Tag: Knowledge

O Old Woman, Repeat That Lesson!

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on February 9, 2020. Posted in Pearls of Wisdom, Scholars of Islam.

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

Al-Hassan [Ibn Abi Bakr An-Naysaabooree (rahimahullaah)] narrated:

A Faqee [i.e. a scholar who truly fears Allaah and has sound understanding of the religion] used to repeat lessons in his house many times. So, an old woman in his house said to him, “Indeed, I have memorized it myself!!”. So he said, “Repeat it to me?” So, she repeated it. After a few days he said, “O old woman! Repeat that lesson now”. She said, “I didn’t memorize it”. He said, “As for me, I repeat what I have memorized to protect myself from what has afflicted you”. [Source: Ibn Jawzi in his book: Al Hath-thu Alal Hifzhil Ilm. p.36]

How to Read The Books of Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [rahimahullaah]

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on February 8, 2020. Posted in Methodology - 'Manhaj', Pearls of Wisdom, Scholars of Islam.

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

The lecture on this link https://safeshare.tv/x/ss5e3f326c968ae# is regarding how to read the Books of Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [rahimahullaah] delivered by Shaikh Saaleh Aala Ash-Shaikh [hafidhahullaah]. This lecture was first suggested to us by our companion and beloved friend [Ustaadh Abu Tasneem (Mushaf) – hafidhahullaah], and indeed it is a very beneficial lecture. We ask Allaah to benefit all of us from the scholars – whether we are present in person at their lessons – and that is the Asl of seeking knowledge, but also benefiting from their recorded lessons alongside attending lessons – in person – in the Salafi Masaajid. May Allaah grant us Tawfeeq to learn as much as possible to remove Jahl from ourselves, grant us Ikhlaas, thabaat, righteous deeds and husnul khaatimah Aameen

What Changed His Mind After Reading Kitaab At-Tawheed?!

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on February 8, 2020. Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Shaikh Abdur Razzaaq Al-Badr [hafidhahullaah] stated that there was an Indian man who used to have extreme hatred for Imaam Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab [rahimahullaah] due to the false claims of Ahlul Bidah, so he always reviled the Imaam. However, one day, a sincere adviser wished to clarify to this person [i.e. the Indian man] that he is mistaken, so he invited him to his house and treated him kindly. He [i.e. the sincere adviser] removed the cover from Kitaab At-Tawheed and placed it where the guest [i.e. the Indian man] would be sitting because he was a scholar and loved reading books. When he [i.e. the sincere adviser] went to get some food for the guest, he [i.e. the guest] saw the book [i.e. Kitaab At-Tawheed but there was no cover on it with the name of Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab] and started reading. He was amazed by the book because it contained nothing else but proofs [i.e. irrefutable and unambiguous proofs regarding Tawheed].

When he [i.e. the sincere adviser] returned [i.e. with the food], the guest [i.e. the Indian man] asked him who the author of the book was and he was told that Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab [rahimahullaah] is the author; so he realised [i.e. acknowledged] that he was one of those who reviled Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab based on false claims.

Then the Shaikh [i.e. Abdur Razzaaq Al-Badr] said, ‘’And among the most evil of these false claims is that Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab hates and reviles Ahlul Bayt [i.e. the Prophet’s family]; but ask these people what the Kunyaa of Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab is! His Kunya is Abu Ali; rather all the names of his children are the same as the names of Ahlul Bayt, except one of his children who is called Abdur Azeez. Therefore, is this a sign of love for Ahlul Bayt or a sign of hatred?! Would a person name his children after people he hates?! Rather, these names [i.e. Ali, Hasan, Husayn, Faatimah etc] are well known even amongst the descendants of Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab.

Then the Shaikh [i.e. Abdur Razzaaq Al-Badr] said that once he met a man in one of the Muslim lands and mentioned the name of Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab [rahimahullaah], so the man said, ‘’Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhaab reviles Ahlul Bayt in his books’’. He said to the man, ‘’Name a single book in which this revilement is found! If you stand in the presence of Allaah on the Day of Judgement and you are questioned about this, would you have any proof to offer?! Show me a single statement in which Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhaab reviles Ahlul Bayt; rather I can bring you many of his statements in which he praised Ahlul Bayt’’. Then the Shaikh [Abdur Razzaaq Al-Badr] said, ‘’This shows that many people are affected by the false claims of Ahlul Bidah – the people of desires and misguidance, because none will show hatred towards Kitaab At-Tawheed, except a person of desires. [Sharh Kitaab At-Tawheed. Lesson 1. By Shaikh Abdur Razaaq Al-Badr (hafidhahullaah)]

Indeed Allaah is Pure and He does Not Accept, Except That Which is Pure

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on February 4, 2020. Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

The Messenger of Allaah [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] said, “Indeed Allaah is Pure and He does not accept, except that which is pure”.

In this hadith, he [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] described Allaah [جل وعلا] that He [سبحانه] is Pure. He [سبحانه] is Pure, meaning free from all imperfections and deficiencies. He is Pure in His Essence, in His Names and Attributes, and in His Commandments and Prohibitions. He [سبحانه] is Pure in every aspect and imperfection cannot reach Him; and for that reason He does not accept actions, statements and intentions except that which is pure. He does not accept filthy statements, actions and intentions. He does not accept except the pure, as He [The Exalted] said: [إِلَيۡهِ يَصۡعَدُ ٱلۡكَلِمُ ٱلطَّيِّبُ – ‘To Him ascend (all) the goodly words][Surah Faatir Ayah:10]

He [سبحانه] does not accept, except good speech and good actions; as for filthy speech, then indeed Allaah rejects and hates it, such as lies, backbiting, tale carrying, abuse, false speech and false testimony; and all filthy statements; [such as] shirk and kufr. All of this is filthy speech and does not ascend to Allaah, and is not accepted.

[Source: An Excerpt from ‘Al Minhatu Ar-Rabbaaniyyah Fee Sharh Arba-een Nawawiyyah’ page:133-134: by Shaikh Saaleh Al-Fawzaan (hafidhahullaah). Slightly paraphrased]

Family: [The Number of Children We Want, Giving The Wife a Break to Recover Properly Before The Birth of Another Child etc] – By Shaikh Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz

Written by Abdullah Jallow on January 7, 2020. Posted in Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [rahimahullaah] was asked about a husband and a wife who agreed not to have children and whether this is allowed:

The Shaikh [rahimahullaah] responded saying that this agreement of theirs is not permissible. As long as the woman is able [to bear children], then it is not permissible for them to do this because the Islamic legislation requires that the people give concern to bearing children and make the Ummah numerous. The Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] said: Marry the childbearing, loving woman for I shall outnumber the peoples by you on the Day of Resurrection. In another wording [of this narration the Prophet said]: Outnumber [i.e. the followers of the other] Prophets on the Day of Judgement.” That is because by way of this [i.e. having many children] those who worship Allaah among the Muslims will be numerous, the Ummah will be numerous and strong in opposing their enemies.

It is not permissible for a man to abandon having children out of fear of either tiredness in seeking after a livelihood or due to difficulty, or due to expenditure, or due to a desire to enjoy one’s wife and other than that. It also not permissible for a woman to do this, rather it is obligated on both of them to pursue the means of having offspring -be eager to seek the means to having children so that the Ummah becomes numerous and to fulfil what the Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] stated.

However, if the woman either suffers a lot of pain due to an illness of the womb or she cannot give birth except by way of surgical operation, then this is an excuse to not have children. If the surgical operation [or caesarean] will harm her- it is feared that something will happen to her, and also if the children are many- born at close intervals and bringing them up becomes difficult upon her, then there is nothing to prevent her from taking some pills [or contraception] or some preventative measures for a year or two – the period of breastfeeding- so that she becomes strong enough to nurture the children and able to nurture the other newly born. Audio link with transcript http://www.binbaz.org.sa/noor/11853

NB: This is a general Fatwa, therefore married should ask the scholars about their specific circumstances, in order to receive specific ruling related to their situation.

Rulings Related to Contraception, Family Planning & Following One Pregnancy With Another by Abu Khadeejah

https://www.salafisounds.com/tag/contraception/

Abortion and its ruling in Islam

https://www.abukhadeejah.com/abortion-and-its-ruling-in-islam-redstone-academy-ethics-1-4/

Miscarriage of a foetus and the rulings related to the mother and child: Ibn Bāz and Ibn Uthaimeen.

https://www.abukhadeejah.com/miscarriage-of-a-foetus-and-the-rulings-related-to-the-mother-and-child-ibn-baz-and-ibn-uthaimeen/

The Blessing Is With The Elders! – [A Brief Faa’idah By Shaikh Abdus Salaam Burgess]

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on December 31, 2019. Posted in Methodology - 'Manhaj', Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

The Messenger [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] said: “Indeed from the signs of the hour is that knowledge will be sought from the young ones”.

Ibn Mas’ood [radiyallaahu anhu] said: “The people will not cease to be upon good as long as they acquire knowledge from their elders, their trustworthy ones and their scholars, for if they acquire it from their young ones and evil ones, they will be destroyed”.

Shaikh Abdus Salaam Burgess [rahimahullaah] stated in Awaa’iq At-Talab pages 29-35 that this ruling is not an absolute [or unrestricted] regarding the young ones, for indeed there were a group of the Sahaabah and the Taabi’een who taught and gave verdicts in their young age, whilst the elders were present. However, the likes of these people are hard to find amongst those who came after them. So, if they are found and are known for being upright- upon a sound [path], possess knowledge and their firmness is manifested, whilst there are no elders to be found, then knowledge of the Sharee’ah is acquired from them, if they are free from fitnah! So, the intent is not that the knowledge possessed by the young person is boycotted, whilst the elders are present; rather the intent is that the people are placed in their rightful positions. [1]

[1] NB: We do not speculate and make our own judgements regarding the levels of the Ulamaa and Tullaabul Ilm – be they elders or youth; rather the Tazkiyyaat given to them – specifically- by the senior scholars is well known, so we limit ourselves to that – neither exaggerating their status nor diminishing their status.

Allaah Says the Truth, And He Guides to the Right Way – [By Imaam As-Sadi (rahimahullaah)]

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on December 29, 2019. Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allaah (The Most High) said: [وَاللَّهُ يَقُولُ الْحَقَّ وَهُوَ يَهْدِي السَّبِيلَ – Allaah Says the Truth, And He Guides to the Right Way (33: 4)]

This noble ayah makes it absolutely clear that Allaah speaks the truth -truthfulness and certainty in His narratives; justice and wisdom in that which He has commanded and prohibited. Everything Allaah has stated is truth, absolute credibility and beneficial for the slaves. It is a source of wellbeing in their creed and manners, and in their religious and worldly affairs. Everything Allaah has commanded is an act of righteousness, a quality of perfection, a benefit and a blessing; and everything Allaah has forbidden is evil, harmful and corruption, whether in the affairs of the worldly life or the religion. The entire Islamic legislation is an explanation of this great principle, which Allaah has mentioned in this Ayah and other than it.

Then Allaah says [وَهُوَ يَهْدِي السَّبِيلَ – And He (Allaah), guides to the right way]; It is the path leading to the truth which Allaah has mentioned, and by way of which Allaah establishes judgements. Allaah suffices (us) and clarifies this truth for (us) through clear perceptible evidences (i.e. sound evidences that agree with the upright innate human fitrah and the uncorrupted intellect) and divine evidences, as Allaah stated in another Ayah:

[سَنُرِيهِمْ آيَاتِنَا فِي الْآفَاقِ وَفِي أَنفُسِهِمْ حَتَّىٰ يَتَبَيَّنَ لَهُمْ أَنَّهُ الْحَقُّ – We will show them Our Signs in the universe, and in their own selves, until it becomes manifest to them that (this Qur’aan) is the truth (41:53)]

[Source: Ad-Dalaa-il Al-Qur’aaniyyah Fee Annal Uloom Wal-A’maal An-Naafi-a Al-Asriyyah Daakhilatun Fid Deenil Islaamiy’ page 6′ by Imaam As-Sadi (rahimahullaah)]

Hadeeth: The Example of Guidance And Knowledge With Which Allaah Has Sent Me is Like Abundant Rain Falling On The Earth

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on October 28, 2019. Posted in Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Abu Moosaa [radiyallaahu-anhu] said that Allaah’s Messenger [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] said: “The example of guidance and knowledge with which Allaah has sent me is like abundant rain falling on the earth, some of which was fertile soil that absorbed the water and brought forth vegetation and grass in abundance. [And] another portion of it was hard and held the water and Allaah benefited the people with it and they utilised it for drinking, making their animals drink from it and for irrigation of the land for cultivation. [And] a portion of it was barren which could neither hold the water nor bring forth vegetation [so that land gave no benefits]. The first is the example of the person who comprehends Allaah’s religion and benefit [from the knowledge] which Allaah has revealed through me, learns and then teaches others. The last example is that of a person who does not care for it and does not take Allaah’s guidance revealed through me. [He is like that barren land]”. [Ref 1]

Imaam Muhammad Ibnu Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [rahimahullaah] said: In this similitude, the Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] said: “The example of guidance and knowledge with which Allaah has sent me with, is like abundant rain falling on the earth”. The earth [upon which the rain fell] is of three types: The First Type of Earth: It is the earth that absorbed the water and produced abundant grass and vegetation, so the people were benefited through that. The Second Type of Earth is a Plain: It retained the water and the people benefited from it. They utilised it for drinking and as a source of irrigation [for their crops]. The Third Type of Earth: It absorbed the water but does not produce any benefit. This is the relationship between the people and the knowledge and guidance with which the Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] was sent with.

The First Category of People: Amongst them is one who has understanding of Allaah’s Religion. He learns and teaches- benefits the people and himself. This is similar to the earth that produces grass and vegetation, so that the people and animals eat from it.

The Second Category of People: They are a people who have been entrusted with the guidance, but they do not possess Fiqh [like the first category of people]. They transmit knowledge and Hadeeth amongst themselves, but they do not possess Fiqh [like the first group]. The similitude of these people is that of the earth that retained the water and the people were provided with water. They used it for drinking, their animals drank from it and they used it as a source of irrigation; but the earth does not produce anything.

The Third Category: The one who is not benefited by the knowledge and guidance given to the Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam). He turns away and does not incline towards it. He is neither benefited by that which the Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] was sent with nor does he benefit others. His similitude is that of the earth that absorbed the water, but does not produce anything. [Ref 2]

[Ref 1]: Saheeh Al-Bukhaari. Hadeeth Number 79. Book of Knowledge; [Ref 2]: Source: Ash-Shar’hul Ma’mool Li-imthaali- Ar-Rasool. pages 7-8

Allaah Has Commanded Unity In The Religion And He Forbade Splitting – [A Statement of Imaam Muhammad Bin Abdil Wahhaab Explained By Shaikh Zaid Bin Haadi]

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on October 12, 2019. Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Imaam Muhammad Bin Abdul Wahhaab [rahimahullaah] said in Usoolus Sitta. “The Second Principle: Allaah has commanded Unity in the Religion and He forbade splitting in it; so Allah has clarified this with a clear clarification that is understood by the common people”.

Shaikh Zayd Bin Haadee Al-Madkhalee [rahimahullaah] commented on the above statement: I say’ this is truth stated in the Book of Allah, when Allaah [The Mighty ad Majestic] said: [ وَٱعۡتَصِمُواْ بِحَبۡلِ ٱللَّهِ جَمِيعً۬ا وَلَا تَفَرَّقُواْ‌ۚ وَٱذۡكُرُواْ نِعۡمَتَ ٱللَّهِ عَلَيۡكُمۡ إِذۡ كُنتُمۡ أَعۡدَآءً۬ فَأَلَّفَ بَيۡنَ قُلُوبِكُمۡ فَأَصۡبَحۡتُم بِنِعۡمَتِهِۦۤ إِخۡوَٲنً۬ا وَكُنتُمۡ عَلَىٰ شَفَا حُفۡرَةٍ۬ مِّنَ ٱلنَّارِ فَأَنقَذَكُم مِّنۡہَا‌ۗ – And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Allaah (i.e. this Qur’aan), and be not divided among yourselves, and remember Allaah’s Favour on you, for you were enemies one to another but He joined your hearts together, so that, by His Grace, you became brethren (in Islaamic Faith), and you were on the brink of a pit of Fire, and He saved you from it]. [Surah Aal Imraan. Aayah 103]

Therefore, Allah commanded that [one] holds onto His Rope- the Firm Religion which the Book of the Lord of the Worlds and the Sunnah of the leader of the first and later Prophets- [Muhammad (Sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam)]- came with. And Allaah forbade His Messenger from division in the Religion; because it is the path of the Mushrikoon and the Innovators. As for those who possess understanding in the Religion -from the Book of their Lord and the Sunnah of their Prophet; they unite upon all affairs the Religion and they do not split- in compliance with the command given to them in the Revelation.

Unity upon the Clear Truth is the path of the Salafus Saaliheen [the pious predecessors]- those who possessed the correct understanding of Allaah’s Magnificent Book and the Sunnah of the trustworthy Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam]. Splitting is the path of the people of Bidah – those who are misguided and misguiding others, because they are the ones who bring about splitting as a result of deviating from the Siraat Al-Mustaqeem.

Indeed, Allaah commanded all the Ummah to follow a single path- the Siraat Al-Mustaqeem, and warned [them] against the crooked paths. Allaah said:

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

And verily, this is my Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His Path. [Surah Al-An’aam. Aayah 53]

As for the people of the Qur’aan, the Sunnah and correct understanding, they embrace this divine commandment in their hearts, tongues and with the actions of their limbs. They do not turn away from the straight path that leads to Allaah’s Pleasure. As for the people of Bidah, then indeed they deviate from that straight path to the other paths on the right and the left, as reported by Jaabir Bin Abdillaah [radiyallaahu-anhu] who said: We were sitting with the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam), so he drew a straight line in front of him and said, ‘this is Allaah’s path’. He then drew lines on the right and left sides of this (straight line) and said, ‘these are the path of shaytaan’. Then he placed his finger on the line in the middle and then recited this ayah: [ وَأَنَّ هَـٰذَا صِرَٲطِى مُسۡتَقِيمً۬ا فَٱتَّبِعُوهُ‌ۖ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُواْ ٱلسُّبُلَ فَتَفَرَّقَ بِكُمۡ عَن سَبِيلِهِۦ‌ۚ – And verily, this is my Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His Path]. [Surah Al-An’aam. Aayah 153]

Therefore, whoever holds onto the middle line will be safe and happy; and whoever turns away from the middle line will follow the deviated lines, fall into destruction in this worldly life, in the Barsakh and in the hereafter. [Allaah said]: [ وَمَن لَّمۡ يَجۡعَلِ ٱللَّهُ لَهُ ۥ نُورً۬ا فَمَا لَهُ ۥ مِن نُّورٍ – And he for whom Allaah has not appointed light, for him there is no light]. [Surah An-Noor. Aayah 40]

The author [Imaam Muhammad Bin Abdul Wahhaab (rahimahullaah)] clarified that Allaah [The Mighty and Majestic] forbade splitting and differing. And regarding the first thing related to this subject matter, Allaah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] forbade splitting in the Aqeedah, in the Manhaj of Jihaad, in Dawah and in the Obligation of Enjoining Good and Forbidding Evil. He clarified that splitting and differing in the Religion is a characteristic of the people of Bida’atul Mukaffirah [i.e. the bidah that nullifies one’s Islaam] and the people of Bida’atul Mufassiqah [i.e. the bidah that does not exit a person from Islaam] because all innovation in the Religion is evil, and the Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] called it ‘Misguidance’. Allaah [The Mighty and Majestic] dispraised splitting and its people with an intense dispraise in His statement:[ إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ فَرَّقُواْ دِينَہُمۡ وَكَانُواْ شِيَعً۬ا لَّسۡتَ مِنۡہُمۡ فِى شَىۡءٍ‌ۚ – Verily, those who divide their religion and break up into sects (all kinds of religious sects), you (O Muhammad) have no concern in them in the least. [Surah Al-An’aam. Aayah 159]

Allaah [The Might ad Majestic] said: [ وَلَا تَكُونُواْ كَٱلَّذِينَ تَفَرَّقُواْ وَٱخۡتَلَفُواْ مِنۢ بَعۡدِ مَا جَآءَهُمُ ٱلۡبَيِّنَـٰتُ‌ۚ – And be not as those who divided and differed among themselves after the clear proofs had come to them. [Surah Aal Imraan. Aayah 105]

Therefore, Allaah [The Blessed and Exalted] cautioned us- in order that we do not fall into the splitting, differing, discord an sectarianism which those before us fell into- as a mercy upon us and a clear proof, so that no one may come on the day of judgment saying, “Neither did a giver of glad tidings came to us, nor a Warner, nor did we hear a Messenger [conveying] the command of Allaah [Al-Aliyyul Kabeer], even though Allaah did command His Messenger to give glad tidings and warning.

Allaah [The Blessed and Exalted] gave an excuse [to the creation] by sending the Messengers and by way of what He assigned to [the Messengers] to convey. [Allaah said]: [ رُّسُلاً۬ مُّبَشِّرِينَ وَمُنذِرِينَ لِئَلَّا يَكُونَ لِلنَّاسِ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ حُجَّةُۢ بَعۡدَ ٱلرُّسُلِ‌ۚ – Messengers as bearers of good news as well as of warning in order that mankind should have no plea against Allaah after the Messengers]. [Surah An-Nisaa. Aayah 65]

The Prophet [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] said, “Indeed, the scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets, and the Prophets do not leave behind Dinars nor Dirhams, but they leave behind knowledge”.

Therefore, splitting in the fundamental principles and foundations of the Religion- rather in all affairs of the Religion- is blameworthy. It (splitting) is not from the characteristics of the people of Eemaan and Certainty; rather it is from the characteristics of the deviants and the innovators. As for differing in those issues of the Sharee’ah in which differing is permissible, such as differing that occurs regarding [the ruling] on some acts of worship [i.e. as to whether it is obligatory, recommended etc] or [the rulings] related some of the issues of Mutual dealing and their what is similar to them – in which differing is allowed amongst the scholars of Ijtihaad; then indeed there is no basis for splitting, hatred, turning away from one another and boycotting [in this]; rather if this occurs amongst the scholars of Ijtihaad, then each one examines the proof, its support and basis. And when the truth is made clear even in these issues, then it becomes obligatory to embrace it and leave that which is the opposite of it.

And the important thing we should be aware of, (is that): differing in the subsidiary issues, of that which differing is allowed through Ijtihaad, [from that which is (designated) to the people of scholarly research and examination]; then there is neither a basis for cutting off one another and turning away from one another (in this affair), nor should it bring about splitting between the people. Indeed, the Salaf used to differ in some of the [subsidiary issues of the Religion], and each had his own view; because firstly they were scholars of Ijtihaad, and secondly their differing did not enter into the blameworthy differing. And when the truth is made clear in a matter in which differing (occurs), then it is obligatory to settle with it. And in any case, the one who is right in this differing is rewarded twice, and the one who is mistaken is rewarded once and his mistake is forgiven. [Source: An Excerpt from ‘Sullamul Wusool Ilaa Bayaan As-Sitta Al-Usool, pages 17-21. Slightly paraphrased]

Read: https://www.abukhadeejah.com/tolerated-differing-and-impermissible-differing-in-islaam/

Important Guidance For The Youth of The Ummah –By Shaikh Saaleh Al-Fawzaan [hafidhahullaah]

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on September 21, 2019. Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

The youth of a nation are the foundation upon which the nation is made to stand firm and they are the successive generation that will shoulder the responsibilities after their fathers. They possess physical strength and they possess new skills which is not possessed by the elders. The elders possess wisdom and experience and the youth possess strength and vigour. Therefore, if the youth and the elders co-operate for the advancement of the nation, a lot of good will result from that.

On the other hand if the youth disassociate from their fathers and elders, the devils amongst mankind and jinn will come in between them and their affairs; so the youth will naturally drift away and the end result will be detrimental to the nation. Hence, for this reason the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) placed importance in giving commands to the youth. He (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said to his uncle’s son Abdullaah Ibn Abbaas (radiyallaahu-anhu), whilst he was a young man: ‘’O young man, I shall teach you some words (of advice). Be mindful of Allaah, and Allaah will protect you. Be mindful of Allaah, and you will find Him in front of you. If you ask, ask Allaah (Alone). If you seek help, seek help from Allaah (alone). Know that if the nation were to gather together to benefit you with something, they would not benefit with anything except that which Allaah has already recorded for you. If they gather to harm you by something, they would not be able to harm you by anything except what Allaah has already recorded against you. The pens have been lifted and the pages have dried’’. (Recorded by Tirmidhee who said it is a Hasan saheeh hadith)

These (above) words are a path for the youth to follow because an advice given to one of (them) is advice for all of them. This advice comprises of guidance for the youth in their creed, behaviour, manners, reliance upon Allaah and belief in pre-decree. It is a tremendous and comprehensive advice. Anas (radiyallaahu anhu) narrated: Once Mu-adh was riding behind Allaah’s Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) as a companion rider. Allaah’s Messenger said, ‘’O Mu’adh!’’. Mu’adh replied, ‘’Labbaik and Sa’daik O Allaah’s Messenger!’’ Again the Prophet said, ‘’O Mu’adh!’’ Mu’aadh said thrice, ‘’Labaik and Sadaik O Messenger of Allaah!’’ Allaah’s Messenger said, ‘’There is none who testifies sincerely from his heart, that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah, except that Allaah will forbid that he is punished in the fire.’’ Mu’aadh said, ‘’O Messenger of Allaah! Should I not inform the people about it so that they may have glad tidings?’’ He replied, ‘’Then, they will solely depend on it.’’ Then Mu’aadh narrated the above mentioned Hadith just before his death, being afraid of committing a sin (by concealing the knowledge) (reported by Bukhaari No: 128 and Muslim No: 32)

This is guidance for the youth, as the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) clarifies what is obligated on the creation of Allaah (i.e. Mankind and Jinn) and that is to worship Allaah (alone) without associating a partner to Him. This is the purpose for which Allaah created them. Allaah (The Most High) said: [ وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالْإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُونِ –And I have not created Jinn and Mankind except that they should worship Me alone]. [51: 56]

The Rights of Allaah upon His Slaves: They are obligatory upon the slaves and not that they have a choice to carry it out or not, rather they are obligatory. The Rights of The Slaves upon Allaah: This is Allaah’s grace bestowed upon some more than others. It is not that anything is due from Allaah to anyone; rather He bestows this grace, and real grace belongs to Him (The One free from all imperfection). Except that Allaah will forbid that he is punished in the fire:Indeed, this shows that Tawheed is a safeguard against destruction. It is either an absolute safeguard, (i.e. the person upon Tawheed will not be punished) or a safeguard against eternal punishment if he is punished for his sins; rather he will be removed from the fire and entered into paradise, as long as he is from the people of Tawheed and did not associated anything with Allaah. This shows that whoever associates anything with Allaah (The Most High) will be punished eternally. He will never have any happiness. Allaah (The Most High) said:

‘إِنَّهُ مَن يُشْرِكْ بِاللَّهِ فَقَدْ حَرَّمَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ الْجَنَّةَ وَمَأْوَاهُ النَّارُ ۖ وَمَا لِلظَّالِمِينَ مِنْ أَنصَارٍ

Verily whosoever sets up partners (in worship) with Allaah, then Allaah has forbidden Paradise to him, and the fire will be his abode. And for the (polytheists and wrong-doers) there are no helpers. [5:72]

And Allaah (The One free from all imperfections) said:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يَغْفِرُ أَن يُشْرَكَ بِهِ وَيَغْفِرُ مَا دُونَ ذَٰلِكَ لِمَن يَشَاءُ ۚ

Verily, Allaah forgives not that partners should be set up with Him (in worship), but He forgives other than that to whomsoever He wills. [4:48]

And regarding the statement of the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam): That He (The Most High) is not to punish him who worships none besides Him; Meaning: Everything that is set up as a partner with Allaah (in worship), such as a tree, a stone, a dead or living person, a jinn or a human, or idols, or Angels, or Messengers, or Prophets, or the awliyaa,…anyone who sets up anything as a partner with Allaah (in worship), then indeed Allaah will not pardon him, except if he repents. But if he dies upon shirk, he will abide in the fire forever.

One day, the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said to Umar Bin Abee Salama,– whilst he was a boy under the guardianship of the prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam), because the prophet married his mother after the death of Abee Salama and this boy was under his guardianship–when food was presented: ‘’O boy! Mention the Name of Allaah, eat with your right hand and eat of the dish what is nearer to you’’. This was guidance from the prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) to this boy.

And he (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said in general to all the young men: ‘’O young people! Whoever among you is able to marry, should marry, because it helps him lower his gaze and guard his modesty, and whoever is not able to marry, should fast, fasting will diminish his sexual strength’’.

So, the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) commanded the young men to guard their modesty, either through marriage if they are able or through adopting measures that would weaken and diminish their desires, fearing that they will be put to trial and out of concern for his ummah. This is an advice of the prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) to the young men until the establishment of the hour and it is obligated on them to adhere to it.

And he (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: ‘’Among the seven (people) whom Allaah will protect with His Shade on the day when there would be no shade but His Shade, is a young man who grew up in the worship of Allaah’’. Therefore, if he (i.e. the young man) grew up in the worship of Allaah and was not overtaken by youthful excitement, and the whims that lead the youth towards sin, rather he overcame that through obedience to Allaah, he will receive this honour on the day of judgement. Allaah will provide him with shade on that day of severe heat when the sun will be brought close. (On the) day when the people are drenched in sweat, Allaah will provide a group of people amongst mankind with Shade and included amongst them will be young men who grew up in the worship of Allaah.

Examine the statement of the Prophet sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) to Ibn Abbaas (radiyallaahu anhu): ‘’Acknowledge Allaah in times of ease and He will acknowledge you in times of hardship’’. So, if you worship Allaah and seek to get close to Him in times of ease, Allaah will rescue you when you find yourself in hardship and difficulty. Therefore, it is obligated on the fathers to nurture their sons, for indeed the young men will not be rectified except by way of certain means, and from the greatest of these means are:

[1]Righteous-Upbringing:

It is obligated on the fathers to nurture their sons upon obedience to Allaah. They are to nurture them until they grow up upon righteousness. However, if they are neglected, they will be nurtured upon heedlessness and youthful whims, and thus become lost in society. This is why the Prophets (alayhimus salaam) used to supplicate for their sons and offspring.

Allaah (The Most High) said that Ibraaheem (Alayhis Salaam) said:

رَبِّ اجْعَلْنِي مُقِيمَ الصَّلَاةِ وَمِن ذُرِّيَّتِي ۚ رَبَّنَا وَتَقَبَّلْ دُعَاءِ

O my Lord! Make me one who performs As-Salaat, and also from my offspring…..[14:40]

Allaah (The Most High) said that Zakariyyah (alayhis Salaam) said:

قَالَ رَبِّ هَبْ لِي مِن لَّدُنكَ ذُرِّيَّةً طَيِّبَةً ۖ إِنَّكَ سَمِيعُ الدُّعَاءِ

O my Lord! Grant me from You, a good offspring. You are indeed the All-Hearer of invocation. [3:38]

He (Zakariyya) did not merely say: ”Grant me from You offspring” and then stopped at that, rather he said, ‘Tayyibah’- good (i.e. a good offspring) because good offspring are offspring in reality.

The messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: ‘’When the son of Aadam dies-all his deeds are terminated except three: an on-going charity, knowledge from which others benefit and a righteous child who supplicates for him. [Reported by Muslim] This takes place after a person’s death, but when he is a state of infirmity and old age, he is treated with goodness. The son he brought up upon good attends to him and supplicates for him. Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَقَضَىٰ رَبُّكَ أَلَّا تَعْبُدُوا إِلَّا إِيَّاهُ وَبِالْوَالِدَيْنِ إِحْسَانًا ۚ إِمَّا يَبْلُغَنَّ عِندَكَ الْكِبَرَ أَحَدُهُمَا أَوْ كِلَاهُمَا فَلَا تَقُل لَّهُمَا أُفٍّ وَلَا تَنْهَرْهُمَا وَقُل لَّهُمَا قَوْلًا كَرِيمًا

وَاخْفِضْ لَهُمَا جَنَاحَ الذُّلِّ مِنَ الرَّحْمَةِ وَقُل رَّبِّ ارْحَمْهُمَا كَمَا رَبَّيَانِي صَغِيرًا

And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: ‘’My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was young. [17:23-24]

The child supplicates for them as a result of the righteous upbringing he was nurtured upon and through which he attained happiness-so he repays their goodness with goodness. (Therefore) with regards to this (arises) the obligation to protect children. Indeed, when a man wants to get married, he should choose a righteous woman, and from the usefulness of this woman is that she is able to bring up children upon good. She is a place where the seed is sown and where children are begotten, therefore the man should choose a righteous woman. The prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: ‘’A woman is married for four; her wealth, family status, beauty and religion. So you should marry the one with religion, otherwise you will be a loser.”

Neither look at her beauty alone nor her wealth; neither her noble origin nor her status amongst the people; rather you look at her Religion because the religion combines all that is good. As for (looking at) other than her religion, then the woman will carry what will not bring about a praiseworthy end result. So by way of her beauty, she will seduce you and with regards to her wealth she will exceed the limits in spending. And with regards to her noble origin, she will exalt herself with it above the man. As for the woman with religion, then nothing comes from her except good. If you are bestowed with righteous offspring from her, she will bring them up upon good.

Choosing a Good Name for the Child:

Also, the father is commanded to select a good name for the child. He should name him with a good name and not a repugnant name. That is because a name has an effect on the one it is named after, as it is said: ”Everyone has a share from his name.” The Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said, ‘’the best of names are Abdullaah and Abdur Rahmaan.’’ This is because they are names of servitude to Allaah, such as Abdul Azeez, Abdur Rahmaan, Abdullaah or Abdul Kareem……and so on; Or name him Muhammad, Ali, Saalih and other than that amongst the good names. Do not name him with a name that makes those who hear it have a dislike of it. That is because a name has an effect upon the one who hears it and the one named after it. And due to this, when Suhail ibnu Amrin came to seek peace with the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) at the time of the Treaty of Hudaybiyah, the prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said, ‘’Now the matter has become easy’’ when suhail approached- this being in agreement with the name suhail because without a doubt a good name has an impression upon the one who hears it and upon the one named after it.

The Aqeeqah:

Also, from the rights of the child upon his father is that he should slaughter a sacrifice for him. He should slaughter for the Aqeeqah on his behalf as an act worship and thanks-giving to Allaah (The Most High). There is seeking nearness to Allaah and being thankful to Him in this (sacrifice) and there is good in it for the newly born because goodness is found in acts of worship. Therefore, he slaughters two sheep for the boy and one for the girl. This is an established Sunnah and there is goodness in it for the newly born. He (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: ‘’Every newly born is in pledge for his/her aqeeqah’’ (Reported by Abu Daawood. No:2831) The sacrificial slaughter, shaving of the head and naming the child are to be done on the seventh day, and these are from the means of bringing about goodness for the new born. The expense for this is to be undertaken by the father.

Elaboration: Concerning the statement of the prophet: ‘’Every newly born is in pledge for his/her aqeeqah’’

There are a number of views about its meaning:

(a) That the aqeeqah is binding just like the pledge. (b) That the child’s correct growth and upbringing and his being a source of benefit is tied to the aqeeqah just as article held in pledge for a debt cannot be utilized until the debt is paid. (c) That the child is prevented from interceding for its parents when it dies if aqeeqah was not performed for it. This saying is attributed to Ahmad (rahimahullaah) who declared a weak saying by Ibnul Qayyim. (d)That naming and shaving the head are dependent upon the aqeeqah. (e) It is a means of rescuing the child of being caught and ensnared by shaytaan – and this was the view preferred by Ibnul Qayyim in ‘At-Tuhfah’ (page: 49) [Source: ‘’Manners of Welcoming The New Born Child In Islaam’’ (page:53) translated by Aboo Talhah Dawood Ibn Ronald Burbank (rahimahullaah)]

Commanding the Children with the Salaah at Age of Seven

Also it is obligated on the parents to implement the command of the prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam): ‘’Command your children to pray when they are seven years old, beat them for it when they are ten and arrange their beds (to sleep) separately.’’

The father is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock (i.e. the family) and likewise the mother is a shepherdess. Therefore, it is obligated on them to command (the children) to pray when they reach the age of seven. Even though the prayer is not an obligation (at that age), but it will have a good effect upon them and so that they get used to it. Similarly, they are to be supervised with regards to sleep and not left close to one another, lest desires should arise between them, thus bringing about corruption. They are to be distanced from one another in bed and not to be left to sleep in the same bed. This is a preventative measure and as it is said, ‘’prevention is better than cure.’’

When the companions of the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) implemented these affairs of guidance on their children, there emerged amongst them young men who directed and led the ummah towards knowledge, jihaad, learning and the call to Allaah (The Most High). (Young men), such as the likes of Ibn Abbaas, Ibn Umar, Abdullaah bin Amr bin al Aas, Mu-aadh Ibn Jabal and Zaid Ibn Thaabit……….. Young men amongst the companions, who are distinctly mentioned in Islamic history because they were brought up upon the guidance of the Messenger of Allaah (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) and upon the good nurturing of their fathers, which brought about good for them.

Therefore, we cannot seek uprightness for the children, whilst we neglect them; rather we have to carry out the means that will lead them to uprightness. As for seeking uprightness for them without carrying out the means, then this would be a loss. ‘’Whoever sought an elevated station without hard work, then he would have already wasted a life span in seeking the impossible.’’ The means must be carried out if you want your young men to be nurtured upon goodness and uprightness. Show concern for them and exercise patience in facing exhaustion that may come your way regarding their affairs, for indeed this (effort) is carried in the path of Allaah. Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَأْمُرْ أَهْلَكَ بِالصَّلَاةِ وَاصْطَبِرْ عَلَيْهَا

And enjoin (the prayer) on your family and be patient in offering them (i.e. the prayers)’’ (20:132)

Patience must be exercised! It would be far-fetched to desire that one’s son should become upright when one is complacent. One must exercise patience, hope for Allaah’s reward and have a righteous intention. If you carry out the upright means, then indeed Allaah does not cause to go lost the reward of the doer of good. Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَاتَّبَعَتْهُمْ ذُرِّيَّتُهُم بِإِيمَانٍ أَلْحَقْنَا بِهِمْ ذُرِّيَّتَهُمْ وَمَا أَلَتْنَاهُم مِّنْ عَمَلِهِم مِّن شَيْءٍ ۚ كُلُّ امْرِئٍ بِمَا كَسَبَ رَهِينٌ

And those who believe and whose offspring follow them in Eemaan: to them shall We join their offspring, and We shall not decrease the reward of their deeds in anything. Every person is a pledge for that which he has earned. (52:21)

Allaah will unite the children with their fathers in Paradise because their fathers brought them up upon Eemaan, obedience (to Allaah), worship (of Allaah) and goodness; so they followed their (fathers’) path. And on the Day of Judgement when they and their fathers enter Paradise, so the children take their places in Paradise and their fathers take a higher place, Allaah will bestow His grace upon the fathers by raising their children (to that higher station). And if the fathers are in a (particular) station and the children in a higher one, Allaah will bestow His grace upon the fathers and unite them with their children in Paradise as a source of happiness for them.

Specific Advice to the Young Men:

As for you O young men! It is obligated on you to preoccupy yourselves. First and foremost, seek beneficial knowledge with the support of the scholars-be it in the schools, the institutes, the academies or in the mosques. Attend the lessons of the scholars-those known for knowledge, steadfastness and fear of Allaah, and are free from bizarre views and strange statements. It is obligatory upon you to hold onto the upright scholars- those who direct (the Muslims) to what is correct. So take the creed (i.e. study) from them, and manners, (good) etiquettes and the correct methodology, which you are to implement in yourselves and in your dealings with others, for indeed the scholars are the inheritors of the prophets. And just as the young companions of the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) used to seek knowledge from the Messenger of Allaah (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) and from the scholars amongst them, likewise, you should seek knowledge from the inheritors of the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) and they are the scholars. Be acquainted with knowledge through its people-be it in the schools or by attending seminars, lectures and religious admonitions or by reading the beneficial books.

Advice on the Right Methodology in Seeking Knowledge:

There are two paths of deviation at present with regards to learning:

[1] Learning from books without referring to the scholars! This is a path of deviation and many have deviated as a result of it. He (i.e. the person) will either misunderstand what is in the books or understands in a way other than what is intended because it has not been explained and made clear to him. [2] The author (of the book) may be deviated in his views or knowledge and fills it (i.e. the book) with mistakes in affairs of knowledge. Then this ignorant youth reads and adopts it. Therefore, the books are not to be solely depended upon. And even if the books are sound, you will not be able to understand by merely seeking after it (i.e. reading). The khawaarij were not misguided and misguiding others with their intellects and fear of Allaah, except that they disassociated themselves from the scholars and depended on their own understanding and that of those similar to them. They took instructions from one another, and thus they caused harm to themselves and to the Ummah. This is the result for disassociating from the scholars.

I advise you to busy yourselves with beneficial knowledge with the support of the scholars, and that you avoid being absorbed and speaking about the people- (such as) backbiting, tale carrying, (false) disparagement and slander. Indeed, this is evil that disperses, divides the youth of the Ummah and causes them to become factions and parties. There are those who have no other concern except, ‘’this one says and that one says that.’’ So seek knowledge until you become acquainted with the truth, but as for seeking after the mistakes of the people before you are acquainted with knowledge, and saying, ‘’this person says and that one says, and be mindful of this one person and that one’’……….this is not a sound methodology. Allaah (The Most High) said: [يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا إِن جَاءَكُمْ فَاسِقٌ بِنَبَإٍ فَتَبَيَّنُوا – O you who believe! If a Faasiq (liar-evil person) comes to you with any news, verify it, lest you should harm people in ignorance, and afterwards you become regretful for what you have done. [49:6]

A Warning against the Callers to Misguidance:

O young men! Be warned against the callers to misguidance because they are many today. The prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) warned against them. He (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: ‘’What I fear most for my nation, is those leaders who will lead astray’’ -and they are those who lead them to misguidance.’’

And he (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: ‘’What I fear most for my ummah is every hypocrite with an eloquent tongue.’’ This is the one who possesses eloquent impressive speech and he is able to promote his dubious views, whilst falsifying the reality and delivering it to the people. Then the ignorant one thinks that it is knowledge and proof, whilst it is illusion and deceit. So it is obligatory upon you to direct your attention to knowledge and acquire it from those who are well known to be well versed in it. Do not restrict yourself to reading books and listening to audiotapes, for indeed some of the people have taken these audiotapes for learning. And amongst them is one who reads a book or listens to an audiotape and then says: ”I took from the book of such and such or from his audiotape.” This is a grave mistake (because) knowledge is acquired from the scholars. As for these books, they are designated to the scholars and questions are to be asked regarding them, and explanation and clarification given- clarification with regards to the truth and mistakes found in them.

For example, if you want to study medicine, will you read the books on medicine and then implement and give treatment to people based on what you have read? Perhaps this methodology would lead you to kill many people, because you are not a doctor, rather you are a (fake) doctor. And there is threat of a punishment upon the one who practices medicine but is not qualified to do so. Therefore, if this is the case with medicine, then what about the religion, whilst you have not obtained knowledge through a correct methodology; rather you learnt either by way of what you have heard from audio tapes and books you have read or what has been said to you….etc. This is not a path to knowledge. However, we say: There is benefit in the books and tapes together with your sitting with the people of knowledge, and that you ask the teacher questions about what is unclear regarding what you have read or heard. Allaah (The Most High) said: [ فَاسْأَلُوا أَهْلَ الذِّكْرِ إِن كُنتُمْ لَا تَعْلَمُونَ – And ask the people of the reminder if you do not know]. [16:43]

The People of the Reminder are the scholars, so do not depend on your understanding or that of others similar to you, or those beneath you (in rank or value); rather it is obligated on you to ask the people of knowledge. Allaah did not say: ‘’Ask one another’’; rather He said: ‘’Ask the people of the reminder’’ in particular. This is my advice to all the youth that they focus their attention towards beneficial knowledge and to acquire this knowledge from the scholars who are trusted with their knowledge. Some of the salaf said: ‘’Indeed this knowledge is Religion, so look to the one you take your religion from’’. Will you take your religion from an ignorant one or one who misguides others? This is not correct. Will you take your religion from a book? This is not correct! You do not take your religion except from a scholar who is fears Allaah. Allaah (The Most High) said:[إِنَّمَا يَخْشَى اللَّهَ مِنْ عِبَادِهِ الْعُلَمَاءُ – It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allaah]. [35:28]

Therefore, take (knowledge) from the scholars with two conditions: The person is a scholar and he is one who fears Allaah. If he is a scholar but does not fear Allaah, you do not take from him. If he is one who fears Allaah, but does not possess knowledge, you do not take from him. It has been reported from the prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) that he said:

Amongst the men of Bani Israel there was a man who had murdered ninety-nine people. Then he set out asking (whether his repentance could be accepted or not). He came upon a monk and asked him if his repentance could be accepted. The monk replied in the negative and so the man killed him. He kept on asking till a man advised to go to such and such village. (So he left for it) but death overtook him on the way. While dying, he turned his chest towards that village (where he had hoped his repentance would be accepted), and so the angels of mercy and the angels of punishment quarrelled amongst themselves regarding him. Allah ordered the village (towards which he was going) to come closer to him, and ordered the village (whence he had come), to go far away, and then He ordered the angels to measure the distances between his body and the two villages. So he was found to be one span closer to the village (he was going to). So he was forgiven. [Reported by Bukhari]

All this good reached him as a result of submitting his questions to the scholar. As for the ignorant worshipper, then what comes from him is known! This (incident shows) the difference between the answer of an ignorant person and that of a scholar. And for this reason, he (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: The superiority of the scholar over the worshipper is like the superiority of the moon over all the stars” (reported by Abu Daawood No: 3641)

So What Is The Difference Between The Moon And A Star? The moon illuminates the world for the people, as for the star its illumination is limited to itself. The worship (carried out by) the worshipper is only for himself and the people do not benefit from it. As for the scholar, the benefit he has with him is extended to the people, just as the light of the moon is extended to the people. So do not forsake the scholars, rather it is obligated on you to receive them with acceptance. Take from them and submit your questions to them as long as they are alive amongst you. And neither depend on your understanding, nor that of the ignorant ones and the fake scholars-those who have not studied under the people of knowledge. Rather they are either self-taught or taught by those similar to them. The path of these ones and that of those who take from them is error, because they approached knowledge through other than its correct place. Allaah said: [ وَلَيْسَ الْبِرُّ بِأَن تَأْتُوا الْبُيُوتَ مِن ظُهُورِهَا وَلَٰكِنَّ الْبِرَّ مَنِ اتَّقَىٰ ۗ وَأْتُوا الْبُيُوتَ مِنْ أَبْوَابِهَا ۚ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ –It is not (piety, righteousness) that you enter the houses from the back, but (piety, righteousness) is (the quality of the one) who fears Allaah. So enter houses through their (proper) doors, and fear Allaah, that you may be successful]. [3:189]

Therefore, knowledge is to be approached through its doors and not at its highest level; rather there (has to be) gradual progression from the easy issues of the religion to the difficult ones. As for those who take knowledge in one swoop and approach it through its highest point, these ones will not reach anything except ignorance and beguilement. And if only their ignorance and beguilement was limited to themselves; but trouble is that they direct others, issue verdicts and speak about Allaah and His Messenger without knowledge! This is a sinful path-a path to seeking knowledge that is in the increase at present.

Hold on to the Scholars:

Many of the youth have forsaken the scholars and do not take from them. The great trial and tribulation that arose from this has been seen, when someone appeared making claims of jihaad and knowledge, so ruin, terror and killing occurred in the land. This is the result of disassociating from the scholars because those (people) kept away from the scholars and went to those like them amongst the callers to misguidance and the people of deviated views. So they brainwashed and informed them of these views. This is the result of disassociating from the scholars, the society, the jamaa-ah of the Muslims and their leader.

And when the Prophet (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) informed Hudhaifah Bin Al Yamaan (radiyallaahu-anhu) about the trials, he said: ‘’O Messenger of Allaah, what do you command me if I come across that? He (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: ‘’Stick to the Jamaa-ah of the Muslims and their Imaam’’ (i.e. the Muslim Ruler) [reported by Bukhari No: 7084]

This is a safeguard from trials, but if you abandon the Jamaa-ah of the Muslims and their Ruler, then indeed you will be destroyed in the trials, just like what took place with those ones and their likes. He (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: There are three matters, which the heart of the believer does not have an aversion towards: (That is), performing actions sincerely for Allaah, giving sincere advice to the rulers of the Muslims, and sticking to the Jamaa-ah of the Muslims. For indeed, their supplication encompasses them.

And Allaah (The Most High) said:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَكُونُوا مَعَ الصَّادِقِينَ

‘’O you who believe! Have fear of Allaah, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds)’’ [9:119]

That is to be with the Jamaa-ah of the Muslims, the sincere scholars and the Muslim rulers, so that you may be safe from trials and confusing views.

Upon you O youths! Is that you preserve your time for that which is beneficial to you in your religious and worldly affairs- in seeking provision and knowledge, doing good to parents, fulfilling the obligatory affairs and keeping away from the forbidden. This is what you should be upon, for indeed it is the path to safety. Be warned against wasting your time with worthless things, the Internet or with the newspapers that bring about evil and are associated with deviated views.

Be warned against the callers to misguidance-those who prey on the youth, cut them off from their families and society, and inform them of confused views, and thus you find a young man disassociating himself from the state and his family. Then he distances himself from the mosques, the Friday and the five daily prayers. Then his whereabouts become unknown, until the reporters make an announcement about him being arrested or killed. This is the result of heedlessness and the actions of those youth who do not accept advice.

They do not adhere to the statement of the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) regarding adhering to the Jamaa-ah of the Muslims and their Ruler, obedience and service to parents, observance of the Friday and the five daily prayers. They fell into the hands of their enemies when they neglected these affairs, and thus they were snatched and informed of these confused views, which put an end to their lives. It is difficult to rehabilitate even those who have remained amongst them because it is hard to give treatment to the brainwashed person and the person with corrupt views, just like the sick person afflicted with a disease that has no cure. Rather corrupt views are worse than chronic illness, because chronic illness afflicts the body and as a result death is inevitable. However, the trouble with sick views and a sick mind is that it afflicts the religion and the creed, and there is no happiness after that, except if Allaah grants His favour to the one afflicted by it, and then he repents to Allaah.

Indeed, Allaah has power over all things. However, it is difficult for the likes of these ones to repent, because their intellects have been shackled with confused views. Allaah said: [ فَلَمَّا زَاغُوا أَزَاغَ اللَّهُ قُلُوبَهُمْ ۚ وَاللَّهُ لَا يَهْدِي الْقَوْمَ الْفَاسِقِينَ – So when they turned away (from the path of Allaah), Allaah turned their hearts away (from the right path). And Allaah guides not the people who are Faasiqoon (the rebellious, the disobedient to Allah)]. [61:5]

This is a punishment for them! Allaah is able to guide them, but He (The One Free from All Imperfections) punishes them and prevents them from guidance. Why is this case? This is because they rebel against the Commands of Allaah (The Most High), so Allaah punishes them. And the reality about them is that they neither repent nor return. This is a punishment from Allaah (The Most High). [Taken From a Booklet Titled: Tawjeehaat Muhimmah Li-Shabaabil Ummah]