. the pious predecessors]”. And he said, “Whoever innovates a bidah in Islaam and considers it to be something good, then indeed he has claimed that Muhammad betrayed the Risaalah (i.e. the message he was entrusted with); because Allaah said: ٱلۡيَوۡمَ أَكۡمَلۡتُ لَكُمۡ دِينَكُمۡ – This day, I have perfected your religion for you]. Therefore, what was not part of the religion at that time [i.e. during the time of the Messenger] cannot be part of the religion today (i.e. after he departs from this world)”. [6]

Ataa, may Allaah have mercy upon him, narrated, “A woman said in the presence of Aa’isha, may Allah be pleased with her, ‘If the wife of such and such gives birth, we’ll slaughter a camel’. So, Aa’isha said, ‘But the Sunnah is that two sheep are to be slaughtered for the birth of a boy and one sheep for the birth of a girl'”.

Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Haadi Al-Madkhali, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “In this hadith, there is evidence that Ghuluww (going beyond what the Shariah has legislated- neither commanded nor recommended) is forbidden, and that adherence to the Sunnah is the truth. If a newly born child is a boy, then his guardian should slaughter two sheep; and if the child is a girl, one sheep is slaughtered for her. One should not obligate to himself to slaughter a camel, for indeed he has not been commanded to do that. Limiting oneself to the Sunnah is the good thing to do instead of encroaching on its legislated boundaries. [7]

Shaikh A-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 halaal and haraam. A group of people make permissible some of the things which Allah has declared impermissible and others declare impermissible some of those things which Allah has made permissible. Likewise, some people innovate acts of worship that have not been legislated by Allah; rather Allah, The Most High, prohibited them. The foundation of the religion of Islam is that the permissible affairs are those that Allah and His Messenger have made permissible, and the impermissible affairs are those that Allah and His Messenger have made impermissible. It is not allowed for anyone to leave the straight path that Allaah sent His Messenger with. Allah says:

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

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

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

[وَأَنَّ هَـٰذَا صِرَٲطِى مُسۡتَقِيمً۬ا فَٱتَّبِعُوهُ‌ۖ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُواْ ٱلسُّبُلَ فَتَفَرَّقَ بِكُمۡ عَن سَبِيلِهِۦ‌ – Indeed this is My Straight Path, so follow it. And do not follow other paths; they will separate you from His Path.” [Hadeeth reported by Imaam Ahmad in Al-Musnad 4437]

Allah mentions – in Surah Al-An’am, Surah Al-A’raf and other them – those deeds due to which the idol worshipers 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 Saa’ibah [i.e. a she-camel let loose for free pasture for their false gods, e.g. idols, etc., and nothing was allowed to be carried on it]. They [also] declared permissible those [deeds] which Allah declared impermissible, such as the killing of their children and they instituted a religion which Allah did not allow. Allah [The Most High] says:

[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].

There were impermissible deeds that they established as acts of worship, such as shirk, and lewd behaviour, such as Tawaaf around the Kabah, whilst being 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-Bukhaari that Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said that Allah [The Blessed and Exalted] said: “And 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”. (see footnote d)

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 Ramadhaan, or it can be optional such as fasting three days every month. Also travelling to the Masjid Al-Haraam [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 recommendation such as the surplus beyond [what is] needed, as Allah [The Most High] says: [وَيَسْأَلُونَكَ مَاذَا يُنفِقُونَ قُلِ الْعَفْوَ – And they ask you what they ought to spend. Say: That which is beyond (what they) need]. [8]

Birthdays and National Days

Saudi Erudite Imam, Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Any occasion that is observed as a day of celebration, occurring weekly or annually, and is not sanctioned by Islamic law, is considered a Bidah (innovative practice in religion). This is because the One [i.e., Allah] who establishes all legislation has prescribed the Aqeeqah for newborns, without instituting any further celebrations. Consequently, the adoption of such recurring celebrations implies a comparison to Islamic holidays, which is not permissible. In Islam, the only recognised festivals are Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha, along with Friday, which is designated for a specific form of worship. [9]

Saudi Erudite Imam, Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: According to Islamic law, any celebrations beyond the two that are legislated are deemed incorrect, regardless of whether they are held in honour of an individual, their mother, daughter or son. All this that has been newly introduced – nowadays – is an imitation of the (customs) of Christians and Jews. It has no basis or foundation (within Islamic legislation). Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Uncle’s Day, or any specific day dedicated to an individual or the day for his daughter or son, all are considered inappropriate under Islamic law. [10]

He also stated: “The celebration of National Day can be viewed as an imitation of the adversaries of Allah. While it may stem from good intentions and the efforts of individuals striving to arrive at a correct conclusion regarding the matter, it is evident that such celebrations lack legislative endorsement and are not befitting (not appropriate or not allowed); rather, imitation of Allah’s adversaries is found in it, even if it is not intended as an act of worship. Should worship be the intention behind it, it would constitute an innovation in religion; however, worship is not intended through it, rather, what is intended is to express congratulations and to highlight the achievements of the nation, which aligns it with the commemorative practices initiated by the Jews and Christians. Therefore, it is not befitting (appropriate, allowed) to imitate them in this regard or in any other matters (that Islamic law has neither permitted nor sanctioned). [11]

Imam Ibnul Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Hardship is only encountered by the one who abandons the Ma’loofaat and Awaa’id [i.e. those habitual things, deeds, practices, customs, etc] for other than the sake of Allah. As for the one who abandons them truthfully and sincerely from the bottom of his heart- for the sake of Allaah alone- then indeed he does not encounter any difficulty due to abandoning them except in the beginning so that he is tested as to whether he is truthful or untruthful in abandoning them? If he exercises a little bit of patience, its [abandonment] will alternate into pleasure. Ibn Sirin, may Allah have mercy upon him, said that he heard Shurayh swearing by Allah that “A servant does not abandon anything for the sake of Allaah and finds a loss in that”. Thus, their statement [i.e. the people of knowledge] that “Whoever abandons something for the Sake of Allah, Allaah will replace it with what is better”. This is true. This compensation is of different types and the best of that which a person is compensated with is the desire and yearning to get close to Allaah, seeking after Allah’s pleasure, love of Allaah, and the heart granted by way of it tranquility, strength, enthusiasm, happiness and being pleased with its Lord, The Exalted. [12]

Saudi Erudite Imam, Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: It is incumbent upon every Muslim to refrain from relying (solely) on customary practices; instead, he must refer to the authentic Islamic legislation. Anything that is validated by Islamic law is deemed permissible, while that which is not validated is considered impermissible. The customs of people do not serve as valid evidence for determining the legality of any matter. All customs practiced by people within their respective nations or tribes should be evaluated against the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, for adjudication. Thus, what Allah and His Messenger have permitted is lawful, and what they have prohibited must be forsaken, regardless of its acceptance as a custom among the people. [13]

Israa Wal-Miraj

Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

There is no doubt that the Israa Wal Miraaj is from Allah’s Great Signs, which show the truthfulness of His Messenger Muhammad [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him], the greatness of his status in the Sight of Allah [The Mighty and Exalted], as well as evidence of Allah’s Magnificent Power and His Exaltation above His Creation [Mankind, Jinn etc]. Allah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] says:

سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي أَسْرَى بِعَبْدِهِ لَيْلًا مِنَ الْمَسْجِدِ الْحَرَامِ إِلَى الْمَسْجِدِ الْأَقْصَى الَّذِي بَارَكْنَا حَوْلَهُ لِنُرِيَهُ مِنْ آيَاتِنَا إِنَّه هُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْبَصِيرُ

Glorified (and Exalted) be He (Allah) [above all that (evil) they associate with Him], Who took His slave (Muhammad ) for a journey by night from Al-Masjid-al-Haram (at Makkah) to the farthest mosque (in Jerusalem), the neighbourhood whereof We have blessed, in order that We might show him (Muhammad) of Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, lessons, signs, etc.). Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer. [Surah Al-Israa. Verse 1]

It has been transmitted by way of Tawatur -[i.e. an authentic narration transmitted by numerous narrators to the extent that such narrators cannot all agree on a lie]- from Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] that he was taken up to the heavens and its gates were opened for him until he went past the Seventh Heaven. Then his Lord [Allaah (Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections)] spoke to him regarding what He willed and obligated the five daily prayers on him. Allaah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] obligated fifty daily prayers on him at first, but our Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] did not cease going back to Allaah and asking Him to reduce the obligation until Allaah made it five – five obligatory prayers but their reward is equal to fifty. That is because (one) good deed carries ten rewards. Therefore, all praise and thanks be to Allaah for all His blessings [i.e. all the blessings bestowed on His servants].

This night -in which the Israa Wal Miraaj took place- has not been transmitted in the authentic narrations that it took place specifically in the month of Rajab or other than it. All that has been narrated about the specific (month in which) it took place is not transmitted from the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] with authentic chains of transmission according to the scholars of Hadeeth. And with Allah is Perfect Wisdom [free from all weaknesses, shortcomings, deficiencies, faults] as to why He made the people forget [the specific night the Israa and Miraaj took place].

And even if the specific night it took place was established, then still it would neither be permissible for the Muslims to specify any act of worship concerning it nor celebrate it. That is because the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] and his companions [may Allah be pleased with them] neither celebrated it nor did they carry out any specific acts of worship on such a night. Had it been that celebrating it is legislated (in the religion), the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] would have made it known to the Ummah- either by way of speech or action. And if anything was practiced, then it would have been known and widely known and his companions would have transmitted it to us, for indeed, they have transmitted – from our Prophet- everything that is needed by the Ummah. They did not neglect anything in the religion; rather they were foremost in practicing every righteous act. Therefore, if celebrating on this night was legislated (in Islaam), they would have preceded us in such an act. The Prophet is (was) the most sincere adviser to the people [i.e. in both their religious and worldly affairs], conveyed the message perfectly, and fulfilled the trust [which Allaah entrusted on him]. If exalting this night and celebrating it was something (legislated) in the religion, then neither would the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] have neglected nor concealed it.

Therefore, when it [is it the case that nothing has been transmitted from the Prophet’s speech or actions, and his companions] about this, then one knows that celebrating and exalting this night has nothing to do with Islam, for indeed Allah has perfected the religion for this Ummah, completed His favour upon them and censured the one who legislates in the religion that which is not part of it. Allah [Glorified and Exalted be He] says:

[الْيَوْمَ أَكْمَلْتُ لَكُمْ دِينَكُمْ وَأَتْمَمْتُ عَلَيْكُمْ نِعْمَتِي وَرَضِيتُ لَكُمُ الْإِسْلامَ دِينًا – This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion. [Surah Al-Maa’idah. Verse 3]

Allah says: [أَمْ لَهُمْ شُرَكَاءُ شَرَعُوا لَهُمْ مِنَ الدِّينِ مَا لَمْ يَأْذَنْ بِهِ اللَّهُ وَلَوْلا كَلِمَةُ الْفَصْلِ لَقُضِيَ بَيْنَهُمْ وَإِنَّ الظَّالِمِينَ لَهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ – Or have they partners with Allah (false gods), who have instituted for them a religion which Allah has not allowed. And had it not been for a decisive Word (gone forth already), the matter would have been judged between them. And verily, for the Zalimun (polytheists and wrong-doers), there is a painful torment. [Surah Ash-Shura. Verse 21]

It has been transmitted from Allaah’s Messenger in the authentic narrations that he warned against innovations in religion and stated explicitly that it is a deviation to warn the Ummah about the great danger of religious innovations and to keep them away from acting on it. It was transmitted from Aa’isha [may Allah be pleased with her] that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: [من أحدث في أمرنا هذا ما ليس منه فهو رد – Whoever innovates something in this affair of ours [i.e. the religion of Islam], it will be rejected].[Saheeh Al-Bukhaari 2697]

[من عمل عملاً ليس عليه أمرنا فهو رد – Whoever performs (an act of worship) which is not in accordance with our affair [i.e. the religion of Islaam], it will be rejected]. [Saheeh Muslim 1718]

The Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said:

أُوصِيكُمْ بِتَقْوَى اللَّهِ وَالسَّمْعِ وَالطَّاعَةِ وَإِنْ عَبْدًا حَبَشِيًّا فَإِنَّهُ مَنْ يَعِشْ مِنْكُمْ بَعْدِي فَسَيَرَى اخْتِلَافًا كَثِيرًا فَعَلَيْكُمْ بِسُنَّتِي وَسُنَّةِ الْخُلَفَاءِ الْمَهْدِيِّينَ الرَّاشِدِينَ تَمَسَّكُوا بِهَا وَعَضُّوا عَلَيْهَا بِالنَّوَاجِذِ وَإِيَّاكُمْ وَمُحْدَثَاتِ الْأُمُورِ فَإِنَّ كُلَّ مُحْدَثَةٍ بِدْعَةٌ وَكُلَّ بِدْعَةٍ ضَلَالَةٌ

I command you to fear Allah and to listen and obey [the Muslim ruler in what is good] even if a slave is a leader over you. Certainly, the one who will live among you will see lots of differences, so adhere to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the right-guided Khulafaa [i.e. Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthmaan, and Ali]. Bite onto that with your molar teeth [i.e. adhere firmly to it] and beware of the newly-invented matters in the religion, because every newly invented affair in the religion is a Bidah [religious innovation] and every bidah is misguidance. [Sunan Abu Dawud 4607]

The narrations that convey the meaning of this affair are many. And it has been transmitted from the companions of Allah’s Messenger and the pious predecessors [i.e. the first three generations of Islam] after them that they warned against religious innovations and [gave advice to the people in order to make them fearful of practicing religious innovations]. That is because such practices are additions [i.e. acts that are not legislated by Allaah and His Messenger] and [practicing them] is tantamount to legislating something in the religion, which Allaah has not ordained. It is tantamount to belittling the religion of Islam and accusing it [of imperfection] after it was perfected.
And when it is the case that Allah has obligated on Muslims to give advice to another and explain what He has legislated for them in the Religion, and forbade one from concealing knowledge, I saw that I should notify (or warn) my Muslim brothers about this religious innovation, which has spread to many regions, to the extent that some people think that it is something related to the religion. [14]

Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him, said, “Follow (i.e. the Qur’an, the authentic Sunnah, and the understanding of Muhammad’s companions) and not innovate (in religious matters ) because you have been sufficed”. [15]

Mu’adh Bin Jabal, may Allah be pleased with him, said, “Beware of that which is innovated (in the religion) because what is innovated is misguidance”. [16]

Ibn Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him, said, “You will find people who claim that they are calling to the Book of Allaah whilst they have placed it behind their backs. So, adhere to knowledge and beware of innovations in religious affairs, going beyond bounds and delving too much into affairs (without a justified reason”. [17]

Imaam Al-Hasan Al-Basri [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “The Sunnah -by the One besides whom there is none worthy of worship except Him (i.e. Allaah)- is between the one who exceed the limits and the one who falls short, so be patient upon it-may Allaah have mercy upon you; for indeed Ahlus Sunnah were the fewest people in the past and shall be the fewest people (from those to) come- [الّذين لم يذهبوا مع أهل الإتراف في إترافهم -those who did not go with the people of transgression and corruption in their transgression and corruption; [ولا مع أهل البدع في بدعهم -nor with the people of Bidah in their Bidah]; rather they (exercised) patience upon the Sunnah until they met their Lord (i.e. passed away). Likewise-InShaaAllaah- you be (the same)”. [18]

Imaam Al-Barbahaaree [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: “Beware of small innovations (i.e. religious innovations) because they grow until they become large”. [19]

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”. [20]

The Perfect Example to Follow In Every Aspect of Life

Allah, The Exalted, says:

لَّقَدۡ كَانَ لَكُمۡ فِى رَسُولِ ٱللَّهِ أُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ۬ لِّمَن كَانَ يَرۡجُواْ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلۡيَوۡمَ ٱلۡأَخِرَ وَذَكَرَ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرً۬ا

Certainly, there is for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent example to follow for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day and who remembers Allah often]. [Al-Ahzaab. 21]

Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, says:
قُلۡ إِن كُنتُمۡ تُحِبُّونَ ٱللَّهَ فَٱتَّبِعُونِى يُحۡبِبۡكُمُ ٱللَّهُ وَيَغۡفِرۡ لَكُمۡ ذُنُوبَكُمۡ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ غَفُورٌ۬ رَّحِيمٌ۬

Say (O Muhammad to mankind): If you (really) love Allah then follow me, Allah will love you and forgive you of your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful]. [Aal Imran 31]

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz said: This verse is conveyed to everyone who claims to love Allah, yet does not truly follow Allah’s Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, by obeying the Prophet’s commands and avoiding what he has forbidden. Therefore, unless he truly follows the Messenger, their claim of love for Allah is not truthful. [21]

Imam Sufyan Ibn Uyaynah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, serves as the greatest criterion (for both humanity and Jinn), with all matters being submitted to him (for evaluation and adjudication) according to his manners, path, and guidance. Consequently, anything that aligns with this is deemed to be the truth, while anything that contradicts it is considered falsehood”. [22]

A Muslim needs to recognise the paramount importance of adhering to the teachings of the final Messenger in all matters of life. In Islam, the only sanctioned celebrations are the two Eids, as the final Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, nullified all others. Thus, we confine ourselves to the divine ordinances established by our Lord and His final Messenger. Anas Ibn Malik [may Allah be pleased with him] reported that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] arrived in Medina during two days in which they (i.e. the people) were celebrating. He asked, “What are these two days?” They said, “We used to celebrate these two days in the pre-Islamic era”. He said, “Verily, Allah has replaced these two days with two days that are better – Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr”. [23]

Therefore, we confine ourselves to what Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, has sanctioned- neither speaking nor acting before he has commanded or prohibited in affairs related to the religion. Allah says:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تُقَدِّمُوا بَيْنَ يَدَيِ اللَّهِ وَرَسُولِهِ ۖ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَرْفَعُوا أَصْوَاتَكُمْ فَوْقَ صَوْتِ النَّبِيِّ

O you who believe! Do not put (yourselves) forward before Allah and His Messenger, and fear Allah. Verily! Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. O you who believe! Raise not your voices above the voice of the Prophet. [Al-Hujuraat. 1-2] [24]

————————————–

Footnotes a and b:  Bear in mind without any doubt that expelling a Muslim from the fold of Islam is the responsibility of the upright scholars. Read below:

https://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?subsecID=MNJ09&articleID=MNJ090001&articlePages=1
https://www.spubs.com/sps/sp.cfm?secID=MNJ&subsecID=MNJ09&loadpage=displaysubsection.cfm

Footnote c: The Types of Bidah: All religious innovations are evil, but there are those that will exit a person from the fold of Islaam (Bida’atul Mukaffirah) and those that do not exit a person from the fold of Islaam (Bida’atul Mufassiqah). Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadee Al-Madkhalee [may Allaah preserve him] was asked whether there is a difference between Bidah Al-Mukaffirah and Bidah Al-Mufassiqah; so he replied that there is Bidah Mukaffirah, such as rejecting the Ruyah (i.e. denying that the believers will see Allaah in the afterlife); rejecting Allaah’s Uluww [i.e. denying that Allaah is above his creation –Allaah ascended over the Throne in a way that benefits his majesty)]; invoking other than Allaah; offering slaughtered sacrifice (i.e. animals) to other than Allaah etc. These are affairs of Bidah Al-Mukaffirah (the bidah that is tantamount to disbelief). But we do not make Takfeer of the people who commit this type of Bidah until we establish the proofs against them. That is because some of them (i.e. the people who fall into these affairs) carry doubts and are far away from the era of Prophethood and its light (i.e. guidance). So they fall into the likes these innovations. Rejecting the Ruyah is disbelief; rejecting Allaah’s Uluww is disbelief; the saying that the Qur’aan is created is disbelief-major disbelief. But this person, -[who testifies that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allaah, and he prays, observes fasting, wants paradise and believes in that] -received the doubts of the people of falsehood, so he falls into the likes of these affairs (i.e. these innovations that are tantamount to disbelief). So we say to him: You have fallen into disbelief and the evidence is this and this, and we clarify for him. So if Allaah grants him Tawfeeq and he returns to the truth, then all praise is due to Allaah. But if not, we declare him a disbeliever after establishing the proofs against him. As for Bidah Al-Mufassiqah it is other than this (i.e. it is not at the level of that which is tantamount to disbelief)… [http://www.rabee.net/ar/questions.php?cat=26&id=484 paraphrased]

Footnote d: 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 Allaah [The Mighty and Majestic), then when the command of Allaah is mentioned with regards to what Allaah loves or hates, he protects his hearing from what Allaah hates and lends an ear to what Allaah loves. He also does the same with regards to what he looks at; what he grips with his hand and where he walks to. Or Allaah guides him, so that he only looks at what Allaah loves; listens to what Allaah loves and walks towards what Allaah loves. [Sharh Arba’een of Imaam Muhammad Bin Saaleh Al-Uthaymeen.. Pages 376-381 and Sharh Arba-een of Shaikh Saaleh Aala Shaikh pages 256-258] [Also see, Jaami-ul Uloom Wal-Hikam of Imaam Ibn Rajab pages 619-641 Daar Ibn Rajab 2002];

Read: article by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah [may Allaah preserve him]: The Prophet’s Birthday — Are the Eid Milad

Celebrations from Islam and the Sunnah?
https://www.abukhadeejah.com/prophet-birthday-eid-milad/

The Origins of The Mawlid, the Eid Milād Nabiyy: By Shaikh Abu Hakeem [may Allaah preserve him]:
https://www.salafisounds.com/the-origins-of-the-mawlid-eid-milad-an-nabi-by-abu-hakeem/

Exposing the Innovated Practice of the Mawlid – Important Facts Related to Celebrating the Prophet’s Birthday- By Ustadh Abu Hatim [may Allah preserve him]:

https://www.wrightstreetmosque.com/exposing-the-innovated-practice-of-the-mawlid-important-facts-related-to-celebrating-the-prophets-birthday/

The Notion of Bidah Hasanah- By Shaikh Abu Iyaad [may Allah preserve him]:

http://www.bidah.com/articles/ezaqa-the-notion-of-bidah-hasan-good-innovation-destroyed-part-1.cfm
http://www.shia.bs/articles/chbjn-refuting-the-notion-of-bidah-hasanah-good-innovation-in-worship-part-8.cfm
http://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?subsecID=BDH02&articleID=BDH020003&pfriend=

[1] “Al-Hajr Fee Daw-il Kitaab Was-Sunnah Wa Fahm Salaf Al-Ummah2. page: 15-16 by Shaikh Abdullah Al-Bukhari, may Allah preserve him.

[2] Read about this affair in Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 21/535

[3] Read about this principle in Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 16/17-19

[4] An Excerpt from أثر العبادات في حياة المسلم pages 3-31

[5]https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/17308/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AF-%D8%A8%D9%82%D9%88%D9%84%D9%87-%EF%B7%BA-%D9%83%D9%84%D9%87%D9%85-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7-%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AD%D8%AF%D8%A9 paraphrased ]

[6] Al-Itisaam of Imaam Shaatibee 1/28

[7] At-taleeqaat Al-Maleehah Alaa Silsilah al-Ahaadeeth As-Saheeh. Vol 1. Page 416]

[8] An Excerpt from Al-Ibaadaat Ash-Shar-iyyah Wal-Farqu Baynahaa Wa Baynal Bid’ah page: 78-79

[9] Sharh Kitaab at-Tawheed 1/382

[10]https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/26374/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%A7%D8%B9%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D9%8A%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AF paraphrased

[11]https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/2592/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AD%D8%AA%D9%81%D8%A7%D9%84-%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%B9%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%88%D8%B7%D9%86%D9%8A%D8%A9 paraphrased

[12] Al-Fawaa’id page 166

[13] Majmoo Al-Fataawas 6/510

[14] http://www.binbaz.org.sa/article/24%5D paraphrased

[15] Sharh Usool Al-I’tiqaad 1/86]

[16] Sharh Usool Al-I’tiqaad 1/89]

[17] Al-Bidah Wan-Nahiy Anhaa. page 59]

[18] Ighaatha Al-Lahfaan 1/70]

[19] Translation of Sharhus Sunnah by Shaikh Abu Talhah- Dawud Burbank- (May Allaah have mercy upon him and his wife). point number 7. page 28)]

[20] Shifaa As-Sudoor Fee Ziyaaratil Mashaahid Wal-Quboor page: 148]

[21] Tafsir al-Muyassar

[22] Al-Jaami Li-Akhlaaq Ar-Raawi Wa Aadaab As-Saami’ page 8

[23] Sunan Abu Dawud 1134

[24] An Excerpt from Al-Fawaa-id al-Ilmiyyah Min Ad-Durar Al-Baaziyyah. 4/ 391-392

The Messenger is The Definitive and Weightiest Criterion In Every Matter, Including Not Deceitfully Sidestepping Responsibility

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: He (the Messenger) serves as the definitive and weightiest criterion (for humankind and Jinn) through whose manners, statements and actions are measured the manners, statements and actions (of others). He is the manifest criterion that when followed, a distinction is made between the people of guidance and the people of misguidance”. [1]

It is thus emphasised that we strive to embody the likes of the above statements in all our interactions and mutual dealings. This includes refraining from employing deceitful tactics on social media to escape accountability, avoiding a victim mentality, and not selectively quoting the general remarks of scholars and students of knowledge to sidestep personal obligations. Additionally, we should not subtly resort to sophistry and adorned speech to avoid taking responsibility. The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Indeed, I am only a human being and you people (i.e. disputants) come to me with your disputes. And it may be that one of you can present his case more eloquently than the other and I consider him truthful, and judge in his favour. So if I ever judge and give the right of a brother to his brother, then it is a piece of hell-fire and let him not take it”

Some Benefits Derived From This Hadeeth:

The Ummah (i.e. the scholars and judges) have been commissioned to judge based on what is apparent, but the mere judgement of a judge cannot prohibit the lawful and allow the unlawful (i.e. when proven erroneous). This hadeeth also shows that speech can be seen to be true based on what is apparent, but it is truly falsehood concerning what is hidden within it. This hadeeth shows that the one who receives a judgement in his favour is more aware than every other person as to whether he is entitled to it or whether he is a falsifier. So, he takes it if he is entitled to it or leaves it if he a falsifier because, in reality, a judgement cannot change an affair from what it was in origin (i.e. the original truth in the affair before its distortion or concealment). This hadeeth shows the sinfulness of the one who argues based on falsehood until he receives what he wants publicly, whilst he is upon falsehood. [2]

[1] I’lam Al-Muwaqqi’een 1/4

[2]Saheeh Al-Bukhaari -Kitaab Al-Ahkaam (Book of Judgements): Chapter 29: Hadeeth Number: 7181 with Fathul Bari]

Included among the oppressors is the Mubtadi and others who intentionally disseminate anything that contradict Islam – [By Allamah Rabee Ibn Hadi Al-Madkhali]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Basics, Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Deviated Callers & Individuals, Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allah The Beneficent The Most Merciful.

Allah says:

وَلَا تَرْكَنُوا إِلَى الَّذِينَ ظَلَمُوا فَتَمَسَّكُمُ النَّارُ وَمَا لَكُم مِّن دُونِ اللَّهِ مِنْ أَوْلِيَاءَ ثُمَّ لَا تُنصَرُونَ

And incline not toward those who do wrong, lest the Fire should touch you, and you have no protectors other than Allah, nor you would then be helped. (Hud: 113)

Do not incline towards the oppressors—those who oppress the people by (shedding) their blood, (seizing) their wealth, and (violating) their honour, or they oppress people in their religion through Bidah and various forms of misguidance, spreading harmful propaganda and calls (ideas) that contradict Islam. Refrain from inclining towards such people; do not assist them or support their falsehoods. The verse includes all these types (of people).

Every follower  of falsehood is an oppressor, every Mubtadi is an oppressor, and everyone who (violates) a Muslim’s honour is an oppressor. Therefore, do not lean towards any of them, thus you are afflicted by the fire. That is because when you incline towards the sinner, the Mubtadi, the oppressor, the criminal, the one who violates people’s honour and those who violate the sanctity of the Islamic legislation, it is as if you are pleased (with that), as if you are aiding and endorsing. A believer must exercise caution to avoid falling into this perilous inclination. A believer should be careful of this type of inclination, for indeed it is from the causes of deviation and misguidance, and Allah’s refuge is sought.

فَلَمَّا زَاغُوا أَزَاغَ اللَّهُ قُلُوبَهُمْ وَاللَّهُ لَا يَهْدِي الْقَوْمَ الْفَاسِقِينَ 

So when they turned away (from the Path of Allah), Allah turned their hearts away (from the Right Path). And Allah guides not the people who are Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah)]. [As-Saff 5] 

An Excerpt from Al-Wasaayaa Al-Manhajiyyah Pg 20.

[1] Figureheads and Groups of Misguidance, Imposters and Deceivers

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Contemporary Issues, Deviated Callers & Individuals, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Shi'a, Shirk, Sin, Sufis.

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

He is known as Al-Husayn Ibn Mansoor Al-Hallaaj, also referred to as Abu Mughith or Abu Abdillah. His ancestry traces back to a fire worshipper from Persia. He was raised in Waasit, although some accounts suggest he spent his formative years in Tastar. His journey led him to Baghdad and subsequently to Makkah, where he resided in the vicinity of Masjid Al-Haraam, enduring both extreme heat and cold. For many years, he lived without shelter, subsisting on minimal food and water during breakfast for an entire year, driven by a commitment to self-discipline and devotion to worship. He often positioned himself on a rock under the intense sun at the mountain of Abu Qubays.

He accompanied several Sufi figureheads, including Junaid Bin Muhammad, Amr Bin Uthmaan Al-Makkee, and Abul Husayn An-Nooree. Al-Khateeb Al-Baghdaadee said: “The Sufis hold differing opinions regarding Al-Hallaaj; many assert that he does not belong to their ranks and should not be associated with their tradition. This (differing) extends to earlier figures such as Abul Abbas Bin Ataa Al-Baghdaadee, Muhammad Bin Khafeef Az-Sheeraazee, and Ibrahim Bin Muhammad An-Nasraabaadhee An-Naysaabooree, who recognised Al-Hallaaj as being on the right path and documented his teachings. Ibn Khafeef even stated, ‘Al-Husayn Bin Mansoor is a learned scholar.’ Abu Abdir Rahman As-Sulamee, whose full name was Muhammad Ibnul Husayn, recounted hearing Ibrahim Ibn Muhammad An-Nasraabaadhee share insights from Al-Hallaaj regarding the soul, subsequently addressing a critic by saying, ‘If there is anyone, after the Prophets and the truthful, who embodies monotheism, it is Al-Hallaaj.’ Furthermore, Abu Abdir Rahmaan noted that he heard Mansoor Bin Abdillah recount Shiblee’s words: ‘Al-Husayn Bin Mansoor and I are essentially the same, except that he manifested himself while I chose to remain concealed.’ Those who denied Al-Hallaaj’s association with the Sufis attributed his actions to sorcery, asserting that his beliefs align with those of heretics”.

Al-Hallaaj’s pronouncements reflected the concept of Hulool, [a] and he composed poetry associated with Sufiyyah. Since his execution, there has been ongoing debate among the people concerning his legacy. However, the rightly guided jurists, Imams, and scholars reached a consensus that he warranted execution by the authorities, deeming him a foolish and concealed disbeliever, as well as a sorcerer. This perspective was similarly held by the majority of early Sufis. Nevertheless, within the Sufi community, there exists a faction—previously mentioned—that idealises his situation, misled by his external demeanour and unable to comprehend the reality of his speech. Initially, he dedicated himself to worship; however, he lacked knowledge, and his practices were not grounded in the authentic divine path that leads to the pleasure and reverence of Allah. Consequently, Al-Hallaaj contributed more to corruption than to reform. Imam Sufyaan Bin Uyaynah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Those among our scholars who fall into corruption bear a resemblance to the Jews, while those among the worshippers who become corrupt resemble the Christians.” This is the reason Al-Hallaaj engaged in the concepts of Hulool and Ittihaad, ultimately aligning himself with the ranks of corruption and deviation. His situation changed, and he traveled to various places, showing people that he was a guide to the way of Allah. It is well-known that he went to India, learned magic, and claimed, “I use it to call people to the way of Allah.” In India, people spoke of him as someone who helps others in tough times. In Khurasan, they called him the special one, while in Persia, he was known as Abu Abdillah, a man who avoided worldly pleasures. In Khuzestan, he was also called Abu Abdillah, the mysterious one who chose to stay away from worldly pleasures.

Al-Khateeb Al-Baghdaadee conveyed through his chain of narration that Al-Hallaaj stated, “The wisdom of both the early and later generations can be distilled into four statements: loving what is exalted, detesting the despicable, adhering to divine revelation, and maintaining a fear of straying.” It is evident that Al-Hallaaj faltered in the latter two aspects, as he neither adhered to the revelation nor maintained steadfastness; instead, he strayed from these principles and ultimately fell into Bidah and misguidance. Abdur Rahmaan As-Sulamee narrated from Amr Bin Uthmaan Al-Makkee, who stated: “While I was strolling through one of the narrow streets of Makkah, reciting the Qur’an alongside Al-Hallaaj, he listened to my recitation and remarked, ‘I can express something akin to this.’ Thus, I chose to distance myself from him.”

Al-Khateeb Al-Baghdaadee reported, “Mas’ud Bin Nasir conveyed to me that Ibn Bakur Az-Sheeraazee mentioned he heard Abu Zur’ah At-Tabaree state, ‘The situation regarding Husayn Bin Mansoor Al-Hallaaj among the populace is one of differing; some have embraced him while others have dismissed him. However, I recall Muhammad Bin Yahyah Ar-Raazee asserting, ‘I heard Amr Bin Uthmaan denouncing Hallaaj, expressing, ‘Had I the means, I would have slain him myself.’ I inquired, ‘What did you discover with the Shaikh?’ He replied, ‘I recited a verse from the Book of Allah, to which Al-Hallaaj responded, ‘I might be able to produce a statement similar to this.'”

Abu Zur’ah At-Tabaree reported, “I heard Abu Yaqub Al-Aqta state, ‘I arranged the marriage of my daughter to Al-Husayn Al-Hallaaj because I observed that he was adhering to the right path and was diligent in his worship. However, it soon became evident to me that he was a magician, a deceiver, and a malevolent disbeliever.'” This union occurred in Makkah, and the wife was Umm Husayn, the daughter of Abee Yaqub Al-Aqta. She gave birth to a son named Ahmad Ibn Al-Husayn Bin Mansur. In his treatise, Abul Qasim Al-Qushayree discusses the topic of “Safeguarding the hearts of the Mashaayikh.” He recounts an incident in which Amr and Ibn Uthmaan visited Al-Hallaaj in Makkah, where they discovered him engaged in writing on sheets of paper. Amr inquired about his activity, to which Al-Hallaaj responded that he was engaged in a contest with the Qur’an. Following this encounter, Amr stated that he supplicated against Al-Hallaaj, resulting in the latter’s subsequent lack of success. Additionally, Amr expressed his disapproval of Abu Yaqub Al-Aqta for marrying his daughter to Al-Hallaaj.

Amr Bin Uthmaan authored numerous treatises in which he denounced Al-Hallaaj and cautioned the populace against him, disseminating these writings to various regions. Meanwhile, Al-Hallaaj roamed the lands, moving in all directions, and began to present himself as a proponent of the path of Allah, employing a variety of deceptive tactics. He persisted in this behaviour until divine retribution was brought upon him—a punishment that is inescapable for those who commit transgressions. Consequently, he was executed in accordance with Islamic law, which is applied solely to those deemed heretical. He intended to challenge the Qur’an in the sacred vicinity of the Ka’bah, the very place where Jibreel delivered the Qur’an, and indeed, Allah says:

وَمَن يُرِدۡ فِيهِ بِإِلۡحَادِۭ بِظُلۡمٍ۬ نُّذِقۡهُ مِنۡ عَذَابٍ أَلِيمٍ۬

And whoever inclines to evil actions therein or to do wrong (i.e. practice polytheism and leave Islamic Monotheism), him We shall cause to taste a painful torment]. [Al-Hajj. 25]

Trickery: Al-Khateeb Al-Bagdaadee narrated that Al-Hallaaj instructed one of his trusted associates to journey to a mountainous region, providing the following guidance: “Demonstrate your commitment to worship, virtue, and self-restraint to the people. Once they are drawn to you, develop their affection and trust, then reveal to them that you have been stricken with blindness. After a period, disclose that you are also crippled. If they rush to offer you assistance, respond by saying, ‘O benevolent individuals! Your efforts will not benefit me.’ Subsequently, inform them that you have had a dream in which you encountered Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, who conveyed to you, ‘You will only find healing through a Qutb [b], who will arrive on a specific day and month, and his characteristics are as follows.’ At that designated time, I [Al-Hallaaj] will present myself to you.”

The individual, who was an associate of Al-Hallaaj, traveled to that region and took up residence there. He dedicated himself to acts of worship, demonstrated piety, and engaged in the recitation of the Qur’an. Over time, the local populace came to trust and admire him. He then revealed to them that he was afflicted with blindness. Subsequently, he disclosed that he had been enduring a chronic illness, prompting the community to earnestly seek a remedy for his condition, though their efforts proved fruitless. He addressed them, saying, “O benevolent people! Your endeavours have yielded no results, and I have seen the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, in a dream. He informed me that my healing lies solely in the hands of a Qutb, who will arrive on a specific day and month.” Consequently, the people began to escort him to the Masjid, honouring him in anticipation of the Qutb’s arrival as he had foretold. After a period, Al-Hallaaj entered the region quietly, clad in a white woolen garment. He proceeded to the Masjid, occupying a designated spot where he engaged in worship, remaining indifferent to those around him. The people recognised him from the description provided by the individual feigning illness, and they approached him, offering greetings and gently touching him (i.e. as a gesture of admiration and respect).

When the designated time arrived, the people informed the one who was feigning illness about the man in the Masjid. He then asked them to describe the individual. After they provided the description, he remarked, “That is the person of whom I was informed in a dream, that my healing lies in his hands. Please take me to him.” They assisted him and positioned him before Al-Hallaaj. He addressed Al-Hallaaj, saying, “O Abu Abdillah! I had a dream in which I saw Allah’s Messenger,” and proceeded to recount his dream. Al-Hallaaj raised his hands in supplication, then spat into his palms and applied the spittle to the man’s face, resulting in the restoration of his sight as if he had never been blind. He then took some of the spittle and applied it to the man’s legs, enabling him to stand and walk before the gathered crowd, including the leaders and dignitaries of the land, as if he had never suffered from any ailment. The onlookers exclaimed, “Allah is the Greatest! Glorified be Allah!” They praised Al-Hallaaj with an adoration that only amplified the falsehood he had presented to them.

Al-Hallaaj remained with them for a period during which they honoured and revered him. As he prepared to leave, he expressed a desire for them to collect substantial wealth on his behalf. He stated, “I do not need worldly possessions; we have attained this level of piety by renouncing such things. However, it is possible that this companion of mine has brothers and friends among the Abdaal [c], who are diligently striving in the path of Allah at Tartus, engaging in pilgrimage and charitable acts, and they require assistance to continue on this journey.” Subsequently, the man who had been suffering from a chronic illness but was now healed, affirmed, “The Shaikh speaks the truth. Allah has restored my sight and granted me health so that I may dedicate my life to serving Allah and performing hajj alongside our virtuous Abdaal brothers.” He then encouraged the people to contribute wealth. Al-Hallaaj departed, while the man remained with the community until they amassed a considerable amount of wealth, including gold and silver. Once the wealth was collected, he delivered a farewell address and left, subsequently reuniting with Al-Hallaaj to share the gathered riches.

An Incident Regarding a Man Who Witnessed Al-Hallaaj’s Tricks

The witness recounted, “I had often heard tales of Al-Hallaaj’s miracles and longed to witness one for myself. Therefore, I approached him and offered my greetings. He inquired, ‘Do you seek something at this moment?’ I replied, ‘I wish for fresh fish.’ He then entered his home and was absent for an hour. Upon his return, he presented me with a fish that was gasping for air, and his two feet covered in mud. He explained, ‘I prayed to Allah, and He instructed me to go to the riverbed to fetch this fish for you. The mud on my feet is from that area.’ I suggested, ‘If you are willing, you may take me to your home so that I can observe and bolster my faith. I will believe in you unless something contrary is revealed to me.’ He responded, ‘Come in.’ Once inside, he locked the door, sat down, and put on an act. I explored the house but found no other access or information, leaving me bewildered by his situation.”

I observed a barrier in my path, which I shook, causing it to yield. Behind it, I discovered a door that provided access. Upon entering, I found myself in a vast orchard filled with a variety of fresh fruits and an abundance of food. There was a large pond teeming with fish of various sizes. I waded into the water and caught one fish, resulting in my feet becoming muddy, similar to the state of his feet. I then approached the door and called out, “Open the door; I trust you.” However, upon noticing my muddy condition, he became alarmed and attempted to attack me. In self-defense, I struck him in the face with the fish and exclaimed, “O enemy of Allah! You have wearied me today.” After managing to escape, I encountered him again a few days later. He greeted me with a smile and warned, “Do not disclose this. I have not seen anyone; otherwise, I would have sent someone to kill you in your sleep.” It became clear to me that he intended to eliminate me if I revealed what I knew, and I chose to remain silent until he was ultimately crucified. [An Excerpt from Al-Bidaayah Wan-Nihaayah. 11/132-137]

An Explanation Concerning The Khawaariq [Phenomena ascribed to occurrences that transcend the ordinary or typical] and The Deceivers – By Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah

The Khawaariq, through which the devils lead astray the children of Adam, manifest in various forms, such as when devils assume the likeness of an individual who is either absent or deceased, among other similar instances. This phenomenon has misled numerous individuals who identify as Muslims or as adherents of the Scriptures. Their beliefs are founded on two main points: Firstly, they assert that anyone from whom these khawaariq arise is a Wali, and in Christian terminology, is regarded as a Qadees A’dheem, or a great saint. Secondly, they claim that such individuals are infallible, meaning that all they convey is the truth and all their directives are just. It is entirely possible that an individual did not exhibit any phenomena that deviate from the norm—whether or not it is connected to sound knowledge and piety—or any extraordinary occurrences associated with malevolent deeds. Instead, the individual may have simply engaged in the deceptions characteristic of liars and wicked sinners. The deceptions employed by such individuals are indeed numerous, leading observers to mistakenly perceive them as remarkable events that defy the ordinary. However, this is not the case, nor do these deceptions resemble those attributed to monks. Several authors have documented the tricks of monks, including an account of one who purportedly transformed water into oil. In this instance, as the oil accumulates within the lighthouse, the water level diminishes, causing the oil to rise, thereby misleading onlookers into believing that the water has been converted into oil. Numerous similar instances exist among the deceptions of certain Christians, as all that these individuals—who have distorted the teachings of the Messiah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him)—claim to be extraordinary are either the work of devils or mere tricks, devoid of any connection to the miracles performed by the righteous.

Similarly, the deviated people – those who seek to change the teachings of Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, engage in practices that are not sanctioned by Allah and His Messenger. They establish these practices as a form of worship, prioritising them over the divinely ordained path. For instance, they may choose to prioritise the sounds of tambourines and high-pitched flutes over the recitation of Allah’s Book. This leads individuals into a state of ecstasy and a trance influenced by Shaytaan, resulting in them speaking in an unfamiliar language. Upon regaining their composure—much like a possessed individual who, under the influence of a jinn, reveals the thoughts and feelings instilled by shaytaan—they find themselves unable to recall their initial utterances. The heretics seek to substitute the teachings of the Messengers, whether they pertain to the religion of the Messiah or that of Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon them. Among these individuals are those who advocate for heretical beliefs, lead others astray, and include disbelievers, polytheists, apostates, and others. Notable figures among them are Musaylimah the liar, Al-Aswad Al-Unzee, Al-Haarith Ad-Dimashqee, Baba Rumi, and others who have engaged in actions deemed to be from the Khawaariq, often misrepresented as miracles, but which are, in truth, associated with the works of devils.

The tricksters are abundant and do not possess the status of Awliyaa of Allah. Their purported extraordinary actions, which deviate from the norm, are often linked to the malevolent practices of soothsayers and magicians, or they are simply deceptive tricks. Unlike those who are aligned with demonic forces, these individuals intentionally fabricate lies and engage in deceit. Among them are those who mislead others into believing that their actions are miraculous, akin to those of the righteous, while some are fully aware that their deeds stem from diabolical influences, yet they persist in these actions to fulfill their own objectives.

The purpose of this discourse is to highlight that numerous activities deemed unconventional, often referred to as miracles, may actually stem from satanic influences or deceptive practices. This leads individuals to mistakenly believe they are witnessing genuine miracles performed by virtuous individuals. In truth, actions rooted in Shirk and malevolent behavior can only originate from demonic forces. This includes instances where individuals invoke celestial bodies, call upon deceased or absent persons, make oaths using obscure phrases with unknown meanings, or utilise names associated with devils. Additionally, seeking assistance through immoral actions and oppression results in deeds that, while appearing extraordinary, are ultimately from the devils.

The righteous have miracles similar to those of the pious individuals within this Ummah, the disciples of the Messiah, and others who follow the authentic and unaltered faith of the Messiah. However, the presence of miracles in the lives of these righteous individuals does not imply that they are infallible like the Prophets, peace and blessings of Allah be upon them. A righteous person, referred to as a Wali, may indeed exhibit miraculous abilities, yet they can still err in their thoughts, perceptions, or interpretations of what they hear, see, or understand from the revealed Scripture.

Consequently, the assertions made by individuals other than the Prophets may be accepted or dismissed (based on the available evidence). In contrast, it is incumbent upon individuals to sincerely affirm all that the Prophets have communicated concerning matters of the unseen and to comply with their commands. Therefore, Allah has obligated that a person must believe in all that the Prophets have conveyed, while there is no obligation to accept the statements of others. Allah states:

قُولُوٓاْ ءَامَنَّا بِٱللَّهِ وَمَآ أُنزِلَ إِلَيۡنَا وَمَآ أُنزِلَ إِلَىٰٓ إِبۡرَٲهِـۧمَ وَإِسۡمَـٰعِيلَ وَإِسۡحَـٰقَ وَيَعۡقُوبَ وَٱلۡأَسۡبَاطِ وَمَآ أُوتِىَ مُوسَىٰ وَعِيسَىٰ وَمَآ أُوتِىَ ٱلنَّبِيُّونَ مِن رَّبِّهِمۡ لَا نُفَرِّقُ بَيۡنَ أَحَدٍ۬ مِّنۡهُمۡ وَنَحۡنُ لَهُ ۥ مُسۡلِمُونَ

Say (O Muslims), “We believe in Allah and that which has been sent down to us and that which has been sent down to Ibrahim (Abraham), Isma’il (Ishmael), Ishaque (Isaac), Ya’qub (Jacob), and to Al-Asbat [the twelve sons of Ya’qub (Jacob)], and that which has been given to Musa (Moses) and ‘Iesa (Jesus), and that which has been given to the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we have submitted (in Islam).” [Al-Baqarah. 136]

Allah, The Exalted, says:
لَّيۡسَ ٱلۡبِرَّ أَن تُوَلُّواْ وُجُوهَكُمۡ قِبَلَ ٱلۡمَشۡرِقِ وَٱلۡمَغۡرِبِ وَلَـٰكِنَّ ٱلۡبِرَّ مَنۡ ءَامَنَ بِٱللَّهِ وَٱلۡيَوۡمِ ٱلۡأَخِرِ وَٱلۡمَلَـٰٓٮِٕڪَةِ وَٱلۡكِتَـٰبِ وَٱلنَّبِيِّـۧنَ

It is not Al-Birr (piety, righteousness, and each and every act of obedience to Allah, etc.) that you turn your faces towards east and (or) west (in prayers); but Al-Birr is (the quality of) the one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, the Prophets. [Al-Baqarah 177]

The Muslims unanimously agree that anyone who denies the Prophethood of even a single Prophet, whose Prophethood is well-known, is considered a disbeliever or an apostate. There is no differentiation among the Prophets; one cannot accept some while rejecting others. Allah says:

إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ يَكۡفُرُونَ بِٱللَّهِ وَرُسُلِهِۦ وَيُرِيدُونَ أَن يُفَرِّقُواْ بَيۡنَ ٱللَّهِ وَرُسُلِهِۦ وَيَقُولُونَ نُؤۡمِنُ بِبَعۡضٍ۬ وَنَڪۡفُرُ بِبَعۡضٍ۬ وَيُرِيدُونَ أَن يَتَّخِذُواْ بَيۡنَ ذَٲلِكَ سَبِيلاً
أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ هُمُ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرُونَ حَقًّ۬اۚ وَأَعۡتَدۡنَا لِلۡكَـٰفِرِينَ عَذَابً۬ا مُّهِينً۬ا

Verily, those who disbelieve in Allah and His Messengers and wish to make distinction between Allah and His Messengers (by believing in Allah and disbelieving in His Messengers) saying, “We believe in some but reject others,” and wish to adopt a way in between. They are in truth disbelievers. And We have prepared for the disbelievers a humiliating torment. [An-Nisaa. 150-151] [An Excerpt from “Al-Jawaabus Saheeh Liman Baddala Deen Al-Maseeh”. Vol 1. 284-287]

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

Among the Dajjaals – liars – whom the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, cautioned against were Musaylimah the Liar from Yamaamah and Al-Aswad Al-Unzi, both of whom falsely claimed prophethood. Consequently, a significant number of Arabs turned away from Islam; thus, Allah brought about their destruction, along with others, and their trial concluded through the swords wielded by the companions of the Messenger of Allah. Among the liars who claimed prophethood was Mukhtar Bin Abee Ubayd Ath-Thaqafee, the liar regarding whom the Messenger remarked, “A liar will emerge from Thaqeef and bloodshedder”. [d] The liar referred to was Al-Mukhtaar, while the bloodshedder was al-Hajjaaj. Among those who asserted prophethood were Al-Harith, known as the liar, and Ghulaam Ahmad Al-Qadiyaanee Al-Hindee, who garnered a following spread across the globe, claiming that prophethood continues to this day. Each lair is accompanied by other malevolent liars, akin to their leader.

Among the liars was the Jew, the wicked Abdullah Ibn Saba, who falsely professed to be a Muslim and incited numerous individuals against the Rightly Guided Caliph Uthmaan Bin Affaan, may Allah be pleased with him, ultimately leading to his martyrdom during that trial. He is recognised as the originator of the Raafidha Shiite doctrine and its abhorrent principles, which include an exaggerated reverence for the family of the Prophet, to the extent of deifying them. Many adherents regard Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, as an object of worship, asserting that he was designated by the Prophet as his successor in leadership. Such claims are fabrications; they also assert that Ali will return to enact vengeance upon Abu Bakr and Umar, may Allah be pleased with them, as well as five hundred Caliphs from the Banee Umayyah and Banee Abbas. This nefarious individual, Ibn Saba, instigated the disparagement of the Prophet’s companions and other matters related to the trial he initiated, which heretics propagate and firmly uphold, alongside the leaders of the Raafidha—those deceivers who inundate the world with lies and slanders. Their belief system is fundamentally rooted in lies and misguidance.

Among the prominent figures of Bidah and misguidance, including Jahm Bin Safwaan, leaders of the Khawaarij, the Mutazilah, the Huloolee Sufis, and grave worshippers such as Nidhaam Al-Mutazilee, Hallaaj the heretic, Ibn Arabi the heretic, Ibn Sab’een, At-Tilimsaanee, and others among the heretics – liars who concealed themselves within Islam, infiltrating the ranks of the people of Tasawwuf, as this group has proven to be a fertile ground for such individuals. Similarly, the Raafidah provides ample space for the heretics.

Among the liars in this era: The political leaders, including secularists and Baathists (Arab Nationalists), and many people who promote enticing slogans under the banner of Islam, such as Islamic socialism, Islamic democracy, and the call Wahdatul Adyan, along with various other erroneous assertions made in Islam’s name. These claims emerge from groups that profess to elevate Islam and aim to restore the Islamic Ummah to its former greatness; however, their actions only serve to lead people further into misguidance and ignorance, and we seek refuge in Allah.

This presents a more severe danger to the people and the youth, therefore, it is obligated to the Muslims and the students of knowledge to exercise utmost vigilance regarding such people. They must alert the Muslim community to their schemes and intentions, as well as expose their hidden agendas. Furthermore, Muslims should steadfastly adhere to the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet, emulating the Salafus Saaleh (pious predecessors) in their beliefs, methodologies, loyalty, and disassociation. Therefore, Muslims should engage with these individuals in the same manner as the Salafus Saaleh—by exercising caution, issuing warnings, revealing their concealed matters, and highlighting their shortcomings, all in the interest of safeguarding the religion and providing sincere counsel to the Muslims.

Concerning the ongoing struggle between those who uphold the truth and those who support falsehood throughout history and across various locations, it is essential to recognise that the truth will ultimately prevail, as promised by Allah. The religion He has established will triumph, and the followers of truth will gain superiority over those who propagate falsehood. It is inevitable that falsehood and its proponents will face defeat and ultimately fail. Consequently, it is imperative for the followers of truth—specifically the pure Ahlus Sunnah—to remain steadfast and resilient. They must diligently engage in all efforts that support the religion ordained by Allah, encompassing its beliefs, commands, prohibitions, rulings, and methodologies. Furthermore, they should ensure that the truth is upheld against falsehood in all its manifestations, whether it be outright disbelief, hypocrisy disguised as Islam, overt innovations, or innovations that masquerade as Islamic.

Allah, The Exalted, says:
هو الذي أرسل رسوله بالهدى ودين الحق ليظهره على الدين كله ولو كره المشركون

It is He Who has sent His Messenger (Muhammad) with guidance and the religion of truth (Islam), to make it superior over all religions even though the Mushrikun (polytheists, pagans, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah) hate (it)]. [at-Tawbah. 33]

Ahlul Ahwaa (the people of vain desires) share a common animosity with them, therefore, there is nothing else other than that the followers of truth must utilise the prescribed methods to actualise this promise, which is a duty of the scholars of Ahlus Sunnah. Wherever the adherents of the Salafi methodology and their students are or wherever they go, it is obligated to them step up and support one another to raise the truth, Tawheed, and Sunnah, and subdue Bidah, misguidance, and doubts; establishing Allah’s evidence against all the various misguided individuals and exposing the reality of deceivers and impostors. They should know that their adversaries have escalated their schemes and strategies, particularly in their efforts to silence many among Ahlus Sunnah and the adherents of truth, thereby preventing them from challenging falsehood disguised as truth. This category of people among the adherents of falsehood is more dangerous at employing deceit, duplicity, and feigning possession of qualities they do not actually have; as the Messenger, remarked, “The one who claims to possess what he does not is akin to the one who wears two garments of falsehood.” [e]

We find them as ones foremost in extolling the people of falsehood, making their affair appealing (or pleasing), while simultaneously being the most vehement in disparaging the followers of truth and its advocates. They have established corrupt principles to support falsehood and those who adhere to misguided methodologies, waging war against the proponents of truth through the formulation of schemes and abhorrent actions, manifesting their animosity towards the followers of truth, and hastening – without boredom and tiredness- to instruct the youth to resist the advocates of truth, striving diligently to bolster falsehood and undermine its adherents. We beseech Allah, the Exalted, to elevate His Word and guide these individuals or to relieve the Ummah from their evil. Indeed, our Lord is responsive to supplication. May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon our Master Muhammad, his family, and companions until the Day of Judgment.

https://rabee.net/audio/%D8%AE%D8%B7%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D8%B0%D8%A8-%D9%88%D8%A2%D8%AB%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%87-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B3%D9%8A%D8%A6%D8%A9-%D9%88%D9%85%D9%88%D9%82%D9%81-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D8%B3%D9%84/

Read:: The Reality Of Sufi Shaikhs By Shaikh Abu Khadeejah- may Allah preserve him: https://www.salafisounds.com/the-reality-of-sufi-shaikhs-by-abu-khadeejah/

[a] Hulool: https://www.salafitalk.net/st/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=8&Topic=3528

[b] What is a Qutb according to the heretical Sufis? A Qutb is a so-called saint or Sufi leader who has a divine relationship with Allah. He transmits knowledge which makes him the axis of the Sufi path and he is not known.

[c] Who are the Abdaal according to the heretical Sufis? They are the so-called seven Awliya and each of them controls one of the seven continents of the world.

[d] Sahih Muslim 2545

[e] Sahih Muslim 2129

Some of the Motivations for Clinging to Falsehood When the Truth Is Clarified By Another Person

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

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

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

Ignorance: This particular reason predominantly overwhelms the majority of people, as the one ignorant of something will exhibit hostility towards it and its adherents. Furthermore, if such an individual harbours animosity towards the one who presents the truth and feels envy, the intensity of this hostility escalates. When this animosity extends to those he holds dear, his traditions, his nurturers, the customs of his ancestors, and those he cherishes and reveres, the intensity increases even further. Additionally, if he possesses a misguided belief that the truth poses a threat to his status, honour, aspirations, and objectives, the intensity reaches a peak. Moreover, if he fears for himself, his wealth, and his standing in the eyes of his companions, family, and people—similar to the situation faced by Heraclius, the Christian king in the Levant during the time of Allah’s Messenger—this reason intensifies even more. Heraclius was aware of the truth and had a desire to embrace Islam; however, due to the disobedience of his people, he feared for his safety and ultimately chose disbelief over the clear guidance presented to him.

Envy: This is one of the most significant causes because it is deeply rooted within the soul. The individual who harbours envy perceives that the person he envies possesses virtues or has been given what he does not possess; consequently, this envy hinders his ability to accept and comply. Iblees was unable to prostrate to Adam, peace be upon him, solely due to envy, for upon witnessing Adam’s elevation and the virtues bestowed upon him, he opted for disbelief instead of faith, despite having been in the company of angels. This same affliction obstructed the Yahud from accepting Isa, the son of Maryam, peace be upon him and his mother, even though they were fully aware that he was a Messenger of Allah, sent with undeniable signs and guidance. Nevertheless, their envy led them to reject faith and embrace disbelief, despite being a community that included Rabbis, scholars, ascetics, judges, kings, and rulers. [1]

Al-Allamah Abdur Rahman Ibn Yahyah Al-Mu’allimee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Opposing desires through action in pursuit of truth is a clear matter, given the inherent obligations and challenges it presents. This situation can be examined from various perspectives:

An individual considers that accepting the truth implies recognising that he has previously adhered to falsehood. That is because a person is raised within a particular religion, creed, way or views imparted by their mentors and teacher, which they have long regarded as the truth; then when eventually becomes evident to him that these beliefs are erroneous, he finds it challenging to acknowledge, just as when he his ancestors or those he follows follow a way and its falsity is made known to him. This is because he considers that their shortcomings would also mean confronting his own, and an acknowledgement of their misguidance or errors necessitates his own.

It is possible that his attachment to falsehood provided him with status, recognition, and financial support, making it challenging for him to admit this, as doing so would result in the loss of all those benefits.

It may be that a person is in a state of ignorance or falsehood until another individual presents clear evidence that illuminates the truth for him, thus he considers that accepting such evidence implies his deficiency and that it was that (other) person who guided him. Due to this, we observe that while some individuals who are regarded as knowledgeable can readily admit their errors when these become apparent through their own investigations, they often struggle to accept such corrections when pointed out by others.

When another person clarifies the truth for him, he considers that accepting this truth requires recognising the clarifier’s virtue, knowledge, and accuracy, thus this would become great in the eyes of the people, leading many to follow him. So, you will find some individuals who are regarded as knowledgeable are eager to prove the errors of other scholars, even resorting to falsehoods driven by envy and a desire to diminish their standing among the people.

To oppose desires for the sake of the truth -in affairs of knowledge and creed- can indeed be difficult to accomplish, therefore it requires research and contemplation. In this regard, one needs to ask the scholars and benefit from them, adhering to the fear of Allah, and seeking the Tawfeeq of Allah and guidance. (2)

[1] An Excerpt from “Hidaayah Al-Hayaaraa Fee Ajwibah Al-Yahud Wan-Nasaaraa”. pages 17-19

[2] An excerpt from “At-Tankeel Bimaa Fee Ta’need Al-Kawthariy Minal Baatil” 2/180-181 with the checking of Imam Albaanee, may Allah have mercy upon him.

Part 4: O Faris Al-Hammadi! The time has arrived for your deceitful and absurd statements to be unveiled for all to see! [Faris hit us and wept; preceded us and lodged a complaint]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Refutations, Sin.

https://twitter.com/AbuIyaadSP/status/1018974451269033986/photo/1

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

Abu Ad-Darda, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The heaviest (deed) on the scale is good manners”.

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

This hadith serves as evidence regarding the virtue of good manners and the obligation to be good-mannered. The knowledge of the Shariah forms the foundation of manners. When Allah bestows knowledge of the Shariah upon an individual, it leads them towards exhibiting good manners. Consequently, a Muslim demonstrates good manners towards others through good dealings-assisting the vulnerable, honouring guests, greeting others with Salaam, imparting knowledge, and enjoining good and forbidding evil. All these are fruitful outcomes of good manners. An individual cannot exhibit good manners unless he is among those who adhere to the commands of Allah and refrain from acts of disobedience. This implies that his conduct must align with the obligations set forth by the Shariah. He fulfills Allah’s commands and is shy to fall short concerning that which Allah has commanded him. He avoids disobedience, prohibited actions, and evil deeds out of shyness before Allah and a desire to be merciful to himself, as such actions can lead to punishment in both this life and the hereafter. Furthermore, he applies this to all that Allah has commanded, steering clear of what Allah has prohibited and detested.

Being good-mannered includes:

Fulfilling Allah’s rights most perfectly, neither negligent nor exceeding the legislated boundaries of the Shariah. To exhibit good manners towards one’s family, first and foremost towards one’s wife, son, daughter, and others in the family, so that this fosters an environment of harmony, cooperation, and positive feelings among all family members, preventing any form of division or estrangement.

To exhibit good manners towards parents by being dutiful to them, refraining from being undutiful, showing compassion, and supplication for them, treating them with kindness, whether they are living or deceased, by making supplications for them, spending in charity on their behalf, and speaking of them positively.

To exhibit good manners towards extended family members from both the paternal and maternal sides. To exhibit good manners towards neighbours, regardless of whether they are Muslims or not. Neighbours have rights; a Muslim neighbour is entitled to the rights associated with both their faith and their status as a neighbour, while a relative who is also a neighbour holds three sets of rights: those of a Muslim, a neighbour, and a family member.

To exhibit good manners towards one’s companions by pleasantly speaking to them and fulfilling the rights of companionship. To exhibit good manners towards one’s Shuyookh—those Shuyookh of Ahlus Sunnah from whom knowledge is sought—by showing them respect, interacting with them kindly, and consistently supplicating for their well-being, as a teacher imparts significant benefits to their students. In contrast, regarding Ahlul Bidah Wad-Dalaal, even if some of them engage in study with others, their teachings, and learning yield no true benefit.

To exhibit good manners towards fellow students, whether in school settings, during specific gatherings, at designated lessons in the Masjid, or in any other location. An individual should embody good manners, which should be reflected in their speech, actions, interactions, and adherence to promises. This includes fostering love among one another as prescribed by Shariah and nurturing affection for one another for the sake of Allah. The significance of this noble act is highlighted in the hadith, “The heaviest thing on the scales is good manners.” This implies that good manners represent the most substantial deed in the realm of virtuous actions, as they pave the way for all commendable deeds while countering various forms of wrongdoing. And Allah knows best. [1]

Deceitful Faris stated about good manners:

Observation: O Faris! Concealing truth and then claiming to be forbearing is not commendable; rather, it is the patience in upholding the truth that deserves recognition. Imam Ahmad exemplified adherence to the truth while also demonstrating exemplary character. In contrast, you remain silent regarding the truth and claim that seeking clarification about Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi is tantamount to foolishness. You have even suggested that engaging in this matter is influenced by Shaytaan, despite your conscious choice to avoid openly acknowledging that Dr. Muhammad has committed oppression and transgression by issuing a false Tabdee, which has been challenged and rebutted by several scholars. Nevertheless, he remains unyielding. Is it considered good manners to remain silent about the truth when you can speak? Have you not reflected on the trials that Imam Ahmad endured for advocating the truth? We should remind you of this account before sharing a link concerning Imam Ahmad’s patience. Muhammad Ibn Bandaar As-Sabbaak Al-Jurjaani, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: I said to Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, may Allah have mercy upon him: “It is difficult for me to say that this one is a weak (narrator) and that one is a liar”. Ahmad said, “If you remain silent and I remain silent, then when will the ignorant distinguish between the authentic and the flawed (narration)”. [2] Read below: https://abukhadeejah.com/benefits-in-the-manhaj-by-studying-the-life-and-legacy-of-the-imam-of-ahlus-sunnah-ahmad-ibn-hanbal-161ah-241ah/#:~:text=Imam%20Ahmad%20(rahimahull%C4%81h)%20was%20raised,him%20upon%20piety%20and%20virtue.

Deceitful Faris said:

Observation: O Faris! This assertion can be wielded for both truth and falsehood; thus, a discerning individual needs to scrutinise the reality of the one who employs it as evidence for their own stance. The basis of the rebuttals against you lies in your lack of decorum, your cunning rhetoric, and your deceit regarding the truth in the matter concerning Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi. Consequently, this statement serves as a testament against you rather than in your favour. As Al-Allamah Zayd, may Allah bestow His mercy upon him, articulated, that good manners also entail promoting virtue and prohibiting evil. Yet, not only have you abstained from advocating for righteousness and denouncing wrongdoing in this instance, but you have also dismissed our quest for truth as folly and a manifestation of Shaytaan’s influence, even though Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi transgressed against those senior students of knowledge, whom he unjustly labeled with a false Tabdee and has continued without remorse. Thus, you have become your own adversary through your engagement in sophistry and obfuscation. You have wronged us by equating our earnest pursuit of truth with foolishness and the whispers of Shaytaan, however, you seek to portray yourself as the victim. This behaviour is nothing short of a lamentable and desperate attempt to play the victim, as eloquently expressed by the poet.

ضربني وبكى
سبقني واشتكى

He hit me and wept; preceded me and lodged a complaint.

Many of us can easily recall the mischievous escapades of our younger siblings, who would stealthily damage our treasured possessions. When we would confront them, our parents—especially our mothers—would often swiftly reprimand us, unaware of the mischief instigated by the little one. This sibling rivalry, a playful yet irritating game, has no place in the noble pursuit of Dawah. Therefore, do not be among those who instigate trouble and then feign victimhood when justly confronted. Such behaviour is akin to dishonesty, particularly in the context of Dawah. While it is clear that your actions may be rightly condemned, you have sought to twist this rightful criticism into an undeserved rebuttal and rebuke. Allah says:

وَلَا تَلْبِسُوا الْحَقَّ بِالْبَاطِلِ وَتَكْتُمُوا الْحَقَّ وَأَنتُمْ تَعْلَمُونَ

And mix not truth with falsehood, nor conceal the truth while you know (the truth)].

Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Allah has prohibited the amalgamation of truth with falsehood, thus this leads to the obscuring of the truth. The act of blending truth with falsehood results in a situation where one may be mistaken for the other. This constitutes forgery and deception, whereby what is presented is contrary to its actual nature. Similarly, when truth is intertwined with falsehood, the perpetrator presents falsehood disguised as truth and articulates statements that possess dual interpretations—one that is accurate and another that is misleading. Consequently, the listener may be misled into believing that the speaker is conveying the accurate interpretation, while the speaker intends the corrupt meaning”. [3]

Read: Dr Muhammad Bin Hadi and the Musafiqah

https://twitter.com/AbuIyaadSP/status/1018974451269033986/photo/1

https://www.manhaj.com/manhaj/print.cfm?uyryh

In conclusion, after I shared the Rudud provided in the aforementioned links, compiled by Shaikh Abu Iyadh, may Allah protect him, Faris opted to block my Twitter account. Therefore, I have enlisted the help of a brother to share some of his tweets, ensuring that our dialogue continues until he either ceases his remarks or offers a sincere apology for deeming our pursuit of truth as foolish and a product of Shaytaan’s influence. It is indeed a paradox, as none could be more foolish and more influenced by Shaytaan than he and those who deliberately overlook the unjust Tabdee issued by Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi, and then attempt to assign blame to the innocent.

To be continued InShaAllah

[1] An Excerpt from “at-Ta’leeqaat Al-Maleehah Alaa Al-Ahaadeeth As-Saheehah. 1/38-39

[2] Al-Kifaayah Fee Ilm Ar-Riwaayah 1/63

[3] An Excerrp from “Badaa’i At-Tafseer Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibnul Qayyim’ 1/124

Part 3: O Faris Al-Hammadi! The time has arrived for your deceitful and absurd statements to be unveiled for all to see! [A Brief Examination of Faris’s Main Assertions]

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Refutations, Sin.

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

Allah, The Most High, says:

يَـٰٓأَيُّہَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ كُونُواْ قَوَّٲمِينَ بِٱلۡقِسۡطِ شُہَدَآءَ لِلَّهِ وَلَوۡ عَلَىٰٓ أَنفُسِكُمۡ أَوِ ٱلۡوَٲلِدَيۡنِ وَٱلۡأَقۡرَبِينَۚ إِن يَكُنۡ غَنِيًّا أَوۡ فَقِيرً۬ا فَٱللَّهُ أَوۡلَىٰ بِہِمَاۖ فَلَا تَتَّبِعُواْ ٱلۡهَوَىٰٓ أَن تَعۡدِلُواْۚ وَإِن تَلۡوُ ۥۤاْ أَوۡ تُعۡرِضُواْ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُونَ خَبِيرً۬ا

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]

وَإِن تَلۡوُ ۥۤاْ أَوۡ تُعۡرِضُواْ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُونَ خَبِيرً۬ا

And if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allah is Ever Well-Acquainted with what you do.

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

Allah, Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections, mentions two reasons that will inevitably lead to the concealment of truth, then He warned against them and issued a threat: the first of them is distortion and the second is to turn away from giving truthful witness. That is because when a proof that supports the truth is manifested and the one who wants to repel it finds no way of doing so, he refrains from mentioning it and thus becomes a silent devil, and sometimes he distorts it. Distortion is of two types -distorting words and meanings. Distorting words occur when one utters a word in a context in which it does not establish the truth – either adding to the word, omitting something from it, or substituting it with something else to the extent that the listener is made to believe something, whilst something else is intended, just as the Yahood [i.e. those Yahood who disbelieved in the Prophet and hated him in Madeenah] used to distort words when giving Salaam to the Prophet [i.e. saying As-Saamu Alayka (death be upon you), instead of saying Assalaamu alaykum)]. This is one type of distortion. The second type of distortion is related to meanings – distorting the wording, giving it an interpretation that is not intended by the one who uttered it and pretending not to know its unintended meaning; or dropping other meanings intended by it. Allah, The Exalted, says: [وَإِن تَلۡوُ ۥۤاْ أَوۡ تُعۡرِضُواْ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُونَ خَبِيرً۬ا – and if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allah is Ever Well-Acquainted with what you do]. [1]

Faris stated: “You know I get asked this question a lot, and I know usually, Allahu a’lam I’m tested, I’m being tested with this question. Then I say to the brothers who still indulging in such a matter that they should fear Allah and get busy with things that are beneficial to them, yeah”

Observation: In the statement above, deceitful Faris says Allah knows best, but he believes that he is being tested! Therefore, the only thing we deduce from this is that we are all tested in one of two ways in the arena of Dawah and adherence to the religion: one may be tested and challenged while advocating for the truth, or individuals may assess someone’s position on a significant matter before accepting knowledge from them. Neither scenario poses a problem for someone who is questioned, as their ultimate aim is to uphold the truth and maintain the correct position. The challenges faced in the pursuit of Dawah are well known from the stories of the Prophets and their followers. Furthermore, we all know what is mentioned in Surah Al-Asr. We ask Allah to grant us Tawfeeq and include us among those who embody the four qualities highlighted in Surah Al-Asr. Read below:

The pinnacle of human perfection is attained through four qualities

However, what stands out most prominently in Faris’s statement is the scrutiny he faces concerning his stance on a particular issue, specifically the matter of Muhammad Bin Hadi, which will soon come to light. First, it is essential to establish that the evaluation of a teacher or caller’s reliability is a well-established principle within the Manhaj of the Salaf before one seeks knowledge from them. Imam Ibn Sirin, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Indeed, this knowledge is religion, so carefully consider from whom you take your religion”. [2]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: We add trustworthiness as an additional characteristic alongside proficiency because proficiency is a strength and it has to be accompanied by trustworthiness. Allah says:

إِنَّ خَيۡرَ مَنِ ٱسۡتَـٔۡجَرۡتَ ٱلۡقَوِىُّ ٱلۡأَمِينُ

Verily, the best of men for you to hire is the strong, the trustworthy.[Al-Qasas. 26]

It may be that a scholar is proficient and vast in knowledge, able to derive and explain subsidiary issues from fundamental principles, as well as categorise, distinguish, and place different subject matters in their appropriate place, but he is not trustworthy and might misguide you from where you do not know”. [3]

Thus, it is only fitting that the seekers of knowledge should be aware of the individuals they accompany or acquire their knowledge from. The poet said, “Do not ask about a man, but ask about his companion because every person guides himself by his companion”. [Al-Ibaanah 2/439] Translated by Spubs

Ibn Mas’ood said, “Indeed, a person walks along & accompanies the one whom he loves & who is like him”. [Al-Ibaanah 2/476] Translated by Spubs

Abu Dardaa said, “It is from the Fiqh (understanding of a person) that he (chooses) those whom he walks with, whom he enters upon (visits) & whom he sits with”. [Al-Ibaanah 2/477] Translated by Spubs

Al-A’mash said, “The Salaf did not used to ask anything more about a person after having asked three affairs: Who he walks with, who he enters upon (visits) & who he associates with amongst the people”. [al-Ibaanah 2/478] Translated by Spubs

Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud said, “Make consideration of the (regions of the) earth by the names given to them & make consideration of a person by his companion”. [al-Ibaanah 2/479] Translated by Spubs

Mu’aadh Bin Mu’aadh said to Yahyah Bin Sa’eed, O Abu Sa’eed! A person may hide his viewpoint from us, but will not be able to hide that in his son, or his friend or in one whom he sits with”. [Al-Ibaanah 2/437] Translated by Spubs

Thus, should the duplicitous Faris perceive himself as undergoing a trial of this nature, it may indeed serve a beneficial purpose, compelling him to embrace honesty in his declarations, associations, and deeds, particularly if he genuinely advocates for Salafiyyah. Nevertheless, upon expressing his sentiment of being tested, he requested that the brothers who continue to engage in such matters should fear Allah and focus on more beneficial pursuits. From this, we can draw several noteworthy observations as follows:

He implores those who engage in this matter to cultivate a profound reverence for Allah. It is indeed commendable that Faris encourages individuals to embrace this fear, and we should always heed such reminders. However, it is equally essential to explore the underlying principles that necessitate this fear of Allah. In this context, such reverence compels one to uphold the truth, denounce falsehood, champion what is right, and provide clarity in all matters. Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi has overstepped by issuing a Tabdee against some senior Salafi students. Is there any alternative course of action available, other than ensuring that Dr. Muhammad publicly retracts his erroneous Tabdee? This would liberate him from the unjust burden of seeking to undermine the integrity of these senior students of knowledge, based solely on speculation, transgression, and impulsiveness. This is why Al-Allamah Rabee and Al-Allamah Ubaid reprimanded him because he has transgressed. 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.” [4]

What actions is Faris undertaking to persuade Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi to retract the erroneous Tabdee, instead of merely invoking the phrase “Fear Allah” to evade his obligations? Furthermore, there are individuals, whether through deception or naivety, who believe that Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi’s situation is confined to a court case. In reality, the crux of the issue lies in his issuance of a false Tabdee judgment, which he has yet to revoke. This is precisely why he faced confrontation and scrutiny from Al-Allamah Rabe Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali. Please read further below:

https://twitter.com/AbuIyaadSP/status/1018974451269033986/photo/1

https://www.manhaj.com/manhaj/print.cfm?uyryh

Beyond the mere utterance of “Fear Allah” as a means to evade his obligations, he further asserted that one should immerse oneself in pursuits that yield more benefit. Is it truly of lesser significance to investigate the matters concerning Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi? The turmoil he has instigated has undeniably troubled the Salafiyyoon, and should we allow this misguided Tabdee to pass unchallenged, we can anticipate the emergence of another individual who will follow suit. Subsequently, we may find yet another like Faris advising others to fear Allah and focus on what is deemed more beneficial. This is the insidious manner in which the Mu’mayyi’ah gradually stifle the essence of enjoining good and prohibiting evil under the guise of unity and the pursuit of greater benefits, rather than adhering to the clear, knowledge-based guidance provided by scholars against those who err and persist in their missteps. More than two decades ago, and even at present, certain individuals have sought to dissuade others from engaging with and scrutinising the rebuttals directed at those who remain entrenched in their errors, as articulated by Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah protect him. The Shaikh said:

“The people extensively read books that contained deviant viewpoints, and the libraries were decaying and being filled with misguidance and Bidah. Nonetheless, they refrained from speaking in this manner (those who object when one seeks to acquaint himself with refutation to be upon clarity about groups and individuals). However, as people started to (follow) the teachings of Allah’s Book and the Sunnah based on the methodology of the Pious Predecessors and discovered books that warned them against Bidah and misguidance, they said, “Do not busy yourselves on these matters, do not neglect knowledge”. These refutations are part of acquiring knowledge. By Allah! To be acquainted with guidance (and distinguishing) it from misguidance, recognising good and (distinguishing it) from evil, are knowledge that will safeguard a person, as Hudhaifah, may Allah be pleased with him, said, ‘The people used to ask the Messenger about the good, but I used to ask him about the evil out of fear of falling into it’. The books of the proponents of Bidah and misguidance should be made known through the books that debunk them. Many young people were ruined when deprived of the likes of these books that protect them. These books offer a shield of protection for the youth”. [5]

Therefore, is it not essential for those who enquire to gain comprehension of the sound Manhaj position regarding the erroneous Tabdee proclaimed by Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi? Have those scholars, Al-Allamah Rabee, Al-Allamah Ubaid, and Shaikh Abdullah Al-Bukhari, squandered their efforts in cautioning us about the perils of this misguided Tabdee? Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Madkhali, may preserve him, said: “Numerous Fitan have transpired, including the fitna of the Khawaarij, the Rawaafid, and killing. Instances of deviation and misguidance have occurred, often linked to conflicts and trials concerning politics, creed, methodology, and similar matters… Therefore, during every trial, they (the scholars of Ahlus Sunnah) must openly proclaim the truth and clarify it for the people. They should distinguish – for them – between guidance and misguidance, truth and falsehood, how the people will be safeguarded from these trials, the path through which they will be saved from entering into trials and other affairs (through which) Allah guides this (victorious) group when (they) face every trial”. [6]

Then Faris stated: “This happened years ago….”

How intriguing it is that a grave error committed long ago seems to fade in importance, even while the individual responsible continues to uphold it! The controversies surrounding figures like Al-Halabi, Al-Maghrawi, Al-Maribi, Al-Hajuri, and Falih Al-Harbi may have occurred in the distant past, yet they remain subjects of scrutiny due to their unwavering adherence to their misjudgements. Similarly, those who erred centuries ago and did not retract their statements continue to face criticism, with scholars cautioning against their writings and fallacies. So, what of the individual whose erroneous stance on false Tabdee persists, with supporters still rallying to his side, while he remains unrepentant? Yet, Faris dismissively claims, “This happened years ago…” Umar Ibn Al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “People were (sometimes) judged by the revealing of a Divine revelation during the lifetime of Allah’s Messenger but now there is no longer any more (new revelation). Now we judge you by the deeds you practice publicly, so we will trust and favour the one who does good deeds in front of us, and we will not call him to account about what he is really doing in secret, because Allah will judge him for that; but we will not trust or believe the one who presents to us an evil deed even if he claims that his intentions were good”. [7]

Imam Abdul-Azeez Bin Baaz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Whoever manifests good, it will be accepted from him and a good suspicion is held about him. And if he manifests evil, it will be held against him and an evil suspicion is held about him”. [8]

Indeed, the challenges faced by others far surpass those endured by the deceitful Faris! Consider the esteemed Al-Allamah Rabee and Al-Allamah Ubaid, under whose guidance and other senior scholars Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi flourished in his quest for knowledge. Yet, when Dr. Muhammad remained stubborn in his misguided Tabdee, they admonished him. Furthermore, what of the senior teachers at Spubs, who have been acquainted with Dr. Muhammad for an extensive period? Despite their long-standing relationship, they took it upon themselves to elucidate his situation when he continued to cling to his errors. Read below:

https://abukhadeejah.com/muhammad-hadi-allegations-and-response-of-the-major-scholars/

This is because the essence lies in the absence of unwavering loyalty to any individual; instead, the Muslim’s loyalty is solely to the truth, as articulated by Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah’s mercy be upon him:

“There is no (unrestricted or unconditional) allegiance except to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, because he is infallible and never speaks out of his desires. As for unrestricted allegiance to personalities whether they are correct or mistaken, then indeed this is not permissible for the seeker of knowledge. On the other hand, he should look to such and such Shaikhs as to which of them is upon uprightness and is following the Manhaj of the Salaf. This is the one whom we place our hands on his hands- not out of blameworthy blind following, but rather, because he is upon the truth. So we agree with him upon truth and follow a singular path in obedience to the statement of Allaah [The Mighty and Majestic]: [وَأَنَّ هَٰذَا صِرَاطِي مُسْتَقِيمًا فَاتَّبِعُوهُ ۖ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا السُّبُلَ فَتَفَرَّقَ بِكُمْ عَن سَبِيلِهِ – And verily, this is my Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His Path] [6:153]
As for the one who selects Shaikhs, leaders, and guides, whilst agreeing with them- in what is correct and wrong- to the extent that they do not leave their Manhaj whether they are correct or wrong, then these are the people who bring evil upon themselves and others. And if they do not repent, then they are most worthy of being blamed. So the affair-and all praise belongs to Allah- is clear and it is not permissible for a person to be in confusion regarding this affair. We are with those who follow the straight path – a singular path that Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, has commanded us to follow and the messenger called us to. And those you follow the wrong path or are mistaken in many of their affairs, or some of their affairs, we leave him [i.e. we leave his mistakes or abandon him when he deserves to be boycotted]. None is followed in everything except the Messenger of Allah. As for the people, they can be correct or mistaken. Indeed, we do not follow them and we do not follow their footsteps solely because they are Shaikhs, callers to Islam, leaders or guides; rather you should be with the people of the Salafi Manhaj-those who follow the correct Manhaj and correct understanding”. [9]

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, stated: “Concerning the individual who possesses the evidence, it is incumbent to accept their speech based on adherence to Allah’s Legislation and Proofs, rather than the personality of that individual”. [10]

The Shaikh also said, “The seeker of truth is not diverted from the truth, fairness, and justice due to admiration of the big personalities and being amazed by them, for indeed the truth is more worthy to be followed. It is not permissible to drop the proofs for the sake of this or that great man. The principle of the Muslim – the unbiased one, the seeker of truth – is always: [قُلْ هَاتُوا بُرْهَانَكُمْ إِن كُنتُمْ صَادِقِينَ -Say, bring forth your proofs if you are truthful]. [Surah An-Nahl. Verse 64] [11]

In addition, there should be no flattery, as emphasised by Imam Ash-Shawkaanee: “We often see a man who holds a belief that aligns with truth and correctness. However, when he speaks to someone who disagrees with him- one who is inclined towards something of the innovated matters in the religion, and especially if that person holds a position of leadership or worldly wealth, not to mention a king, he agrees with him, strengthens, supports and aids him against others. The least in such circumstances is that he would hide what he believes is the truth and show contempt – in the presence of a person from whom it is neither possible to receive harm nor benefit – towards what has become clear to him is the right thing, so, what about someone from whom harm and benefit are possible? This behavior is essentially prioritising worldly things and the life of this world over the religion and the afterlife. If he observed and reflected upon what has happened to him, he would have realised that his inclination toward the (vain) desires of a man, two men, three or more individuals – among those he compliments within that gathering, conceals the truth to be in agreement with them and to gain affection, acquire their possessions, and avoid being isolated by them -is a deficiency in upholding the truth and tantamount to exalting falsehood. If it were not for the fact that these individuals hold a higher position in his eyes than the Lord, he would not have been inclined to their (vain) desires and abandoned what he knows to be what Allah wants and demands from His servants”. [12]

In conclusion, duplicitous Faris said: “This fitnah about Shaykh Muhammad bin Hadi and wallaahi this is not a subject or a topic that should be discussed publicly and especially among people or laymen or young students of knowledge. Discussing this and making you know walaa and baraa because of this matter, this is foolishness and this is from the shaytaan and this will divide the Muslims wAllahu ta’aala A’lam, get busy with what benefits you that’s better and this is not something that is beneficial and valuable.”

Observation: To begin with, is Faris feigning ignorance to the alarming extent of the Fitna surrounding Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi and the reprehensible conduct of his fervent followers, Al-Musafiqah? Does he genuinely believe that his actions should not be scrutinised and discussed in the public sphere, although his false Tabdee unfolded before all eyes? Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: If a man commits evil openly, denouncing him openly is not tantamount to backbiting him. It is obligatory to chastise him openly with what would prevent him from (the evil), such as boycotting and other than that”. [13]

Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked: When should advice be given in private or openly?

Response: The one giving advice does what is best. If he sees that it is more beneficial in secret, he advises secretly; if he sees that it is more beneficial to do so openly, he does so. However, if the sin is committed secretly, the advice can only be given secretly. If he knows about his brother that he sins in secret, he advises him in secret and does not expose him. But if the sin is committed openly- seen by the people, for example, a person starts drinking alcohol in a gathering, then one must denounce it openly; or if a person started calling (others) to drink alcohol or to fornicate, whilst one is present, he should say, “O my brother! This is not permissible”. [14]

Subsequently, Faris invoked “The Layman Card,” which has echoed for almost thirty years, often uttered by those who seek refuge behind it to evade accountability when confronted with the necessity of honesty. Ironically, it is these same laymen who, in the absence of clarity, become pawns in the hands of the very deceivers who insist they should remain uninvolved. Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadi Al-Madkhali, may Allah preserve him, was asked, “What do you say about an individual who advises people not to listen to refutations, when asked why he took this stance, he answered, ‘The person who asked me about this was a common person, and he is unable to recite the Quran properly’. What is your comment on this? May Allah bless you”.

Response: If he is a layman, he must be taught the Islamic creed and warned against ahlul bidah. Because the majority of ordinary people have become supporters of the people of bidah these days, it is necessary to warn them. Say to him, “So and so is on such and such bidah, and you will be harmed if you listen to him.” This is done so that they will not read (his books), listen to his audio tapes, and will be cautious of his statements. This layman needs someone to caution him and remind him of the principle, “This knowledge is religion so look at whom you take your religion from”. During these times, the common people are targeted by the people of bidah, who will tell you, “Do not let them read the books of refutations.” No. No. This will expose them (the people) to destruction. [15]

Then Faris expressed that the matter concerning Dr. Muhammad is being transformed into a divisive issue of Walaa and Baraa, deeming such behavior as folly and a ploy of Shaytaan. He cautioned that this could lead to a rift among Muslims, urging instead a focus on pursuits that yield what is more beneficial, for such endeavours are better and more valuable!

Observation: Faris’s approach once again reminds us that it is indeed the case that when an individual consciously chooses to evade their responsibilities from the very beginning, they often resort to uttering something either malevolent or nonsensical to mask their wrongdoing. There is no doubt that this situation must be examined through the lens of love and hatred for the sake of Allah, as we detest injustice and transgression. We harbour disdain for the unfounded Tabdee made by Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi, and we abhor his stubbornness and unwillingness to retract this falsehood. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, stated: “Whoever loves for the sake of Allah, hates for the sake of Allah, gives for the sake of Allah, and withholds for the sake of Allah has perfected the faith”. [16] We ask Allah to include us among those who hate what He hates and loves what He loves Ameen.

In this context, what Faris considers to be from Shaytaan is absolutely not the case in the twinkling of an eye, rather, whoever assesses the situation honestly will discern – by the Tawfeeq of Allah – precisely between the influences of Shaytaan and the genuine emotions of love and hate. It is undoubtedly an act of Shaytaan to obscure the truth or to condone the misdeeds of Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi, regardless of an individual’s awareness. Conversely, to reject the transgressions and obstinacy exhibited by Dr. Muhammad Bin Hadi is a manifestation of justifiable disdain. From this vantage point, Faris’s attempts to articulate his objections reveal a profound folly, as he naively seeks to label a sound pursuit and stance as misguided. Were this issue trivial, esteemed scholars and diligent senior students would not have taken the time to elucidate the matter and offer guidance on the appropriate stance to adopt.

Then Faris said that engaging in the matter in a manner he finds objectionable will lead to a rift among Muslims. To illuminate this point, we can refer to a hadith that underscores the root of the discord: it stems from Dr. Muhammad’s overstepping and his unwavering commitment to the erroneous practice of false Tabdee, thus he became the one prolonging the dispute because he refuses to abandon this sin. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “There are not two people who love each other for the sake of Allaah, and then they split from each other, except that it is due to a sin of one of them”.  Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Haadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allaah have mercy upon him, said: This hadith shows that to love one another- the religious and worldly benefits it contains – is legislated in the Shariah. Regarding the religious benefits of this love, (it brings about) cooperation upon righteousness and piety. As for its worldly benefits, it (results in attaining those) necessities of life that are sought after. Those who love one another are attached and remain upon that until one of them commits a sin that leads to the destruction of this legislated love- the love that was established for the sake of Allah and the sake of Islamic brotherhood. Therefore, it is a good thing that the person abandons the sin he committed, which was the cause of separation between them so that brotherhood for the sake of Allaah is restored as it was before, and so that both the religious and worldly benefits of that brotherly love can continue. The basis of the sin committed by one of them may have occurred without any external influence (i.e. it was solely the person’s fault), or it may have occurred due to tale-bearing and instigated by some of the devils amongst mankind- those who hasten to cause corruption in the earth. Loving one another for the sake of Allaah [The Mighty and Majestic] carries a reward that has been mentioned in the Shari’ah texts. Abu Hurairah [may Allaah be pleased with him] reported that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “Allaah will give shade to seven on the day when there will be no shade but His”’…and amongst those people are “Two people who love each other only for the sake of Allaah and they meet and part in Allaah’s cause only”. [17]

It is this very clarity that deceitful Faris attempts to elude, resorting instead to feeble justifications to uphold his absurdities. He mistakenly believes he possesses the right to voice an opinion; however, what is truly incumbent on him is to either convey the truth or maintain silence, thereby avoiding the embarrassment of exposing his own deceitful and superficial comprehension. His misguided attempts to obscure the distinctions between virtue and vice, integrity, and falsehood, only serve to highlight his folly.

To be continued InShaAllah

This series is presented by a member of the Masjid Committee, Abdullah Jallow, yet it reflects the unified position of the entire committee against this duplicitous individual. Abdullah’s name is cited to ensure accountability for the content being shared.

[1] An Excerpt from ‘Badaa’i At-Tafseer Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim. Vol 1. Page 300-303

[2] Muqaddimah Sahih Muslim 26

[3] An Excerpt from Sharh Hilyati Taalibal Ilm. page 79

[4] Sahih Al-Bukhari 2444

[5] An Excerpt from “Juhoodul Allaamah Rabee Al-Madkhali Fee Naqdi Shubuhaatil Hizbiyyeen. page 80-81

[6] An Excerpt from ‘Adh-Dharee’ah Ilaa Bayaan Maqaasid Kitaab Ash-Sharee’ah. 1/200-202

[7] Saheeh Bukhaari; Vol 3; Hadith Number:2641]
[8] An Excerpt from Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min At-Taleeqaat Al-Baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaariy page:397 Vol 2 footnote 1

[9] العقد المنضد الجديد في الإجابة على مسائل في الفقه والمناهج والتوحيد -(page:144) ]

[10] Majmoo 9/40) 3rd paragraph]

[11] All-Mulakh-khasul Jameel Fee Bayaani Manhaji Ash-Shaikh Rabee Fid-Da’wati Wal-Jarhi Wat-Ta’deel. Page 87

[12] An Excerpt from Adabud Talab Wa Muntahaa Al-Adab. Pages 93-95

[13] Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 28/217

[14] Majallah Al-Islaah. (Number 17/241). Date: 23/6/1993

[15] Fataawa Fadeelah Ash-Shaykh Rabee’ Al-Madkhalee (1/273)]

[16] Sunan Abī Dāwūd 4681

[17] Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharhu Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 1/445-446