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Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [21 of 80]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Uncategorized, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

There is a lot of chatter and speech nowadays, a lot of this one says and that one says. This is from that which hardens the hearts. May Allah grant us and you all sincere faith and good deeds. I advise you, my brothers, to foster brotherhood among yourselves and to distance from the causes of discord and (blameworthy) differing. Do not bring up issues that lead to (blameworthy) differing and do not let the devil pull you into (blameworthy) dispute and argument just because your brother makes a mistake. Learn patience and wisdom; you are in a time when you need forbearance, patience, wisdom, and kindness more than ever. We are not saying to remain silent, flatter, or compromise. Instead, advise, be patient, and show forbearance for the sake of Allah, and your affairs will be upright. O our sons! Be forebearing towards one another and and (strengthen your) brotherhood. I advise you, my brothers, to fear Allah and to be conscious of Him, establish brotherhood, cooperate in righteousness and piety, while distanced from the causes of strife and (blameworthy) differing.

Source: An Except from “Adh-Dharee’ah Ilaa Bayaan Maqaasid Kitaab Ash- Sharee’ah 2/576

Self-oppression

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

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

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

When a person does not act upon the truth he needs – neither affirms nor loves it, he becomes an oppressor of himself. When he affirms falsehood or loves it, pursuing his own desires, he oppresses himself. This self-oppression stems from following conjecture and that which the soul desires through personal opinions and (vain) desires. Bidah represents the root of evil, and it is tantamount to prioritising one’s intellect over divine revelation and choosing personal desires over obedience to commands; and adhering to guidance is the foundation of goodness, as Allah said:

فَإِمَّا يَأۡتِيَنَّڪُم مِّنِّى هُدً۬ى فَمَنِ ٱتَّبَعَ هُدَاىَ فَلَا يَضِلُّ وَلَا يَشۡقَىٰ

وَمَنۡ أَعۡرَضَ عَن ذِڪۡرِى فَإِنَّ لَهُ ۥ مَعِيشَةً۬ ضَنكً۬ا وَنَحۡشُرُهُ ۥ يَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ أَعۡمَىٰ

Then if there comes to you guidance from Me, then whoever follows My Guidance shall neither go astray, nor fall into distress and misery. But whosoever turns away from My Reminder (i.e. neither believes in this Qur’an nor acts on its orders, etc.) verily, for him is a life of hardship, and We shall raise him up blind on the Day of Resurrection. [Taha  123-124]

Source:
شرحُ حديث ٱللهم إني ظلمت نفسي ظلما كثيرا
Page: 66

Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [20 of 80]

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

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

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, was asked: How do we invite the general people to Salafiyyah- the methodology of the pious predecessors, especially when they are influenced by certain harmful and misguided preachers?

Answer: Allah has provided us with a methodology for inviting others to His path. Allah said to His prophet:

ادْعُ إِلَى سَبِيلِ – رَبِّكَ بِالْحِكْمَةِ وَالْمَوْعِظَةِ الْحَسَنَةِ وَجَادِلْهُم بِالَّتِي هِيَ أَحْسَنُ إِنَّ رَبَّكَ هُوَ أَعْلَمُ بِمَن ضَلَّ عَن سَبِيلِهِ وَهُوَ أَعْلَمُ بِالْمُهْتَدِين

Invite (mankind, O Muhammad) to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His Path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided. [An-Nahl 125]

Inviting to way of Allah with wisdom, which is knowledge, clarification and proof. You should invite the commoner and other than him with knowledge, good manners, gentleness, and leniency, however, the commoner often more receptive. He may accept the truth from you without argument, but if he need to be debated, it may stem from a certain attachment to falsehood, then you should debate in a way that is better.

وَلَا تَسْتَوِي الْحَسَنَةُ وَلَا السَّيِّئَةُ بـ ادْفَعْ بِالَّتِي هِيَ أَحْسَنُ فَإِذَا الَّذِي بَيْنَكَ وَبَيْنَهُ عَدَاوَةٌ كَأَنَّهُ وَلِيُّ حَمِيمٌ وَمَا يُلَقَّهَا إِلَّا الَّذِينَ صَبَرُوا وَمَا يُلَقَّنَهَا إِلَّا ذُو حَظٍّ عَظِيم

The good deed and the evil deed cannot be equal. Repel (the evil) with one which is better (i.e. Allah ordered the faithful believers to be patient at the time of anger, and to excuse those who treat them badly), then verily! he, between whom and you there was enmity, (will become) as though he was a close friend. But none is granted it (the above quality) except those who are patient, and none is granted it except the owner of the great portion (of the happiness in the Hereafter i.e. Paradise and in this world of a high moral character). [Fussilat 34-35]

Majmoo 14/217-218

[16] The Ascent and Decline of The Ottoman Empire

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Charity (Sadaqah), Featured, History of Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq'.

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

The Ruler of Khwarezm Requests Protection from Sultan Salim II:

The ruler of Khwarazm complained to Sultan Salim II regarding the Shah of Persia, who was seizing pilgrims from Turkistan as they entered his territory. He also pointed out that after Moscow’s conquest of Astrakhan, the flow of pilgrims and trade had been hindered. In light of these challenges, the Khwarazm ruler, along with the leaders of Bukhara and Samarkand, urged Sultan Salim II to reopen Astrakhan to facilitate the pilgrimage route. The Ottoman Empire responded. Grand Vizier Sokullu Muhammad Pasha prepared a significant military campaign during the years 976-977 AH (1568-1569) aimed at capturing Astrakhan and establishing it as an Ottoman stronghold in the region. Plans were made to construct a canal linking the Volga and Don rivers to enable the passage of ships. This was to help the Ottoman fleet enter the Caspian Sea via the Black Sea, enabling them to stop Russian expansion to the south and push the Persians out of the Caucasus and Azerbaijan. It was also facilitate an invasion of Persia from the north, instead of having to navigate the difficult terrain of Azerbaijan and deal with the enemies of the Safavids and the Crimean Tatars, in order to revive the ancient trade routes that connect Central Asia from east to west. The Ottomans began a project to connect the Don River with the Volga. By the month of Jumada al-Awwal in 977 AH (October 1569), one-third of the canal was completed. However, winter halted the work. At that time, the campaign leader suggested using small ships loaded with cannons and ammunition to attack Astrakhan. Unfortunately, the campaign failed due to natural conditions. Despite this, Sokollu Mehmed Pasha managed to strengthen the Sultan’s control over the princes of Moldavia, Wallachia, and Poland, temporarily blocking Russia’s expansion to the north and west of the Black Sea.

Cyprus:

Italy and Spain recognised the importance of Cyprus, and there were rumours in Europe about forming an alliance against the Sultan. However, nothing was done at the time to save Cyprus from the Ottomans, who invaded the island with overwhelming force. They entered the island easily, and the strong city of Famagusta stood against the Ottomans, led by Pasha and Bragadin, who faced an Ottoman army of one hundred thousand soldiers. The Ottomans used all known siege tactics, including attacks and mining, but these had no effect on the garrison. If a Christian force had arrived to help, the Ottomans would have been in danger. Unfortunately, famine took its toll, and the city surrendered in the spring of 979 AH, August 1571. The Ottoman Empire, after conquering Cyprus, brought many people from Anatolia, whose descendants still live on the island. Although the Orthodox Cypriots welcomed Ottoman rule for saving them from Catholic persecution by Venice for centuries, the Ottoman occupation upset the Catholic state. The Ottoman fleet returned after completing its mission in Abanjani, and most of the soldiers left as winter arrived, marking the end of the battle season and preparing for the next year. [An Excerpt from “Ad-Dawla Al-Uthmaniyyah Awamil An-Nuhood Wa Asbaab As-Sukqoot 6/308-309]

What sparked the continuation of this series? Read here: https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2024/11/22/a-century-after-the-end-of-the-ottoman-empire/

Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that the contributions of those who supported the religion are accurately represented. A thorough examination of Ottoman history and their impact on Europe reveals why certain European historians may attempt to misrepresent their legacy, focusing solely on their shortcomings while downplaying their accomplishments. It is evident that the early Ottomans exhibited a higher moral standard compared to their later counterparts. Therefore, we will not passively accept any distortion of the image of any Muslim, and it is equally unacceptable to misrepresent non-Muslims. Al-Allamah Salih Aala Ash-Shaikh, may Allah preserve him, highlighted the significant contributions of many non-Arabs to the service of Islam, including the Ottomans. He stated:

“When Muslims conquered different regions of the earth and Islam spread, it appeared as though it began with non-Arabs, until Persians and other non-Arabs became scholars and Imams of mosques, and people learned from them. Many non-Arabs are mentioned in Islamic history as leading the Muslims in knowledge, pronouncing religious verdicts, and other matters. Consider Abu Haneefah (may Allah have mercy on him), who was not Arab, and Imam Al-Bukhaari (may Allah have mercy on him), whose book became an upright example. There is no Muslim who is not familiar with Imam Abu Abdillah Muhammad Bin Isma’eel Al-Bukhaari. And take into account other Imams of Islam other than Al-Bukhari and Abu Haneefah. So, when Islam was implemented, it erased the differences that the people had created; and why did those non-Arabs become the leaders and Imams of the Arabs? That is because they carried the religion, raised the banner of true Islamic monotheism – there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, and Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger – and because there is no difference in virtue between a non-Arab and an Arab except through fear of Allah. When Muslims disciplined themselves with Islam, there was no dispute between them regarding social class by way of that pre-Islamic dispute and distinction, because they did not accept leadership or give precedence to anyone based on this; rather, they accepted everyone because people are equal in this matter. The Quraish rulership, the Umayyad rulership, and the Abbasid rulership ended; then the Mamluk rulership arose, followed by the rulership of Banee Uthman – meaning in the beginning when it was upright, thus, so the Muslims obeyed them and they became the leaders and rulers because the Muslims saw that there was welfare for the people in doing so. As a result, class distinction and its practise were eradicated from the start, and no one had any reservations about implementing Islam. Islamic history attests to the application of this magnificent principle“.

Gentleness and Tolerance

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, 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.

Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, said: Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, distributed (wealth), so I said, “O Allah’s Messenger! Other people are more entitled to it than these”. He said, “They gave me no option; either they would have asked me in a very harsh manner or they would have considered me miserly, and I am not miserly”.

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

In this hadith, there is proof to show that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was gentle towards his companions because he did not scold Umar Ibn Al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, when he made this suggestion that the ones who did not receive wealth were more worthy of receiving it than those who received it, but the Prophet did not scold him; rather he informed him of the reason behind what he did. This is proof that the Prophet had the highest level of gentleness, good manners, good dealing and beautiful patience. How can this not be when it is the fact that he is Allah’s Messenger and the most virtuous human to be taken as an example in his good manners, gentleness, good dealings with the young, the old, male and female. This is the first matter. Second, the insignificance of the worldly things in the sight of the Prophet because he was not asked anything of worldly wealth, except that he gave it. He never refused to give the one who asked because Allah commanded him, saying: [وَأَمَّا السَّائِلَ فَلاَ تَنْهَرْ – And repulse not the beggar], especially the one who behaved harshly towards him when asking because the worldly things were insignificant to him. He said, “If the world was worth the wing of a fly in the sight of Allah, a disbeliever would not have been given a sip of water from it”.

[at-Taleeqaat Al-Maleehah Alaa Silsilah Al-Ahadith As-Saheehah 1/152]

The Weaponisation of Necessities

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Sin, Tamyee', Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

The Weaponisation of Necessities – A Very Harmful Practice Borrowed From Ancient Nations

Allah [The Exalted] said:

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

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

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

There is a difference ofg opinon among (the Mufassiroon) regarding the timing of this debate. Muqatil, may Allah have mercy on him, stated that after Ibrahim, peace be upon him, broke the idols, Namrud imprisoned him and later brought him out to be burned. Namrud asked, “Who is the Lord you urge us to worship?” Ibrahim, peace be upon him, replied, “My Lord is the one who gives life and causes death.” Others say that this (occurred) after Ibrahim was thrown into the fire, during a time of drought when people sought food from Namrud. If someone approached him for food, he would inquire, “Who is your Lord?” If the person responded, “You are my Lord,” he would then offer to sell them food. (1)

[أَلَمۡ تَرَ إِلَى ٱلَّذِى حَآجَّ إِبۡرَٲهِـۧمَ فِى رَبِّهِۦۤ – Have you seen (contemplated with your heart and eyes) him who disputed with Ibrahim (Abraham) about his Lord (Allah)]- Meaning, his insolence, mindlessness, obstinacy, and arguing about matters that are beyond dispute. Nothing led him to this behaviour except because “Allah had given him the kingdom”, thus, he transgressed and rebelled, and perceived himself as the one in command over those beneath him. This led him to argue with Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, regarding the Lordship of Allah, asserting that he possessed the ability to perform actions akin to those of Allah. Prophet Ibrahim said to him, “My Lord is He Who gives life and death” – Meaning, “Allah alone is in absolute control of everything”. Then Ibrahim mentioned two specific affairs – life and death because they are the greatest things in Allah’s absolute control. This is because granting life is the beginning of the worldly life, while death marks the onset of what is to transpire in the afterlife.

So, the one who sought to argue against Ibrahim said, “I give life and cause death”, but never said, “I am The One Who gives life and death” because he could not claim that he was not in need of anyone to interfere in the affair; rather he only claimed that he could do what Allah does by killing someone and sparing someone’s life. Prophet Ibrahim saw the fallacy in his argument and his utterance of speech that is not even worthy of being a Shubhah (i.e. an ambiguity portrayed as wholesome truth) let alone a proof, thus, he said to him, “Verily! Allah causes the sun to rise from the east”- Meaning, Ibrahim mentioned something that can be clearly seen and affirmed by everyone including this disbeliever; “Then cause it you to rise from the west”- Meaning, this compelled him to bring proof if he was truthful in his claim. When Ibrahim uttered this to him about which he neither had the ability to present an ambiguity to make Ibrahim’s proof look confusing nor could he find something to disparage it, he was utterly defeated – lost for an answer, his proof cut off and his ambiguous statement toppled. (2)

The Quraish Attempted to Starve The Prophet and His Close Relatives

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported: On the Day of Nahr at Mina, the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “Tomorrow we shall stay at Khaif Bani Kinana where the pagans had taken the oath of disbelief.” He meant (by that place) Al-Muhassab where the Quraish tribe and Banu Kinaanah concluded a contract against Banu Haashim and Banu Abdul-Muttalib or Banu Al-Muttalib that they would not intermarry with them or deal with them in business until they handed over the Prophet to them. (3)

Usamah Bin Zayd, may Allah be pleased with him, said: I asked the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, during his Hajj,”O Allah’s Messenger! Where will you stay tomorrow?” He said, “Has Aqeel left for us any house?” He then added, “Tomorrow we will stay at Khaif Bani Kinana, i.e. Al-Muhassab, where Quraish (polytheists) took an oath of disbelief in that Banu Kinana allied with Quraish against Banu Hashim on the terms that they would not deal with the members of the tribe or give them shelter.” (4)

The incident mentioned in the above narrations took place when the Makkan polytheists had a meeting at a place called the Valley of Al-Muhassab, where they established an alliance against Banu Hashim and Banu Al-Muttalib. They agreed not to have any business transactions with them, no marriage ties, no visits, and no verbal communication with the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] and those who aided him. So, Abu Talib – the Prophet’s uncle who stood by him at the time – decided to move to a valley in the eastern suburbs of Makkah, then Banu Hashim and Banu Al-Muttalib also moved and they were all confined to a narrow passage. They remained in that situation for three years- from the 7th year of the Prophet’s Prophethood until the 10th year. It was a very repressive embargo that brought extreme hardship, and in addition to this, the vile polytheists bought everything that reached Makkah in order that nothing reached Banu Al-Mutallib and Banu Haashim. The situation became so bad that they had to eat the leaves of trees and animal skins, and children constantly cried due to hunger. They had nothing besides very little provision that was sometimes delivered secretly by some people in Makkah who sympathised with them. During the sacred months when fighting was not permitted, they used to go and buy provisions, but the prices of goods were inflated so that they would not be able to afford them. However, this great hardship never stopped the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] from calling to the truth, rather he used to go to the Kabah and call people to Islam. By the grace of Allah, the agreement between the polytheists ended in the 10th year of the Prophet’s Prophethood, because some of them could no longer bear to see their relatives in that situation. (5)

The Quraish implored the Prophet to refrain from interfering with their food supplies, even though they had previously engaged in the same wrongdoing when they were in a position of power

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him] reported: “The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, sent a troop of fighters towards Najd and they brought a man from the tribe of Banu Haneefah who was called Thumamah bin Uthaal. He was then tied to one of the pillars of the Masjid. The Prophet went to him and said, “What have you got, O Thumama?” He replied, “I have got a good thought, O Muhammad! If you should kill me, you would kill a person who has already killed somebody, and if you should set me free, you would do a favor to one who is grateful, and if you want property, then ask me whatever wealth you want.” So, he was left till the next day when again the Prophet said to him, “What have you got, O Thumama?” He said, “What I have already told you”. The Prophet left him till the day after, and said to him again, “What have you got, O Thumama?” He said, “I have got what I told you. So the Prophet said, “Set him free”. Then Thumamah) went to a garden of date palm trees near the Masjid, took a bath, entered the Masjid, and then said, “I testify that None has the right to be worshipped except Allah, and also testify that Muhammad is His Messenger! By Allah, O Muhammad! There was no face on the surface of the earth most disliked by me than yours, but now your face has become the most beloved face to me. By Allah, there was no religion most disliked by me than yours, but now it is the most beloved religion to me. By Allah, there was no town most disliked by me than your town, but now it is the most beloved town to me. Your troops arrested me (at the time) when I was intending to perform the `Umra. And now what do you think?” The Prophet gave him good tidings of good in this world and the next, and ordered him to perform the `Umra. So when he came to Makkah, someone said to him, “You have become a Sabian?” He replied, “No! By Allah, I have submitted to Islam with Muhammad, Allah’s Messenger. No, by Allah! Not a single grain of wheat will come to you from Yamamah unless the Prophet gives his permission.” (6)

The Prophet asked Thumamah, “What have you got O Thumamah?” He replied that he has good thoughts about the Prophet- Meaning, “You O Muhammad never oppress anyone, rather you are from those who pardon and do good”. So after he was set free, he entered Makkah to perform Umrah and then pronounced the Talbilya and he was the first to enter Makkah in that manner, so Quraish grabbed him and said, “You have the audacity to do this to us”, and they wanted to kill him; then a person amongst the Quraish said, “Leave him because you are in need of food from Yamaamah (i.e. from his land)”, so they released him. Then he said to them, “By Allah! Not a single grain of wheat will come to you from Yamamah unless the Prophet gives his permission.” Ibn Hisham said, “Then Thumamah returned to Yamamah and prevented the Quraish from bringing any food to Makkah, so the Quraish wrote to the Prophet saying, “Indeed, you command people to keep good the ties of kinship”, so the Prophet wrote to Thumamah to allow them to transport their food”.(7)

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

Allah [The Exalted] informed us of some of the qualities of the Abrar [The pious, who fear Allah and avoid evil]: ويُطۡعِمُونَ ٱلطَّعَامَ عَلَىٰ حُبِّهِۦ – And they give food, in spite of their love for it]- Meaning, they are in a state in which they love wealth and food, but they give precedence to the love of Allah over the what their souls love and seek to feed the people who deserve and need it the most; [مِسۡكِينً۬ا وَيَتِيمً۬ا وَأَسِيرًا – the Miskin (poor), the orphan, and the captive (8)]; saying, [إِنَّمَا نُطۡعِمُكُمۡ لِوَجۡهِ ٱللَّهِ -We feed you seeking Allah’s Countenance only. We wish for no reward, nor thanks from you] – Meaning, to seek Allaah’s Reward. Mujaahid and Ibn Jubayr [may Allaah have mercy upon them] said, “As for these people, they did not make this statement, but Allaah knows this is what is in their hearts, so He praised them for it as an exhortation for the one who desires to do so”. [لَا نُرِيدُ مِنكُمۡ جَزَآءً۬ – We wish for no reward]- Meaning, by way of actions; [وَلَا شُكُورًا – nor thanks]- Meaning, by way of statement. (9)

[إِنَّا نَخَافُ مِن رَّبِّنَا يَوۡمًا عَبُوسً۬ا قَمۡطَرِيرً۬ا – Verily, We fear from our Lord a Day, hard and distressful, that will make the faces look horrible (from extreme dislikeness to it)]. [فَوَقَٮٰهُمُ ٱللَّهُ شَرَّ ذَٲلِكَ ٱلۡيَوۡمِ وَلَقَّٮٰهُمۡ نَضۡرَةً۬ وَسُرُورً۬ا – So Allah saved them from the evil of that Day, and gave them Nadratan (a light of beauty) and joy]. [Surah Al-Insan. 8-11] [End of quote]

Indeed, the way of the Messenger of Allah [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] stands as the only truly exemplary path to follow in all matters of life. In our time, we have seen the harsh treatment of prisoners of war by some soldiers acting under the influence of global powers in places like Iraq and Afghanistan. We have also observed the actions of ruthless groups such as Al Qaeda, Al Shabab, ISIS, Boko Haram, and the Zionist army led by Netanyahu, who have committed grave injustices during conflicts. In contrast, we can reflect on the compassionate way the Messenger and his companions treated Thumamah, may Allah be pleased with him. In a similar vein, while it is undeniable that Netanyahu’s Zionist forces have perpetrated a greater number of transgressions than Hamas, it remains utterly indefensible to rationalize Hamas’s assaults on non-combatants and unarmed civilians under Netanyahu’s administration. Read the article: Just Rules of Fighting in the Sharīʿah of Islām Compared to Genocidal, Ethnic-Cleansing, Tribal-Vengeance Doctrines and Excesses of Trojan-Horse Muslim Extremists: https://abuiyaad.com/a/amalekite-genocide-doctrine-gaza

Also, in our era we’ve witnessed some globalists as well as Netanyahu’s henchmen placing sanctions on their opponents, often hurting innocent civilians more than the ones they claim to be targeting. However, consider how the Prophet handled the hostile Quraysh when Thumamah said to them spoke to them, “By Allah! Not a single grain of wheat will come to you from Yamamah unless the Prophet gives his permission”. They wrote to the Messenger and pleaded with him, so he allowed them to freely carry their food, even though they were his staunchest enemies who sought to starve him and Banu Hashim; rather they even attempted to murder him.

We ask Allah to grant us the ability to follow the authentic Sunnah of the Messenger because that is the only path to salvation, as Allah [The Exalted] stated: [لَقَدۡ كَانَ لَكُمۡ فِيہِمۡ أُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ۬ لِّمَن كَانَ يَرۡجُواْ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلۡيَوۡمَ ٱلۡأَخِرَ‌ۚ وَمَن يَتَوَلَّ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ هُوَ ٱلۡغَنِىُّ ٱلۡحَمِيدُ – Certainly, there has been in them an excellent example for you to follow, for those who look forward to (the Meeting with) Allah (for the reward from Him) and the Last Day. And whosoever turn away, then verily, Allah is Rich (Free of all wants), Worthy of all Praise]. [Surah Al-Mumtahinah. 6]

[1] An Excerpt from Tafsir Al-Baghawi

[2] An Excerpt from Tafseer As-Sadi.

[3] Al-Bukhari. 1590

[4] Al-Bukhari. 3058

[5] Zadul Ma’ad 3/31 and Seerah Ibn Hisham 1/350

[6] Al-Bukhari. 4372

[7] Fat’hul Bari Sharh Sahih Al-Bukhari 8/110-111 and Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min at-Taleeqaat al-Baaziyyah Alaa Sahih Al-Bukhari 3/319

[8] Tafsir as-Sadi]

[9] Zadul Maseer Fee Ilmit Tafsir by Imam Ibn Al-Jawzi

The Costliest Mistake In the Annals of Human History

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Refutations, Shirk, Sin, Tamyee', Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Shirk: The Costliest Mistake In the Annals of Human History and The Evil of Venerating Those Responsible for It Under The Pretence of Admiring Advancements of Worldly Sciences

Allah [The Exalted] says:

كَانَ ٱلنَّاسُ أُمَّةً۬ وَٲحِدَةً۬ فَبَعَثَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلنَّبِيِّـۧنَ مُبَشِّرِينَ وَمُنذِرِينَ وَأَنزَلَ مَعَهُمُ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبَ بِٱلۡحَقِّ لِيَحۡكُمَ بَيۡنَ ٱلنَّاسِ فِيمَا ٱخۡتَلَفُواْ فِيهِ‌ۚ وَمَا ٱخۡتَلَفَ فِيهِ إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُوهُ مِنۢ بَعۡدِ مَا جَآءَتۡهُمُ ٱلۡبَيِّنَـٰتُ بَغۡيَۢا بَيۡنَهُمۡ‌ۖ فَهَدَى ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ لِمَا ٱخۡتَلَفُواْ فِيهِ مِنَ ٱلۡحَقِّ بِإِذۡنِهِۦ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ يَهۡدِى مَن يَشَآءُ إِلَىٰ صِرَٲطٍ۬ مُّسۡتَقِيمٍ

Mankind were one community and Allah sent Prophets with glad tidings and warnings, and with them He sent the Scripture in truth to judge between people in matters wherein they differed. And only those to whom (the Scripture) was given differed concerning it after clear proofs had come unto them through hatred, one to another. Then Allah by His Leave guided those who believed to the truth of that wherein they differed. And Allah guides whom He wills to a Straight Path. [Surah Al-Baqarah. Aayah 213]

Ibn Abbas [may Allah be pleased with him and his father] said, “Between Nuh and Adam, ten generations followed the right path of worshipping Allah alone. However, they eventually differed and began worshipping idols, false gods, and images. Then Allah sent Messengers with clear signs and proofs”. [1] The practice of attributing partners to Allah originated with the nation of Prophet Nuh [peace be upon him] when they began exaggerating the status of righteous individuals and arrogantly ignored the teachings of their Prophet. Allah says:

وَقَالُواْ لَا تَذَرُنَّ ءَالِهَتَكُمۡ وَلَا تَذَرُنَّ وَدًّ۬ا وَلَا سُوَاعً۬ا وَلَا يَغُوثَ وَيَعُوقَ وَنَسۡرً۬ا

And they have said: ‘You shall not leave your gods, nor shall you leave Wadd, nor Suwa’, nor Yaghuth, nor Ya’uq, nor Nasr]. [2]

Ibn Abbas [may Allah be pleased with him and his father] stated that these individuals were righteous individuals from prophet Nuh’s nation. After their demise, Shaytaan influenced the people to erect idols at the locations where they used to gather and to refer to these idols by their names. Although the idols were established, they were not worshipped until the original initiators had passed away and the true origin of the idols became unclear. It was at this point that people began to worship them. [3]

The Destructive Consequences of Shirk

Allah [The Most High] says:

حُنَفَآءَ لِلَّهِ غَيۡرَ مُشۡرِكِينَ بِهِۦ‌ۚ وَمَن يُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ فَكَأَنَّمَا خَرَّ مِنَ ٱلسَّمَآءِ فَتَخۡطَفُهُ ٱلطَّيۡرُ أَوۡ تَهۡوِى بِهِ ٱلرِّيحُ فِى مَكَانٍ۬ سَحِيقٍ۬

Hunafaa’ Lillaah [i.e. worship none but Allaah], not associating partners [in worship, etc.] with Him; and whoever associates partners to Allaah, it is as if he had fallen from the sky, and the birds had snatched him, or the wind had thrown him to a far-off place]. [Surah Al-Hajj. Ayah 31]

This is the situation of one who ascribes partners with Allah in worship. Iman is like the sky, protected and elevated. So, when someone abandons Iman, it is like falling from the sky and facing terrible consequences and disasters, snatched by birds (of prey) that tear them apart. When someone who ascribes partners with Allah in worship abandons the protection of Iman, the devils attack them from all directions, destroying their religion and the (purpose) of their worldly life. [4]

In this verse, Allah has clearly stated that those who ascribe partners with Him and do not repent before their death will face utter destruction. They will have no escape and no chance of salvation. Their fate is like that of someone who falls from the sky, lands on the earth, and gets torn apart completely. The birds then seize their remains and the wind scatters them far away, carried by its powerful gusts. Therefore, anyone who finds themselves in such a predicament will find no solace or security. Instead, they will face inevitable destruction because what normally takes place is that those who plummet from the sky to the ground suffer severe dismemberment upon impact. The birds) of prey) seize his limbs and disperse with them, or the wind carries him to a distant land, thus leading to an unavoidable demise. The noble verse highlights the inevitable destruction faced by those who ascribe partners with Allah, an affair reiterated in another part of the Qur’an as follows:

إِنَّهُ ۥ مَن يُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ فَقَدۡ حَرَّمَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَيۡهِ ٱلۡجَنَّةَ وَمَأۡوَٮٰهُ ٱلنَّارُ‌ۖ

Verily, whosoever sets up partners in worship with Allah, then Allah has forbidden Paradise for him, and the Fire will be his abode]. [Surah Al-Maa’idah. Ayah 72]

Allah [The Exalted] said: [إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَا يَغۡفِرُ أَن يُشۡرَكَ بِهِ – Verily, Allah does not forgive (a person the sin of associating partners with Him in worship), but He forgives lesser than that to whomsover He wills]. [Surah An-Nisaa Ayah 48]

Various verses demonstrate that this inevitable punishment is reserved for those who die while committing shirk and do not seek forgiveness. However, for those who repent before their death, Allah will forgive them, as sincere worship of Him erases previous sins. There are several verses regarding this, such as Allah’s statement:

قُل لِّلَّذِينَ ڪَفَرُوٓاْ إِن يَنتَهُواْ يُغۡفَرۡ لَهُم مَّا قَدۡ سَلَفَ

Say to those who have disbelieved, if they cease (from disbelief) their past will be forgiven]. [Surah Al-Anfaal. Ayah 38]

Allah says:
وَإِنِّى لَغَفَّارٌ۬ لِّمَن تَابَ وَءَامَنَ وَعَمِلَ صَـٰلِحً۬ا

And verily, I am indeed Forgiving to him who repents, believes (in My Oneness, and associates none in worship with Me) and does righteous good deeds]. [Surah Taahaa. Aayah 82] However, if one’s repentance is at the time of death [i.e. when the soul reaches the throat], it will not benefit him. [5]

Venerating The Advocates of Shirk Under The Pretence of Admiring Advancements of Worldly Sciences

The individuals at Daily Sabah are in dire need of a significant reminder, given the title they have assigned to one of their articles: “Archaeologists reshaped world history in 2022 with new discoveries.” According to their claims, these discoveries include the Oldest predator fossil, Tuscan statues dating back 2,300 years, the First-ever amputation, and Shipwrecks and gods. https://www.dailysabah.com/life/history/archaeologists-reshaped-world-history-in-2022-with-new-discoveries

If Muslims authored this article, it serves as a reminder that they are investing their time in matters that hold no benefit for them in the afterlife. Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [may Allah preserve him] stated:

“The focus on artefacts by Archaeologists in this era was not present during the era of the Prophet’s companions and the pious predecessors. Instead, Muslims began to imitate the Europeans and Americans, who aimed to revive pre-Islamic nationalistic traits like Pharaonism, Babylonianism, and Phoenicianism in the Muslim lands. They were largely successful in achieving these objectives, leading to the emergence of pre-Islamic national pride and the glorification of these nationalistic identities in Muslim societies. Imam Al-Bukhaaree said: “Abdullah Bin Muhammad Al-Ju’fee narrated to us that Abdur Razzaaq narrated to them from Az-Zuhree who narrated from Salim, who narrated from Ibn Umar who said that when the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] passed by Al-Hijr, he said, ‘Do not enter the dwelling places of those people who were unjust to themselves unless you enter in a weeping state lest the same calamity similar to theirs should befall you’. Then he covered his head and increased his speed till he crossed the valley. Yahyah Bin Bukayr narrated to us who said that Malik narrated to us from Abdullah Bin Deenaar who reported from Ibn Umar who said that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said to his companions who were at Al-Hijr, “Do not enter upon these people who are being punished, except in a weeping state, lest the same calamity similar to theirs should befall you”. [Sahih Al-Bukhaari. Numbers 4419 and 4420]

The two Prophetic reports illustrate the peril of entering into the places of those who have earned Allah’s wrath and were consequently annihilated for their disbelief and rejection of the prophets and their message. The Prophet prohibited entry into such places, except for those who fear Allah and dread His punishment. In cases of dire necessity, he may enter these locations while weeping. It is feared that one who enters the dwellings of those who have been punished may suffer the same punishment. It is legislated for those who approach these dwellings to quickly pass by while covering their faces, following the example of Allah’s Messenger. Do Muslims, including archaeologists and those who encourage them, comprehend what is embodied in this guidance from the Prophet, who speaks not from his desires? Additionally, Allah’s Messenger advised those passing through the valleys of Muhassar to hasten, as it was the location where Allah destroyed the people of the Elephant.

So, do those who dig up the artefacts of Ad, Thamud, the Ashaab Al-Ukh’dud, the Pharaohs, and the Babylonians, follow the teachings of Allah’s Messenger or blindly follow the enemies of Allah who establish partnerships to explore the artefacts of the destroyed nations to entice them (towards) the pride of the pre-Islamic era of ignorance? I and others have read numerous boasting by Muslims or those who ascribe to Islam, such as the statement of one of them, (as follows), “O Misree (i.e. Egyptian)! Be proud of the builders of your glory when people were sleeping”. He boasts about the Pharaonic artifacts such as the pyramids and other than them. [5.1]

However, if the authors of this article from Daily Sabah are non-Muslims, it is important to emphasise to them that the ultimate objective of human existence is to surrender oneself to the Creator through sincere worship, following the teachings of His final Messenger, and refraining from everything that contradicts this path. They must avoid being deceived by these discoveries. Imam As-Sadi [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated:

The greatest evils of knowledge and contradictions arise when one becomes familiar with the creation without acknowledging its Creator, understanding the effects without recognizing the One who brought them into existence, comprehending the causes without acknowledging the One who caused them, and grasping the paths without understanding their true objectives. The lack in this particular form of familiarity is abundant and its negative impact is significant. Indeed, numerous atheists and those who have been misled by them possess expertise in the field of natural sciences. However, they confine themselves solely to this realm and remain oblivious to its connection with its Creator and the One who caused it to exist. Furthermore, when it comes to the marvels and hidden truths embedded within these natural sciences, they perceive themselves as the sole possessors of knowledge in this domain – knowledge that no one else possesses. This inflated sense of superiority leads them to become afflicted with arrogance and self-delusion.

They confine themselves to it and consider it as the result, the objective, and the aim, thus causing significant deviation and deficiency in knowledge and intellect. If they were aware of and affirmed belief in the true Creator and the One Who Controls all the affairs of the Universe – the One who connected the means and causes to His Qadaa Wal-Qadr, they would know that the means and causes are a manifestation of His Perfect Wisdom because Allah [The Exalted] is All-Wise. He placed everything in its rightful place, established a remarkable and orderly system for both the intricate and major matters, and provided everything that is sought after and desired with a means or cause, and a path that leads to it. If they were to connect these means, paths, and outcomes to Allah’s Qadaa Wal Qadr, their knowledge would be perfected and they would attain a level of certainty that cannot be attained by those who have not reached their level. However, they are content and proud of their limited knowledge of these worldly paths and their tangible outcomes, which has led them to arrogance. Thus, the statement of Allah [The Most High] applies to them:

فلما جاءتهم رسلهم بالبينات فرحوا بما عندهم من العلم وحاق بهم ما كانوا به يستهزئون

Then when their Messengers came to them with clear proofs, they were glad (and proud) with that which they had of the knowledge (of worldly things): And that at which they used to mock, surrounded them (i.e. the punishment)]. [Surah Ghaafir. Aayah 83]

Allāh said:
وجعلنا لهم سمعا وأبصارا وأفئدة فما أغنى عنهم سمعهم ولا أبصارهم ولا أفئدتهم من شيء إذ كانوا يجحدون بآيات الله وحاق بهم ما كانوا به يستهزئون

And indeed We had firmly established them with that wherewith We have not established you (O Quraish)! And We had assigned them the (faculties of) hearing (ears), seeing (eyes), and hearts, but their hearing (ears), seeing (eyes), and their hearts availed them nothing since they used to deny the Ayat (Allah’s Prophets and their Prophethood, proofs, evidences, verses, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allah, and they were completely encircled by that which they used to mock at! [Surah Al-Ahqaaf. Ayah 26]

This is the greatest evil outcome of self-admiration and haughtiness without any exceptions, and the most dangerous route that ensnares and deludes numerous individuals; hence, we beseech Allah to bestow upon us the pure knowledge that is fortified by sound intellect, divine text, and sound natural disposition- the knowledge that the servant comprehends in its entirety, and the knowledge that connects the secondary matters to its solid foundational principles, and its methods, reasons, consequences, and results are attributed to the Creator who initiated and created them. The one who holds this knowledge does not disassociate the creation from its Creator, nor separates its impacts from the One who caused them to happen, nor separates the wisdom, the hidden truths, and the incredibly organised systems in the creation from the One who Created and Perfected them, arranged them perfectly, and brought them into being before they did not exist. This knowledge yields the fruits of certainty, leading to inner peace, happiness, and achievement. It yields the fruits of good character and virtuous actions, beneficial for both religious and worldly matters.

As for the sciences of those who have strayed from the prophetic path – as previously mentioned – they are distorted, severed, and stagnant. Its usefulness is comparable to the benefits of physical industries, evident and observable. It does not yield the fruits of sound faith or integrity, nor does it embody mercy or good conduct; rather, its fruits are the opposite. Those with sound intellect and high intelligence are deeply saddened by the objectives and outcomes of these sciences, for a sound intellect comprehends and fully understands matters in all their dimensions. It engages with beneficial knowledge, utilises the talents and skills bestowed upon a servant of Allah, and combines the affairs about one’s well-being in this worldly life and the Hereafter. It encompasses that which benefits both the body and the soul, thoroughly examines principles and consequences, and establishes connections between related matters. Indeed, anyone lacking these qualities is deficient in their intellect, so what about their religion?!

Among the indications of those who have strayed in terms of religion and intellect is their deception by their own opinions and flawed intellects, as well as their ridicule of the intellects of the noblest human beings, including the Prophets, their followers, and those who provide guidance. Their arrogance is evident through their excessive behaviour, rejection of undeniable truths, and deliberate denial of the virtues of those who came before them. By obstructing people from the religion and path prescribed by Allah, they distort the teachings of the Messengers. They dismiss these teachings as outdated and irrelevant, much like the enemies of the Messengers did in the past. Unfortunately, many individuals, especially the young and inexperienced, have been led astray by these false beliefs. They must understand that true intellect can only be attained through divine revelation, the Qur’an, and the guidance brought by the Messenger. Allāh [The Most High] says: [إن في ذلك لآيات لأولي النهى – Verily, in this are proofs and signs for men of understanding]. [Surah Taha. Ayah 54] [لآيات لأولي الألباب – There are indeed signs for men of understanding]. [Surah Al Imran. Ayah 190]

They are people of decent intellect, rightly guided views, and purified manners. Can one find sound intellects that can be anywhere closer to the (perfect, unmatched, unblemished, upright) intellect of the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] without whom the intellects and views cannot be illuminated except through his intellect? The perfection of the intellect is based on how much they have obtained from his intelligence, what he deems to be correct, and his guidance and perfect path which is free from error, so they nourish themselves with its light, guidance and the perfect course it leads to. [6]

Therefore, whether the article at Daily Sabah was written by Muslims or non-Muslims, they need to be reminded about the relationship between us and our forefathers. Allah [The Exalted] says: [قَدْ خَلَتْ مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ سُنَنٌ فَسِيرُوا فِي الْأَرْضِ فَانْظُرُوا كَيْفَ كَانَ عَاقِبَةُ الْمُكَذِّبِينَ – Many similar mishaps [troubles, problems] of life were faced by nations that have passed away before you, so travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who disbelieved]. [Surah Aal Imraan. Verse 137]

Imaam Ibnul Qayyim [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: Indeed, there were nations like yourselves before you, so look to their evil end. You have to know that the reason behind their evil end was due to their disbelief in the revelations of Allah and disbelief in Allah’s Messengers. They were the forefathers and you are the descendants. The main affair that connects you is your disbelief and the ruling on that disbelief is destruction. [7]

Imam Muhammad Bin Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: If it is said, “What is the benefit in narrating to us the stories of the destroyed nations even though this Ummah will not be destroyed like the destruction of the previous nations before it?”.

The Answer: Truly, there are two advantages to this situation: Firstly, it serves as a reminder of Allah’s blessings upon us by averting the destruction that could have befallen us, highlighting His mercy towards us. Secondly, the punishment inflicted upon wrongdoers in this world may also be a reflection of what awaits them in the Hereafter if they do not repent. This is emphasised in the verse: “Such is the seizure of your Lord when He seizes the population of towns while they are doing wrong. Verily, His Seizure is painful and severe. Indeed in that (there) is a sure lesson for those who fear the torment of the Hereafter.” Therefore, it is evident from this verse that a similar fate may await wrongdoers in the Hereafter, and only Allah knows best. [8]

[1] An Excerpt from “Misbaah Al-Muneer Fee Ta’dheeb Tafseer Ibn Katheer”.

[2] Surah Nuh Ayah 23]

[3] Bukhaari 6/4920]

[4] Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm’ pages 104-106. slightly paraphrased]

[5] An Excerpt from ‘Adwaa Al-Bayaan. Tafseer Surah Al-Hajj. Aayah 31. Slightly paraphrased]

[5.1] An Excerpt from “Baraa’ah As-Sahaabah Al-Akhyaar Min At-Tabarruk Bil Amaakin Wal-Aathaar”. Pages 11-14

[6] An Excerpt from Ad-Dalaa’il Al-Qur’aaniyyah Fee Annal Uloom Wal-A’maal An-Naafi’ah Al-Asriyyah Daakhilatun Fid Deen Al-Islaamiy. pages37-40]

[7] I’laam Al-Muwaqqi-een: 1/181

[8] Al-Muntaqaa Min Fawaa’idil Fawaa’id 123-124

[15] The Ascent and Decline of The Ottoman Empire

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Charity (Sadaqah), Featured, History of Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq'.

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

Sultan Salim II

He ascended to the throne on the 9th of Rabi’ al-Awwal in the year 974 AH, yet he was not adequately prepared to safeguard the conquests of his father, Sultan Suleiman. Had it not been for the exceptional minister, the great warrior, and the capable politician, Muhammad Pasha Sokollu, the state would have collapsed. He restored its dignity, instilled fear in the hearts of its enemies, negotiated a peace treaty with Austria, and finalized an agreement in the year 975 AH, corresponding to 1567, which allowed Austria to retain its possessions in Hungary. Additionally, the annual tribute previously established was paid to the state, and the princes of Transylvania, Wallachia, and Moldavia acknowledged his authority.

A renewed truce was established with the King of Poland and Charles IX, King of France, in 1569. This period also saw an increase in French consular privileges. Henry, the brother of the King of France, was appointed as the King of Poland in agreement with France, which had begun to emerge as the dominant trading power in the Mediterranean. In accordance with previous treaties, France dispatched Christian missionary missions throughout the regions inhabited by Christians, particularly in the Levant, fostering a sense of affection for France among the Christians of the region, which notably contributed to the weakening of the state.

As French influence spread among the Christian populations, there was a corresponding increase in rebellion and encouragement for revolutions. One of the significant outcomes of this intervention was the preservation of the nationality and language of the Christian minorities. Consequently, when the Ottoman Empire weakened, these groups rose in revolt, demanding independence with the support and backing of Christian European nations.

The conviction of European nations regarding the foreign privileges system, which they considered a legitimate right, prompted France to dispatch troops to assist Venice during its conflict with Sultan Murad IV (1624). Additionally, France sent an ambassador along with a naval fleet to pressure the Ottoman Empire into defining these privileges. However, the Grand Vizier, who still held political authority, informed the ambassador that these treaties were not a significant threat, as they were merely a royal grant. This response led France to withdraw its threats.

The situation was manipulated in an attempt to persuade the Sultan to agree once again to renew the system of privileges in 1673, which exacerbated the issues at hand. Instead of learning from the events that transpired, the Ottoman Empire, under the orders of Sultan Mehmed IV (1648-1687), granted France the right to protect Jerusalem.

The privileges continued to be renewed, with each instance introducing a new restriction on the Sultanate. In the year 1740, the Sultanate granted new commercial privileges to France. However, these privileges faced a significant threat when Napoleon Bonaparte occupied Egypt, leading the Sultanate to suspend their implementation. Nevertheless, Napoleon retreated at a crucial moment to preserve the Sultanate, proposing France’s withdrawal from Egypt in exchange for the renewal of privileges. This agreement was successfully reached on October 9, 1801, when the Sultanate granted a new privilege allowing France freedom of trade and navigation in the Black Sea

The consequences of these privileges were extremely detrimental to the empire. The Greek historian Dimitri Kitsikis noted that these privileges undermined the empire’s economy by dismantling the Ottoman tax system, which was designed to protect local trade from foreign competition. Furthermore, these privileges prevented the empire from implementing reform projects and generating new financial resources to address administrative and governance expenses. As a result, the foreign privilege treaties became humiliating charters for the Ottomans, as Europeans were not subject to Ottoman authority, effectively positioning them as a government within the Ottoman government.

An Excerpt from Ad-Dawla Al-Uthmaniyyah Awamil An-Nuhood Wa Asbaab As-Suqoot 6/306-308

The Promised Land: A Brief Examination from a Religious and Historical Perspective

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Contemporary Issues, History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

The aim of this short article is not to deny any group’s right to exist within the human race, nor to support the oppression of any individual. Instead, it serves as a religious examination aimed at clarifying the misleading assertions made by those who promote ambiguity, particularly among orientalists and others who seek to manipulate texts for political purposes or to appease figures like Netanyahu and his Zionist allies. Furthermore, it is crucial to recognise that not all individuals who identify as Jewish endorse or support the actions of Netantahu’s regime, who have been perpetrating violence and oppression against Palestinians—actions that many have described as genocidal over the past year. Similarly, we reject the actions of any group or individual identifying as Muslim—whether in Palestine, the UK, or elsewhere—that harms non-combatants, regardless of the victims’ religious backgrounds. Also, we do not support vigilantism or anti-Semitism in any form. Must read clarifications provided at the end of this article.

The Promised Land Examined From a Religious Perspective

Allah [The Exalted] said:

وَلَقَدۡ ڪَتَبۡنَا فِى ٱلزَّبُورِ مِنۢ بَعۡدِ ٱلذِّكۡرِ أَنَّ ٱلۡأَرۡضَ يَرِثُهَا عِبَادِىَ ٱلصَّـٰلِحُونَ

And indeed We have written in Zabur and after (We have already written in the) Dhikr that My righteous servants shall inherit the land. [Al-Anbiya. 105]

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

The word Zabur in this verse means all the revealed books and does not specifically mean the Zabur that was given to (Prophet) Dawud, peace be upon him. The word Adh-Dhikr in this verse is the Ummul Kitab that is with Allah [i.e. the Lawh Al-Mahfooz], the word Al-Ard in this verse means the worldly life, and the righteous servants mean the Ummah of Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. This verse is one of the signs of the Prophethood of Muhammad because he conveyed this at Makkah, while all the people of Makkah were unbelievers, enemies to him and his companions, and the polytheists had expelled them from their homeland and their dwellings. The word Dhikr has been mentioned in reference to the Kitab in the statement of the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, in a hadith reported by Imam Al-Bukhari and Muslim: “There was Allah and nothing else before Him and His Throne was over the water, and He then created the heavens and the earth and wrote everything in the Dhikr [The Book].” [Sahih Al-Bukhari. 7418]

This is the Dhikr [The Book] in which was written that the earth will be inherited by the Ummah of Muhammad, and (also) the revealed books have been referred to as Zubur in the statement of Allah:

وَمَآ أَرۡسَلۡنَا مِن قَبۡلِكَ إِلَّا رِجَالاً۬ نُّوحِىٓ إِلَيۡہِمۡ‌ۚ فَسۡـَٔلُوٓاْ أَهۡلَ ٱلذِّكۡرِ إِن كُنتُمۡ لَا تَعۡلَمُونَ
بِٱلۡبَيِّنَـٰتِ وَٱلزُّبُرِ‌ۗ

And We sent not (as Our Messengers) before you (O Muhammad ) any but men, whom We inspired, (to preach and invite mankind to believe in the Oneness of Allah). So ask of those who know the Scripture [learned men of the Taurat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)], if you know not. [بِٱلۡبَيِّنَـٰتِ وَٱلزُّبُرِ‌ۗ – with clear signs and Books]. [An-Nahl. 43-44] [1]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Based on this (verse), the land of the Arabs does not (eternally) belong to the Arabs, the land of the Persians does not (eternally) belong to the Persians, and the land of the Romans does not (eternally belong to them). The land belongs to Allah and He grants it to whomever He chooses – the righteous servants who believe and engage in good deeds. Therefore, if the children of Israel claim, “The land of Sham is ours because Musa, peace be upon him, stated: [يَا قَوْمِ ادْخُلُوا الْأَرْضَ الْمُقَدَّسَةَ الَّتِي كَتَبَ اللَّهُ لَكُمْ – O my people! Enter the holy land (Palestine) which Allah has assigned to you]; we say:

Indeed, Prophet Musa, peace be upon him, stated this because during that era you were righteous people and Allah’s righteous servants. The earth belongs to Allah, who gives it as a heritage to those He chooses among His righteous servants. However, after Islam came and you rejected it, you lost the (specific) right to this inheritance. Instead, the righteous believers in Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, who follow him, became the true inheritors. Before the Muslims were expelled from this land, it was held by the Roman Christians, who took it from the Jews, as they were considered righteous after the Jews. Then, the Muslims took over because they are the true servants of Allah. Therefore, the land of Sham was designated as an inheritance for the righteous.

[وَلَقَدۡ ڪَتَبۡنَا فِى ٱلزَّبُورِ مِنۢ بَعۡدِ ٱلذِّكۡرِ أَنَّ ٱلۡأَرۡضَ يَرِثُهَا عِبَادِىَ ٱلصَّـٰلِحُونَ – And indeed We have written in Zabur and after (We have already written in) Dhikr that My righteous servants shall inherit the land].

As a result, the Children of Israel (inherited the land from) those people in the holy land who had great streghth followed the truth. Later, Christians took it from the Jews, who became followers of the truth. Then, Muslims inherited it from Christians because they became followers of the truth.

وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنكُمْ وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ لَيَسْتَخْلِفَنَّهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ كَمَا اسْتَخْلَفَ الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِهِمْ

Allah has promised those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them…[An-Nur. 55] [2] Read article by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah, may Allah preserve him: The State of the Ummah: Causes that led to its Weakness and the Means of Rectification: https://abukhadeejah.com/state-of-ummah-causes-of-weakness-means-of-rectification-ebook/

The Promised Land Examined From a Historical Perspective

The children of Israel are the descendants of (Prophet) Yaqub, peace be upon him. Their first entry into Palestine was with Yusha Bin Nun, peace be upon him, after the death of Prophet Musa, peace be upon him, during his travels from one place to another, and after they initially refused to fight (when commanded to do so). There were three tribes in Palestine before the children of Israel took control of it: they were the Phoenicians who inhabited it around the year 3000 BC, and they settled in the northern region of the Mediterranean Sea. And the Canaanites descended south of the Phoenicians and occupied the central region of Palestine in the year 2500 BC. These were Arab tribes migrating from the Arabian Peninsula, then groups came from the Island of Crete around the year 1200 BC. It was called [فلستين] and was situated between Jaffa and Gaza on the Mediterranean Sea. The Canaanites called these people [فلسطين] and the name prevailed over the entire region, so it became referred to as [فلسطين]. According to what the Jews mentioned in their books, and what was written in the history of the region is that these peoples continued (residing) in the region. Many wars between them and the Children of Israel and the Jews occurred, which continued throughout the presence of the Jews in that region. Therefore, from a historical perspective, it becomes clear to us that the Jews were not the first to inhabit Palestine, but rather they entered it or some of it and captured parts of it after it had been in the possession of these people. [3]

Must Read:

https://abuiyaad.com/sn/muslims-antisemitism

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

https://www.abuiyaad.com/w/hamas-israeli-right

https://abuiyaad.com/a/slaughtering-children-holy-war/print

https://abuiyaad.com/a/how-islam-saved-jews

https://abuiyaad.com/a/prophet-dealings-jews

https://abukhadeejah.com/having-alliance-with-the-non-muslims-is-of-two-types-misunderstanding-this-affair-leads-people-astray/

https://www.abukhadeejah.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Living-with-Non-Muslims.pdf

https://www.abukhadeejah.com/the-prophet-of-islam-would-not-kill-diplomats-ambassadors-emissaries-or-foreign-delegations-even-if-they-were-sent-by-the-worst-of-his-enemies/

http://www.shariah.ws/articles/duviqgl-shaykh-salih-al-fawzan-the-islamic-shariah-provides-security–for-muslims-and-non-muslims-and-those-who-violate-it-are-kh257rijites-who-are-to-be-fought-and-severely-punished.cfm

http://www.shariah.ws/articles/szsumlh-the-foundation-of-muslim-relations-with-non-muslims-who-do-not-show-aggression-and-hostility.cfm

http://www.shariah.ws/articles/nmsdfkp-islam-and-the-muslims-are-free-and-innocent-of-the-kharijite-extremists.cfm

[1] An Excerpt from “Shifaa Al-Aleel” page 39

[2] An Excerpt from “Tafseer Surah An-Nur”. Ayah 55

[3] An Excerpt from “Diraaasaat Fil Ad’yaan Al-Yahoodiyyah Wan-Nasraaniyyah. pages 65-66. Publisher: Daar Adwaa As-Salaf. 6th Edition 1439AH (2018).

Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [19 of 80]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, 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.

https://rabee.net/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%BA%D9%8A-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B6%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%84-%D9%8A%D8%AC%D9%85%D8%B9%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%AC%D9%85%D9%8A%D8%B9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B3%D9%8A%D8%A6%D8%A7%D8%AA/

[الغي والضلال يجمعان جميع السيئات – (Ghay – to deviate from upright conduct) and Dalaal (misguidance related to knowledge and creed) combine all evils]

All Praise be to Allah, Lord of the entire existence, and prayers and peace be upon the most honorable of the prophets and messengers, our Prophet Muhammad, and upon his family and companions. To proceed:

Presented to all Muslims is this [الكلام الرائع – wonderful, remarkable, speech] of Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allah have mercy upon him] in which he spoke about the danger of Hasad (envy), and the danger of Ghay and Dalaal, and that they combine all evils. Therefore, it is incumbent upon all to [مراقبة الله – i.e. to recall the fact that Allah sees us, knows everything about us at all times, knows everything in our souls etc], strive to correct our beliefs and purify our hearts from envy, arrogance, transgression and all kinds of sins, especially major sins. Here is the speech of this Imam, who, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated in his treatise (titled) At-Tawbah (repentance) pages 236-238:

Indeed, Allah commanded His believing servants to supplicate to Him in every prayer with His statement:

ٱهۡدِنَا ٱلصِّرَٲطَ ٱلۡمُسۡتَقِيمَ
صِرَٲطَ ٱلَّذِينَ أَنۡعَمۡتَ عَلَيۡهِمۡ غَيۡرِ ٱلۡمَغۡضُوبِ عَلَيۡهِمۡ وَلَا ٱلضَّآلِّينَ

Guide us to the straight path (of beneficial knowledge coupled with righteous action); the path of those (Prophets and their truthful, righteous followers) upon whom You have bestowed favour, not of those who earn Your anger (by not acting upon what they know) and nor of the astray (who act without knowledge). [https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/sura/1/6]

And for this reason, Allah freed His Prophet from these two (i.e. Ghay and Dalaal), saying:

وَٱلنَّجۡمِ إِذَا هَوَىٰ
مَا ضَلَّ صَاحِبُكُمۡ وَمَا غَوَىٰ
وَمَا يَنطِقُ عَنِ ٱلۡهَوَىٰٓ
إِنۡ هُوَ إِلَّا وَحۡىٌ۬ يُوحَىٰ

By the (phenomenon) of the star when it descends (and vanishes with the appearance of dawn). Your companion-(O Pagans of Quraysh)—has not erred (in the knowledge he has been given) nor has he erred (in his sincerity of purpose). Nor does he speak out of the desire (of his own soul) (and forge revelation thereby). It is nothing but revelation revealed to him (containing guidance, rectitude and piety which he follows). [https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/sura/53/1 ]

[الضال – The misguided one]: He is the one that does not know the truth, but rather thinks that he is upon the truth while he is ignorant of it, as is the case regarding what the Christians are upon. Allah [The Exalted] said:

[وَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا أَهْوَاءَ قَوْمٍ قَدْ ضَلُّوا مِنْ قَبْلُ وَأَضَلُّوا كَثِيرًا وَضَلُّوا عَنْ سَوَاءِ السَّبِيلِ – and do not follow the inclinations of a people who had gone astray before and misled many and have strayed from the soundness of the way]. [Al-Ma’idah. 77]

And [الغاوي – the one who deviates from upright conduct] follows his whims and desires even though he knows that this is contrary to the truth, as is the case regarding what the Jews are upon. Allah [The Exalted] said:

سَأَصْرِفُ عَنْ آيَاتِيَ الَّذِينَ يَتَكَبَّرُونَ فِي الْأَرْضِ بِغَيْرِ الْحَقِّ وَإِنْ يَرَوْا كُلَّ آيَةٍ لَا يُؤْمِنُوا بِهَا وَإِنْ يَرَوْا سَبِيلَ الرُّشْدِ لَا يَتَّخِذُوهُ سَبِيلًا وَإِنْ يَرَوْا سَبِيلَ الْغَيِّ يَتَّخِذُوهُ سَبِيلًا ذَلِكَ بِأَنَّهُمْ كَذَّبُوا بِآيَاتِنَا وَكَانُوا عَنْهَا غَافِلِينَ

I shall turn away from My Ayat (verses of the Quran) those who behave arrogantly on the earth, without a right, and (even) if they see all the Signs, they will not believe in them. And if they see the way of righteousness (monotheism, piety, and good deeds), they will not adopt it as the Way, but if they see the way of error (polytheism, crimes and evil deeds), they will adopt that way, that is because they have rejected Our Signs and were heedless (to learn a lesson) from them. [Al-A’raaf. 146]

Allah [The Exalted] said:

وَاتْلُ عَلَيْهِمْ نَبَأَ الَّذِي آتَيْنَاهُ آيَاتِنَا فَانْسَلَخَ مِنْهَا فَأَتْبَعَهُ الشَّيْطَانُ فَكَانَ مِنَ الْغَاوِينَ
وَلَوْ شِئْنَا لَرَفَعْنَاهُ بِهَا وَلَكِنَّهُ أَخْلَدَ إِلَى الْأَرْضِ وَاتَّبَعَ هَوَاهُ فَمَثَلُهُ كَمَثَلِ الْكَلْبِ إِنْ تَحْمِلْ عَلَيْهِ يَلْهَثْ أَوْ تَتْرُكْهُ يَلْهَثْ

And recite (O Muhammad) to them the story of him to whom We gave Our Signs, but he threw them away, so Shaitan (Satan) followed him up, and he became of those who went astray. nd had We willed, We would surely have elevated him therewith but he clung to the earth and followed his own vain desire. So his description is the description of a dog: if you drive him away, he lolls his tongue out, or if you leave him alone, he (still) lolls his tongue out. [Al-A’raaf. 175-176] [see footnote a]

And in a hadith, the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him said, “Indeed, what I fear most for you is the desires of the stomachs and privates parts that deviates a person from upright conduct, and the misleading trials”. That is because indeed Ghay and Dalaal combine all the evils of the children of Adam, because the human being is as Allah [The Exalted] stated: [وَحَمَلَهَا الْإِنْسَانُ إِنَّهُ كَانَ ظَلُومًا جَهُولً – But man bore it. Verily, he was unjust (to himself) and ignorant (of its results)] [Surah Al-Ahzaab. Aayah 72] [see footnote b]

So, by way of his wrongdoing, he becomes one who deviates from upright conduct, and by way of his ignorance he becomes a misguided one. And often he combines both these two affairs, so he is misguided in one thing, and deviated from upright conduct in another thing, because he is unjust and ignorant, and each of the two sins succeed one another, as Allah said: [فِي قُلُوبِهِمْ مَرَضٌ فَزَادَهُمُ اللَّهُ مَرَضًا – In their hearts is a disease (of doubt, disbelief and hypocrisy), so Allāh increased their disease (by subjecting them to trials in which they preferred disbelief)]. [https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/search/2_10]

And as Allah said: [فَلَمَّا زَاغُوا أَزَاغَ اللَّهُ قُلُوبَهُمْ – So when they turned away (from the Path of Allah), Allah turned their hearts away (from the Right Path)]. [As-Saff. 5]

Just as a believer is rewarded for a good deed with another good deed; if he acts according to his knowledge, Allah grants him knowledge he did not know; and if does a good deed, it invites him to another good deed. Allah [The Exalted] said: [وَالَّذِينَ اهْتَدَوْا زَادَهُمْ هُدًى وَآتَاهُمْ تَقْوَاهُمْ – While as for those who accept guidance, He increases their guidance, and bestows on them their piety] [Muhammad 17]

Allah [The Exalted] said: [وَيَزِيدُ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ اهْتَدَوْا هُدًى – And Allah increases in guidance those who walk aright [true believers in the Oneness of Allah who fear Allah much (abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which He has forbidden), and love Allah much (perform all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained)]. [Maryam. 76]

Allah [The Exalted] said: [وَالَّذِينَ جَاهَدُوا فِينَا لَنَهْدِيَنَّهُمْ سُبُلَنَا – As for those who strive hard in Us (Our Cause), We will surely guide them to Our Paths (i.e. Allah’s Religion – Islamic Monotheism)]. [Al-Ankabut. 69]

Allah [The Exalted] said:

وَلَوْ أَنَّهُمْ فَعَلُوا مَا يُوعَظُونَ بِهِ لَكَانَ خَيْرًا لَهُمْ وَأَشَدَّ تَثْبِيتًا
وَإِذًا لَآتَيْنَاهُمْ مِنْ لَدُنَّا أَجْرًا عَظِيمًا
وَلَهَدَيْنَاهُمْ صِرَاطًا مُسْتَقِيمًا

And if We had ordered them (saying), “Kill yourselves (i.e. the innocent ones kill the guilty ones) or leave your homes,” very few of them would have done it; but if they had done what they were told, it would have been better for them, and would have strengthened their (Faith); ad indeed We should then have bestowed upon them a great reward from Ourselves. And indeed We should have guided them to a Straight Way. [An-Nisaa. 66-68]

Allah [The Exalted] said:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَآمِنُوا بِرَسُولِهِ يُؤْتِكُمْ كِفْلَيْنِ مِنْ رَحْمَتِهِ وَيَجْعَلْ لَكُمْ نُورًا تَمْشُونَ بِهِ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ وَاللَّهُ غَفُورٌ رَحِيمٌ
لِئَلَّا يَعْلَمَ أَهْلُ الْكِتَابِ أَلَّا يَقْدِرُونَ عَلَى شَيْءٍ مِنْ فَضْلِ اللَّهِ وَأَنَّ الْفَضْلَ بِيَدِ اللَّهِ يُؤْتِيهِ مَنْ يَشَاءُ وَاللَّهُ ذُو الْفَضْلِ الْعَظِيمِ

O you who believe [in Musa (Moses) (i.e. Jews) and ‘Iesa (Jesus) (i.e. Christians)]! Fear Allah, and believe too in His Messenger (Muhammad ), He will give you a double portion of His Mercy, and He will give you a light by which you shall walk (straight), and He will forgive you. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. So that the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) may know that they have no power whatsoever over the Grace of Allah, and that (His) Grace is (entirely) in His Hand to bestow it on whomsoever He wills. And Allah is the Owner of Great Bounty. [Al-Hadid. 28-29]

And he [.e. the Prophet (may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him)] mentioned the desires of the stomachs and private parts that deviates a person from upright conduct as reported in the Sahih (Al-Bukhari and Muslim) that he said, “Whoever can guarantee (the chastity of) what is between his two jaw-bones and what is between his two legs (i.e. his tongue and his private parts), I guarantee Paradise for him.” [Al-Bukhari 6474]

The common people know that this is a sin, but they commit it in pursuit of their desires. As for the misleading trials, if a servant of Allah is tempted, he will stray from the path ordained by Allah, whilst thinking that he is guided, as Allah stated:

وَمَنْ يَعْشُ عَنْ ذِكْرِ الرَّحْمَنِ نُقَيِّضْ لَهُ شَيْطَانًا فَهُوَ لَهُ قَرِينٌ
وَإِنَّهُمْ لَيَصُدُّونَهُمْ عَنِ السَّبِيلِ وَيَحْسَبُونَ أَنَّهُمْ مُهْتَدُونَ

And whosoever turns away (blinds himself) from the remembrance of the Most Beneficent (Allah) (i.e. this Qur’an and worship of Allah), We appoint for him Shaitan (Satan – devil) to be a Qarin (an intimate companion) to him. And verily, they (Satans / devils) hinder them from the Path (of Allah), but they think that they are guided aright! [Az-Zukhruf. 36-37]

Allah said: [أَفَمَنْ زُيِّنَ لَهُ سُوءُ عَمَلِهِ فَرَآهُ حَسَنًا فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ يُضِلُّ مَنْ يَشَاءُ وَيَهْدِي مَنْ يَشَاءُ – Is he, then, to whom the evil of his deeds made fair-seeming, so that he considers it as good (equal to one who is rightly guided)? Verily, Allah sends astray whom He wills, and guides whom He wills]. [Fatir. 8]

Allah said: [وَكَذَلِكَ زُيِّنَ لِفِرْعَوْنَ سُوءُ عَمَلِهِ وَصُدَّ عَنِ السَّبِيلِ وَمَا كَيْدُ فِرْعَوْنَ إِلَّا فِي تَبَابٍ – Thus it was made fair-seeming, in Fir’aun’s (Pharaoh) eyes, the evil of his deeds, and he was hindered from the (Right) Path, and the plot of Fir’aun (Pharaoh) led to nothing but loss and destruction (for him)]. [Ghafir. 37]

Allah said:

قُلْ هَلْ نُنَبِّئُكُمْ بِالْأَخْسَرِينَ أَعْمَالً
الَّذِينَ ضَلَّ سَعْيُهُمْ فِي الْحَيَاةِ الدُّنْيَا وَهُمْ يَحْسَبُونَ أَنَّهُمْ يُحْسِنُونَ صُنْعًا

Say (O Muhammad ): “Shall We tell you the greatest losers in respect of (their) deeds? Those whose efforts have been wasted in this life while they thought that they were acquiring good by their deeds! [Al-Kahf. 103-104] – And due to this, the companions of the Prophet [may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] interpreted this verse (and applied it) to those devoted in worship based on other than Allah’s Shariah with which He sent His Messenger, such as the idolaters, the people of the Scripture like the monks and the people of desires from this Ummah (of Muhammad), such as the Kharijites whom the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] commanded that they should be fought against, saying: “One of you will belittle his prayer compared to their prayer, his fast compared to their fast, and his recitation compared with their recitation. They will recite the Qur’an but it does not go beyond their throats, they pass through Islam as an arrow goes through the game’s body. Kill them wherever you meet them (i.e. when they initiate bloodshed), for indeed in killing them there is a reward from Allah – on the Day of Resurrection – for those who killed them”.

That is because these people exited the Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger and the Jama’ah of Muslims to the point that those who opposed them – such as Uthman, Ali and the rest of the believers who ruled over them – were declared infidels, and they declared it lawful to kill Muslims and confiscate their wealth, as the Prophet said about them: “They will kill the adherents to Allah and leave the idol worshippers (i.e. when Jihad is established)”.

And if the desires that deviates a person from upright conduct combines with misleading trials, the affliction becomes severe and the one upon this path becomes one who earns Allah’s Anger – an astray person. This often occurs because of the love of leadership and self-exaltation in earth, as was the case of Pharaoh. Allah [The Exalted] said:

إِنَّ فِرْعَوْنَ عَلَا فِي الْأَرْضِ وَجَعَلَ أَهْلَهَا شِيَعًا يَسْتَضْعِفُ طَائِفَةً مِنْهُمْ يُذَبِّحُ أَبْنَاءَهُمْ وَيَسْتَحْيِي نِسَاءَهُمْ إِنَّهُ كَانَ مِنَ الْمُفْسِدِينَ

Verily, Fir’aun (Pharaoh) exalted himself in the land and made its people sects, weakening (oppressing) a group (i.e. Children of Israel) among them, killing their sons, and letting their females live. Verily, he was of the Mufsidun (i.e. those who commit great sins and crimes, oppressors, tyrants, etc.). [Al-Qasas. 4]

Thus, Allah described him as one who exalted himself in the earth and caused corruption. Allah stated in the end of the Surah: [تِلْكَ الدَّارُ الْآخِرَةُ نَجْعَلُهَا لِلَّذِينَ لَا يُرِيدُونَ عُلُوًّا فِي الْأَرْضِ وَلَا فَسَادًا وَالْعَاقِبَةُ لِلْمُتَّقِينَ – That home of the Hereafter (i.e. Paradise), We shall assign to those who rebel not against the truth with pride and oppression in the land nor do mischief by committing crimes. And the good end is for the pious]. [Al-Qasas. 83]

This is why Allah stated about Fir’awn’s affair in particular: [وَكَذَلِكَ زُيِّنَ لِفِرْعَوْنَ سُوءُ عَمَلِهِ – Thus it was made fair-seeming, in Fir’aun’s (Pharaoh) eyes, the evil of his deeds]. [Ghafir. 37]

And that is because love of the leadership is a hidden lust, as Shaddaad Bin Aws [may Allah be pleased with him] said, “O Arabs! What I fear for you the most is Riyaa and hidden lust”. It was said to Abu Dawood As-Sijistani, “What is hidden lust?” He said, “Love of the leadership”.

Your love for a thing blinds and deafens (i.e. one neither sees the truth nor listens to truth), so the love for that will beautify for him what he loves of self-exaltation and hatred against its opposite, until haughtiness and pride are combined in the affair, and envy, which is to harbour hatred against Allah’s blessing bestowed on His servants, especially those who oppose Him. Pride and envy are two diseases that destroyed the early and latter generations, and they are the greatest sins by which Allah was first disobeyed, because Iblees became arrogant towards Adam and envied him. Likewise, the son of Adam, who killed his brother, envied his brother, and that is why arrogance contradicts Islam just as polytheism contradict Islam, because Islam is submission to Allah alone. Whoever submits to Allah and to others is a polytheist, and whoever does not submit is an arrogant person, like the case of Pharaoh and the chiefs of his (kingdom). This is why Musa said: [وَأَنْ لَا تَعْلُوا عَلَى اللَّهِ إِنِّي آتِيكُمْ بِسُلْطَانٍ مُبِينٍ – And exalt not (yourselves) against Allah. Truly, I have come to you with a manifest authority]. [Ad-Dukhan. 19]

Allah stated about Fir’awn: [وَاسْتَكْبَرَ هُوَ وَجُنُودُهُ فِي الْأَرْضِ بِغَيْرِ الْحَقِّ وَظَنُّوا أَنَّهُمْ إِلَيْنَا لَا يُرْجَعُونَ – And he and his hosts were arrogant in the land, without right, and they thought that they would never return to Us]. [Al-Qasas. 39]

Allah said: [وَجَحَدُوا بِهَا وَاسْتَيْقَنَتْهَا أَنْفُسُهُمْ ظُلْمًا وَعُلُوًّا فَانْظُرْ كَيْفَ كَانَ عَاقِبَةُ الْمُفْسِدِينَ – And they belied them (those Ayat) wrongfully and arrogantly, though their ownselves were convinced thereof [i.e. those (Ayat) are from Allah, and Musa (Moses) is the Messenger of Allah in truth, but they disliked to obey Musa (Moses), and hated to believe in his Message of Monotheism]. So see what was the end of the Mufsidun (disbelievers, disobedient to Allah, evil-doers, liars.). (Surah An-Naml. 14]

And whoever submits himself to Allah as a Hanif (i.e. one who worships Allah alone), he is a Muslim who is adhering to the religion of Abraham, about whom Allah said to him, “Submit”, he said, “I have submitted to the Lord of the worlds”. And this Islam is the religion of the first and the last of the prophets and their followers, as Allah described – in his book – Nuh, Ibrahim, Musa, Yusuf, Sulayman and others amongst the Prophets, such as the statement of Musa to his people: [إِنْ كُنْتُمْ آمَنْتُمْ بِاللَّهِ فَعَلَيْهِ تَوَكَّلُوا إِنْ كُنْتُمْ مُسْلِمِينَ – If you have believed in Allah, then put your trust in Him if you are Muslims (those who submit to Allah’s Will)]. [Yunus. 84]

Allah said: [إِنَّا أَنْزَلْنَا التَّوْرَاةَ فِيهَا هُدًى وَنُورٌ يَحْكُمُ بِهَا النَّبِيُّونَ الَّذِينَ أَسْلَمُوا لِلَّذِينَ هَادُوا – Verily, We did send down the Taurat (Torah) [to Musa (Moses)], therein was guidance and light, by which the Prophets, who submitted themselves to Allah’s Will, judged the Jews]. [Al-Ma’idah. 44]

Nuh said: [فَإِنْ تَوَلَّيْتُمْ فَمَا سَأَلْتُكُمْ مِنْ أَجْرٍ إِنْ أَجْرِيَ إِلَّا عَلَى اللَّهِ وَأُمِرْتُ أَنْ أَكُونَ مِنَ الْمُسْلِمِينَ – But if you turn away [from accepting my doctrine of Islamic Monotheism, i.e. to worship none but Allah], then no reward have I asked of you, my reward is only from Allah, and I have been commanded to be one of the Muslims (those who submit to Allah’s Will)]. [Yunus. 72]

Yusuf said: [تَوَفَّنِي مُسْلِمًا وَأَلْحِقْنِي بِالصَّالِحِينَ – Cause me to die as a Muslim (the one submitting to Your Will), and join me with the righteous]. [Yusuf. 101]

Bilqees said: [وَأَسْلَمْتُ مَعَ سُلَيْمَانَ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ – And I submit (in Islam, together with Sulaiman (Solomon), to Allah, the Lord of the ‘Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)]. [An-Naml. 44]

And deviating from upright conduct is not limited to the desires of the stomach and the private parts only, rather it related to desires of the stomach, the private parts, the desires of leadership, pride, self-exaltation and other than that. He (i.e. the person) is following his desires, even if he does not believe that it is a desire; (but) he is not like the misguided one, because he (i.e. the misguided one) thinks that he is doing well, and that is why Iblis was the first of those who deviated from upright conduct, as Allah said:

فَبِمَا أَغْوَيْتَنِي لَأَقْعُدَنَّ لَهُمْ صِرَاطَكَ الْمُسْتَقِيمَ
ثُمَّ لَآتِيَنَّهُمْ مِنْ بَيْنِ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمِنْ خَلْفِهِمْ وَعَنْ أَيْمَانِهِمْ وَعَنْ شَمَائِلِهِمْ وَلَا تَجِدُ أَكْثَرَهُمْ شَاكِرِينَ

Because You have sent me astray, surely I will sit in wait against them (human beings) on Your Straight Path. Then I will come to them from before them and behind them, from their right and from their left, and You will not find most of them as thankful ones (i.e. they will not be dutiful to You)]. [Al-A’raf. 16-17]

رَبِّ بِمَا أَغْوَيْتَنِي لَأُزَيِّنَنَّ لَهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ وَلَأُغْوِيَنَّهُمْ أَجْمَعِينَ
إِلَّا عِبَادَكَ مِنْهُمُ الْمُخْلَصِينَ

O my Lord! Because you misled me, I shall indeed adorn the path of error for them (mankind) on the earth, and I shall mislead them all. Except Your chosen, (guided) slaves among them. [Al-Hijr. 39-40]

Allah said:

وَيَوْمَ يُنَادِيهِمْ فَيَقُولُ أَيْنَ شُرَكَائِيَ الَّذِينَ كُنْتُمْ تَزْعُمُونَ
قَالَ الَّذِينَ حَقَّ عَلَيْهِمُ الْقَوْلُ رَبَّنَا هَؤُلَاءِ الَّذِينَ أَغْوَيْنَا أَغْوَيْنَاهُمْ كَمَا غَوَيْنَا تَبَرَّأْنَا إِلَيْكَ مَا كَانُوا إِيَّانَا يَعْبُدُونَ

And (remember) the Day when He will call to them, and say: “Where are My (so-called) partners whom you used to assert?” Those about whom the Word will have come true (to be punished) will say: “Our Lord! These are they whom we led astray. We led them astray, as we were astray ourselves. We declare our innocence (from them) before You. It was not us they worshipped.” [Al-Qasas. 62-63]

Allah said:

فَكُبْكِبُوا فِيهَا هُمْ وَالْغَاوُونَ
وَجُنُودُ إِبْلِيسَ أَجْمَعُونَ

Then they will be thrown on their faces into the (Fire), They and the Ghawun (devils, and those who were in error). And the whole hosts of Iblis (Satan) together. [Ash-Shu’araa 94-95]

That which is in the hadith, “What I fear for this Ummah of deviation from upright conduct”, is tantamount to deviation through desires of the stomach and private parts; but as for the deviation from upright conduct that is tantamount to arrogantly turning away from truth, this is the origin of unbelief, and the person upon this path is not from this Ummah, such as Iblis, Pharaoh and others. As for deviation from upright conduct by way of the desires of the stomachs and the private parts, this can happen to the people of faith, then they repent, as Allah said:

وَعَصَى آدَمُ رَبَّهُ فَغَوَى
ثُمَّ اجْتَبَاهُ رَبُّهُ فَتَابَ عَلَيْهِ وَهَدَى

Thus did Adam disobey his Lord, so he went astray. Then his Lord chose him, and turned to him with forgiveness, and gave him guidance. [Taa Haa. 121-122]

And in the Sunan and Al-Musnad from the hadith of Laith bin Sa’d on the authority of Yazid bin Al-Haad on the authority of Amr on the authority of Abu Saeed Al-Khudri who said: I heard Allah’s Messenger (saying), “Indeed, Iblis said to his Lord [The Mighty and Majestic]: ‘By Your Might and Majesty, I will not cease to deceive the children of Adam as long as the souls are in them (i.e. as long as they are alive)’. His Lord [The Mighty and Sublime] said to him, ‘By my Might and Majesty, I will not cease to forgive them as long as they ask forgiveness from me'”.

May Allah have mercy on Shaikh Al-slam Ibn Taymiyyah, and I ask Allah that this article will benefit all Muslims, especially students of knowledge. May Allah bless and bestow peace upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and companions.

Written by
Rabee Bin Haadi Omair Al-Madkhali
On 28/8/1432 AH

Paraphrased:

https://rabee.net/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%BA%D9%8A-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B6%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%84-%D9%8A%D8%AC%D9%85%D8%B9%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%AC%D9%85%D9%8A%D8%B9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B3%D9%8A%D8%A6%D8%A7%D8%AA/

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Footnote a: https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2020/04/12/the-scholar-his-abundant-knowledge-and-the-dog-that-lolls-its-tongue-out-a-mighty-parable/

Footnote b: إِنَّا عَرَضۡنَا ٱلۡأَمَانَةَ عَلَى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضِ وَٱلۡجِبَالِ فَأَبَيۡنَ أَن يَحۡمِلۡنَہَا وَأَشۡفَقۡنَ مِنۡہَا وَحَمَلَهَا ٱلۡإِنسَـٰنُۖ إِنَّهُ ۥ كَانَ ظَلُومً۬ا جَهُولاً۬

Verily, We did offer Al-Amanah (the trust or moral responsibility or honesty and all the duties which Allah has ordained) to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains, but they declined to bear it and were afraid of it (i.e. afraid of Allah’s Torment). But man bore it. Verily, he was unjust (to himself) and ignorant (of its results). [Surah Al-Ahzaab. Aayah 72]