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

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

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

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

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

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

[2] Hilyah Al-Awliya 8/91

[14] Usaamah Bin Zayd: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication With The Rulers

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Shaqeeq [may Allah have mercy upon him] reported that it was said to Usamah Bin Zayd [may Allah be pleased with him], “Why don’t you visit Uthman [may Allah be pleased with him] and speak to him?” So, he said, “Do you think that I have not spoken to him except if I make you hear (about it)? By Allah! I have spoken to him (about affairs) concerning me and him, and I did not like to divulge those things about which I had to take the initiative and I do not say to my ruler, ‘You are the best among people’ after I heard Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] saying, ‘A man will be brought on the Day of Resurrection and thrown in Hell-Fire and his intestines will pour forth in Hell and he will go round along with them, as an ass goes round the mill stone. The inhabitants of Hell would gather round him and say, ‘O, so and so! What has happened to you? Were you not enjoining us to do what was good and forbidding us to do what was evil? He will say, ‘Of course, it is so; I used to enjoin (upon people) to do what was good but did not practice that myself. I had been forbidding people to do what was evil, but did it myself”. [1]

Waa’il [may Allah have mercy upon him] reported that it was said to Usamah Bin Zayd [may Allah be pleased with him], “Will you go to so-and-so [i.e. Uthman – may Allah be pleased with him] and speak to him (i.e. advise him regarding rulership of the country)?” He said, “You see that I don’t speak to him. I speak to (advise) him secretly without opening a door because neither do I want to be the first to open it nor will I say to a man who is my ruler that he is the best of all the people after I have heard something from Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said”. They said, “What have you heard him saying?” He said, “I have heard him saying, “A man will be brought on the Day of Resurrection and thrown in the (Hell) Fire, so that his intestines will come out, and he will go around like a donkey goes around a millstone. The people of (Hell) Fire will gather around him and say, ‘O so-and-so! What is wrong with you? Didn’t you use to order us to do good deeds and forbid us to do bad deeds?’ He will reply, ‘Yes, I used to order you to do good deeds, but I did not do them myself, and I used to forbid you to do bad deeds, yet I used to do them myself'” [2] [Footnote a]

Regarding the statement: “I speak to (advise) him secretly without opening a door “. Al-Aynee [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: Meaning, without opening one of the doors of temptation. I speak to him to pursue a Maslahah [aiming to bring about positive outcomes and deter negative or evil ones] and not to incite temptations, as openly disapproving of the rulers can be perceived as a form of rebellion, carrying insults that lead to division and schism within the unified body of Muslims under the authority of the ruler. [3] Al-Qaadhi Iyaadh [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: Meaning, “I do not wish to be the first to open this door”, which is expressing open disapproval and directing it toward the rulers, and its evil consequences, as was the case when they openly disapproved of Uthman [may Allah be pleased with him] which led to the shedding of his blood and the subsequent turmoil that ensued”. [4]

Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadee al-Mad’khali [may Allah preserve him] said: Uthman [may Allah be pleased with him] was one of those who restrained the people from bloodshed the most as well as that of the people who violated his honour. Shaikh Al-Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “What is well known through successive numerous narrations is that Uthman [may Allah be pleased with him] was one of those who restrained the people from bloodshed the most, exercised patience the most regarding the affair of those who violated his honour and those who made a determined attempt to shed his blood, so they besieged him and endeavoured to kill him, and he knew their desire to kill him. The Muslims came to him from every place to help him and indicated to him to fight the besiegers, but he commanded them to refrain from fighting and commanded those who obeyed him not to fight. He said to his slaves, ‘Whoever restrains his hand is freed’. It was said to him, ‘Will you go to Makkah?’ He said, ‘I will not be amongst those who commit evil in the sacred house’. Then it was said to him, ‘Will you not go to Syria?’ He said, ‘I will not leave my place of Hijrah (i.e. Madeenah)’. Then it was said to him, ‘Fight them’, he said, ‘I will not be the first in the Ummah of Muhammad [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] to unleash the sword after the departure of Muhammad’. Uthmaan’s patience until he was murdered is one of his greatest virtues in the sight of Muslims”. [5]

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “Upon realising that he would face death based on his observations of the events and signs, Uthman [may Allah be pleased with him] chose not to engage in fighting or self-defence to prevent conflict among the Muslims. He preferred to be killed rather than (initiating) fighting between Muslims”. [6]

Footnote a: “A man will be brought on the Day of Resurrection and thrown in the (Hell) Fire, so that his intestines will come out, and he will go around like a donkey goes around a millstone. The people of (Hell) Fire will gather around him and say, ‘O so-and-so! What is wrong with you? Didn’t you use to order us to do good deeds and forbid us to do bad deeds?’ He will reply, ‘Yes, I used to order you to do good deeds, but I did not do them myself, and I used to forbid you to do bad deeds, yet I used to do them myself'”. [Saheeh Al-Bukhari 3267] Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadi al-Mad’khali [may Allah preserve him] said, “Indeed, there may be someone worse than this man because he [i.e. the one worse than the man mentioned in this Hadeeth] enjoins evil and forbids good, so what will be his state of affairs, and Allah’s Refuge is sought?!” [7]

To be continued…InShaaAllah

[1] Saheeh Muslim 2989

[2] Saheeh Al-Bukhari 3267

[3] Umdah Al-Qaaree Sharh Saheeh Al-Bukhaari. 15/166

[4] Ik’maal Al-Mu’allim Bi-Fawaa’id Muslim 8/538]

[5] An Excerpt from Al-Mukhtaaraat Al-Bahiyyah Min Kutub Shaikhil Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah. Page 296. Slightly paraphrased

[6] الطُّرُقُ الْحُكميَّة- page 30

[7] Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm. Pages 270-271

[20] A Brief Look at Pseudo Researchers in Salafiyyah: [Examination of a Fabricated Quietist Faction Within Salafiyyah Called Mad’khalism]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Bid'ah (Innovation), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Imaam Abdur-Rahmaan Bin Naasir As-Sadi [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “It is well known that Allah does not love ignorance, doubts, confusion, or misguidance; rather, He loves the religion He has ordained, knowledge, and certainty. Indeed, we have been commanded to ask Allah [The Exalted] to guide us to the straight path, which entails knowledge of the truth and acting on it, and the Qur’an is the cure, guidance, and light. The Muslims agree that doubt and confusion are unpraiseworthy, and it is expected – absolutely- that a person who does not possess knowledge of something is obligated to keep quiet and seek knowledge via its (sound) sources”. [(1)]

The ignoramuses stated: “The polemics of the Madkhalists are markedly different from other Salafist groups as well. A noted feature of Madkhalism during Muslim dogmatic exchanges is clarifying the opponent sect instead of only discourse regarding the topic of discussion”. [End of quote]

Response: First of all, as we have already mentioned, there is no such thing as a Madkhalist group within Salafiyyah, not to mention the presence of other Salafi groups within Salafiyyah.

Read: http://www.salafis.com/index.cfm

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

Second, Salafi Scholars, including Al Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadi Al-Mad’khali, do not write or speak to contradict others for personal motives; rather, their writings and speeches are intended to establish truth and refute falsehood, so that no one stands in the way of truth. Ibn Aqeel [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “If the truthful ones remained silent and the falsifiers spoke, the creation (humankind and Jinn) would abandon what they have witnessed (of truth) and reject what they have not witnessed. As a result, when the devout desire to revive the Sunnah, the people reject it and think that it is bidah”. [(2)]

Third, the ignoramuses stated that a noted feature of Madkhalism (i.e. so-called Mad’khalism) during Muslim dogmatic exchanges is clarifying the opponent sect instead of only discourse regarding the topic of discussion! Indeed, this statement demonstrates the cretins’ incompetence once more, because the discussion of sects and parties is always centered on refuting false beliefs and methodologies, as well as identifying specific characteristics of the deviant sects. The fact that in such discussions, not only are the topics discussed, but also sometimes the sect itself and how to deal with it, is found in the Prophet’s [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] statement, “ “The Qadariyyah are the Magians of this community. If they are ill, do not pay a sick visit to them, and if they die, do not attend their funerals”. [(3)] [See Footnote a] Also Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “The thing I fear most for my Ummah are the leaders of misguidance”. [(4)]

Imaam Al-Barbahaaree [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: “Imaam Barbahaaree [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “Know that leaving the correct path occurs in two ways. Firstly, a man strays from the correct path intending nothing but good, so his error is not to be followed since it leads to destruction. Secondly, a man who deliberately opposes the truth and acts contrary to the Pious ones who came before him, he is astray, leading others astray, a rebellious devil within the Ummah. It is a duty upon those who know of him to warn the people against him and to explain his condition to them so that no one falls into his innovation and is destroyed”. Continue reading below:

Leaving The Correct Path Occurs In Two Ways

The situation is as apparent as the midday sun, yet owing to ignorance, the these pseudo researchers at Wikipedia have rushed to blame the so-called Mad’khalists that “a noted feature of Madkhalism during Muslim dogmatic exchanges is clarifying the opponent sect instead of only discourse regarding the topic of discussion”, despite the fact that the  cited Prophetic narrations demonstrate that wrong beliefs, the deviant sects, and their leaders must be identified and refuted.

Footnote a: The Splitting of the Muslim Ummah: Part 1 – The Completion and Perfection of the Religion and The Way of the Companions:

https://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/oeotc-glimpses-into-the-splitting-of-the-muslim-ummah-part-1.cfm

To be continued…InShaaAllah

[(1)]: An Excerpt from Al-Adillatul Qawaatiq Wal-baraaheen Fee Ibtaali Usoolil Mulhideen. Page 15. slightly paraphrased

[(2)]: Shifaa As-Sudoor Fee Ziyaaratil Mashaahid Wal-Quboor. Page 148

[(3)]: Saheeh Sunan Abu Dawud 4691

[(4)]: Tirmidhee 2229

 

[13] Imaam Ahmad: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

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

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

Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: “I hold that the leader of the believers is to be obeyed (in good) in private and public, in my times of hardship and ease, in my times of enthusiasm and when I dislike doing something (i.e. something that’s not unlawful, but one does not like to do it), and when others are given precedence over me. Indeed, I supplicate to Allah – night and day – for him to be successful and guided”.

Al-Bidaayah Wan-Nihaayah 14/413

[12] Ubaydullah Bin Adi Bin Al-Khiyar: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

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

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

Ubaydullah Bin Adi Bin Al-Khiyar narrated that Al-Miswar Bin Makhrama and Abdur-Rahman Bin Al-Aswad Bin Abu Yaghuth said (to me), “What prevents you from speaking to Uthman about his brother Al-Walid because people have spoken much about him?” So, I went to Uthman and when he went out for prayer I said (to him), “I have something to say to you and it is a piece of advice for you”. Uthman said, “O man, from you.” (Umar said: I see that he said, “I seek Refuge with Allah from you.”) So I left him and went to them. Then the messenger of Uthman came and I went to him (i.e. `Uthman), `Uthman asked, “What is your advice?” I replied, “Allah sent Muhammad with the truth and revealed the Divine Book (i.e. Qur’an) to him, and you were amongst those who followed Allah and His Messenger, and you participated in the two migrations (to Ethiopia and Medina) and enjoyed the company of Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and saw his way. No doubt, the people are talking much about Al-Walid.” `Uthman said, “Did you receive your knowledge directly from Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) ?” I said, “No, but his knowledge did reach me and it reached (even) to a virgin in her seclusion.” Uthman said, “And then Allah sent Muhammad with the truth and I was amongst those who followed Allah and His Messenger and I believed in whatever he (i.e. the Prophet) was sent with, and participated in two migrations, as you have said, and I enjoyed the company of Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and gave the pledge of allegiance him. By Allah! I never disobeyed him, nor did I cheat him till Allah took him unto Him. Then I treated Abu Bakr and then Umar similarly and then I was made Caliph. So, don’t I have rights similar to theirs?” I said, “Yes.” He said, “Then what are these talks reaching me from you people? Now, concerning what you mentioned about the question of Al-Walid, Allah willing, I shall deal with him according to what is right.” Then he called Ali and ordered him to flog him, and Ali flogged him (i.e. Al-Walid) eighty lashes. [Sahih Al-Bukhari. 3696]

[11] Ibn As-Sammaak: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, History of Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), The Salaf - Pious Predecessors.

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

One day Ibn As-Sammaak [may Allah have mercy upon him] came when Haaroon Ar-Rasheed [may Allah have mercy upon him] asked for water. After a cup of cold water was brought, he said to Ibn As-Sammaak, “Admonish me”. Ibn As-Sammaak said to him, “O leader of the believers! How much would you pay for this drink if you were deprived of it?” He replied, “Half of my reign”. Ibn As-Sammaak said to him, “Drink, may it be blessed”. After he drank, Ibn Sammaak said to him, “If this water was prevented from exiting your body, then how much would you pay for it (to be removed)”, he said, “The other half of my reign”. Ibn Sammaak said to him, “Indeed, half of the reign is the value of a little drink of water and the value of the other half is that of urine. It is befitting that you do not strive and compete with others for it”. Haaroon wept.

An Excerpt from Al-Bidaayah Wan-Nihaayah. 10/213-217

[9] Haaroon Ar-Rasheed Meets BahlooI: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in History of Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors.

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

Haaroon Ar-Rasheed [may Allah have mercy upon him] set out for Hajj and saw Bahlool [may Allah have mercy upon him] – the insane – in the middle of the town running, whilst the children were behind him; so Haaroon said, “Who is this?” They said, “It is Bahlool the insane one”. He said, “I wanted to see him, so call him without intimidating him”. They said to Bahlool, “Respond to the leader of the believers”. Haaroon said to him, “O Bahlool! Peace be upon you”, he replied, “O leader of the believers! Peace be upon you”. Haaroon said, “I desired very much for a long time to meet you”, he replied, “But I did not have that desire to meet you”. Haaroon said, “O Bahlool! Give me an admonition”, he said, “With what should I admonish you whilst these are your castles and graves”. Haaroon said, “Increase your admonition because indeed you have spoken well”. He said, “O leader of the believers! The one upon whom Allah has bestowed wealth and beauty, so he becomes chaste in his beauty and charitable with his wealth, he will be written in the register of the righteous”. Haaroon thought that Bahlool wanted something and said to him, “We have ordered that your debt is paid”. He said, “O leader of the believers! No, do not pay a debt with another debt, rather fulfill the rights of the people and eliminate your own debt from yourself”. Haaroon said, “We have been commanded to reward you”. He said, “O leader of the believers! Do you think that Allah has given you and forgotten me?!” Then he ran away.

[An Excerpt from ‘Uqalaa Al-Majaaneen’. Page 36]

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

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Self-deception and Self-amazement 

Allah [The Exalted] says:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Not Paying Close Attention to Our True Reality

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We ask Allah:

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

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

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

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

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

[2] Silsilah As-Saheehah Number 227

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

[4] Sharh Mumti 5/388

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

[6] Hilyatul Awliyaa 2/485

[7] Hilyatul Awliyaa. 6/391

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

[9] Saheeh at-Targheeb. 56

[10] Saheeh at-Targheeb, 57.

[11] Tuhfah Al-Ahwadahy 7/126

[12] Saheeh Al-Bukhaari 6464

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

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

[15] Siyar A’laam An-Nubulaa. 5/75

[16] Bahjatul Majaalis 3/330.

[17] As-Saheehah Number 1301

[18]Saheeh Muslim. 2720

 

 

[5] Khalid Bin Safwaan: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by faizkara on . Posted in Brotherhood, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Umar Bin Abdil Azeez [may Allah have mercy upon him] said to Khalid Bin Safwan [may Allah have mercy upon him], “Admonish me”. Khalid said, “O leader of the believers! There are a people who have been deluded by Allah’s concealment of (their sins, flaws, etc.), and the good praise (received) has put them to trial; thus, do not allow the ignorance of others (about your reality) to override what you know about yourself. May Allah protect us and you from being misled by Allah’s concealment of (our sins, flaws, etc), and from being pleased with the praise (received), falling short and neglecting that which Allah has obligated to us, and inclining towards (vain) desires.” He (Umar) wept and stated, “May Allah protect us and you from following (vain) desires”.

[Tahdheeb Al-Hilyah 2/485]

Imam Ibn Baz on the Manhaj of Correcting the Rulers

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

Is the Tyranny of the Rulers a Reason for Rebellion? The Duty of a Muslim Towards the Muslim Leaders in Light of the Qur’ān, Sunnah, and the Scholars of the Salaf.

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

To be continued InShaaAllah

 

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

Written by abuaisha on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

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

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

Imam Ibn Baz on the Manhaj of Correcting the Rulers

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

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

To be continued InShaaAllah