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Do Not Patronise Senior Students When They Clarify, for They Are Following the Footsteps of the Upright Scholars

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

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

The door to criticising Al-Albani and others like him is open. By Allah, neither Al-Albani nor others among the carriers of the Sunnah are angered by criticism – (criticism) carried out with (good) etiquettes, honouring the scholars, and with no objective except to clarify the truth. This began in the era of the Companions and will not come to an end. Refer to the book by Hafidh Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali, “Al-Farq Bayna an-Nasihah wa at-Ta’yir”. There he explained and said:

Clarifying guidance and the truth must be done. Sa’eed ibn al-Musayyib, Ibn Abbas, Tawus ibn Kaysan, and the companions of Ibn Abbas criticised others and were themselves criticised (i.e. on matters pertaining to knowledge of the Shariah), yet no one said, “This is an attack”. None says such a thing except ahlul ahwa.

So (if) we say: “No, do not criticise Al-Albani? Then what about his mistakes if they spread in the name of the religion? And likewise the mistakes of Abdul Aziz Ibn Baz, or the mistakes of Ibn Taymiyyah, or the mistakes of anyone else?! Any mistake must be shown to people as a mistake, regardless of the status of the person who made it. As we have said more than once, his error may be attributed to the religion ordained by Allah.

The main issue here is that scholars are criticised by other scholars. They clarify mistakes to the people, so that such mistakes are not attributed to the religion ordained by Allah. This is obligatory and we do not (merely) say that it is permissible; rather, it is obligatory to make the truth clear to people – distinguish between truth and falsehood. Criticism a matter a matter pertaining to forbidding evil. So, criticising Salafi individuals – the seniors – when they err, and clarifying their errors, this is related to enjoining good and forbidding evil. It is from the clarification that Allah has made obligatory, sincere advice that Allah has made obligatory and binding upon us.

Criticising mistakes and Bidʿah, while at the same time openly expressing respect for the people of the Sunnah and affirming that a scholar who performs ijtihād receives two rewards if he is correct and one reward if he is mistaken, this is what we practice (as part of the religion) with regards to our criticism of the people of the Sunnah, but not in the same manner regarding ahlul bidah. [1]

Response to the one who says, “Only a scholar should refute a scholar” or “He hasn’t reached the station of the one he is correcting his mistake, so better he keeps quiet”.

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked:

“What is the correctness (or validity) of the statement made by some (people): A scholar cannot be refuted except by (another) scholar?”

Response: If silence is employed in the face of his misguidance and there is no scholar to clarify the truth, while this one- who is of a much lesser status (or considered much inferior in knowledge) – possesses evidence and proof, it is incumbent upon him to present what he has. The point is that a scholar and a student of knowledge should only speak based on knowledge and should not engage in any matter without knowledge.

وَلَا تَقْفُ مَا لَيْسَ لَكَ بِهِ عِلْمٌ ۚ إِنَّ السَّمْعَ وَالْبَصَرَ وَالْفُؤَادَ كُلُّ أُولَٰئِكَ كَانَ عَنْهُ مَسْئُولًا

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Verily! The hearing, and the sight, and the heart, of each of those you will be questioned (by Allah). [Al-Israa 36]

Speaking based on ignorance in any speech, even if made by a scholar, is rejected and not accepted. It is unlawful and may even lead to a level greater than disbelief in Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, as Allah, The Blessed and Exalted, said:

قُلْ إِنَّمَا حَرَّمَ رَبِّىَ ٱلْفَوَٰحِشَ مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا وَمَا بَطَنَ وَٱلْإِثْمَ وَٱلْبَغْىَ بِغَيْرِ ٱلْحَقِّ وَأَن تُشْرِكُوا۟ بِٱللَّهِ مَا لَمْ يُنَزِّلْ بِهِۦ سُلْطَٰنًا وَأَن تَقُولُوا۟ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ مَا لَا تَعْلَمُونَ

Say (O Muhammad): “(But) the things that my Lord has indeed forbidden are Al-Fawahish (great evil sins, every kind of unlawful sexual intercourse, etc.) whether committed openly or secretly, sins (of all kinds), unrighteous oppression, joining partners (in worship) with Allah for which He has given no authority, and saying things about Allah of which you have no knowledge.” [Al-A’raf 33]

Imam Ibn al-Qayyim stated in his explanation of this verse: Indeed, Allah, Blessed and Exalted, mentioned in stages starting from the lesser to the greater in these matters. The gravest of sins and major sins is to speak about Allah without knowledge, as this encompasses Shirk, disbelief, bidah, and various sins. The root of all calamity lies in speaking about Allah without knowledge, speaking in the name of Allah and His religion without knowledge.

If there is a student of knowledge, meaning, he has knowledge of a matter, proof and evidence, and the scholars have not spoken, he should speak the truth. [Paraphrased] [2]

The Arabic text below is a statement of Shaikh Abdus Salam Burjess, may Allah have mercy upon him, in Awa’iq at-Talab pages 85-86.

The Shaikh said that when a teacher errs regarding something, the student should deal with him gently according to the circumstances and should not say to him, “You have made an error” or “The matter is not as you say”, rather, he should use kind expressions through which the teacher realises his mistake without unsettling his heart, for this is from the rights that are owed to the teacher…. refutation that is accompanied with bad manners and distressing the person’s heart prevents understanding of what is right…

And just as this is obligated to a student of knowledge when dealing with the teacher, it is also incumbent upon the teacher to return to the truth when he errs. He is not to be prevented from returning to the truth after reviewing a statement he made and finds that it is in opposition to what is correct, for indeed that is a sign of equity and humbling oneself to the truth. Therefore, it is obligatory that one follows what is correct, whether it was conveyed by a younger or older person.

And it is a blessing upon a teacher that he has amongst his students one who notifies him of his mistake and leads him to what is correct, so that he does not persist upon that ignorance. This requires that one shows gratitude to Allah, The Most High, and then being thankful to the person through whom one was guided, whether it was a student or other than him.  [Paraphrased]

 

Ahlus Sunnah Do Not Speak Ill of The Scholars of Ahlus Sunnah- By Shaikh Ali Al-Hudhaifi- may Allah preserve him.
https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2026/04/16/ahlus-sunnah-do-not-speak-ill-of-the-scholars-of-ahlus-sunnah-by-shaikh-ali-al-hudhaifi/

[1] An Excerpt from “Juhud Al-Allamah Rabee Al-Mad’khali Fee Nadq Shubuhat Al-Hizbiyyeen 103-104”. paraphrased

[2] https://youtu.be/KxPnClf4q-g?si=CxJv9NJY_RFFNQEl  paraphrased

 

Radicalisation, Stability, and Integration

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Featured, Fitnah, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Refutations, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

Allah, The Most High, said:

وَلَا تُجَٰدِلُوٓا۟ أَهْلَ ٱلْكِتَٰبِ إِلَّا بِٱلَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ ظَلَمُوا۟ مِنْهُمْ وَقُولُوٓا۟ ءَامَنَّا بِٱلَّذِىٓ أُنزِلَ إِلَيْنَا وَأُنزِلَ إِلَيْكُمْ وَإِلَٰهُنَا وَإِلَٰهُكُمْ وَٰحِدٌ وَنَحْنُ لَهُۥ مُسْلِمُونَ

And argue not with the people of the Scripture, unless it be in (a way) that is better (with good words and in good manner, inviting them to Islamic Monotheism with His Verses), except with such of them as do wrong, and say (to them): “We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you; our Ilah (God) and your Ilah (God) is One (i.e. Allah), and to Him we have submitted (as Muslims).” [Al-Ankabut 46]

In this article, we aim to present a few reflections on an opinion piece written by David Ben Basat in the Jerusalem Post, entitled “Without taking action against radicalisation, Europe risks losing stability.” One of the key motivations behind our observations is the reference to Birmingham Muslims made by David. Birmingham is not only the birthplace of many of us but also our place of residence, where both Muslim and non-Muslim communities coexist. Therefore, any commentary regarding Muslim life in Birmingham must be grounded in factual accuracy, avoiding ambiguity, or sweeping generalisations that may distort the true essence of the situation from all perspectives.

David stated: “In November 2015, the ISIS terror organization struck at the heart of France’s capital. A series of coordinated attacks – including suicide bombings, shootings, and other acts of violence – claimed the lives of approximately 150 people and injured hundreds more. In response, then-President François Hollande declared a state of emergency, closing the nation’s borders for the first time since World War II. Paris came to a standstill. Its stock exchange, schools, and shopping centers were shuttered, and the Eiffel Tower was plunged into darkness. The nation declared three days of mourning”. [end of quote]

Response: Regardless of the religious affiliations of those responsible for this tragic event, both Muslims and non-Muslims have suffered at the hands of terrorists across various regions. It is a sentiment shared by all individuals of integrity to denounce the horrors witnessed in Paris and beyond, and it is imperative that those who perpetrated such violence face the most fitting retribution. As for the underlying motives as some have suggested – whether this incident was anticipated yet allowed to unfold for the sake of political maneuvering or to manipulate public sentiment, diverting attention from domestic issues that authorities preferred to keep in the shadows—such matters remain in the unseen, known only to Allah and those directly involved. Nevertheless, irrespective of any ulterior motives, this act is unequivocally deemed unlawful in the Sight of the Creator, warranting the harshest consequences for its perpetrators. Terrorism, regardless of its source—be it individuals, factions, or state actors—constitutes a heinous offense. The actions of ISIS, Al-Qaeda, Jabhat An-Nusra, Boko Haram, Al-Shabab, some members of Netanyahu’s Zionist security forces and others are all met with unreserved condemnation.

David stated: “Subsequently, France has faced many terror attacks and murders carried out by radicalized Muslim immigrants. Shocked citizens have struggled to comprehend how their nation, after offering refuge to those fleeing war and poverty, in return for its hospitality, had become the target of violence and terror in return”. [end of quote]

Response: A radicalised Muslim can be understood as an individual who, burdened by grievances, lacks the profound understanding and self-restraint to navigate these issues, or as one who has been manipulated by the khawarij, who distort religious texts to rationalise their so-called Jihad. While we share David’s astonishment at the betrayal of those granted refuge, a far greater outrage lies in the relentless brutality inflicted on Palestinians for over seventy years. This, however, does not excuse Hamas or any other faction from inflicting harm upon non-combatants and unarmed civilians. The terrorist acts in France are unequivocally condemned; they are indefensible, irrespective of whether the perpetrators are migrants or the descendants of migrants raised within the nation. Yet, it is crucial to recognise that neither terrorists affiliated with Islam or Christianity have perpetrated atrocities – against Palestinians – on the scale witnessed from various Zionist Administrations over the past seven decades. Furthermore, the expulsion of individuals from their homes occurs with the complicity of the military, as settlers continuously displace people from their lands.

David stated: “Terrorism is not new. Its aim is political, social, or religious change through fear. Since the 19th century, modern terrorism has grown increasingly sophisticated. Groups such as the Palestinian Fatah have targeted Israeli interests – while al-Qaeda, founded in 1988 by Abdullah Azzam and financed by Osama bin Laden – launched global attacks like 9/11, fueling a US-led war on terror that included invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq”. [end of quote]

Response: Terrorism, indeed, is a phenomenon that has persisted throughout history, and the Ummah of Muhammad is well aware of this reality. Various factions, including the Khawaarij and certain Zionist groups, have resorted to instilling fear and terror to fulfill their political and religious aspirations. When reflecting on the 19th century and the evolution of terrorism, it is very important not to overlook the actions of some Zionist factions and their violent acts since 1948. Regardless of the origins and funding of Al-Qaeda, whether attributed to Bin Laden or others whose destructive methods are well-documented by Salafi scholars, the invasion of Iraq stands as an unjust act, executed under misleading pretenses. Notably, Netanyahu emerged as one of the key figures in fabricating narratives that exacerbated the situation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33vOBjMpXTo

David stated: “However, both the United States and European nations underestimated the cultural differences of Muslim immigrants. Many arrived with little interest in integrating into Western society, instead establishing enclaves governed by Islamic religious leaders. In cities such as Malmö, Amsterdam, Berlin, Birmingham, and Brussels, where immigrants exceed 20% of the total population, crime rates have surged, overwhelming local law enforcement”. [end of quote]

Response: This assertion aligns with what we initially described as generalisations, half-truths, and exaggerations. To begin with, cultural differences cannot be deemed a catalyst for criminal behaviour because regardless of a Muslim’s cultural background, it is unequivocally understood that criminality is denounced in both the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Thus, the reason for such behaviour stems from a deficiency in the fear of Allah and a personal indifference towards the welfare of others, both of which are condemned in these sacred texts. Furthermore, the concept of integration is inherently subjective and can be interpreted in various ways. Can one truly claim that an individual who grows a beard, wears trousers above the ankles, or a woman who wears a Jilbaab and a Niqab is uninterested in integration? No rational person would assert this, as these choices reflect personal freedoms and the right to practice one’s faith. Similarly, does abstaining from pork, smoking, consuming alcohol, or engaging in premarital sexual relations signify a lack of integration within Western societies? It is imperative for David to articulate his definition of integration versus non-integration with clarity.

Lastly, David has failed to specify any individuals in the cities he references, such as Birmingham, who have contributed to the notion of enclaves. While it is undeniable that certain areas exhibit cultural diversity, this does not inherently imply a lack of integration. As previously mentioned, specific examples of non-integration must be provided, allowing for a thorough examination of whether these instances are rooted in religious rights, personal choices, or perhaps a misunderstanding on the part of those perceived as resistant to integration. For instance, did the Jewish community not advocate for certain accommodations for their Sabbath in Manchester, and would that be classified as a lack of integration? [Refer to Footnote a]

Was every non-Jew content with the initiative?! Here are some quotes from the Daily Mail regarding what some locals said about the request:

[Uproar over plans to create special exemption area for Jewish people in wealthy village marked out by 18ft tall yellow poles – as opponents oppose ‘religious enclave’ By CHRIS POLLARD Published: 13:25, 13 September 2024]

Quotes from the newspaper:

Angry locals have been leafleting households warning of damage to ‘community cohesion’ if the plan – the third of its type in just ten years – gets the go-ahead, saying 8,000 homes would be affected by the ‘religious enclave’.

One local said: ‘It’s nothing to do with the poles and the wire. It’s creating religious division which we don’t need in this area. I would feel the same no matter what religion wanted to create their own little enclave.

‘Be satisfied with the fact that we can have temples and churches and other places of worship for all religions in our area. That should be enough.

‘Keep the rest of the religious doctrine within these places or in your own home. If we allow this eruv then we can’t say no to Muslims wanting speakers on every street corner calling people to prayer – and on it goes.’

A leaflet distributed anonymously across households warned the eruv would ‘threaten the balance of our diverse and secular community, identifying our areas with one religion above others, threatening community cohesion’.

It added: ‘We have enough problems with racism in Britain today. Lets not make matters worse. Stop the Hale Eruv Now.’ [End of quotes]

These were some of the sentiments expressed by some among the local non-Jewish populace when Jewish leaders sought assistance in enhancing their observance of the Sabbath within their community. Therefore, it is important that David articulates his definition of lack of integration regarding Muslims in Birmingham and beyond, ensuring that each circumstance is assessed with clarity, devoid of conjecture and uncertainty.

David stated: “Clashes between Western values and conservative Islamic norms”. Significant cultural clashes between Western values – freedom of speech, secularism, and gender equality – and conservative Islamic norms exacerbate tensions. Incidents like the publication of caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad heighten cultural divides”. [end of quote]

Response: This topic has been a subject of discourse for many years, and the conversation remains vibrant. It is important to note that this discussion transcends the Muslim community, as the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah provide the only true resolution to the challenges and disputes faced by both humanity and Jinn. Therefore, it is important that David articulates each situation and incident with precision, allowing us to delineate the guidance offered by the Qur’an and Sunnah, as elucidated by the well known Salafi Scholars, such as the likes of Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him. Furthermore, one must possess the discernment to differentiate between cultural practices and Islamic law, as these issues are frequently conflated by some Muslims and non-Muslims. In the case of insults directed at the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, such actions have been denounced not only by Muslims but also by others who assert that true freedom of speech does not encompass the slander of others. In this context, Shaikh Abu Iyaad, may Allah preserve him, has written a profound response addressing the extremism of the Kharijites and the disdainful secularists who attack and mock the Prophets, especially Prophet Muhammad. Read here:

The Nobe, Revered Prophet of Islam Muhammad Between The Kharijite Terrorist Savages and The Confused Conjecting Existentialist, Nihilist Haters: https://ia601704.us.archive.org/0/items/the-prophet-of-islam/the-prophet-of-islam.pdf

David stated: “Antisemitism is on the rise, not only among Muslim migrants but also among native Europeans. Rabbi Menachem Margolin, chairman of the European Jewish Association, notes daily attacks on Jews and lenient punishments for perpetrators. According to Margolin, European Jewry is in its worst state since Kristallnacht. Many Jews now hire bodyguards and hide their identities in public”. [end of quote]

Response: Regarding anti-Semitism, we will refer to this article by Shaikh Abu Iyaad, may Allah protect him. https://abuiyaad.com/sn/muslims-antisemitism

David stated: “The October 7, 2023, attacks and the ongoing war with Hamas, coupled with biased international media coverage, have accelerated anti-Israel sentiment. Violent protests erupt regularly across Europe, bolstering far-Right groups such as France’s National Front and the Netherlands’ Freedom Party. These parties advocate for stricter immigration policies, leveraging fears of terrorism and cultural shifts to gain support.

Governments in Hungary, Poland, and Italy have enacted laws restricting immigration and are building border fences and implementing rigorous asylum criteria.

Some countries have banned face coverings and imposed cultural integration requirements for citizenship. While these measures attract criticism from human rights groups, proponents argue they are necessary to preserve Europe’s social and economic stability”. [end of quote]

Response: When discussing the factors contributing to anti-Israel sentiment, David highlights several key issues. These include the rise of far-right political parties, the implementation of restrictive immigration laws in certain European nations, the prohibition of face coverings, and the push for cultural integration as a requirement for citizenship. The debate surrounding these topics has persisted for many years, all while the ongoing conflict against Palestinians has continued, alongside the recent excessive measures adopted by Netanyahu’s Zionist army. It’s crucial to clarify that we neither dispute the right of any race to exist nor support the oppression of any individual. What many are voicing concerns about is the violence perpetrated by many among Netanyahu’s Zionist security forces and the harmful rhetoric that has led to what some have considered genocide. [Refer to footnote b] It’s important to note that not all Jewish individuals support the actions of Netanyahu’s administration, which has faced accusations of violence and oppression against Palestinians—actions that have been described as genocidal recently. Additionally, we do not suggest that the writer condones such actions, as there is no evidence to support that claim. Similarly, we denounce any actions by individuals or groups identifying as Muslim—whether in Palestine, the UK, or elsewhere—that harm non-combatants or fellow citizens, irrespective of their faith. We also stand firmly against vigilantism and any form of anti-Semitism.

David stated finally: “Europe stands at a crossroads. Its ability to balance its commitment to democracy and human rights with the need to address terror, crime, and cultural change will determine its future. Without decisive action, the continent risks losing its historical identity. Citizens, frustrated by law enforcement’s delayed response to violence, may eventually take matters into their own hands”. [end of quote]

Response: The ongoing discourse surrounding various political systems and lifestyles has been a persistent engagement for humanity since the deviation from Tawhid during the time of Prophet Nuh, peace be upon him. This dialogue often serves to highlight the perceived superiority of different ways of life. The Prophets and Messengers, peace and blessings of Allah be upon them, particularly the most noble among them—Muhammad, Nuh, Ibrahim, Musa, and Jesus—were sent to societies that had already entrenched their own practices, whether as idol worshippers or as communities that had altered and misinterpreted the teachings of their respective Prophets. Despite these challenges, these Prophets coexisted peacefully within these societies, extending an invitation to reflect on the fundamental purpose for which both humans and Jinns were created, as Allah said:

وَمَآ أَرْسَلْنَا مِن قَبْلِكَ مِن رَّسُولٍ إِلَّا نُوحِىٓ إِلَيْهِ أَنَّهُۥ لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّآ أَنَا۠ فَٱعْبُدُونِ

And We did not send any Messenger before you (O Muhammad) but We inspired him (saying): La ilaha illa Ana [none has the right to be worshipped but I (Allah)], so worship Me (Alone and none else).” [Al-Anbiya 25]

Allah said:

وَلَقَدْ بَعَثْنَا فِى كُلِّ أُمَّةٍ رَّسُولًا أَنِ ٱعْبُدُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ وَٱجْتَنِبُوا۟ ٱلطَّٰغُوتَ

And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): “Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taghut (all false deities, etc.i. e. do not worship Taghut besides Allah).” [An-Nahl. 36]

This message did not incite turmoil; rather, the Messengers exemplified justice and exhibited profound concern for their communities, despite enduring mistreatment and facing plots against their lives from adversaries. Thus, irrespective of the societal context in which a Muslim resides, there exists a divine mandate to engage with non-Muslims equitably, as well as to treat non-Muslims within a Muslim society with kindness. The true transgressors in this regard are those members of the Zionist security forces and settler who perpetrate violence against Palestinians, the kharijites, and misguided individuals among Muslims who inflict harm upon their fellow non-Muslim citizens, alongside the racist elements and far-right extremists. It is, therefore, the clear  responsibility of every individual possessing even a modicum of integrity to denounce and oppose such actions. [Refer to footnote c]

The discourse surrounding human rights has been explored not only through an academic lens but also from an perspective of Islamic perspective Read below:

It is incumbent upon all of us -collectively-  confront the scourge of crime and the various manifestations of terror that plague our societies, be they Muslim or non-Muslim. This responsibility is particularly pressing for all nations to unite against the injustices of Zionist oppression, anti-Semitism, and racism. While it is natural to feel frustration in the face of wrongdoing, resorting to vigilantism is an unlawful response, irrespective of the nature of the crime. Such actions are equally reprehensible whether perpetrated by Muslims or non-Muslims. Vigilantism has no place in any nation; thus, under no circumstances should one emulate the settlers in the occupied territories of Palestine or the kharijites in the Sahel and Nigeria.

And Allah knows best.

——————————————

Footnote a:https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-25687756

Footnote b:https://abuiyaad.com/a/amalekite-genocide-doctrine-gaza
https://abuiyaad.com/a/slaughtering-children-holy-war/print

Footnote c: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

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

Some Grey Areas: Beyond Displays of Eloquence, Durūs and Tazkiyāt

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

Some Grey Areas of Our Era:

Beyond Displays of Eloquence, Durūs and Tazkiyāt — Carefully Examine at Present What Others Are Doing in This Matter of Concessions and Maslahah Pursuits:

Especially Those Affiliated with Political Groups in the Name of Da‘wah, Praising Ahlul Bid‘ah, Attacking, Seeking to Isolate Truthful People and Dividing Communities— All Disguised Under the Name of Pursuing Maslahah and So-Called Permissible Concessions

A’isha, may Allah be pleased with her,  reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, did something and allowed his people to do it, but some people refrained from doing it. When the Prophet learned of that, he delivered a sermon, and after having praised Allah, he said:

“What is wrong with such people who refrain from doing a thing that I do? By Allah, I know Allah better than they, and I am more afraid of Him than they.” [Al-Bukhari 6101]

Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him and his father,  reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Verily, Allah loves for you to take His concessions, just as He loves you to fulfill the things He has obligated.” [Sahih Ibn Hibban 354]

Unjustified Pursuit of Concessions and Odd Matters

Ibrahim Ibn Abee Ablah (died 152AH – may Allah have mercy upon him) said:

“He who carries the odd affairs of knowledge carries a lot of evil”. [1]

Abdur Rahmaan Bin Mahdi (died 198AH – may Allah have mercy upon him) said:

“The one who pursues the odd affairs of knowledge cannot be an Imam in knowledge”. [2]

Imam ash-Shaatibee, may Allah have mercy upon him] stated regarding the attitude of unjustified pursuit of concessions:

“This arises from following one’s desires. Desire leads to a ‘too easy going attitude’ and the pursuit of concessions for oneself and others. So, you see him (i.e. such person) adopting that for himself or passing that judgment for his relative or friend, which he would not do for another person, due to the desire of that relative and friend”. [3]

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“If a Mukallaf [i.e. the sane one who has reached the age in which the obligations of the Shariah are obligated to him or her] seeks after concessions in the Madhabs in every affair that is difficult for him and every statement that agrees with his desires, then he will remove himself from the firm handhold of piety and persist upon the pursuit of desires”. [4]

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, also stated regarding the attitude of the unjustified pursuit of concessions:

“This arises from following one’s desires. Desire leads to a too easy going attitude and the pursuit of concessions for oneself and others. So, you see him adopting that for himself or passing that judgment for his relative or friend, which he would not do for another person due to the desire of that relative and friend”. [5]

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, also said:

“If a Mukallaf [i.e. the sane one who has reached the age when the obligations of the Shariah are obligated on him or her] seeks after concessions in the Madhabs in every affair that is difficult for him and every statement that agrees with his desires, then he will remove himself from the firm handhold of piety and persist upon the pursuit of desires”. [6]

“If desires enter (a person), it leads to following the ambiguous matters out of being eager to prevail and become victorious through establishing excuses in issues related to difference of opinion (or differing); but rather it leads to splitting, disharmony, enmity, and hatred due to the different desires and lack of (sound) agreement; however, the Shariah came to curtail (vain) desires completely. If some of the premises of the evidence were not established except through desires, it would not result except in following desires and that is contrary to the Shariah, and opposing the Shariah is not fr of the Shariah at all. Therefore, following desires concerning what one may regard to be adherence to the Shariah is tantamount to misguidance.”. [7]

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allāh have mercy upon him, said:

It is obligated to you to adhere to evidence and not (seek) concessions. Some of the pious predecessors said: “Whoever pursues concessions may fall into Zandaqah (hypocrisy or disbelief). Every Mad’hab contains some errors- some mistakes from some of its followers or from the Imam to whom it is attributed, who may have erred in some narrations or some hadiths were hidden from him. Therefore, a student of knowledge should not chase after concessions. If there is a difference of opinion on an issue and it is not one about which there is consensus, there are treatises among the people of knowledge, and the student of knowledge should (diligently) search for evidence and examine the more compelling statement or the one supported by stronger evidence, then he takes that which is established based on evidence and he does not chase after concessions. [8]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin, may Allāh have mercy upon him, said:

The facilitation of ease is what aligns with the essence of the religion. From this, we know that when two scholars differ in their opinions and it is not clear which view carries greater weight, neither in terms of evidence nor derivation of proofs, and both are reputable scholars in their knowledge and trustworthiness and the evidence is not clear as well as the derivation of proofs, yet they hold differing views—one being more stringent than the other—whom should we follow? The response: We should follow the easier option and it is said (we follow) the more stringent one, as it is deemed more cautious. However, this statement requires further examination, as the most cautious approach would be what aligns more with the Shariah and the easier option would be what aligns more with the Shariah. [9]

He, may Allah have mercy upon him, also said:

The jurists -may Allāh have mercy upon them, defined Muru’ah [manliness, sense of honour, honourable behaviour] in the Book of Testimonies, stating: “Doing what beautifies and adorns (a person’s character), while avoiding what may tarnish one’s character or reputation. This definition is general. Anything that beautifies and adorns you in the eyes of the people, and serves as a reason for praise for you, is considered Muru’ah, even if it does not fall under acts of worship. And everything opposite of this is contrary to Muru’ah. [10]

Al-Allaamah Salih Al-Fawzaan, may Allah preserve him, was asked about those who follow the legislated Islamic concessions?

He replied: The religion is an Amaanah- an amaanah between the slave and his Lord. It’s obligatory that he fulfils it (the religious duties) as Allah and his messenger have commanded. Whoever performs the obligations, refrains from the prohibited affairs, (does) that which he is able from the Mustahabbaat (recommended deeds) and abandons the Makroohaat (disliked actions), this is the Amaanah between the slave and his lord. The concessions are only allowed when there is a need and necessity (to utilise) them. Utilise them in accordance with necessity- with a need for the concession. Just like the sick person combines between two prayers, performs Tayyamum if he cannot use water for purification and doesn’t fast in Ramadhaan (i.e. when travelling etc), and a traveler shortens the prayers. This is a religious concession used at the time of its requirement. As for using concessions in other than their correct place (i.e. situation), then this is not permissible. Allah did not permit that for him (in such situation). Indeed He (Allaah) only placed the concessions at specified times and situations, and they are not used in other than these (times and situations). Therefore, it is obligated to the Muslim that he fears Allah and that he establishes that which Allah has obligated to him. [11]

Reminder to Those Youth You Have Gone to Study And Are Teachers or Will Be Teachers In Future InShaAllah

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

“The loftiest ambition in pursuit of knowledge is to acquire knowledge from the Qur’an and the Sunnah- to be granted understanding by Allah [i.e. blessed to acquire sound knowledge and act upon it] and through the Sunnah of the Messenger, and acquaint oneself with the boundaries of the revelation [i.e. neither going into excess nor being lackadaisical]. And the most baseless ambition of the students of knowledge is to confine their ambitions in following the bizarre affairs and that which has neither occurred nor has it been revealed, or acquainting (oneself) with the differences of opinion and pursuing the statements of the scholars, whilst having no ambition to acquaint oneself with what is correct among those statements. Little is there to benefit from the knowledge of these people”. [12]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin, may Allāh have mercy upon him, said:

We have decided to explain the book “Hilya Talib Al-Ilm” after consultations and suggestions from our students at the central Masjid. This is because if a student of knowledge lacks virtuous character, then there is no benefit in his pursuit of knowledge; instead it is obligated to a person that whenever he acquires knowledge of something related to virtuous deeds or acts of worship, he (strives) to implement it. If he does not do so, then he and the ignorant person will be the same; rather, the ignorant person may be in a better position because he deliberately abandons it  unlike the ignorant person. This is because the ignorant person may act if he knows unlike the one who knows yet does not follow. Therefore, I urge both myself and you to embody virtuous manners, patience, perseverance, forgiveness, and kindness to the best of our abilities. This is besides the great advice – fear of Allāh – about which Allāh said:

وَلَقَدْ وَصَّيْنَا ٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُوا۟ ٱلْكِتَٰبَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ وَإِيَّاكُمْ أَنِ ٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ

And verily, We have recommended to the people of the Scripture before you, and to you (O Muslims) that you (all) fear Allah, and keep your duty to Him. [An-Nisa 131] [13]

Al-Allaamah Abdur-Rahmaan Bin Yahyah Al-Mu’allimee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said,

“And know that some of the sincere ones fall into error by the will of Allah as a trial for others, as to whether they will follow the truth and abandon his speech, or be deceived by his virtuousness and lofty (status)? He (i.e. this sincere scholar) is excused; rather he is rewarded for striving to reach the correct verdict and his intention to reach good, and he is not degraded. However, the one who follows him (out of being) deceived by his great (status) without turning towards the real evidences in Allah’s Book (i.e. the Qur’an) and the Sunnah of His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), he is not excused; rather he is upon a great danger”. [14]

[1] Siyar A’laam An-Nubula 6/324

[2] At-Tamheed 1/64 by Ibn Abdil Barr

[3] Al-Muwaafaqaat. 5/84

[4]Al-Muwaafaqaat. 3/123

[5] Al-Muwaafaqaat. 5/84

[6] Al-Muwaafaqaat. 3/123

[7] Al-Muwaafaqaat 5/221

[8] Paraphrased:

عليك أن تأخذ بالدليل، لا بالرخص، قال بعض السلف: من تتبع الرخص؛ تزندق، كل مذهب يكون فيه بعض الأغلاط، بعض الأخطاء من بعض أتباعه، أو من الإمام الذي هو منسوب إليه أنه غلط في بعض الروايات، وأنه خفي عليه بعض الأحاديث، فطالب العلم لا يتتبع الرخص.
وإذا كان في المسألة خلاف، ما هي بمسألة إجماع، فهناك رسائل بين أهل العلم، فطالب العلم يتحرى الدليل، وينظر في أقرب القولين، أو الأقوى للدليل، فيأخذ بما قام عليه

الدليل، لا بتتبع الرخص

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/2138/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%AA%D8%AA%D8%A8%D8%B9-%D8%B1%D8%AE%D8%B5-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%81%D9%82%D9%87%D8%A7%D8%A1

[9]  Paraphrased:

التيسير هو الموافق لروحِ الدِّينِ، مِن هُنَا نَعْلَمُ أَنَّهُ إِذَا اخْتَلَفَ عَالِمِانَ فِي رَأْي ولم يتبين لنا الأَرْجَحُ من قوليها لا من حَيْثُ الدَّلِيلِ، وَلا مِن حَيْثُ الاسْتِدْلَالُ وكُلُّهُمْ عُلَماءُ ثَقَاتِ فِي عِلْمِهِمْ وَأَمَانَتِهِمْ، وَالْأَدلَّةُ لِيسَتْ وَاضِحَةً، وَالاسْتِدْلَالُ كَذَلِكَ، لكن اخْتَلَفَ رَأَيْهَا، أَحَدُهُمَا أَشَدُّ مِن الثَّانِي، فَمَنْ نَتَّبِعُ؟
الجواب: تَتَّبِعُ الأَيْسَرَ ، وقيل : الأَشَدَّ؛ لَأَنَّهُ أَحْوَطُ؛ وهذا القَوْلُ فِيهِ نَظَرُ؛ لأن
الأَحْوَطَ مَا كَانَ أَوْفَقَ لِلشَّرْعِ، وَالأَيْسَرُ هُوَ الأَوْفَقُ لِلشَّرْعِ

Sharh Hilya Talib Al-Ilm page 202. 1st Edition 1434AH Rabi’ ul Awwal

[10] Paraphrased:

والمَرُوءَةُ حَدَّهَا الفقهاء . – رحمهم الله – في
كتاب الشهادات، فقالوا هي: فِعْلُ ما يُجَمِّلُهُ ويُزَيِّنُهُ، وَاجْتِنَابُ مَا يُدَنَّسُهُ وَيُشِيةٌ
وهذه عبارة عَامَّةٌ ، كُلُّ شَيْءٍ يُجَمِّلُكَ عِنْدَ النَّاسِ، وَيُزَيِّنُكَ وَيَكُونُ سَبَبًا للثَّنَاءِ عَلَيْكَ
فهو مَرُوعَةٌ، وإن لم يكن مِنَ العِبادات، وكلُّ شيء عَكْسُ ذلك فهو خلاف المروءة

Sharh Hilya Talib Al-Ilm page 7. 1st Edition 1434AH Rabi’ ul Awwal. page 50

[11] Translated by Abu Aa’isha Amjad Khan. http://www.alfawzan.af.org.sa/node/13751

[12] An Excerpt from Al-Fawaa’id. Page 99

[13] Paraphrased:

فقد قَرَّرْنَا شَرْحَ كتاب «حِلْيَةُ طَالِبِ الْعِلْمِ»، بعد مُشَاوَرَةٍ واقتراح الطلبة لدينا في الجامع؛ وذلك لأنَّ طالب العلم إذا لم يَتَحَلَّ بالأخلاقِ الفَاضِلَةِ فَإِن طَلَبَهُ لِلْعِلْمِ لا فائدة فيه، لكن يَجِبُ على الإنسان كُلَّمَا عَلِمَ شَيْئًا مِن الْفَضَائِلِ أو العِبَادَاتِ أن يقوم به، فإذا لم يفعل فهو والجاهل سواءٌ، بَلِ الْجَاهِلُ أَحْسَنُ حَالًا منه، لأنَّه تَرَكَ الفَضْلَ عن عَمْدٍ بخلاف الجاهل، ولأنَّ الجاهل رُبَّمَا يَنْتَفِعُ إِذا عَلِمَ،
بخلاف من عَلِمَ ولم يَنتَفِعُ .
فلهذا أحثُّ نفسي وإِيَّاكُمْ على التَّحَلي بالأخلاقِ الفَاضِلَةِ، وَالصَّبْرِ والمُصَابَرَةِ، والعفو والإحسان، بقدر المستطاع، هذا بقطع النظر عن الوصية الكبرى، وهي الوَصِيَّةُ بتقوى الله – عز وجل، التي قال الله – تعالى – فيها
وَلَقَدْ وَصَّيْنَا ٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُوا۟ ٱلْكِتَٰبَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ وَإِيَّاكُمْ أَنِ ٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ

Sharh Hilya Talib Al-Ilm page 7. 1st Edition 1434AH Rabi’ ul Awwal

[14] Raf’ul Ish-tibaah. page 152

Presented As An Adviser, While Persisting in the Dangerous Sin of False Tabdee etc

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

The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“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.” [1]

Al-Qāḍī Abū Yaʿlā, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “It is more befitting (or obligatory) that the one who enjoins good and forbids evil is from among those known for modesty, integrity, uprightness, and one accepted among the people; because when he is of such a description, the one being admonished will hold him in awe, and may respond to him and return to what he says… And because a person of this quality—his words have a stronger impact on the hearts and are closer to being accepted.” [2]

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

There are two strengths within the soul: the strength of abstinence and the strength of courage. The reality of patience is that one makes the strength of courageousness a means of action in what benefits him and the strength of abstinence a means of action in refraining from what is harmful to him. Among the people, there is one whose patience in carrying out what benefits him and being firm upon it is stronger than his patience in refraining from what is harmful to him; so he exercises patience in facing difficulty whilst carrying out acts of obedience, but he does not exercise patience in refraining from urges towards what he is forbidden. And among them, there is one whose patience in refraining from things that are in opposition to the religion is stronger than his patience in carrying out acts of obedience, and among them there is one who does not exercise patience in both affairs. The best of people are those who fulfil both affairs. Many people patiently bear the hardship of praying Tahajjud during hot and cold nights, and the difficulty in fasting; but they do not exercise patience in refraining from looking at forbidden things. Many people exercise patience in refraining from looking at the forbidden things and inclination towards [forbidden] images, but they do not exercise patience in commanding good and forbidding evil. [3]

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”. [4] [end of quotes]

Many of us who attended higher education encountered the role psychology plays in public discourse, accountability, self-preservation, and other matters. Sometimes, this occurs at the cost of violating rights, misleading the public, and fostering a victim mentality.  A truthful Muslim does not avoid responsibility out of fear for their status, credibility, reputation, or self-image. Their fear of Allah prevents cognitive dissonance, and they do not believe that remaining silent is less painful than admitting, “I was wrong.”

Being vague, evasive, or changing the subject is a tactic used by those who think that this will allow their supporters to interpret the situation in their favour. This is not politics or media, it is a serious matter related to rulings of the Shariah, which should not be compromised. We are well aware that there are people who know that the dynamics of attention cycles can distract those seeking justice, as well as the fact that, due to information overload, accountability is easily forgotten. They know that public attention shifts quickly, allowing them to wait for the next topic to take over discussions. We’ll not be distracted by those who employ the tactic of “running out the clock”, who think that silence will make their audience and sympathisers feel that their unsupported claims have no real consequences.

Therefore, we’ll continue to demand proof from those who falsely issued the false Tabdee against Shaikh Abu Iyaad, may Allah protect him. We will reiterate the unanswered question and avoid getting sidetracked. If the topic is avoided, we will bring it back, document the conversation, and keep a record of the claims and their lack of evidence. We will treat their silence—in this particular serious issue—as a non-response, without making excuses for the accuser, and we will remind the youth that the claim is still false, excessive, repugnant, and oppressive. This is because unchallenged claims can lead to more harm and perhaps desensitisation. Thus, the perpetrators of false Tabdee should never expect that evasion will solve their problem, for indeed, we’ll continue demanding proof. So, we ask again: Where is the clear, unambiguous proof for the Tabdee against Shaikh Abu Iyaad, may Allah protect him, and the claim that he is a plant?!

Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [77 of 80]

[1] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear Unambiguous Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee?

[2] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear Unambiguous Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee?

[3] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear Unambiguous Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[4] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear Unambiguous Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[5] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear Unambiguous Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[6] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear Unambiguous Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[7] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear, Unambiguous, Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[8] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear, Unambiguous, Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[9] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear, Unambiguous, Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[10] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear, Unambiguous, Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[11] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear, Unambiguous, Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[12] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear, Unambiguous, Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

[13] Still Waiting! Where’s The Clear, Unambiguous, Knowledge-Based Shariah Proof for the Tabdee

The False Tabdee Must Be Recanted Because Neither Shariah Nor Sound Intellect Acknowledges That Harm Can Remain

Contemplating Some Reasons Behind Stubbornness After Being Guilty of False Tabdee or Erroneous in Other Matters

A Continued Call for Proof of the Tabdee, Respect for the Scholars, and an End to Anonymous Accounts

 

 

[1] Sahih al-Bukhari 3267

[2] Risālat al-Amr bil-Maʿrūf p.47

[3] An Excerpt from Uddah As-Sabirin page 37

[4] Tahdheeb Al-Hilyah 2/485

Reflection

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

وَإِذۡ أَخَذۡنَا مِنَ ٱلنَّبِيِّـۧنَ مِيثَـٰقَهُمۡ وَمِنكَ وَمِن نُّوحٍ۬ وَإِبۡرَٲهِيمَ وَمُوسَىٰ وَعِيسَى ٱبۡنِ مَرۡيَمَ‌ۖ وَأَخَذۡنَا مِنۡهُم مِّيثَـٰقًا غَلِيظً۬ا
لِّيَسۡـَٔلَ ٱلصَّـٰدِقِينَ عَن صِدۡقِهِمۡ‌ۚ وَأَعَدَّ لِلۡكَـٰفِرِينَ عَذَابًا أَلِيمً۬ا

And (remember) when We took from the Prophets their covenant, and from you (O Muhammad ), and from Nuh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), and ‘Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary). We took from them a strong covenant. That He may ask the truthful about their truth. [Al-Ahzaab. 7-8]

لِّيَسۡـَٔلَ ٱلصَّـٰدِقِينَ عَن صِدۡقِهِمۡ‌ۚ

That He may ask the truthful about their truth.

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

When it is the case that the truthful ones will be brought to account regarding their truthfulness, then what would one think about the liars? [1]

Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her said:

“There was no behaviour more hateful to Allāh’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, than lying. A man would tell a lie when speaking in the presence of the Prophet, and he would not be satisfied until he knew that he had repented from it”. [2]

Allāh’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“You must be truthful. Verily, truthfulness leads to righteousness and righteousness leads to Paradise. A man continues to be truthful and seeks to be truthful until he is recorded in the sight of Allah as a truthful one. And beware of lying. Verily, lying leads to wickedness and wickedness leads to the Hellfire. A man continues to tell lies and seeks to tell lies until he is recorded in the sight of Allah as a liar”. [3]

Abdullah Ibn Umar, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“When Allah gathers the earlier and later generations on the Day of Resurrection, He will raise a banner for every treacherous person and it will be announced that this is the treachery of this person, the son of this person”. [4]

Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Whoever does not abandon false speech and acting on it, and behaving ignorantly, Allah has no need for him abandoning his food and drink”. [5]

Samura bin Jundub, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“I saw (in a dream), two men came to me.” Then the Prophet narrated the story (saying), “They said, ‘The person, the one whose cheek you saw being torn away (from the mouth to the ear) was a liar and used to tell lies and the people would report those lies on his authority till they spread all over the world. So he will be punished like that till the Day of Resurrection.”[6]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Woe to him who says things (while lying) to make people laugh thereby. Woe to him! Woe to him!” [7]

Al-Munaawee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

He (the Prophet) repeated it to announce the intensity of his (this person’s) ruin because lying by itself is the head of every blameworthy matter and the gatherer of every disgrace. Thus, when the initiation of laughing is added to it, which kills the heart, causing heedlessness and carelessness, it becomes the most repugnant of repugnant things. Thus, the wise people said: “Initiating things that make people laugh out of frivolity is the height of repugnance”. [8]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “It is enough of a lie for a man to narrate everything he hears”. [9]

Imam Abu Hatim (Imam Ibn Hibban) – may Allah have mercy upon him him – said:

This narration contains a rebuke that a person should not speak about everything he hears until he knows whether it is authentic or not, then he speaks about it. He should not speak about that which is not authentic. [10]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“When the son of Adam wakes up in the morning, all the limbs humble themselves before the tongue and say, ‘Fear Allah for our sake, (for) we are with you; if you are upright, we will be upright; and if you are crooked, we will become crooked’”. [11]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Whoever can guarantee (the chastity of) what is between his two jaw bones and what is between his two legs (i.e. his mouth, his tongue, and his private parts), I guarantee Paradise for him”. [12]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

Verily, the worst act of usury is to attack the honour of a Muslim without a just cause. [13]

Meaning: The greater in evil and the more strictly prohibited is to unleash your tongue against the honour of a Muslim by insulting him, acting haughtily towards him, and speaking ill of him through abusive language or slander. This becomes a stricter prohibition because honour is more valuable than wealth.

“Without a just cause“. This shows there are instances in which it is allowed to refer to someone negatively by using language like “such and such is an oppressor or transgressor” or “such and such is an innovator (in religious affairs) and an open sinner” in order to warn others is allowed. [14]

This has been referred to as usury because the transgressor receives his honour and then goes above and beyond it as if he has added an increase that encroaches on the boundaries in regard to the honour of a Muslim, which is more valuable than his wealth. According to At-Teebee, may Allah have mercy upon him:

From the standpoint of emphasis, honour is included in the categories of wealth. Usury is classified into two types: that which is conventional and is described as what is added to debts, and that which is not unconventional, such as verbally disparaging someone’s honour.

Al-Qaadhee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

‘Violating a Muslim’s honour means dealing with him more than he deserves of what is to be said about him, or more than is permitted to be said about him, which is why it is compared to usury and regarded as one of its types. Then it is considered to be worse because it contains more harm and is more serious in corruption. [15]

Abdullah Bin Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, said:

Abu Sufyan bin Harb informed me [i.e. about an incident that took place when he was not a Muslim] that Heraclius had sent a messenger to him while he had been accompanying a caravan from Quraish. They were merchants doing business in Sham (Syria, Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan), at the time when Allah’s Apostle had a truce with Abu Sufyan and Quraish infidels. So Abu Sufyan and his companions went to Heraclius at Ilya (Jerusalem).

Heraclius called them in the court and he had all the senior Roman dignitaries around him. He called for his translator who, translating Heraclius’s question said to them, “Who amongst you is closely related to that man who claims to be a Prophet?” Abu Sufyan replied, “I am the nearest relative to him (amongst the group).” Heraclius said, ‘Bring him [i.e. Abu Sufyan] close to me and make his companions stand behind him.” Abu Sufyan added, that Heraclius told his translator to tell my companions that he wanted to put some questions to me regarding that man (The Prophet) and that if I told a lie they (my companions) should contradict me.” Abu Sufyan added, “By Allah! Had I Not Been Afraid of my companions labelling me a liar, I would not have spoken the truth about him [i.e. The Prophet]. [Sahih Al-Bukhari. Hadith umber 7]

Regarding Abu Sufyan’s statement: “By Allah! Had I not been afraid of my companions labelling me a liar, I would not have spoken the truth about him (i.e. The Prophet)”;

Al-Hafidh Ibn Hajr, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated in Fat-hul Baari that this shows that they (i.e. the pagan Arabs) used to abhor lying either due to what they followed from the previously revealed laws [i.e. the Shariah of Prophets Ibrahim and Isma’eel – peace be upon them] or it was something abhorred in their customs. [16]

Imam Ibn al-Mubarak, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Hadith is written (acquired) from everyone except four: one who often makes mistakes and does not retract, a liar, a person of vain desires who calls others to his Bidah, and a man who does not preserve (memorise what he hears) and then narrates from memory”. [17]

Yunus Ibn Ubayd, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Indeed, you see a man fasting a lot, abstaining from the forbidden matters and praying the night prayer, then he testifies to falsehood in the morning.” [18]

Imam Malik, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Know that a man who relates everything he hears is not safe, and he can never be an Imam, if he narrates everything he hears”. [19]

Sulayman ibn Sa’d, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“If a man were to accompany me and say: “Set one trait as a condtion to be my companion and do not exceed i”, I would say, “Do not lie to me.” [20]

Ahnaf Bin Qays, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Two things can never coexist: lying and possessing a sense of honour”. [21]

Al-Maawardee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Lying is the source of all evil and the foundation of every reproach due to its ramifications, and evil outcomes, since indeed, it leads to tale-carrying, enmity, and enmity leads to animosity, and there is neither safety nor peace of mind. Due to this, it is said: “The one who is rarely truth will have few friends”. [22]

Muttarrif ibn Abdillah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“It would not please me if I utter a lie, even if I were to receive the entire world and what it contains.”  [23]

Mamar reported from Asim from Abu Al-Aliyah, may Allah have mercy upon them, who said:

“You (people) perform more (optional) prayers and fasting than those before you, however lying indeed flows upon your tongues”. [24]

Yazeed ibn Maysarah, may Allah have mercy on him, said:

“Lying feeds every evil, just as water feeds the roots of trees”. [25]

Abdur-Raḥmān ibn Yazīd ibn Jābir said:

Once we were with Rajāʾ ibn Ḥaywah, then we began reminding one another about showing gratitude for (Allah’s) blessings, so he said: ‘There is no one who can truly fulfill gratitude (to Allah) due to blessings’. And behind us there was a man with a cloak over his head, who said: ‘Not even the Amīr al-Muʾminīn)?’ We said: ‘We said: ‘The Amīr al-Muʾminīn has not been mentioned (specifically) here, rather, we are speaking in general — about any person!’ He (Abdur Rahman) said: ‘Our attention was diverted from him, then Rajā turned to notice his presence but could not see him, so he said, ‘The one who was wearing the cloak came to you. If you are called to swear by Allah, swear by Allah (truthfully)’.

He (Abdur Rahman) said: ‘It was not long before a guard of his (i.e. the Amīr al-Muʾminīn) approached him’. He (the Amīr al-Muʾminīn) said: ‘O Rajā! The Amīr al-Muʾminīn is mentioned, and you did not defend him (or support him)?’ He (Rajā) said: ‘O Amīr al-Muʾminīn! What is the matter about?’ He said: ‘You mentioned showing gratitude for (Allah’s) blessings and said: ‘There is no one who can truly fulfill gratitude (to Allah) due to blessings’ and it was said to you, ‘Not even the Amīr al-Muʾminīn?’ And you said: ‘Amīr al-Muʾminīn is just a man like others!’ Rajāʾ replied: ‘That did not happen'(i.e. you were not specified as the one intended regarding this discussion). He said, ‘By Allah'(i.e. you did not mean this?) Rajāʾ said: ‘By Allah’. So, he (Amīr al-Muʾminīn) commanded that the man who transmitted the (rumour) be whipped seventy lashes. I exited and the man was covered in his own blood. Then he said: ‘You are Rajā ibn Ḥaywah and this happens because of you?!’ He (Rajā) said: ‘Seventy lashes on your back are better than (spilling) a believer’s blood’. Ibn Jābir said: ‘Thereafter, whenever Rajā sat in a gathering, he would say while looking around, ‘Beware of the man who wore the cloak’”. [26]

The reality of lying is to give news of something in opposition to the true state of affairs. This transmission of news is not limited to speech, rather it can be through action, such as making an indication with one’s hand or nodding one’s head and it can be through silence. It is said that the liar is  a thief, because the thief deceives you with regards to your wealth and the liar deceives you with regards to your intellect. [27]

Imam Ibn Hibban, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Indeed, Allah, the Exalted and Most High, favoured the tongue over all other limbs, raised its status and demonstrated its virtue given that- among all the limbs- He (gave it the prestige) to utter (articulate) His Oneness. Therefore, a sensible person should not engage a tool, which Allah created to utter (proclaim) His Oneness, in lies. Instead, it is obligated to him to constantly nurture it by adhering to truthfulness and to what benefits him in both abodes (this life and the next). This is because the tongue necessitates what it is accustomed to; if truthfulness, it will (utter) truthfulness, and if lying, it will (utter) lies. [28]

Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The texts of the Qur’an and Sunnah are abundant regarding the general prohibition of lying. It is one of the repugnant sins and immoral flaws. The consensus of the Ummah (the Scholars) is firmly established regarding its prohibition alongside the abundant texts (on the subject matter). [29]

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

Beware of kadhib, as it corrupts one’s ability to teach people and illustrate information based on how it should actually be. The liar presents what is present as something non-existent and what is non-existent as something present; misrepresents the truth as being something false and falsehood as being something true; misrepresents the good and the evil, so he corrupts his conception and knowledge, which subsequently results in his punishment. Then he portrays what is not true to the one who has been duped by him – the one who is drawn to him – and therefore corrupts his conception and knowledge.

The soul of the liar turns away from existing reality, preferring the non-existent, and falsehood. And when his conception and knowledge is corrupted, which is the basis of every wilfully chosen deed, his deeds become corrupt and marked by lies, so those deeds would emanate from him just as lies emanate from the tongue- neither benefits from his tongue nor his deeds (i.e. in relation to the specific affair). Because of this, lying serves as the foundation of immorality, as the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “Indeed, lies lead to immorality (or wickedness), and indeed, immorality (or wickedness) leads to the fire.” [Al-Bukhari 2606/2607]

Lies first emerge from the heart and then on the tongue, corrupting it; then they transfer to the limbs and corrupt their deeds, just as they corrupt statements of the tongue. As a result, lying prevails over his utterances, deeds, and state of affairs; corruption gets deeply ingrained in him, and its disease leads to destruction if Allah does not grant him recovery with the medication of truthfulness, which uproots the source (or basis) of the lies. This is why the basis of all deeds of the heart is truthfulness, and the basis of their opposites is lies, such as boasting, self-amazement, pride, being glad (with ungratefulness to Allah’s Favours), conceitedness, boastfulness, insolence, weakness, laziness, cowardice, disgrace, and others.

Every righteous deed, whether done privately or publicly, is founded on truthfulness. And the source of every corrupt deed, whether private or public, is lies. Allah punishes the liar by preventing him (i.e. due to his own chosen evil) from those things that will bring him well-being and benefit, while He rewards the truthful one by granting him the ability to attain the beneficial things of the worldly life and Afterlife. There is nothing comparable to truthfulness in terms of how it brings about the affairs of well-being in this life and the next, and there is nothing comparable to lying in terms of how it corrupts and harms one’s worldly and Afterlife affairs.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَكُونُوا مَعَ الصَّادِقِينَ

O you who believe! Be afraid of Allah, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds) [9:119]

هَٰذَا يَوْمُ يَنْفَعُ الصَّادِقِينَ صِدْقُهُمْ ۚ

This is a Day on which the truthful will profit from their truth. [5:119]

فَإِذَا عَزَمَ الْأَمْرُ فَلَوْ صَدَقُوا اللَّهَ لَكَانَ خَيْرًا لَهُمْ

And when the matter (preparation for Jihad) is resolved on, then if they had been true to Allah, it would have been better for them. [47:21] [30]

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

When a proof that supports the truth is manifested and the one who wants to repel it finds no way of doing so, he refrains from mentioning it, thus becomes a silent devil, and sometimes he distorts it. Distortion is of two types -distorting words and meanings.

Distorting words occur when one utters a word in a context in which it does not establish the truth – either adding to the word, omitting something from it, or substituting it with something else to the extent that the listener is made to believe something, while something else is intended, just as the Yahud [i.e. those Yahud who disbelieved in the Prophet and hated him in Madinah] used to distort words when giving Salam to the Prophet [i.e. saying As-Saamu Alayka (death be upon you), instead of saying Assalaamu alaykum)]. This is one type of distortion.

The second type of distortion is related to meanings – distorting the wording, giving it an interpretation that is not intended by the one who uttered it and pretending not to know its unintended meaning; or dropping other meanings intended by it.  [31]

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

لا يجوز الكذب لا على كفار ولا على أهل بدع، ولا على أحد، لا يجوز، تفتري على أحد تقول فلان فيه وفيه والجماعة الفلانية فيها وفيها، نعوذ بالله، لا يجوز، نحن نبين ما عندهم من الضلال ننقله من كتبهم أو من الوسائل الأخرى بالحرف، ثم نناقشها علميا، هذا الذي نفعله، ونسأل الله أن كل السلفيين يفعل هذا، ولا نرى أبدا، ونعوذ بالله، لا نرى لمسلم أن يفتري على مسلم أو كافر أبدا

It is neither permissible to lie, neither about disbelievers nor about the people of Bidah, nor anyone.

It is not permissible to fabricate (things) about anyone, saying “so-and-so has this and that,” or “such-and-such group has this and that.” We seek refuge in Allah, it is not permissible.

We clarify (or elucidate) that which is with them of misguidance, quoting it from their books or other sources word for word, then we discuss it based on knowledge. This is what we do, and we ask Allah that all the Salafis do this.

We seek refuge in Allah; we never see (as permissible for a) Muslim to fabricate lies about (another) Muslim or a disbeliever, never. [32]

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

Through him [Muhammad – peace and blessings of Allah be upon him], Allah removed us from the darkness of Shirk, indecency, Bidah, evil deeds and bad manners – lying, deceit, quackery, trickery, etc. And He (purified us) with pure (Islamic) monotheism and strong, sincere Iman. He nurtured us upon truthfulness, took the oath of allegiance from us that we speak the truth wherever we may be, and warned us against lies and evil deeds.

And from the recompense for a liar is that which has been reported from the noble Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him- the person of high moral character – who said: “I saw (in a dream) – two men came to me.” Then the Prophet said, “They said, ‘The person whose cheek you saw being torn away (from the mouth to the ear) was a liar and used to tell lies, and the people would report those lies on his authority till they spread (that lie) all over the world. So, he will be punished like that till the Day of Resurrection.’” [Al-Bukhari 6096]

How numerous are those who tell lies today against the carriers of Salafiyyah and its callers! They hinder men from the path of Allah through these lies to aid falsehood, spurious (beliefs, stances, ideas, views, etc.), bidah, (things) that are destructive to the sound creed, methodology and virtuous manners. [33]

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

عقد ابن عدي-رحمه الله- في كتابه “الكامل” حوالي تسعة وعشرين باباً للكذَّابين وبابًا واحداً لأهل البدع

Ibn Adi – may Allah have mercy upon him – allocated nearly twenty-nine chapters to liars and one chapter to Ahlul Bidah in his book “Al-Kamil”. [34]

Allah, The Most High, said:

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

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

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

Do not incline towards the oppressors – those who unjustly harm the people by shedding their blood, seizing their wealth, and violating their honour. They may also oppress the people in matters of religion through bidah, misguidance, and spreading harmful propaganda that contradicts Islam. Avoid associating with any of these individuals; do not support or assist them in their falsehood. The verse covers all categories of oppressors. Every follower of falsehood, every innovator in religious matters, and anyone who dishonours a Muslim is considered an oppressor. Therefore, refrain from aligning yourself with any of them to avoid being affected by the fire of hell. When you incline towards a sinner, an innovator in religious affairs, an oppressor, a criminal, someone who dishonours others, or those who violate the sanctity of the divine legislation, it is as if you are pleased with them, as if you are aiding and abetting them. [35]

Mufti, Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, said:

Calling to the path of Allah is not in need of lying. It is not permissible to utilise lying in calling to the path of Allah. Calling to the path of Allah is founded on truth—the Book, the sunnah, fine admonition, and arguing in a way that is better and not through lying. [36]

[1] Bada’i at-Tafsir Al-Jami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim 2/327

[2] at-Tirmidhī 1973

[3] al-Bukha‌ri‌ 6094 & Muslim 2607

[4] Muslim.1735

[5] Al-Bukhari 6057

[6] Al-Bukhari 6069

[7] Abu Dawud 4990

[8] Fayd Al-Qadeer 6/368

[9] Sahih Muslim 5

[10] Muqaddimah Kitaab Al-Majrooheen Minal Muhadditheen’ page 6064

[11] Sahih at-Tirmidhee 2407

[12] Al-Bukhari 6474

[13] Abu Daawud 4876

[14] An Excerpt from ‘Awnul Mabood Sharh Sunan Abee Daawud’ 13/152

[15] An Excerpt from ‘Mirqaatul Mafaateeh Sharh Mishkaat Al-Masaabeeh’ 8/3157

[16] An Excerpt. For further details, see Fath Al-Bari

[17]Al-Kifayah, p. 143. By Imam Al-Khatib Al-Baghdadi, may Allah have mercy upon him.

[18] Hilyah Al-Awliyaa 3/20

[19] Muslim 10

[20] Uyun Al-Akhbar 2/31

[21] Uyun Al-Akhbar 2/32

[22] Adab Ad-Dunya Wad-Deen 261

[23] Tarikh Dimashq 58/312

[24] Siyar A’lam An-Nubulaa 4/208]

[25] As-Ṣamt” p. 250 by Ibn Abee al-Dunya, may Allah have mercy upon him.

[26] Siyar Aʿlām al-Nubalāʾ. 4/561

[27] Adab Ad-Dunya Wad-Deen. page 262

[28] Rawdah Al-Uqala page 78. Section: ذكر الحث على لزول الصدق ومجانبة الكذب: Publisher: Dar Ibn Jawziy 1st Edition 1433AH

[29] Al-Ad’kar 377

[30] Al-Fawa’id 202-203

[31] An Excerpt from ‘Badaa’i At-Tafseer Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim. 1/300-303

[32] Abridged and Paraphrased]: https://rabee.net/alfatawi/%d9%87%d9%84-%d9%8a%d8%ac%d9%88%d8%b2-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%83%d8%b0%d8%a8-%d8%b9%d9%84%d9%89-%d8%a3%d9%87%d9%84-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%a8%d8%af%d8%b9-%d9%88%d8%ba%d9%8a%d8%b1%d9%87%d9%85-%d9%85%d9%86-%d8%a3%d9%87/

[33] An Excerpt from ‘Al-Awaasim Mimmaa Fee Kutub Sayyid Qutb Minal-Qawaasim: page 45]

[34] https://rabee.net/alfatawi/%d9%85%d8%a7-%d9%87%d9%88-%d8%aa%d8%b9%d8%b1%d9%8a%d9%81-%d8%a3%d9%87%d9%84-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b3%d9%86%d8%a9-%d9%88%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%ac%d9%85%d8%a7%d8%b9%d8%a9-%d9%84%d9%84%d8%a5%d9%8a%d9%85%d8%a7%d9%86/

[35]An Excerpt from Al-Wasaayaa Al-Manhajiyyah page 20

[36] An Excerpt from Al-Ijaabat Al-Muhimmah Fee Mashaakil al-Mulimmah. page:271-272

 

 

Clear proofs always take precedence over mere objections of personalities

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

Allāh, The Most High, said:

وَإِذَا قُلۡتُمۡ فَٱعۡدِلُواْ وَلَوۡ ڪَانَ ذَا قُرۡبَىٰ‌ۖ

And when you testify, be just, even if (it concerns) a near relative. [1]

When you testify by way of a statement to judge between people, differentiate between them in a discourse, and speak regarding matters and circumstances, be just in your speech, adhere to truthfulness regarding those you love and those you hate, be fair and do not conceal what needs to be made clear because it is forbidden and tantamount to injustice to divert (from justice and fairness) when speaking against the one you hate. [An Excerpt from Tafseer As-Sadi]

How astonishing that after numerous proofs are presented that clearly illustrates the grave errors of an individual, someone suddenly appears and tells you not to trust those who have clarified these errors based on solid evidence. This individual, who seeks to dissuade you, then launches unfounded accusations against those who have provided clear proof, all without a shred of evidence. Oh dear, must we now forsake the clear, unambiguous evidence and instead pay attention to the claims of this or that person, whose mere allegations must be prioritised over the clear, knowledge-based proofs? Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

The seeker of truth is not diverted from the truth, fairness and justice due to admiration of the big personalities and being amazed by them, for indeed the truth is more worthy to be followed. It is not permissible to drop the proofs for the sake of this or that great man. The principle [rule] of the Muslim – the unbiased one, the seeker of truth – is always:

قُلْ هَاتُوا بُرْهَانَكُمْ إِن كُنتُمْ صَادِقِينَ

Say, bring forth your proofs if you are truthful. [An-Nahl. 64] [Al-Mulakh-khas Al-Jameel Fee Bayaan Manhaj Ash-Shaikh Rabee Fid-Da’wati Wal-Jarhi Wat-Ta’deel. Page 87]

Finally, read the clarity provided by senior scholars – may Allah have mercy upon them.

Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [77 of 80]

Robust, Credible, Detailed and Unambiguous Inherited Clarifications On Al-Jarh Wat-Tadeel

Robust, Credible, Detailed and Unambiguous Inherited Clarifications On Al-Jarh Wat-Tadeel

Robust, Credible, Detailed And Unambiguous Inherited Clarifications On Al-Jarh Wat-Tadeel

May Allah bless Shaikh Fawwaz and others for their beneficial knowledge-based clarifications Amin.

Robust, Credible, Detailed And Unambiguous Inherited Clarifications On Al-Jarh Wat-Tadeel

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

Question: What is incumbent upon the common Salafi regarding the callers to Islam about whom scholars have differed in declaring them trustworthy or disparaging them, whether they know their mistakes or do not know?

The Shaikh: I say to the Salafi men and women: whoever hears this discourse from me and whoever it reaches through those who prepared these questions and presented them to us. I say:

I advise you—if you do love sincere advisers—not to accept any audio cassette or book except from someone whom you know to be upon the Sunnah, witnessed and testified for him, well-known for it, and opposition to that is not manifest from him. This is a consistent principle during his lifetime and after his death. So, whoever dies while, as far as we know, being upon the Sunnah, then he – based on what we hold – is upon it. And we ask Allah to keep him steadfast upon it in the Hereafter (i.e. blessed with safety during death, safe in the grave and on the Day of Judgement) just as He kept him steadfast upon it during his life. Āmīn. This is the first point.

Secondly: If the affair of a person—whose books and recordings have become well known, and his reputation has spread—is unclear to you, then ask those who have experience regarding him and know his condition, for indeed, neither is the Sunnah nor are its people hidden. A man’s deeds are his recommendation, which are in accordance with the Sunnah, testify for him, bear witness for him regarding that, and the people mention (and remember) him through them during his life and after his death.

No one conceals himself behind the Sunnah and deceives people by it until they gather around him, become attached to him, rely upon him, and accept everything that proceeds from him, except that Allah, Glorified be He, free from all imperfections, the Most High, (eventually), tears away his covering, reveals [للخاصة والعامة – to both the people of status and the common people] what used to be concealed, and what used to be harboured of deception, obfuscation, plotting, and trickery. Allah prepares virtuous men—astute, wise, possessors of firmness and strength in knowledge and clarification, highly skilled and capable of distinguishing authentic knowledge from falsehood, people of knowledge, intelligence and sound judgement, possessors of deep understanding and insight—through whom He uncovers for them the reality of that one who plays games with the truth, the obfuscator and deceiver.

Therefore, when the true condition of such a person becomes clear to you—a person whose reputation has spread far and wide, who has become prominent and well-known, pointed to by others as an authority—you must be warned about him, as long as the people of knowledge and Īmān—those who adhere to the Sunnah—have warned against him.

They will unveil for you with proof, and there is no hindrance in unveiling the condition of that person against whom a scholar or scholars have issued a warning with etiquettes and a good approach, for indeed that scholar will say to you: “I saw such-and-such in him; in the book of so-and-so this or that; similarly in the audio cassette of so-and-so” – clear proofs that unveil for you what he used to conceal, and that that one whose reputation has spread far and wide—whose speech has become pleasing and readily accepted—is hiding from matters of Bidʿah and schemes that which (is far greater) than what he makes apparent from the Sunnah.

And a third matter: whoever is aware of a mistake and it becomes clear to him, it is not permissible for him to blindly follow a scholar to whom that matter remains hidden. I have already mentioned to you that the ijtihādaat of the scholars are not infallible; thus, it is not permissible to adopt them as an (unquestionable or absolute) methodology. [Paraphrased]

Your feedback is welcomed to improve this translation and point out mistakes. Jazaakumullahu Khayran

To be continued…InShaAllah

 

Robust, Credible, Detailed and Unambiguous Inherited Clarifications On Al-Jarh Wat-Tadeel

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

 

Question: If I hear the speech of a scholar in a cassette recording, or read in one of his books about a person that indeed he is a Mubtadi, and I do not see proof from him regarding that, am I obliged to be cautious of this person and satisfied (or convinced) that indeed he is a Mubtadi, [أم أتريّث or should I wait, employ careful deliberation, etc.] until I find the proof for that?

Response: I say: Indeed, Ahlus Sunnah do not pass the judgement of Bid’ah on anyone except when they have definitely examined him thoroughly, scrutinised thoroughly what he holds, and know his methodology completely, both in general and in detail. From this perspective, this Mas’alah calls for two points of consideration from us:

The first point: Regarding the one whom a scholar or a group of scholars have passed the judgement that indeed he is a Mubtadi, and others (i.e. scholars) from Ahlus Sunnah like them have not disagreed (or are not in opposition to this judgement). Be discerning regarding this. I say: If none from among those who are Ahlus Sunnah disagree with them regarding him, then indeed we accept their Jarh of him. We indeed accept their speech and warn against him, so long as a Sunni scholar has passed judgement on him and disparaged him, and the rest of Ahlus Sunnah—who are the peers of that scholar, among his brothers and sons from the scholars—have not made apparent their opposition to this judgement. Then they must accept it, because indeed this Sunni scholar who disparaged a man did not do so except on the basis of a matter that has become clear to him and for which proof has been established. Because indeed this is from the religion ordained by Allah. The one who disparages or commends knows that he is accountable for what he says, issues as a fatwa, or passes judgement based upon it, while knowing that he will be questioned by Allah, the Most High, before he is questioned by the creation (the people).

The second point: If the person who has been disparaged by a scholar or scholars—who have passed judgement against him with that which damages his reputation, credibility, and trustworthiness, and necessitates caution about him, but others oppose them and pass judgement that he is trustworthy- that he is one who adheres to the Sunnah and other than that pertaining to rulings that are in opposition to the rulings of those who disparaged him; then, as long as both groups are upon the Sunnah, and all of them are trustworthy people and people of Amanah in our view, then in this situation we look at the proof. Due to this, they (the scholars) said: [من عَلِمَ حُجَّة على من لم يَعْلَم – The one who knows is a proof against the one who does not know].

The disparager said about so-and-so that he is a Mubtadi, deviated in his efforts (actions), and he produces proof from the writings of the disparaged person, his cassette recordings, or from reliable reports transmitted by trustworthy people about him, then this obligates upon us to accept his speech and abandon the speech of those who give him commendation, who opposed those who disparaged him. This is because the disparagers brought proof that was hidden from the others due to a reason among reasons, or because the one who gives him commendation has not read or heard about the matters for which he was disparaged, but rather based his judgement on his prior knowledge regarding him and that he is upon the Sunnah.

Thus, this disparaged person—against whom proof is established—becomes (justifiably) disparaged, and the proof is with the one who established the proof. It is incumbent upon the one who seeks the truth that he follows the proof and does not turn aside to the right and left, nor say, “I will remain neutral and suspend judgement.” This is not something we have known from the Salaf. In these matters, there is no justified Ijtihad in the foundations of creed and the foundations of worship. For indeed, what finally prevails with regard to accepting from the one who has established the proof is an unavoidable obligation. And that Sunni scholar who opposed the disparagers has his excuse and remains—in our view—upon his station and state wherein he is honoured, and we recognise, In Shaa Allah, what he possesses of virtues and lofty status. This is his achievement based on his genuine effort to reach the truth.

A scholar from Ahlus Sunnah- a Salafi- is human: he may become distracted, forgets, be deceived (or be given a false impression) by evil associates, or he may once have trusted that disparaged person, and thus that person deceived him (or gave him a false impression). The testimonies to this are many, for many of those who have fallen (i.e., deviated)—those who are in reality at war with the Sunnah and its people—bring selected samples from their books and read them to eminent scholars who are well known for their virtue and leadership in religion. That deceptive and cunning person conceals from the noble scholar—an Imam, outstanding and possessor of exceptional discernment and expertise—matters which, had he known them, would have made him degrade this person (or declare this person untrustworthy). So this scholar praises him based on what he has heard. Then, when the book is published, circulated, passed from hand to hand, and its fame becomes widespread, the disputants say: “So-and-so commended it,” or, “So-and-so, Al-Albani, may Allah have mercy upon him, or Ibn Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, or Ibn Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, commended this book.” These scholars, may Allah have mercy on them, are excused and, In Shaa Allah, free of any blame in this worldly life and the Hereafter. Rather, this scheming trickster concealed matters and deceived these scholars (or gave them a false impression).

Therefore, what remains to be done? We establish the case against that deceptive person—the sneak (infiltrator), the schemer—from his own books. We establish the proof against him from his books. And whoever argues with us regarding him, we say: “Take this; here is his speech. Do you think he presented it in this form to the ones we have mentioned among the people of knowledge, and to those who follow the same methodology, so that they approved it?” The answer is certainly not.  Therefore, it is incumbent upon you to be fair, free from overwhelming emotions and desires that blind you. And it is incumbent that your pursuit should be the truth. [Paraphrased]

Your feedback is welcomed to improve this translations and point out mistakes. Jazaakumullahu Khayran.

To be continued…InShaAllah

[1] Scholar Behind My View Is More Knowledgeable Than the Scholar Behind Yours

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

Imam Ash-Shawkaanee, may Allah have mercy on him, said:

فاعلم أنه إذا وقع الخلاف بين المسلمين في أن هذا الشيء بدعة او غير بدعة ، أو مكروه او غير مكروه ، او محرم او غير محرم ، او غير ذلك ، فقد اتفق المسلمون : سلفهم وخلفهم ، من عصر الصحابة الى عصرنا هذا – وهو القرن الثالث عشر منذ البعثة المحمدية – أن الواجب الاختلاف في أي أمر من أمور الدين بين الأئمة المجتهدين : هو الرد الى كتاب الله سبحانه ، وسنة رسوله الناطق بذلك
الكتاب العزيز ( ٤ : ٥٩ فإن تنازعتم في شيء فردوه إلى الله والرسول ( ومعنى الرد الى الله سبحانه : الرد الى كتابه
ومعنى الرد إلى رسوله ال : الرد الى سنته بعد وفاته وهذا مما لا خلاف فيه بين جميع المسلمين . فإذا قال مجتهد من المجتهدين
هذا حلال . وقال الآخر : هذا حرام : فليس
أحدهما أولى بالحق من الآخر وإن كان اكثر منه علماً ، أو اكبر منه سنا ، او اقدم منه عصراً لأن كل واحد منهما فرد من أفراد عباد الله ، ومتعبد بما في الشريعة المطهرة، مما في كتاب الله وسنة رسوله ، ومطلوب منه ما طلب الله من غيره من العباد . وكثرة علمه وبلوغه درجة الاجتهاد او مجاوزته لها لا يسقط عنه شيئاً من الشرائع التي شرعها الله لعباده ، ولا يخرجه من جملة المكلفين من العباد

Know that when differing arise among Muslims regarding whether this thing (matter) is a Bidah or not a Bidah, (something) disliked or not disliked, prohibited, or not prohibited, or other than that, there is a consensus among Muslims (i.e. their scholars) —both the early generations and those that followed, from the era of the Companions to the present day, which is the thirteenth century since the advent of the Prophethood—that the obligation in any differing – in any issue among the issues of the religion – between Imams of Ijtihad is to refer back to the Book of Allah, the Exalted, and the Sunnah of His Messenger, as stated in Allāh’s Book:

فَإِن تَنَٰزَعْتُمْ فِى شَىْءٍ فَرُدُّوهُ إِلَى ٱللَّهِ وَٱلرَّسُولِ

And if you disagree among yourselves over anything then refer it back to Allāh and the Messenger. [An-Nisa 59]

The meaning of referring back to Allah, the Exalted, is to refer to His Book, and the meaning of referring to His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, is to refer to his Sunnah after his passing. This is a matter about which there is no differing among the Muslims.

If a Mujtahid among the Mujtahideen says that this (thing) is lawful while another says this (thing) is unlawful, neither is any of the two more entitled to the truth than the other, even if he possesses more knowledge, older, or closer to the (early era of Islam). This is because each of them is a servant of Allāh among the servants of Allāh, (required) to worship (Allāh) based on what is found in the pure Sharia- that which is found in Allāh’s Book and the Sunnah of His Messenger, and what is required of him is required of other than him among Allāh’s servants. His abundant knowledge, the attainment of the level of Ijtihad, or even surpassing it, does not exempt him from any of the religious laws legislated by Allah for His servants, nor do they exclude him from those who have reached the age in which one is held accountable for his actions among the servants (of Allāh).

Sharh As-Sudoor Bi-Tahreem Raf Al-Qubur pages 1-2