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Who are the Druze?

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, History of Islam, Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Shi'a.

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

Shaikh al-Islam Ibn Tamiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The Druze and the Nusayris are unbelievers by consensus of the Muslim (scholars). It is not permissible to consume their slaughtered animals or to marry their women, for indeed, they are apostates. They are not Muslims, neither are they Jews nor Christians. [Footnote a]

They do not acknowledge the obligation of the five daily prayers, the fasting during Ramadan, or pilgrimage, nor do they recognise the prohibitions established by Allah and His Messenger regarding dead meat, alcohol, and other matters. Even if they profess the two testimonies of faith alongside these beliefs, they are deemed unbelievers by the consensus of the Muslim (scholars).

The Druze are followers of Hashtakin al-Darzi, a freed slave of the ruler, who sent him to the people of the valley of “Taym Allah Ibn Thalabah” to call them to the divinity of of the ruler, whom they refer to as the All-Knowing Creator, swearing oaths by him. They are part of the Isma’iliyyah (Shittes) claiming that Muhammad Ibn Ismail abrogated the Shariah of (Prophet) Muhammad the son Abdullah. Their disbelief is greater than those of the extremists (i.e. the most extreme Shiites), as they assert the eternity of the world, deny resurrection, and reject the obligations and prohibitions of Islam.

They are associated with the Qaramitah and the Batiniyyah, whose disbelief is more severe than that of the Jews, Christians, and the polytheists of Arabia. Their ultimate affair is philosophers in the path of Aristotle and his ilk, or Magians. Their statements are based on the statements of the philosophers and the Magians. [1]

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

The Druze are ones among the people who hide the most what they are upon, concealing their religion and not making it very clear to the people. There are not aligned with the Muslims, while they feign that they are not non-Muslims, (but) what is well known is that they are polytheists and worshippers of the (Fatimid) Ubaidi ruler. They are no aligned with the Muslims and what is apparent is that they are not aligned with the Muslims. What is well known to the one who knows them is that they are not Muslims and they do not adhere to Islam as their religion. They engage in acts of worship that are outside of what the Muslims are upon and they are associated with (or connected) to the well known (Fatimid) Ubaidi ruler. This is what those familiar with them have stated. However, advising them is important – advising, calling them to the path of Allah, guiding them to good and teaching them what benefits them, hoping that Allah guides them….[2]

Footnote a:

The meat of the Muslims, Jews and Christians: Ahlul-Kitāb: Halāl and Harām in Islam (Islam 4.3)

 

[1] An Excerpt from Majmu al-Fatawa 155-162

[2] https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/3363/%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%85%D8%A7-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%8A%D9%87-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%B2-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D9%82%D9%8A%D8%AF%D8%A9-%D9%88%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AC%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%A7-%D9%86%D8%AD%D9%88%D9%87%D9%85 Read the rest of the Fatwa as we only quoted what we needed for the article.

“Human rights” – a precise observation by Salafi Scholar Salih Aala ash-Shaikh

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, Fitnah, Hijrah (Migration), History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul.

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

An Overview and General Examination of Certain Implications of Human Rights –[Excerpts from a Lecture by Al-Allamah Salih Aal Ash-Shaikh]
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRkeYjcJ728

The Main Purpose Behind The Creation of The Heavens and The Earth

The Shaikh – may Allah preserve him- said:

I thank and praise Allah, who knows everything about His creation and is the Most Kind and Courteous, All-Aware. He is praised with all good – praised for His commands, prohibitions, divine laws, and creations. He has guided humanity and instructed them on what leads to perfection and well-being in this life and the next. He alone deserves abundant (endless) praise, just as He has given us countless blessings. I testify that only Allah is worthy of worship, with no partners, and I testify that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger. May peace and blessings be upon him, his family, and his companions. To proceed:

My brothers, these are the blessed hours when one learns something new about his religion or strengthen what he may have forgotten over time – matters he unintentionally forgot due to the numerous engagements and distractions. There is no question that no other divine law is as perfect as Islamic law. Allah gave every Prophet a law and path, and He made Muhammad’s law complete and perfect, suitable for all times and places until the Day of Judgment.

Muhammad’s law addresses every issue, safeguards every duty, and uplifts every matter that honours the human being- honours the Muslim and raises him because he carries the message of true Islamic monotheism. Therefore, everyone is obligated to familarise with the virtues of this divine law, know its rulings, objectives, and wisdom; the obligations it established, what inspires them to preserve and promote it, and pay no attention to any caller to misguidance – those who desire to hinder humankind from the truth through various terms and slogans. We praise and thank Allah for including us among those who accept and submit to this divine law- those who learn and seek to emulate Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

Allah created the heavens and the earth in order that two obligations are fulfilled: His rights and the rights of His servants. Every Messenger and the divine scriptures were revealed to explain these two obligations: to worship Allah alone, reject all false gods and rivals, and follow His Messenger in that particular era and place. Allah revealed His scriptures and sent His Messengers to establish these two obligations. Allah, The Exalted, said:

لَقَدۡ أَرۡسَلۡنَا رُسُلَنَا بِٱلۡبَيِّنَـٰتِ وَأَنزَلۡنَا مَعَهُمُ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبَ وَٱلۡمِيزَانَ لِيَقُومَ ٱلنَّاسُ بِٱلۡقِسۡطِ

Indeed We have sent Our Messengers with clear proofs, and revealed with them the Scripture and the Balance (justice) that mankind may keep up justice. [Al-Hadid. 25]

Allah said:
وَلَقَدۡ بَعَثۡنَا فِى ڪُلِّ أُمَّةٍ۬ رَّسُولاً أَنِ ٱعۡبُدُواْ ٱللَّهَ وَٱجۡتَنِبُواْ ٱلطَّـٰغُوتَ

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).” [Al-Nahl. 36]

Because of this, the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “O Mu’adh! Do you know what is the right of Allah upon His servants?” I (Mu’adh) said, “Allah and his messenger know best”. The Prophet said, “To worship Him alone and associate none in worship with Him. And do you know what is their right upon Him?” I said, “Allah and his messenger know best”. The Prophet said, “Not to punish them if they do so”. [Al-Bukhari 6938]

The obligations imposed by all divine laws in general and Islamic law, in particular, are to uphold Allah’s rights, the rights of the creation, and the rights of individuals. There is no doubt that when you contemplate the Qur’an and the Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger, this will become abundantly evident.

Human rights is among the rights that is often mentioned in this era. This term, which is the focus of this lecture, relates to various areas of study, including Islamic law, the Islamic creed, the administration of justice, politics, and financial matters (economics). It is also linked to what the major powers of the UN refer to as Human Rights. As you are aware, this term has a history and is a new idea that is not found in the Qur’an and Sunnah, nor has it been used by the Imams and scholars of Islam to define rights. Instead, the Qur’an and Sunnah address rights and the responsibilities we have towards each other.

A new world order was created when World War II started, which the Allies won. America triumphed over its enemies, leading to the formation of the United Nations. The term “New World Order” did not come about after the Gulf War; it actually began with ideas and principles that arose after World War II. The Major powers use this term when they want to impose something new on society, people, and nations, regardless of their cultural backgrounds. To exert influence over all nations, the main powerful countries aimed to build a new world order after the war. This influence can be cultural, sometimes shown through strong opinions and freedoms, and at other times, it involves interfering in the matters of nations they want to influence. A document with thirty articles was drafted by the United Nations and included in the new international organisation in 1948. Later, revisions and additions were made to the document, which became known as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. With the additions currently made, this document represents the human rights they advocate. The United Nations and Western nations’ support for human rights is centered on two issues: freedom and intergroup equality. Among the provisos were those that forbade specific kinds of dealings and limited the state’s authority over its citizens. Many nations’ affairs were meddled with and dictated by Western nations and the UN; consequently, some nations’ reputations may be damaged as a result of what they failed to do. Due to meddling in their lives, questioning them about what they did to obtain these freedoms, and bringing up specific instances, the interference may be more pronounced.

The Declaration of Human Rights has its own circumstances and motivations, as well as goals that support the principles of the main colonial empires. This term is frequently used, however, it is obligatory for a Muslim to be proud of his religion and assured that the rights a person has are magnificent when given by Allah, The Almighty, because nobody knows the affairs of the creation and what is best for them better than Allah. Allah said:

أَلَا يَعْلَمُ مَنْ خَلَقَ وَهُوَ اللَّطِيفُ الْخَبِيرُ

Should not He Who has created know?! And He is the Most Kind and Courteous (to His slaves) All-Aware (of everything)]. [Al-Mulk. 14]

Therefore, Allah is the one who upholds the rights of humanity in accordance with the laws He has established. This is why numerous studies on the subject have demonstrated that Islamic law, the life of our Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him,, the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah, as well as the deeds of the four caliphs, may Allah be pleased with them, and those who followed them, are the greatest early codifications of human rights, lofty in both their proclamation and their implementation. It was fully implemented throughout the era of the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and the Rightly Guided Caliphs, may Allah be pleased with them. Many researchers have written on the subject of human rights, including some who held weak opinions and attempted to make every article of that statement a precedent in Islamic history or Islamic law. Others conducted good and knowledge-based studies in many journals and articles, and they highlighted that certain (things) of the human rights stated in the West and by the UN are affirmed by Islamic legislation, while others are in opposition with its core foundations.

This lecture will not be enough to cover everything relating to this topic, but we will give you a closer acquaintance based on the core principles of Islamic law – an understanding with no ambiguity. The genesis of a person’s rights is referred to the meaning of Allah’s statement: [وَلَقَدْ كَرَّمْنَا بَنِي آدَم – And indeed We have honoured the Children of Adam]. [Al-Israa. 70]

The honour that Allah has bestowed upon the offspring of Adam is based on two things: first, humans are honoured because of their innate sound natural disposition, physical traits, and the things that Allah has subordinated to them on the earth and in the skies. Second, Allah elevated the offspring of Adam above all other creatures, giving them preference over many of the other created beings in all matters pertaining to their happiness, their means of subsistence, and their interactions with other people. Thus, the divine legislation was sent to define Allah’s rights and those of His slaves. Allah, The Almighty, said:

 وَلَقَدۡ كَرَّمۡنَا بَنِىٓ ءَادَمَ وَحَمَلۡنَـٰهُمۡ فِى ٱلۡبَرِّ وَٱلۡبَحۡرِ وَرَزَقۡنَـٰهُم مِّنَ ٱلطَّيِّبَـٰتِ وَفَضَّلۡنَـٰهُمۡ عَلَىٰ ڪَثِيرٍ۬ مِّمَّنۡ خَلَقۡنَا تَفۡضِيلاً۬

And indeed We have honoured the Children of Adam, and We have carried them on land and sea, and have provided them with At-Tayyibaat (lawful good things), and have preferred them above many of those whom We have created with a marked preference. [Al-Israa. 70]

Allah stated in the beginning of the Ayah [وَلَقَدْ كَرَّمْنَا بَنِي آدَمَ- And indeed We have honoured the Children of Adam], and at the end He said [وَفَضَّلۡنَـٰهُمۡ عَلَىٰ ڪَثِيرٍ۬ مِّمَّنۡ خَلَقۡنَا تَفۡضِيلاً۬  – and have preferred them above many of those whom We have created with a marked preference].

The creation, revelation of the divine law, the foundation of social structure, and the command that they worship Allah alone and follow the Messengers are all mentioned.

According to Westerners, the rights that fall under the umbrella of “Human Rights” are divided into two categories: freedom and equality, (but) even in their own countries, the term “freedom” does not exist without restrictions. Absolute and unlimited freedom for a person to do anything he wants – without being held accountable – does not exist in any place on Earth; rather, freedoms exist where they are found, but they have limits, and people are told that anything beyond that limit is forbidden and is not freedom. This makes you understand that the word freedom is not present anywhere on the earth but in a limited sense. As for absolute freedom in everything, including dealings with wealth, politics, court judgements, one’s actions, the sanctity of life, and dealing with one’s children, this does not exist without restriction anywhere on the earth. Rather, freedom varies by country, with some countries having much less freedom than others. As a result, the word freedom, which they argue is part of human rights, is not unrestricted in their eyes. Thus, when this is the case, and they impose constraints on freedom based on the opinions of humans, we say: “Indeed, this principle shows that limiting freedom renders the word unacceptable to all humans”.

If the word freedom could be accepted (based on individual interpretations), you should grant a person the freedom to do as they please, then in that case, you would be promoting absolute freedom. However, if you limit a person’s freedom through man-made regulations while also discreetly seizing control of their wealth and abilities, then this freedom is not absolute. As a result, the basis of freedom on which one advocate human rights must be viewed from the perspective that absolute freedom does not exist. Therefore, it must be limited, which means that a person is not entirely free to behave in any location on the earth in any way they wish; rather, this freedom has boundaries that they explain and differentiate, and as a result, one discovers what is known as protocols and etiquettes. There are measures taken to deal with those who disregard the rules governing formal ceremonies and to bar anyone from entering any location while wearing any kind of clothing. Additionally, there is something that is equivalent to a lack of freedom everywhere in terms of one’s presence and speech. This is because they saw that it is not suitable to grant someone complete freedom since sometimes that freedom conflicts with what is desired and other times it conflicts with one’s relationships and other people’s rights. As a result, the notion of total freedom is negated.

The equality that they proclaimed means equality between men and women in everything and equality between all people when receiving and giving rights, such as wage equality, educational equality, the means to good health and medical treatment, equality when traveling, deciding where one wishes to reside within one’s country as stipulated in their articles, the abolition of slavery, and so on. Some aspects of this equality are acceptable, while others are not. We are not here to refute that documentary proclamation (of human rights), its corrections, and subsequent additions; rather, we are here to clarify that the flawless and lofty human rights are those that the Lord of humankind has bestowed upon the human being. When a human being wishes to grant another person rights, he will not be free of desires because the person who codifies laws, whatever they may be, will include their desires in them. As a result, Western man-made laws, such as French man-made law, American man-made law, and other man-made laws, are subject to change from time to time – either because the law was first initiated for the sake of the country’s interests when it was established, or due to the influence of (influential personalities or leaders, etc) in that country in some matters, or because time passed and thus the circumstances changed. Allah clarified that the pre-Islamic judgement is a desire-based judgement. Allah, Glorified be He, said:

وَأَنِ احْكُم بَيْنَهُم بِمَا أَنزَلَ اللَّهُ وَلَا تَتَّبِعْ أَهْوَاءَهُمْ

And so judge (you O Muhammad) between them by what Allah has revealed and follow not their vain desires. [Al-Ma’idah. 49]

Every ruling that contradicts the divine Islamic law must have been dominated by desires, and hence it is incorrect. There is no question that desires hinder people from fulfilling rights in the way they should be fulfilled. Since those principles (concerning equality and human rights) were founded on the opinions of individuals, thus human desires, as well as the interests of the major powers and their desire to control weaker nations or countries with a high level of welfare, did interfere.

If you examine the circumstances of people prior to the advent of Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him,, whether they were Egyptians, Persians, Romans, or Arabs in Makkah and the surrounding areas, people from the Arabian Peninsula, people who lived in Syria and Iraq, or people in Egypt and its neighbours, you will find that deprivation of liberties and denial of equality was prevalent; rather, it was (a situation of) the law of the jungle, thus, the strong (oppressed, terrorised, etc) the weak and the people subjugated one another. As a result, when the Persian ruler asked (the Prophet’s companion) Rabee, may Allah be pleased with him, “You are Arabs, so what brought you to the land of Persia?” He replied, “Indeed, Allah sent us to remove the one He wishes to be removed from the worship of the servants and direct them towards the worship of the Lord of the servants, in order to remove them from the distress of the worldly life to the happiness of the worldly life and the Hereafter”. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was sent, the Islamic Shariah was revealed to him, and Allah commanded him to declare the truth, warn his closest relatives, and eventually all the people. Allah made his message a mercy for all of creation. Allah said: [وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَاكَ إِلَّا رَحْمَةً لِلْعَالَمِينَ – And We have sent you (O Muhammad) not but as a mercy for the ‘Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)]. [Al-Anbiyaa. 107]

Class conflict and distinction were prevalent in that society when the Prophet emerged; this tribe is superior to that tribe, these are superior, these dominant over others, and other similar tribal norms that discriminated and gave preference to some over others. So, the Prophet approached them with a mighty principle and that is the statement of Allah:

يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ إِنَّا خَلَقْنَاكُمْ مِنْ ذَكَرٍ وَأُنْثَى وَجَعَلْنَاكُمْ شُعُوباً وَقَبَائِلَ لِتَعَارَفُوا إِنَّ أَكْرَمَكُمْ عِنْدَ اللهِ أَتْقَاكُمْ

O mankind! We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, so that you may know one another. Verily, the most honourable of you with Allah is that (believer) who has more fear of Allah. [Al-Hujuraat. 13]

So, honour, virtue, and distinction were attributed to the person who fears Allah the most, rather than to someone because of their biological sex, skin colour, tribe, or nationality. Instead, Allah attributed virtue to people based on their level of piety. [إِنَّ أَكْرَمَكُمْ عِنْدَ اللهِ أَتْقَاكُمْ – Verily, the most honourable of you with Allah is that (believer) who has more fear of Allah].

Our Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “There is no superiority for an Arab over a non-Arab, except based on piety”. [As-Saheehah. 6/199]

People are equal in the same way that comb teeth are equal. This is well-known in terms of the obligations that are obligated to everyone who has reached the age of accountability. Allah created everyone equal, which means that His divine revelation is intended for everyone – male and female, free and slave, rich and poor, regardless of their social station. Everyone is commanded to worship Allah alone, to obey His commands, and to fear Him to the best of their abilities. This is the equality that everyone is commanded and held accountable for. Similarly, when Islam arrived, the rift and animosity amongst the people ceased, and the affair alternated into a close brotherhood. The Prophet fostered and developed a brotherhood between the Muhaajiroon and the Ansaar. This, without a doubt, demonstrates the absence of differentiation and goes beyond fulfilling a person’s rights or giving something to a person because they are a child of Adam and that all humans are equal in Sight of Allah- equal in the fulfilment of rights and obligations amongst themselves.

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

In this distinguished lecture, the Shaikh articulated a profound observation regarding the unequal distribution of human rights, which is fundamentally influenced by subjective human perspectives. We find ourselves in a captivating era where the principles of human rights and international law are often manipulated; some individuals wield these concepts to their advantage while conveniently disregarding them when they do not align with their interests. For instance, when a less powerful nation, bolstered by certain influential allies, faces aggression from a more dominant adversary, certain ideologues fervently advocate for the sanctity of sovereignty. Yet, this very principle of sovereignty appears to be conveniently overlooked in the case of Palestine. Consequently, the application of international law and human rights becomes a tool of disparity, serving as a mechanism for injustice against some while favoring others.

In this discourse, the Shaikh also mentioned politics and governance, therefore, this reminds us of the fact that any transgressions against our rights in Muslim countries, we must remain steadfast in fulfilling the divine obligations set forth by their Lord in our interactions with Muslim leaders. Even in the face of oppression, the Muslim is called not to instigate insurrections or to seek external aid under the guise of international law or human rights. Rather, he adheres to the infallible guidance of the final Messenger. Read below:

Tyranny Of The Rulers, A Reason For Rebellion?”

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

https://salaficentre.com/2021/02/10/believers-bahaviour-towards-muslim-rulers-advise-given-in-private-supplicate-for-them-and-refrain-from-rebellion-so-beware-of-spiteful-foreign-instigators-and-some-dangerous-social-media-networ/

It is also important to recognise that the removal of any Muslim from Islam due to implementing un-Islamic laws is not a matter for us to judge, instead, this issue is addressed by the upright scholars who can assess the principles as well as associated harms and benefits. Read: https://abukhadeejah.com/ibn-taymiyyah-and-ibn-baaz-on-judging-by-other-than-the-shareeah/

In addition, within the realm of international relations, Muslim leaders maintain bilateral ties with both fellow Muslim countries and non-Muslim states. Consequently, it is essential to exercise caution—unlike the Takfiris—and not speculate about what is right or wrong in this affair without guidance from the upright scholars of Islam.

Alliance with the Kuffār is of two types, misunderstanding this affair leads people astray: At-Tawallī and Al-Mawālāt: Allegiance with Unbelievers due to Love of Unbelief, and Allegiance with Unbelievers due to Desire of Wordly Gain

A Muslim residing in a non-Muslim country bears the duty to protect his faith while also behaving well with non-Muslims. Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

Likewise I invite you [i.e. Muslims] to have respect for those people who have the right that they should be respected, from those between you and whom there is an agreement (of protection) [i.e. Non-Muslims]. For the land which you are living is such that there is an agreement between you and them. If this were not the case they would have killed you or expelled you. So preserve this agreement, and do not prove treacherous to it, since treachery is a sign of the hypocrites, and it is not from the way of the Believers.

And know that it is authentically reported from the Prophet that he said : “Whoever kills one who is under an agreement of protection will not smell the fragrance of Paradise.”

Do not be fooled by those sayings of the foolish people : those who say : ‘Those people are Non-Muslims, so their wealth is lawful for us [i.e. to misappropriate or take by way of murder and killing].’ For by Allah – this is a lie. A lie about Allah’s Religion, and a lie in Islamic societies.

So we may not say that it is lawful to be treacherous towards people whom we have an agreement with. O my brothers. O youth. O Muslims. Be truthful in your buying and selling, and renting, and leasing, and in all mutual transactions. Because truthfulness is from the characteristics of the Believers, and Allaah – the Most High – has commanded truthfulness – in the saying of Allaah – the Most High – “O you who believe – fear and keep you duty to Allaah and be with the truthful”

And the Prophet encouraged truthfulness and said : “Adhere to truthfulness, because truthfulness leads to goodness, and goodness leads to Paradise; and a person will continue to be truthful, and strive to be truthful until he will be written down with Allaah as a truthful person“.

And he warned against falsehood, and said : “Beware of falsehood, because falsehood leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to the Fire. And a person will continue lying, and striving to lie until he is written down with Allaah as a great liar.”

O my brother Muslims. O youth. Be true in your sayings with your brothers, and with those Non-Muslims whom you live along with – so that you will be inviters to the Religion of Islam, by your actions and in reality. So how many people there are who first entered into Islam because of the behaviour and manners of the Muslims, and their truthfulness, and their being true in their dealings. [salafipublications.com]

Read the clarification provided by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah [may Allah preserve him] below.

Living With Non-Muslims In The West: With Fine Conduct

A question about Hijrah from the Non-Muslim Countries to the Lands of Islam ―And the reality of life in the West for Muslims once you remove the rose-tinted glasses…
https://abukhadeejah.com/question-about-hijrah-from-the-non-muslim-lands-to-the-lands-of-islam/

“Regime Change”- Beatified path to death and destruction

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Bid'ah (Innovation), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Featured, Fitnah, Khawaarij, Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations.

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

Allaah [The Most High] said:

وَإِذۡ قَالَ إِبۡرَٲهِـۧمُ رَبِّ ٱجۡعَلۡ هَـٰذَا بَلَدًا ءَامِنً۬ا وَٱرۡزُقۡ أَهۡلَهُ ۥ مِنَ ٱلثَّمَرَٲتِ مَنۡ ءَامَنَ مِنۡہُم بِٱللَّهِ وَٱلۡيَوۡمِ ٱلۡأَخِرِ‌ۖ

And (remember) when Ibrahim (Abraham) said: My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day]. [Al-Baqara. 126]

Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allaah protect him, said:

He (Ibrahim – peace be upon him) prioritized security in his supplication over the pursuit of sustenance because security is an essential requirement. Without security, individuals cannot truly enjoy sustenance, as fear undermines the ability to attain it. This is precisely what adversaries aim for—those who seek to destabilise Muslim societies. They wish to create division among Muslims and weaken their unity behind their leaders. This is what they desire – in the guise of promoting beneficial outcomes, rectification, and the alleviation of oppression. They do not desire good advice for the Muslims.

This is all false pretenses, as the absence of rulership would lead to widespread chaos, the proliferation of corruption, and the failure of the promised benefits. Corruption would become rampant, and rectification would be unattainable. Consequently, it is imperative for Muslims to unite under a leadership structure. Even if such leadership exhibits flaws and negligence, the populace should practice patience, as this patience serves to avert greater harm and adversity. Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “It is not known of a group that has ever risen against their Muslim ruler without their circumstances deteriorating further after his removal.” This observation is evident in contemporary times. What is the situation of the countries where the rulers and heads of state have been removed? There has not ceased to be fear, anxiety, chaos, and bloodshed etc. [1]

This underscores the significance of safety as a fundamental necessity for individuals. Otherwise, Ibrahim, peace be upon him, would not have persistently sought Allah’s assistance in establishing it in this land. Consider the regions where a system that ensures safety has deteriorated. In such places, the populace struggles to manage their daily affairs; schools and markets remain closed, and individuals are confined to their homes. Those who have the means often seek to escape to safer locations. When inquiring with one of them, it becomes evident that they feel unable to coexist with their community and family in an environment devoid of safety.

Security can only be effectively established through two key principles: the implementation of Allah’s Laws and obedience to the rulers. The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, elucidated this essential matter for Muslims in their lives. Irbad Sariyah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, delivered an admonition after the morning prayer—an admonition that instilled fear in our hearts and brought tears to our eyes. A man then asked, ‘Is this a farewell sermon, and what counsel do you offer us?’ He replied, ‘I enjoin on you to fear Allah and to listen and obey, even if an Abyssinian slave is appointed as your ruler. Indeed, those among you who live long enough will witness many differences. Therefore, be cautious of newly introduced matters in the religion, for they lead to misguidance. Whoever among you observes such occurrences is obliged to adhere to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly guided caliphs, holding firmly to it with your molar teeth.'” [Ahmad 3/126]

This hadith lays the foundations for security within Islam, which consists of two primary components. The first is fear of Allah (The Most High), understood in its fullest and most comprehensive sense. The second component is the adherence to the rulers in matters that are just and beneficial. The fear of Allah fosters a Muslim’s relationship with Allah, their neighbours, and the surrounding environment. Conversely, the absence of Allah’s Shariah leads to chaos and moral decay. Indeed, Allah (The Mighty and Majestic) has issued a warning to those who forsake His Shariah and disobey His Messenger. Allah said:

وَضَرَبَ اللَّهُ مَثَلًا قَرْيَةً كَانَتْ آمِنَةً مُّطْمَئِنَّةً يَأْتِيهَا رِزْقُهَا رَغَدًا مِّن كُلِّ مَكَانٍ فَكَفَرَتْ بِأَنْعُمِ اللَّهِ فَأَذَاقَهَا اللَّهُ لِبَاسَ الْجُوعِ وَالْخَوْفِ بِمَا كَانُوا يَصْنَعُونَ

And Allah puts forward the example of a township (Makkah), that dwelt secure and well content; its provision coming to it in abundance from every place, but it (its people) denied the Favours of Allah (with ungratefulness). So Allah made it taste the extreme of hunger (famine) and fear, because of that (evil, i.e. denying Prophet Muhammad) which they (its people) used to do. [Al-Nahl. 112]

Listening to and obeying the rulers in a (positive manner) ensures that an individual’s affairs within society remain orderly. This act of compliance is intrinsically linked to fear of Allah. Al-Hasan Al-Basri, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Indeed, Al-Hajjaaj is a manifestation of Allah’s punishment; therefore, do not attempt to counteract Allah’s punishment with your own hands. Instead, it is essential to submit and exhibit humility, as Allah, the Most High, has stated:

[وَلَقَدْ أَخَذْنَاهُم بِالْعَذَابِ فَمَا اسْتَكَانُوا لِرَبِّهِمْ وَمَا يَتَضَرَّعُونَ – And Indeed We seized them with punishment, but they humbled not themselves to their Lord, nor did they invoke (Allaah) with submission to Him]. [Al-Muminun. 76]

You see a person who possesses a true understanding of security and his awareness is increased through fear of Allah, thus, he is eager to obey the rulers. However, when there is a lapse in their piety, their sense of security may diminish. Once fear of Allah is established, they they will attain the promise that Allah has mentioned (as follows):

وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنكُمْ وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ لَيَسْتَخْلِفَنَّهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ كَمَا اسْتَخْلَفَ الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِهِمْ وَلَيُمَكِّنَنَّ لَهُمْ دِينَهُمُ الَّذِي ارْتَضَىٰ لَهُمْ وَلَيُبَدِّلَنَّهُم مِّن بَعْدِ خَوْفِهِمْ أَمْنًا ۚ يَعْبُدُونَنِي لَا يُشْرِكُونَ بِي شَيْئًا ۚ وَمَن كَفَرَ بَعْدَ ذَٰلِكَ فَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْفَاسِقُونَ

Allah has promised those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practise their religion, that which He has chosen for them (i.e. Islam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear (provided) they (believers) worship Me and do not associate anything (in worship) with Me. But whoever disbelieved after this, they are the Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah). [Al-Nur 55]

The lack of obedience to the ruler and prioritizing personal interests over that of the ruler is among the most significant factors leading to the corruption of both the land and its inhabitants, as well as a deviation from the path of righteousness and guidance. Al Hasan Al Basri, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated, “By Allah! The establishment of religion is only possible through rulers—despite their potential for tyranny and oppression—because they rectify numerous matters through their governance that outweigh the corruption they may cause.” Imam Ibn Rajab, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated, “The worldly life holds significant benefits when rulers are followed. Through this obedience, the essential matters concerning the sustenance of the populace are established, enabling them to utilize these means as support in demonstrating their faith and fulfilling their obligations to their Lord.” Read: http://www.abukhadeejah.com/the-tyranny-of-the-rulers-a-reason-for-rebellion/

Disregarding the authority of rulers and prioritizing oneself through conflict or other means equates to defying Allah and His Messenger, as well as opposing the principles upheld by Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah, the righteous predecessors. The maintenance of security fosters unity and cooperation among Muslims. Allah, the Mighty and Majestic, stated:

إِنَّمَا الْمُؤْمِنُونَ إِخْوَةٌ فَأَصْلِحُوا بَيْنَ أَخَوَيْكُمْ ۚ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ

The believers are nothing else than brothers (in Islamic religion). So, make reconciliation between your brothers, and fear Allah, that you may receive mercy. [Al-Hujurat. 10]

Allah, The Most High, said:

وَالْمُؤْمِنُونَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتُ بَعْضُهُمْ أَوْلِيَاءُ بَعْضٍ ۚ يَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنكَرِ وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَاةَ وَيُؤْتُونَ الزَّكَاةَ وَيُطِيعُونَ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ ۚ أُولَٰئِكَ سَيَرْحَمُهُمُ اللَّهُ ۗ إِنَّ اللَّهَ عَزِيزٌ حَكِيمٌ

The believers, men and women, are Auliya’ (helpers, supporters, friends, protectors) of one another, they enjoin (on the people) Al-Ma’ruf, and forbid (people) from Al-Munkar; they perform As-Salat and give the Zakat, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah will have His Mercy on them. Surely Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise. [at-Tawbah 71]

Iman is neither a matter of wishful thinking or superficial assertions; it is a conviction that resides in the heart, evidenced by one’s actions. A true believer cannot be considered as such until he desires for his Muslim brother what he desires for himself and interacts with others in a manner he wishes to be treated. It is universally acknowledged that security is a fundamental aspiration for all; thus, it is incumbent upon a Muslim to actively seek the security of others in order to attain security and safety for himself. Furthermore, maintaining security within a community requires the fulfillment of trusts, while creating an atmosphere of insecurity equates to betrayal. Allah, the Most High, has stated:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَخُونُوا اللَّهَ وَالرَّسُولَ وَتَخُونُوا أَمَانَاتِكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ تَعْلَمُونَ
وَاعْلَمُوا أَنَّمَا أَمْوَالُكُمْ وَأَوْلَادُكُمْ فِتْنَةٌ وَأَنَّ اللَّهَ عِندَهُ أَجْرٌ عَظِيمٌ
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا إِن تَتَّقُوا اللَّهَ يَجْعَل لَّكُمْ فُرْقَانًا وَيُكَفِّرْ عَنكُمْ سَيِّئَاتِكُمْ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ ۗ وَاللَّهُ ذُو الْفَضْلِ الْعَظِيمِ

O you who believe! Betray not Allah and His Messenger, nor betray knowingly your Amanat (things entrusted to you, and all the duties which Allah has ordained for you). And know that your possessions and your children are but a trial and that surely with Allah is a mighty reward. O you who believe! If you obey and fear Allah, He will grant you Furqan a criterion [(to judge between right and wrong), or (Makhraj, i.e. making a way for you to get out from every difficulty)], and will expiate for you your sins, and forgive you, and Allah is the Owner of the Great Bounty. [Al-Anfal. 27-29]

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “They [i.e. Ahlus Sunnah] know that Allah sent Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, for the benefit of the creation in this life and the next, and Allah commands rectification and not corruption”. (2)

Closing the Door of Rebellion Against the Ruler – Shaikh Abu Iyaad Amjad Rafiq

[1] Excerpt From a Juma’ah Khutbah: Khutbah Number 1: dated 1432-03-15: http://www.alfawzan.af.org.sa/node/13208 paraphrased

[2]An Excerpt from ‘Silsilah Ar-Rasaa’il Al-Manhajiyyah Fin-Nus’hi Wal-Irshaad Wat-Taw’iyah’. Pages 7 – 30

The end of history 

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, History of Islam, Mental Health, Refutations.

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

وَإِن تُطِعْ أَكْثَرَ مَن فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ يُضِلُّوكَ عَن سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ إِن يَتَّبِعُونَ إِلَّا ٱلظَّنَّ وَإِنْ هُمْ إِلَّا يَخْرُصُونَ

 And if you obey most of those on earth, they will mislead you far away from Allah’s Path. They follow nothing but conjectures, and they do nothing but lie. [Al-An’am 116]

Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, said:

إِن يَتَّبِعُونَ إِلَّا ٱلظَّنَّ وَمَا تَهْوَى ٱلْأَنفُسُ وَلَقَدْ جَآءَهُم مِّن رَّبِّهِمُ ٱلْهُدَىٰٓ

They follow but presumption and what their souls desire, though there has certainly come to them guidance from their Lord. [An-Najm 23]

Allah, The Exalted, said:

إِن يَتَّبِعُونَ إِلَّا ٱلظَّنَّ وَإِنَّ ٱلظَّنَّ لَا يُغْنِى مِنَ ٱلْحَقِّ شَيْـًٔا

They follow but presumption. And verily, presumption does not avail anything against the truth. [An-Najm 28]

Allah, The Exalted, said:

وَمَا يَتَّبِعُ أَكْثَرُهُمْ إِلَّا ظَنًّا إِنَّ ٱلظَّنَّ لَا يُغْنِى مِنَ ٱلْحَقِّ شَيْـًٔا إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلِيمٌۢ بِمَا يَفْعَلُونَ

And most of them follow nothing but conjecture. Certainly, conjecture can be of no avail against the truth. Surely, Allah is All-Aware of what they do.[Yunus 36]

Through His immense mercy, Allah rescued us from the ideologies propagated by philosophers, including those regarded as political or social scientists, which we pursued during our higher education before being guided to the authentic Sunnah. A notable political philosopher whose ideas significantly influenced our misguided perceptions of global events was Francis Fukuyama. In 1989, he posited that the Western democratic and capitalist model had achieved a definitive triumph, suggesting that while various events would continue to unfold, the ideological struggle had concluded with the ascendance of the Western liberal political and economic model as the singular and superior choice for humanity’s future. This notion, which can be characterised as one of Mr. Fukuyama’s misconceptions, was encountered during our academic journey in the mid to late 1990s. At that time, it shaped our worldview and fueled our aspirations to engage in politics. However, Allah guided us to the Sunnah and distanced us from speculations of these people. Therefore, it is essential for those who take pride in their children pursuing studies in social or political sciences to exercise extreme caution, as the vast majority of those in authority within these fields reject the infallible guidance provided by the Prophets and Messengers of Allah, establishing principles that lead humanity away from the path ordained by the Creator. Allah, the Most High, stated:

قَدۡ مَڪَرَ ٱلَّذِينَ مِن قَبۡلِهِمۡ فَأَتَى ٱللَّهُ بُنۡيَـٰنَهُم مِّنَ ٱلۡقَوَاعِدِ فَخَرَّ عَلَيۡہِمُ ٱلسَّقۡفُ مِن فَوۡقِهِمۡ وَأَتَٮٰهُمُ ٱلۡعَذَابُ مِنۡ حَيۡثُ لَا يَشۡعُرُونَ

ثُمَّ يَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ يُخۡزِيهِمۡ وَيَقُولُ أَيۡنَ شُرَڪَآءِىَ ٱلَّذِينَ كُنتُمۡ تُشَـٰٓقُّونَ فِيہِمۡ‌ۚ قَالَ ٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُواْ ٱلۡعِلۡمَ إِنَّ ٱلۡخِزۡىَ ٱلۡيَوۡمَ وَٱلسُّوٓءَ عَلَى ٱلۡڪَـٰفِرِينَ

Those before them indeed plotted, but Allah struck at the foundation of their building, and then the roof fell down upon them, from above them, and the torment overtook them from directions they did not perceive. Then, on the Day of Resurrection, He will disgrace them and will say: “Where are My (so called) ‘partners’ concerning whom you used to disagree and dispute (with the believers, by defying and disobeying Allah)?” Those who have been given the knowledge (about the Torment of Allah for the disbelievers) will say: “Verily! Disgrace this Day and misery are upon the disbelievers. [An-Nahl. 26-27]

They plotted against their Messengers, employed various tricks in order to reject that which the messengers brought and established gigantic safeguards for their plots. [فَأَتَى ٱللَّهُ بُنۡيَـٰنَهُم مِّنَ ٱلۡقَوَاعِدِ – but Allah struck at the foundation of their building]– Meaning, an affair came to them from its basis and foundation; [فَخَرَّ عَلَيۡہِمُ ٱلسَّقۡفُ مِن فَوۡقِهِمۡ – and then the roof fell down upon them, from above them] -Meaning, so what they built became a punishment for them. [وَأَتَٮٰهُمُ ٱلۡعَذَابُ مِنۡ حَيۡثُ لَا يَشۡعُرُونَ – and the torment overtook them from directions they did not perceive]: Meaning, because they thought that such a building will benefit and protect them from punishment, but their punishment occurred from that which they built and established. This is one the best of parables regarding how Allah nullifies the plots of his enemies, for indeed they pondered and reflected on that which the Messengers brought when they belied them, concocted principles and rules based on falsehood, referred back to them to reject that which the Messengers came with, employed tricks to bring about discomfort to the Messengers, and to inflict harm on them and their followers, but their plot became a source of evil against them, so their plan became their destruction, because their plot was evil as Allah said: [ وَلَا يَحِيقُ الْمَكْرُ السَّيِّئُ إِلَّا بِأَهْلِهِ – But the evil plot encompasses only him who makes it]. [Fatir. 43]

This is in this worldly life and the punishment in the afterlife would be more disgraceful, and due to this Allah said: [ثُمَّ يَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ يُخۡزِيهِمۡ – Then, on the Day of Resurrection, He will disgrace them]. [1]

The notion that the world has unanimously embraced liberal democracy as the ultimate political framework and lifestyle is a mere rejection of the undeniable truths found within the sacred texts of the final divine revelation. These texts speak of the return of justice rooted in the methodology of the Prophets, peace and blessings be upon them, alongside the rulership of Prophet Isa, peace be upon him. In that era, justice will once again reign supreme, guided by the principles of the Qur’an and the authentic Sunnah. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Prophethood will remain amongst you for as long as Allah wills it to be. Then Allah will raise it when He wills to raise it. Then there will be the khilaafah upon the Prophetic methodology. And it will last for as long as Allaah wills it to last. Then Allaah will raise it when He wills to raise it. Then there will be biting kingship, and it will remain for as long as Allaah wills it to remain. Then Allaah will raise it when He wills to raise it. Then there will be tyrannical (forceful) kingship and it will remain for as long as Allaah wills it to remain. Then He will raise it when He wills to raise it. Then there will be a khilafah upon the Prophetic methodology”. Then he (the Prophet) was silent.  [Footnote a]

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “By Him in Whose hand is my life, the son of Mary, peace be upon him, will soon descend among you as a just judge. He will break crosses, kill swine and abolish Jizya and the wealth will pour forth to such an extent that no one will accept it”. [Sahih Muslim 155]

We must express our profound gratitude to Allah for guiding us away from the uncertainties posed by philosophical musings. The ebb and flow of political power across the globe, along with the unfolding of future events, rests firmly within the divine will of Allah, as confirmed by the unerring truths of sacred revelation.

Allah’s Messenger and what has been revealed to him are the authorities one must study in order to understand the subject of trials and tribulations before the end of time. As a result, one cannot return to the following matters: the narrations of the people of the Scripture, opinions and dreams, weak and false narrations, analogy, and political, economic, or socialist analysis. That is because the narrations about the trials and tribulations, the signs of the Hour, and the strife that will occur are from the (affairs) of the Religion, and the Religion is Tawqeefee (i.e. its source can only be established from the divine texts of the Qur’an and the authentic Sunnah). So, whatever is reported from the Prophet with authentic chains of transmission about (upcoming events) is necessary for a Muslim to believe, whether it appeals to the intellect or not, and this is the reality of one’s testimony that Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger.

Allah (The Most High) said:

وَمَا يَنْطِقُ عَنِ الْهَوَىٰ

إِنْ هُوَ إِلَّا وَحْيٌ يُوحَىٰ

Nor does he (Muhammad) speak of (his own) desire. It is only an Inspiration that is inspired. [An-Najm. 3]

Allah (The Most High) said:

وَمَا آتَاكُمُ الرَّسُولُ فَخُذُوهُ وَمَا نَهَاكُمْ عَنْهُ فَانْتَهُو

And whatsoever the Messenger (Muhammad) gives you, take it, and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain (from it)].[Al-Hashr. 7]

Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, reported:

One day while we were sitting with Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] there appeared before us a man whose clothes were exceedingly white and whose hair was exceedingly black; no signs of journeying were to be seen on him and none of us knew him. He walked up and sat down by the prophet. Resting his knees against his and placing the palms of his hands on his thighs, he said: “O Muhammad, tell me about Islam”. The messenger of Allah said: “Islam is to testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah, to perform the prayers, to pay the zakat, to fast in Ramadan, and to make the pilgrimage to the House if you are able to do so.” He said: “You have spoken rightly’’ And we were amazed at him asking him and saying that he had spoken rightly. He said: “Then tell me about Iman.” He said: ”It is to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day, and to believe in divine destiny, both the good and the evil thereof.” He said: “You have spoken rightly”. He said: “Then tell me about Ihsan.” He said: “It is to worship Allah as though you are seeing Him, and while you see Him not yet truly He sees you”. He said: “Then tell me about the Hour”. He said: “The one questioned about it knows no better than the questioner.” He said: “Then tell me about its signs.” He said: “That the slave-girl will give birth to her mistress and that you will see the barefooted, naked, destitute herdsman competing in constructing lofty buildings.” Then he took himself off and I stayed for a time. Then he said: “O Umar, do you know who the questioner was?” I said: “Allah and His messenger know best”. He said: “He was Gibreel (Gabriel), who came to you to teach you your religion”. [Reported by Muslim. Kitaab al-Iman. Chapter: Iman, Islam and Ihsan. Hadeeth Number: 8]

 The testimony in this hadeeth is the statement of the Prophet, “He was Gibreel, who came to you to teach you your religion”. Therefore, the principle in the preceding hadeeth is that the Prophet asked a question concerning the Hour and its circumstances, and he established that it is something contained in religion. The trials and tribulations, circumstances, and strife associated with the (portents) of the Hour are from the religion, and it is not for anybody to speak about it based on their own (opinions, views, analysis, interpretations, etc.). [2]

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him,  reported that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “The Hour will not be established till two big groups fight each other whereupon there will be a great number of casualties on both sides and they will be following one and the same path, till about thirty Dajjals (liars) appear and each one of them will claim that he is Allah’s Messenger, till religious knowledge is taken away (by the death of Religious scholars), earthquakes will increase in number; time will pass quickly, afflictions will appear, Al-Harj, (i.e., killing) will increase, till wealth will be in abundance – so abundant that a wealthy person will worry lest nobody should accept his Zakat, and whenever he will present it to someone, that person (to whom it will be offered) will say, ‘I am not in need of it, till the people compete with one another in constructing high buildings, till a man when passing by a grave of someone will say, ‘Would that I were in his place’ and till the sun rises from the West. So when the sun will rise and the people will see it (rising from the West) they will all believe (accept Islam) but that will be the time when: (as Allah said) [لاَ يَنْفَعُ نَفْسًا إِيمَانُهَا لَمْ تَكُنْ آمَنَتْ مِنْ قَبْلُ، أَوْ كَسَبَتْ فِي إِيمَانِهَا خَيْرًا – no good will it do to a person to believe then, if he believed not before, nor earned good (by performing deeds of righteousness) through his Faith]. And the Hour will be established while two men spreading a garment in front of them but they will not be able to sell it, nor fold it up, and Hour will be established when a man has milked his she-camel and has taken away the milk but he will not be able to drink it, and Hour will be established before a man repairing a tank (for his livestock) is able to water (his animals) in it, and Hour will be established when a person has raised a morsel (of food) to his mouth but will not be able to eat it.” [Saheeh Al-Bukhaari. Hadeeth Number 7121]

Abu Zaid -Amr Bin Akhtab [may Allah be pleased with him] reported: Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] led us in the dawn prayer and then mounted the pulpit and addressed us until it was (time for the) noon prayer. He then came down the pulpit and observed prayer and then again mounted the pulpit and again addressed us until it was time for the ‘Asr prayer. He then again came down and observed the prayer and again mounted the pulpit and addressed us until the sun was set and he informed (us about) everything (pertaining to turmoil) that lay hidden in the past and what lies in (the womb) of) the future and the most learned amongst us is one who remembers them well. [ Saheeh Muslim 2892]

Imam Muslim said: Chapter: The Conquest Of Constantinople, The Emergence Of The Dajjal And The Descent Of ‘Isa Bin Maryam [peace be upon him]: Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] reported that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: The Last Hour would not come until the Romans would land at al-A’maq or in Dabiq. An army consisting of the best (soldiers) of the people of the earth at that time will come from Medina (to counteract them). When they will arrange themselves in ranks, the Romans would say: Do not stand between us and those (Muslims) who took prisoners from amongst us. Let us fight with them; and the Muslims would say: Nay, by Allah, we would never get aside from you and from our brethren that you may fight them. They will then fight and a third (part) of the army would run away, whom Allah will never forgive. A third (part of the army) which would be constituted of excellent martyrs in Allah’s eye, would be killed and the third who would never be put to trial would win and they would be conquerors of Constantinople. And as they would be busy distributing the spoils of war (amongst themselves) after hanging their swords by the olive trees, Satan would cry: The Dajjal has taken your place among your family. They would then come out, but it would be of no avail. And when they would come to Syria, he would come out while they would be still preparing themselves for battle drawing up the ranks. Certainly, the time of prayer shall come, and then Jesus (peace be upon him) son of Mary would descend and would lead them. When the enemy of Allah would see him, it would (disappear) just as the salt dissolves itself in water, and if he (Jesus) were not to confront them at all, even then it would dissolve completely, but Allah would kill them by his hand and he would show them their blood on his lance (the lance of Jesus Christ). [Saheeh Muslim. 2897]

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] narrated that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “By Allah in Whose Hands my soul is, son of Mary (Jesus) will shortly descend amongst you people (Muslims) as a just ruler and will break the Cross and kill the pig and abolish the Jizya (a tax taken from the non-Muslims, who are in the protection, of the Muslim government). Then there will be an abundance of money and nobody will accept charitable gifts”. [Saheeh Al-Bukhaari 2222]

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] narrated that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “What would you do when the son of Mary would descend amongst you and would lead you as one amongst you? Ibn Abi Dhi’b on the authority of Abu Huraira narrated: Your leader amongst you. Ibn Abi Dhi’b said: Do you know what the words:” He would lead as one amongst you” mean? I said: Explain these to me. He said: He would lead you according to the Book of your: Lord (hallowed be He and most exalted) and the Sunnah of your Messenger”. [Saheeh Muslim 155]

Hudhaifah [may Allah be pleased with him] reported that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] stood before us one day and he did not leave anything unsaid (that he had to say) at that very spot which would happen (in the shape of turmoil) up to the Last Hour. Those who had to remember them preserved them in their minds and those who could not remember them forgot them. My friends knew them and there are certain things that slip out of my mind, but I recapitulate them when anyone makes a mention of them just as a person is lost from one’s mind but is recalled to him upon seeing his face. [Saheeh Muslim 2891]

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] reported that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: The Last Hour would not come before the Euphrates uncovers a mountain of gold, for which people would fight. Ninety-nine out of each one hundred would die but every man amongst them would say that perhaps he would be the one who would be saved (and thus possess this gold). [Saheeh Muslim 2894]

The Beast:

Allah says:

وَإِذَا وَقَعَ ٱلۡقَوۡلُ عَلَيۡہِمۡ أَخۡرَجۡنَا لَهُمۡ دَآبَّةً۬ مِّنَ ٱلۡأَرۡضِ تُكَلِّمُهُمۡ أَنَّ ٱلنَّاسَ كَانُواْ بِـَٔايَـٰتِنَا لَا يُوقِنُونَ

And when the Word (of torment) is fulfilled against them, We shall bring out from the earth a beast to them, which will speak to them because mankind believed not with certainty in Our Ayat (Verses of the Qur’an and Prophet Muhammad).

Imam As-Sadi [may Allah have mercy upon him] commented: Meaning, when the time comes for the warning, which Allah has decided; [أَخۡرَجۡنَا لَهُمۡ دَآبَّةً۬ مِّنَ ٱلۡأَرۡضِ – We shall bring out from the earth a beast to them] or one of the earth’s beasts, rather than the heavens. This beast [تُكَلِّمُهُمۡ – will speak to them]; Meaning, it would speak to the people about how they did not believe with certainty in Our (i.e. Allah’s) signs due to a lack of knowledge and certainty in Allah’s signs. So Allah will make this beast appear as one of His amazing signs to manifest to the people what they doubted. This beast is the well-known beast that will appear at the end of time, and it will be one of the (major) signs indicating the approach of the Day of Judgement, as mentioned in many Prophetic narrations. [3]

Abu Umamah [may Allah be pleased with him] narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “The beast will emerge and strike the people on their noses, then their numbers will increase among you until a man will buy a camel and they will say, ‘Who did you buy it from?’ and he will say, ‘I bought it from one of those with a mark on their noses’”. [Reported by Imam Ahmad 22362 and declared authentic by Imaam Al Albaanee in As-Sisilah As-Saheehah. Number 322]

Anas [may Allah be pleased with him] reported that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “The Hour will not occur until ‘Allah, Allah’ is not said on earth.” [Saheeh Muslim 148]

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] said that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “When three things appear, faith will not benefit one who has not previously believed or has derived no good from his faith: the rising of the sun in its place of setting, the Dajjal, and the beast of the earth”. [Saheeh Muslim. Number 158]

Shaikh Al-Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allah have mercy upon him] as follows:

In the Qur’an and authentic Prophetic reports, there are numerous reports regarding that which will take place in the worldly life and the Hereafter, and the events that occurred perfectly after the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] spoke about them many years prior to their occurrence, such as his statement: ‘The Hour will not be established until you fight with the Turks; people with small eyes, red faces, and flat noses. Their faces will look like shields coated with leather. The Hour will not be established till you fight with people whose shoes are made of hair. [Saheeh Al-Bukhaari. Number 2928]

 Those amongst the Muslims – who saw and fought those Turks when their king Genghis Khan appeared, his children and grandchildren, such as Hulagu Khan and other than him amongst the disbelieving kings- could not describe them better than how the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] described them [i.e. even though he did not meet them]. He stated this 600 years prior to its occurrence. (4)

In addition to the misguided political theorists, the practitioners of dark arts, including devil-worshipping magicians, soothsayers, and psychics, also partake in this malevolence. Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, stated:

Among the liars – whose affair has been unveiled by Islam in the Qur’an and the Sunnah – are the soothsayers, fortune tellers and magicians. They are from the most evil liars. Allah said:

هَلۡ أُنَبِّئُكُمۡ عَلَىٰ مَن تَنَزَّلُ ٱلشَّيَـٰطِينُ

تَنَزَّلُ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ أَفَّاكٍ أَثِيمٍ۬

يُلۡقُونَ ٱلسَّمۡعَ وَأَڪۡثَرُهُمۡ كَـٰذِبُونَ

وَٱلشُّعَرَآءُ يَتَّبِعُهُمُ ٱلۡغَاوُ ۥنَ

أَلَمۡ تَرَ أَنَّهُمۡ فِى ڪُلِّ وَادٍ۬ يَهِيمُونَ

وَأَنَّہُمۡ يَقُولُونَ مَا لَا يَفۡعَلُونَ

إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَعَمِلُواْ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ وَذَكَرُواْ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرً۬ا وَٱنتَصَرُواْ مِنۢ بَعۡدِ مَا ظُلِمُواْ‌ۗ وَسَيَعۡلَمُ ٱلَّذِينَ ظَلَمُوٓاْ أَىَّ مُنقَلَبٍ۬ يَنقَلِبُونَ

 Shall I inform you (O people!) upon whom the Shayatin (devils) descend? They descend on every lying (one who tells lies), sinful person. Who gives ear (to the devils and they pour what they may have heard of the unseen from the angels), and most of them are liars. As for the poets, the erring follow them; see you not that they speak about every subject (praising others right or wrong) in their poetry? And that they say what they do not do. Except those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds, and remember Allah much, and reply back (in poetry) to the unjust poetry (which the pagan poets utter against the Muslims). And those who do wrong will come to know by what overturning they will be overturned. [Ash-Shu’araa. 221-222]

Allah made it known that the devils descend on these types of liars, even the poets amongst them; except those who believe, perform righteous deeds and reply back (in poetry) to the unjust poetry (which the pagan poets utter against the Muslims).

 The Messenger said, “Whoever goes to a fortune teller or soothsayer and believes in what he says has disbelieved in what has been revealed to Muhammad”. [Sahih al-Jami. Number 5015]

 It has been reported in an authentic narrations that the devils eavesdrop in the [first] heavens and then inform the magician or the soothsayer, then they add a hundred lies to it; so the ignorant wrong doer believes them whilst being aware of the recompense for the one who believes them. If this is the ruling against the one who believes them, then how about the one who is immersed in the sludge of soothsaying, magic and fortune telling? Therefore, the Muslims should also be cautious of these evil category of people and from their most distinct characteristics is lying. Allah and Messenger testified that indeed they are liars and made known their attachment to the devils. [5]

 

The Khawaariq – [Phenomena Attributed to Something Outside The Norm]

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

The Khawaariq by way of which the devils misguide the children of Adam – such as when the devils take the image of a person who is absent or has passed away and what is similar to this – has misguided many of those who ascribe themselves to the Muslims or to the people of the Scripture. They establish this on two affairs: Firstly, that whoever from whom these khawaariq occurs is a Wali, and according to the term of the Christians he is a Qadees A’dheem – a great saint! Secondly, that the one from whom these khawaariq occurs is therefore infallible, everything he narrates is truth and everything he commands is justice”. However, it can definitely be the case that neither did a phenomena outside the norm – whether unrelated or related to sound knowledge and piety – occur from such a person nor a phenomena outside the normal related to deeds of the devils; rather the person merely carried out the tricks of the liars and wicked sinners. The tricks of the liars and wicked sinners are numerous indeed, so one thinks that they are amazing events outside the norm, however neither is that the case nor is it something similar to the tricks of the monks. Some people have written books regarding the tricks of the monks, such as the trick reported about one of them changing water into oil- that when the oil is in the interior of the lighthouse, the water gradually reduces and thus the oil floats [or pops up] on the water, so those who are present think that the water has changed into oil. The likes of this affair are numerous from the tricks of those Christians, because all that those Christians possess – those who altered the religion of the Messiah [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] – of activities that are attributed to something out of the norm are either from the devils or they are tricks, and there’s nothing in them related to the miracles of the righteous people.

Similarly, the deviated people – those who seek to alter the religion of Muhammad – adopt a religion that is not legislated by Allah and His Messenger, then they make it a path of worship and give it precedence over the path that is legislated by Allah and His Messenger. For example, they give precedence to listening to sounds from the tambourines and the shrill flutes over listening to the book of Allah, so one of them goes into a state of ecstasy and a satanic trance through which he becomes muddled up with shaytaan until he speaks in a language he does not know. Then when he returns to his senses – just as when a jinn speaks through the tongue of the one who is possessed and after informing the people of that which is in his heart and soul, which is from the Shaytaan, and the shaytaan leaves him -, he cannot repeat what he said at first.

The heretics alter the religion of the Messengers – either the religion of the Messiah or seek to alter the religion of Muhammad, and amongst the likes of such people are the proponents of hearsay, misguidance, the disbelievers, the polytheists, apostates and other than them, such as the likes of Musaylimah the liar, Al-Aswad Al-Unzee, Al-Haarith Ad-Dimashqee, Baabaa Roomee and other than them amongst those who engaged in activities that are considered to be outside the norm [i.e. so called miracles] but [in reality] are related to the deeds of the devils.

As for the tricksters, they are numerous and they are not Awliyaa of Allah. Their so called amazing activities that are outside the norm- if not related to the satanic deeds of the soothsayers and the magicians – a just tricks. They deliberately lie and deceive unlike those connected to the devils, because amongst them is he who deceives, so one thinks that what he does is from the miracles of the righteous people, just as amongst them is one who knows that what he does is from the devils, but he does so in order to achieve his goals.

The intent behind this discussion is that many of the activities that are considered to be outside of the norm [i.e. so called miracles] are either satanic deeds or tricks, so one thinks that they are the true miracles of the righteous people, for indeed that which whose cause is based on Shirk and wicked deeds can only be from the devils, such as when a person associates partners with Allah by invoking the stars, or invokes a person- whether such a person is dead or absent, or he makes an oath through unknown words and statements whose meanings are not known, or he knows that they are names of devils, or seeks aid through lewd conduct and oppression, then such deeds – considered to be outside of the norm that emanates from this – are from the devils.

The righteous people have miracles such as the miracles of the pious people of this Ummah [may Allah have mercy upon them], the miracles of the disciples of the Messiah [may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon the Messiah, and may Allah have mercy upon the disciples] and other than them amongst those who were upon the correct and unaltered religion of the Messiah. However, the occurrence of miracles at the hands of the righteous people does not necessitate that they are infallible like the Prophets [peace and blessings of Allah be upon them]; rather it maybe that a righteous man- a Wali – has miracles, but despite this he mixes up by error and makes a mistake in that which he thinks or what he is made to hear or see, or what he sees, or what he understands from the revealed Scripture. And because of this, the statements of those other than the Prophets [peace and blessings of Allah be upon them] can either be accepted or rejected [i.e. based on evidence], but as for the Prophets [peace and blessings of Allah be upon them], it is obligated on a person to affirm truthfully everything they have related regarding the affairs of the unseen and obey them in everything they command. And due to this, Allah [The Exalted] obligated on a person to believe in everything the Prophets [peace and blessings of Allah be upon them] brought and did not obligate on a person to believe in everything that comes from others. Allah [The Exalted] said:

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

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

 Allah [The Exalted] said:

لَّيۡسَ ٱلۡبِرَّ أَن تُوَلُّواْ وُجُوهَكُمۡ قِبَلَ ٱلۡمَشۡرِقِ وَٱلۡمَغۡرِبِ وَلَـٰكِنَّ ٱلۡبِرَّ مَنۡ ءَامَنَ بِٱللَّهِ وَٱلۡيَوۡمِ ٱلۡأَخِرِ وَٱلۡمَلَـٰٓٮِٕڪَةِ وَٱلۡكِتَـٰبِ وَٱلنَّبِيِّـۧنَ

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

And because of this the Muslims are all in agreement that the one who disbelieved in a single Prophet whose Prophethood is well known, then he is a disbeliever- an apostate. There is no distinction between one Prophet from the other- by believing in some and disbelieving in others. Allah said:

إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ يَكۡفُرُونَ بِٱللَّهِ وَرُسُلِهِۦ وَيُرِيدُونَ أَن يُفَرِّقُواْ بَيۡنَ ٱللَّهِ وَرُسُلِهِۦ وَيَقُولُونَ نُؤۡمِنُ بِبَعۡضٍ۬ وَنَڪۡفُرُ بِبَعۡضٍ۬ وَيُرِيدُونَ أَن يَتَّخِذُواْ بَيۡنَ ذَٲلِكَ سَبِيلاً

أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ هُمُ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرُونَ حَقًّ۬ا‌ۚ وَأَعۡتَدۡنَا لِلۡكَـٰفِرِينَ عَذَابً۬ا مُّهِينً۬ا

Verily, those who disbelieve in Allah and His Messengers and wish to make distinction between Allah and His Messengers (by believing in Allah and disbelieving in His Messengers) saying, “We believe in some but reject others,” and wish to adopt a way in between. They are in truth disbelievers. And We have prepared for the disbelievers a humiliating torment. [An-Nisaa.  150-151] [6]

Listen here: [Lesson 39] The Miracles of the Righteous Worshippers (Awliyā) – Followed by Manhaj Q&A – The ‘Aqīdah of Imām Muhammad ibn ‘Abdil-Wahhāb – By Shaikh Abu Khadeejah – Masjid Bin Bāz – London: https://www.salafisounds.com/lesson-39-the-miracles-of-the-righteous-worshippers-awliya-followed-by-manhaj-qa-the-aqidah-of-imam-muhammad-ibn-abdil-wahhab-by-abu-khadeejah-masjid-bin-baz-london/

This brief dialogue we engage in does not, in any manner, endorse violence, terrorism, or the infringement of rights for those who may not subscribe to the infallible sacred teachings of the Qur’an and the authentic reports of the seal of the Prophets, Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. While we hold an unwavering belief in the inevitability of all the events mentioned in the Islamic Shariah, and acknowledge that the triumphant group and the saved sect will endure until the end of time, despite the prevailing corruption – in any era – in the world, we also affirm that the noble Prophet Eesa, peace be upon him, will return to establish perfect justice on earth, guided by Allah’s final revelation. It is imperative, however, that we adhere to the principles of justice in our interactions with others. Thus, one must explore the insightful writings of Shaikh Abu Iyaad, may Allah safeguard him.

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

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ لِي دِينِي الَّذِي هُوَ عِصْمَةُ أَمْرِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي دُنْيَايَ الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَاشِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي آخِرَتِي الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَادِي

وَاجْعَلِ الْحَيَاةَ زِيَادَةً لِي فِي كُلِّ خَيْرٍ

وَاجْعَلِ الْمَوْتَ رَاحَةً لِي مِنْ كُلِّ شَرٍّ

O Allah! Rectify my religion for me, which is the safeguard of my affairs; rectify my worldly [affairs], wherein is my livelihood; and rectify my Afterlife to which is my return; and make life for me [as a means of] increase in every good and make death for me as a rest from every evil. [7]

Footnote a: https://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/kyvik-the-khilaafah-lasted-for-30-years-then-there-was-kingship.cfm

—————————————————————-

[1] An Excerpt from Tafseer as-Sadi

[2] An Excerpt from Mawqiful Muslim Minal Fitan. 15-16

[3]An Excerpt from Tafseer as-Sadi

[4] An Excerpt from Al-Jawaabus Saheeh Liman Baddala Deen Al-Maseeh. 2/65-67

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

[6] An Excerpt from Al-Jawaabus Saheeh Liman Baddala Deen Al-Maseeh. 1/284-287

[7] Saheeh Muslim Number: 2720]

Attentive Muslim educators aware of cultural crusader’s goal expressed through language and ideas

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

One of the general fundamental principles (in Islam) is to know that words are two types- words that are mentioned in the Qur’an and Sunnah, and it is obligated to every believer to affirm them- affirm what Allah and His Messenger have affirmed, and negate what Allah and His Messenger have negated. The words affirmed by Allah is truth and the ones Allah negated are (negated) in truth because Allah speaks the truth and guides to the straight path. The words of the divine Islamic legislation are sanctified and it is part of perfection in knowledge that one seeks after the (sound meanings) which the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, intended by them, in order to affirm what he affirmed and negate the meanings he negated, because obligated to us to believe and bear witness to everything he has stated and follow him in everything he has commanded. As for the words that are neither found in the Qur’an and Sunnah nor did the pious predecessors hold a consensus regarding whether they are negated or affirmed, it is not incumbent on anyone to agree with the one who negates or affirms them until its intended meaning is explained. If its intended meaning agrees with the (creed, revelation, commands, prohibitions etc) conveyed by the Messenger, it is affirmed; but if its intended meaning is in opposition, it is rejected. [1]

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

Indeed, Allah created (Jinn and humankind) and gave them an innate disposition to recognise Tawhid, obey Him and worship Him alone; but they differed – some of them believed and others disbelieved. Allah said: [هُوَ ٱلَّذِى خَلَقَكُمۡ فَمِنكُمۡ ڪَافِرٌ۬ وَمِنكُم مُّؤۡمِنٌ۬‌ۚ – He it is Who created you, then some of you are disbelievers and some of you are believers].

Allah wishes belief and well-being for them, but shaytan and the callers to evil wish disbelief and evil for them. Allah [The Exalted] said:

يُرِيدُ ٱللَّهُ لِيُبَيِّنَ لَكُمۡ وَيَہۡدِيَڪُمۡ سُنَنَ ٱلَّذِينَ مِن قَبۡلِڪُمۡ وَيَتُوبَ عَلَيۡكُمۡ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ عَلِيمٌ حَكِيمٌ۬
وَٱللَّهُ يُرِيدُ أَن يَتُوبَ عَلَيۡڪُمۡ وَيُرِيدُ ٱلَّذِينَ يَتَّبِعُونَ ٱلشَّہَوَٲتِ أَن تَمِيلُواْ مَيۡلاً عَظِيمً۬ا

Allah wishes to make clear (what is lawful and what is unlawful) to you, and to show you the ways of those before you, and accept your repentance, and Allah is All-Knower, All-Wise. Allah wishes to accept your repentance, but those who follow their lusts, wish that you (believers) should deviate tremendously away from the Right Path.

Due to this, Allah sent the Messengers, revealed the Books and established His proofs, thus, there are those amongst humankind who accept the truth and embrace faith by choice, and there are those who reject the truth and embrace disbelief by choice. Indeed, Allah has laid down the differences between the believers and unbelievers in this life and the next, and He forbade that the two groups are made equal. Allah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] has set out recompense and judgment for each of the two groups in this life and the next. He has given a distinguished name to every group, such as [Mumin – believer], [Kaafir- disbeliver], [Barrun- upright/righteous one], [Faajir – evildoer], [Mushrik- Polytheist], [Muwahhid- Monotheist], [Faasiq- sinner], [Munaafiq- hypocrite], [Mutee’un – an obedient one] and [Aasee- a disobedient one]. And He [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] forbade that equality is made between these differing names and attitudes. Allah said:

[أَمۡ حَسِبَ ٱلَّذِينَ ٱجۡتَرَحُواْ ٱلسَّيِّـَٔاتِ أَن نَّجۡعَلَهُمۡ كَٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَعَمِلُواْ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ – Or do those who earn evil deeds think that We shall hold them equal with those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah Islamic Monotheism) and do righteous good deeds].

Allah said: [ أَمۡ نَجۡعَلُ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَعَمِلُواْ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ كَٱلۡمُفۡسِدِينَ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ أَمۡ نَجۡعَلُ ٱلۡمُتَّقِينَ كَٱلۡفُجَّارِ – Shall We treat those who believe (in the Oneness of Allaah Islamic Monotheism) and do righteous good deeds, as Mufsidoon (those who associate partners in worship with Allaah and commit crimes) on earth? Or shall We treat the pious ones, as the Fujjaar (criminals, disbelievers, wicked, etc)- Meaning, we have not made them equal because that does not befit Allah’s Justice.

Should we abandon the words (Kufr, Shirk, Kuffaar and Mushrikeen) found in the Qur’an, the Sunnah and the Books of Islamic creed? This will be a violation of the Book and the Sunnah, and an opposition to Allaah and His Messenger. By changing the real meanings of the Shariah terms, we will be from those who distort the Book of their Lord and the Sunnah of their Messenger. Then what defence can be given for (such a crime)? Is it to please the unbelievers?! The unbelievers will never be pleased with us until we abandon our religion. Allah [The Exalted] said:

[وَلَن تَرۡضَىٰ عَنكَ ٱلۡيَہُودُ وَلَا ٱلنَّصَـٰرَىٰ حَتَّىٰ تَتَّبِعَ مِلَّتَہُمۡ‌ۗ – Never will the Yahood nor the Nasaaraa be pleased with you [O Muhammad Peace be upon him] till you follow their religion].

Allah said: [ وَدُّواْ لَوۡ تَكۡفُرُونَ كَمَا كَفَرُواْ فَتَكُونُونَ سَوَآءً۬‌ۖ – They wish that you reject Faith, as they have rejected (Faith), and thus that you all become equal (like one another)].

If the intention of those who call for the substitution of the Shariah terminologies is to show gentleness to the unbelievers and to have good dealings with them, then this cannot be (done) by changing such Shariah terminologies; rather it can only be (done) through what Allah has legislated regarding their affair. This comprises of the following affairs:

To invite them to Islam – the religion Allah has ordained for all of humankind. Allah said:

[ٱدۡعُ إِلَىٰ سَبِيلِ رَبِّكَ بِٱلۡحِكۡمَةِ وَٱلۡمَوۡعِظَةِ ٱلۡحَسَنَةِ‌ۖ وَجَـٰدِلۡهُم بِٱلَّتِى هِىَ أَحۡسَنُ‌ۚ – Invite (mankind, O Muhammad) to the Way of your Lord (i.e. Islaam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Inspiration and the Qur’an) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better]. Therefore, we invite them (to Islam) for their rectification and happiness in this life and the next.

To make peace with them if they seek that. Allah said:

[وَإِن جَنَحُواْ لِلسَّلۡمِ فَٱجۡنَحۡ لَهَا وَتَوَكَّلۡ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ‌ۚ إِنَّهُ ۥ هُوَ ٱلسَّمِيعُ ٱلۡعَلِيمُ – But if they incline to peace, you also incline to it, and (put your) trust in Allah. Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower].

Similarly, to make peace with them if the Muslims are in need of making peace, and when there is an overriding benefit for the Muslims in making peace, just as the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] made peace with the unbelievers at Hudaibiyyah. And by virtue of peace, diplomacy is (established) between them and the Muslims.

Not to be hostile towards them without due right. Allah said:

[وَلَا يَجۡرِمَنَّڪُمۡ شَنَـَٔانُ قَوۡمٍ عَلَىٰٓ أَلَّا تَعۡدِلُواْ‌ۚ ٱعۡدِلُواْ هُوَ أَقۡرَبُ لِلتَّقۡوَىٰ‌ۖ وَٱتَّقُواْ ٱللَّهَ‌ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ خَبِيرُۢ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُونَ – And let not the enmity and hatred of others make you avoid justice. Be just: that is nearer to piety, and fear Allah].

To behave well towards those of them who behave well towards the Muslims- those who neither kill nor drive Muslims out of their homes. Allah said:

[لَّا يَنۡهَٮٰكُمُ ٱللَّهُ عَنِ ٱلَّذِينَ لَمۡ يُقَـٰتِلُوكُمۡ فِى ٱلدِّينِ وَلَمۡ يُخۡرِجُوكُم مِّن دِيَـٰرِكُمۡ أَن تَبَرُّوهُمۡ وَتُقۡسِطُوٓاْ إِلَيۡہِمۡ‌ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يُحِبُّ ٱلۡمُقۡسِطِينَ – Allah does not forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of religion and did not drive you out of your homes. Verily, Allah loves those who deal with equity].

To have permissible beneficial dealings with them; in trade, exchange of beneficial information and utilization of the worldly sciences, and things that are of benefit in our lives.

To fulfil contacts made with them, and to honour the blood, wealth and rights of the Mu’ahideen (i.e. those non-Muslims who have a treaty with the Muslims) because it is binding upon them to (fulfil their covenants with the Muslims) and the Muslims are to (fulfil their covenants with them). Allah said: [فَمَا ٱسۡتَقَـٰمُواْ لَكُمۡ فَٱسۡتَقِيمُواْ لَهُمۡ‌ۚ – So long, as they are true to you, stand you true to them].

And the ones forbidden to be killed are the Muslim and the Mu’ahid [i.e. the non-Muslim who has a treaty with the Muslims]. And indeed the Prophet said about the killing of a Mu’ahid, “Whoever kills a Mu’ahid will not even smell the fragrance of paradise and its fragrance can be smelled from the distance of forty years away”. [Bukhari: No: 3166]

And whoever kills a Mu’ahid by mistake, it is as if he has killed a Muslim by mistake. He must pay blood money as expiation. Allah said: [وَإِن ڪَانَ مِن قَوۡمِۭ بَيۡنَڪُمۡ وَبَيۡنَهُم مِّيثَـٰقٌ۬ فَدِيَةٌ۬ مُّسَلَّمَةٌ إِلَىٰٓ أَهۡلِهِۦ وَتَحۡرِيرُ رَقَبَةٍ۬ مُّؤۡمِنَةٍ۬‌ۖ – And if he belonged to a people with whom you have a treaty of mutual alliance, compensation (blood money – Diya) must be paid to his family, and a believing slave must be freed]. [Footnote a]

Finally, I advise these ones [those who called for a change of the Shariah terminologies] to repent to Allah. They should not enter into an affair which they have neither mastered nor is it [something] they have specialized in, because that would be tantamount to speaking about Allah without knowledge. Indeed, Allah stated: [وَلَا تَقۡفُ مَا لَيۡسَ لَكَ بِهِۦ عِلۡمٌ‌ۚ – And follow not (O man i.e., say not, or do not or witness not) that of which you have no knowledge.

Allah said:

قُلۡ إِنَّمَا حَرَّمَ رَبِّىَ ٱلۡفَوَٲحِشَ مَا ظَهَرَ مِنۡہَا وَمَا بَطَنَ وَٱلۡإِثۡمَ وَٱلۡبَغۡىَ بِغَيۡرِ ٱلۡحَقِّ وَأَن تُشۡرِكُواْ بِٱللَّهِ مَا لَمۡ يُنَزِّلۡ بِهِۦ سُلۡطَـٰنً۬ا وَأَن تَقُولُواْ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ مَا لَا تَعۡلَمُونَ

Say (O Muhammad): (But) the things that my Lord has indeed forbidden are Al-Fawaahish (great evil sins, every kind of unlawful sexual intercourse) 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.

Allah placed speaking about Him without knowledge at a level above shirk due to its seriousness. And if it the case that these ones are aware of the subject matter regarding specialist knowledge and that a person cannot enter into that which is not his domain, just as one does not enter into the affair of medicine because it is not his domain, then why do they enter into the affairs of the sharee’ah, rather they enter into the most serious affairs of the sharee’ah, and that is the subject matter of creed, even though it is something they are not specialised in. I do not desire anything from this [speech] except to give advice and clarification. [2]

Language is a significant blessing from Allah; consequently, Muslims should not permit anyone to misuse it in order to distort the beliefs and thoughts of the Ummah.

Allah, as He said:
وَمِنۡ ءَايَـٰتِهِۦ خَلۡقُ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضِ وَٱخۡتِلَـٰفُ أَلۡسِنَتِڪُمۡ وَأَلۡوَٲنِكُمۡ‌ۚ إِنَّ فِى ذَٲلِكَ لَأَيَـٰتٍ۬ لِّلۡعَـٰلِمِينَ

And among His Signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the difference of your languages and colours. Verily, in that are indeed signs for men of sound knowledge.[Surah Ar-Rum. Ayah 22]

Truly, the Qur’an provides a clear illustration of righteous individuals who were granted authority by Allah in both the East and the West, benefiting His slaves, like Dhul Qar’nayn [peace be upon him]. They stood in stark contrast to those who, in their cruel and heartless actions, inflicted untold suffering upon their fellow beings in the vast lands of Africa and beyond, for an agonizing span of four centuries. Even today, these oppressors shamelessly exploit and subjugate their victims through unjust and inhumane post-colonial agreements. Allah says about Dhul-Qarnayn:

ثُمَّ أَتۡبَعَ سَبَبًا
حَتَّىٰٓ إِذَا بَلَغَ بَيۡنَ ٱلسَّدَّيۡنِ وَجَدَ مِن دُونِهِمَا قَوۡمً۬ا لَّا يَكَادُونَ يَفۡقَهُونَ قَوۡلاً۬

Then he (Dhul-Qarnayn) followed (another) way, until he reached between two mountains, he found, before (near) them (those two mountains), a people who scarcely understood a word. [Al-Kahf. 92-93]

Imam As-Sadi [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: They could not understand due to their foreign language, their foreign way of comprehending, and the manner in which their hearts perceived matters. Nevertheless, Allah granted Dhul-Qarnayn [peace be upon him] the means to the knowledge through which he comprehended the language of these people and facilitated communication between them. Consequently, they complained to him regarding the harm perpetrated by Gog and Magog, two big nations descended from Adam [peace be upon him]. Allah said:

قَالُواْ يَـٰذَا ٱلۡقَرۡنَيۡنِ إِنَّ يَأۡجُوجَ وَمَأۡجُوجَ مُفۡسِدُونَ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ فَهَلۡ نَجۡعَلُ لَكَ خَرۡجًا عَلَىٰٓ أَن تَجۡعَلَ بَيۡنَنَا وَبَيۡنَهُمۡ سَدًّ۬ا
قَالَ مَا مَكَّنِّى فِيهِ رَبِّى خَيۡرٌ۬ فَأَعِينُونِى بِقُوَّةٍ أَجۡعَلۡ بَيۡنَكُمۡ وَبَيۡنَہُمۡ رَدۡمًا
ءَاتُونِى زُبَرَ ٱلۡحَدِيدِ‌ۖ حَتَّىٰٓ إِذَا سَاوَىٰ بَيۡنَ ٱلصَّدَفَيۡنِ قَالَ ٱنفُخُواْ‌ۖ حَتَّىٰٓ إِذَا جَعَلَهُ ۥ نَارً۬ا قَالَ ءَاتُونِىٓ أُفۡرِغۡ عَلَيۡهِ قِطۡرً۬ا
فَمَا ٱسۡطَـٰعُوٓاْ أَن يَظۡهَرُوهُ وَمَا ٱسۡتَطَـٰعُواْ لَهُ ۥ نَقۡبً۬ا
قَالَ هَـٰذَا رَحۡمَةٌ۬ مِّن رَّبِّى‌ۖ فَإِذَا جَآءَ وَعۡدُ رَبِّى جَعَلَهُ ۥ دَكَّآءَ‌ۖ وَكَانَ وَعۡدُ رَبِّى حَقًّ۬ا

They said, “O Dhul-Qarnayn! Indeed, Gog and Magog [Yajuj and Majuj] are spreading corruption throughout the land. Should we pay you tribute, provided that you build a wall between us and them?” He said, “What my Lord has provided for me is far better. But assist me with resources, and I will build a barrier between you and them. Bring me blocks of iron!” Then, when he had filled up the gap between the two mountains, he ordered, “Blow!” When the iron became red hot, he said, “Bring me molten copper to pour over it”. And so they could neither scale nor tunnel through it. He said, “This is a mercy from my Lord. But when the promise of my Lord comes to pass, He will level it to the ground. And my Lord’s promise is ever true”. [Surah Al-Kahf. 92-98] [3]

Behold the illustration of how those exceptional individuals harnessed their talents for the betterment of society, instead of resorting to savagery, theft, pillaging, killing, and degradation. This stands in sharp opposition to the savagery exhibited by the French colonisers, who were notorious for their extreme cruelty, exploitation, and injustice during the periods of conquests and domination. Those seeking information on this topic will discover a plethora of resources available. In recent times, following the decision of certain former Muslim colonies to remove French as their official language, a language that was imposed upon them by their colonial predecessors as a means to indoctrinate and wage an ideological battle against Muslims, some French academics have displayed fits of anger and frustration. It is possible that they feared the unraveling of one of the schemes devised by their monarch, Louis IX. In 1250, this monarch was taken captive during his participation in a crusade against the Egyptian Muslims. After a substantial ransom was paid, he was eventually released from imprisonment. Nevertheless, during his time in confinement, he utilised his time to devise plans against Islam and its followers. These schemes included the substitution of the physical conflict between Christians in the Western world and Muslims with a battle of ideologies and cultural dominance. Additionally, he aimed to equip the West with the means to undermine the beliefs of Muslims and tarnish Islam’s image in the world. [4]

As educators, it is an arduous task to combat this ideological onslaught, especially when the deceivers manipulate language—employing words and phrases that can embody both truth and falsehood, or terms that carry specific meanings yet are wielded without clarity, independence, or precision. In instances where a single term may convey multiple interpretations, they exploit this ambiguity for their own ends. Similarly, two words may share partial meanings, yet they deliberately obscure the more distinct realities that would otherwise delineate truth from falsehood. Furthermore, in circumstances where a term transforms alongside the traditions and bad behaviour of society, a new challenge may emerge when those very words, which once represented no harm, become associated with meanings and behaviour that the Creator does not permit.

One of the most formidable challenge we encounter as educators in the realm of some social sciences, particularly those encompassing both virtue and vice, lies in the nuanced terms shaped by contextual interpretations. These terms, susceptible to manipulation by those with ulterior motives, can be wielded to convey a multitude of meanings – upright and corrupt. Such individuals endeavour to compel educators to embrace all interpretations concurrently, a notion that starkly contradicts the foundational principle of accurate designation rooted in the texts of the Qur’an and the Sunnah. In this sacred framework, each meaning is meticulously assigned a distinct designation, accompanied by its commendable and condemnable attributes as delineated by divine legislation. However, any attempt to do so is labelled intolerance.

There is no doubt that upright Muslim educators have encountered pivotal events during the past 400 years, which significantly shaped the emergence of some upright reformers. Throughout this period, they have observed a deliberate attempt – by French neocolonialists to maintain the agenda of severing the ties of Muslim identity by systematically erasing its religious and cultural heritage that aligns with Islamic tenets, all orchestrated through an educational framework tailored to serve un-Islamic goals. Consequently, those who have been educated under this paradigm have experienced a troubling stagnation and a notable cultural decline, particularly in the fields of education and pedagogy. This decline stands in stark contrast to a rich educational discourse rooted in sound beliefs and the enduring principles of Shariah.

However, the scholars of Ahlus Sunnah, throughout the ages, have consistently acknowledged the imperative of countering the detrimental effects of this phenomenon and the spread of un-Islamic ideas. They have championed educational reform and the refinement of pedagogical practices, alongside advocating for both religious and societal transformation. Drawing upon the rich tapestry of Islamic intellectual heritage, these scholars have utilised the Islamic educational legacy as a beacon for future advancement. Their efforts have borne remarkable fruit, exemplified by figures such as Shaikh Al-Islam, Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhab, may Allah have mercy upon him, who called for a revival of authentic beliefs and the methodology of the righteous predecessors—principles that once served as the bedrock of strength and progress. Furthermore, the role of the family in this educational paradigm is paramount, wielding the authority and legitimacy to shape the psychological, emotional, and cognitive development of the child. The child is viewed as the cornerstone of the Islamic civilizational endeavor, grounded in emotional values that reflect sound beliefs, adherence to the Sunnah, intellectual freedom within the parameters of the infallible Shariah, and a profound sense of responsibility. These values were vital in molding our social consciousness and safeguarding our Islamic identity, principles, and sacred tenets. Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, stated:

The rectification of every nation and its (upright) ascendancy is tied to the soundness of its creed and views; therefore, due to this reason, the Message of the Prophets, peace be upon them, was convyed to rectify the creed [of the people]. Thus, the first thing every Messenger said to his people [was]: [ٱعۡبُدُواْ ٱللَّهَ مَا لَكُم مِّنۡ إِلَـٰهٍ غَيۡرُهُ- Worship Allah! You have no other Ilah (God) but Him. (La ilaha ill-Allah: none has the right to be worshipped but Allah)]. [Surah Al-A’raaf’ Aayah 59]

[وَلَقَدۡ بَعَثۡنَا فِى ڪُلِّ أُمَّةٍ۬ رَّسُولاً أَنِ ٱعۡبُدُواْ ٱللَّهَ وَٱجۡتَنِبُواْ ٱلطَّـٰغُوتَ‌ۖ – 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)]”. [Surah An-Nahl’ Aayah 36]

And this is because Allah [Glorified be He and free is He from all Imperfections] created the Khalq [i.e. Jinn and Mankind] to worship Him alone and not to associate anything as a partner with Him, just as [Allah (The Most High)] said: [وَمَا خَلَقۡتُ ٱلۡجِنَّ وَٱلۡإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعۡبُدُونِ -And I (Allah) created not the jinns and humans except they should worship Me (Alone)]. [Adh-Dhaariyaat. 56] [5]

Consequently, the absence of a clearly articulated educational policy rooted in the principles of the righteous predecessors precludes any possibility of change, advancement, or societal well-being. There is, therefore, a persistent demand for a comprehensive reform of the education system, emphasizing the need to adapt to contemporary developments while consistently implementing measures that uphold sound beliefs and fidelity to the authentic Sunnah. This does not imply a rejection of modern methods aimed at improving performance and ensuring convenience.

In conclusion, it is imperative to recognize that the guidance of a principled educator is essential for achieving a harmonious agreement on the development of cohesive reform initiatives, firmly anchored in an authentic Islamic paradigm. This approach must also be adaptable enough to address the nuanced, contemporary challenges posed by non-Islamic cultural influences, all while embracing the advantages offered by scientific and technological progress. Neglecting the Islamic sciences in favour of the worldly sciences will not liberate us from the intellectual domination that persists in numerous Muslim regions. As Imam As-Sadi, may Allah’s mercy be upon him, wisely articulated:

Indeed, it is impossible to rectify the souls and acquire virtue solely through the worldly sciences. Experience and clearly witnessed circumstances are the greatest proofs regarding this affair, because despite its advancement and vastness it has been unable to nurture and rectify the souls [i.e. upon excellent traits, manners, dealings, characteristics, sound creed etc] which are the determinants of [sound] rectification and success. What the Religion of Islaam propagates is that which is entrusted with this rectification; it is what will guide the thoughts towards the truthful and authentic sources of knowledge, guide the actions of the people towards good and prevent them from evil. Islam is the rectifier of the creeds and manners- the thing that cultivates the thoughts , urges towards virtuousness and prevents from depravity. The essence of that which the religion calls to – regarding belief in the Unseen, which includes belief in Allaah and that which He possesses of Names, Attributes and Actions of perfection; belief in Angels, belief in recompense for one’s good and bad deeds in this life and the next, which cannot be known except through the Messengers, is what acquaints a person with the fact that rectification – in reality – is not possible through other than sound belief and the religion of Islaam.

Therefore, even if the worldly sciences rectify (some) matters based upon that which people know in detail, it will still not be equal to the knowledge of the Messengers. It will neither reach that which is reached through the knowledge of the Messengers nor can it influence the souls in the manner in which the knowledge of the Messengers has done; for indeed the souls do not voluntarily submit except through belief in Allaah, belief in His Angels, belief in His Books, belief in His Messengers and belief in the hereafter. And without this, voluntary submission is impossible, as is well known regarding human nature. [6]

He also said: Industrialisation and modern inventions: Everyone has participated in it – the righteous, the wicked, the believer and the disbeliever. As for religion and [virtuous] manners, then indeed -in this era-, it has greatly declined. So, when this industrial advancement is devoid of religion and Iman, it became a great harm from two angles: Firstly: It beguiled many people, who – due of their ignorance – think that worldly advancement is proof to show that its people are more worthy of achieving every good than others. They are clearly misguided, for indeed a person might be from the most skillful in affairs related to the material world, whilst he is one of the most ignorant people in affairs related to the deen, virtuous manners and the [other] beneficial affairs in this life and the next. Secondly: When these inventions are devoid of Deen, its mercy and wisdom, it becomes a great disaster for humankind due to the wars that resulted from them, killing, destruction and other affairs related to it. Its regulators [or overseers] and scholars are unable to laydown – for humankind -a stable, just and good life, rather they have not ceased moving from one misrable state to another. This is inevitable and the continuous state of affairs shows that [to be the case]. Therefore all good is found in the sound religion and all evil is found in rejecting and willfully denying [Allah, His Messengers, His Laws, Guidance, Commands, Prohibitions etc] [7]

The conscientious educator is acutely aware that the cultural setbacks experienced by certain Muslim nations have caused numerous young Muslim teachers to stray from the robust principles that could restore the Islamic educational framework to its illustrious past. While it is frequently asserted that colonialism has unleashed a multitude of ills, the teacher who remains in denial must recognize that the true challenge lies in the deviation from the teachings of the righteous predecessors. As Imam Malik, may Allah bestow His mercy upon him, wisely articulated: “The latter part of this Ummah [i.e. those who will come after the pious predecessors] will not be rectified except by way of that which rectified it’s earlier part.’’  [8]

Nevertheless, in addition to the ongoing appeal for a revival of the principles established by the righteous predecessors in all facets of life, and despite the resistance encountered from both some non-Muslims and uninformed Muslims, reformers will arise every century. The Prophet – peace and blessings be upon him- said, “Allah will raise for this Ummah at the end of every hundred years the one who will revive its religion for it”. [9]

“Allah will raise for this Ummah”– Meaning, the Ummah Al-Ijaabah (the Muslims).

“At the end of every hundred years”– Meaning, at the end of every hundred years when there is little knowledge of the Shariah and the authentic Prophetic Sunnah, while ignorance and innovation in religious matters is rife.

“One who will revive its religion for it”– Meaning, a scholar who is alive and well known. He will clarify the authentic Prophetic Sunnah and distinguish it from Bidah. knowledge will be abundant again and its adherents will be aided, and the proponents of Bidah will be overcome and degraded. This reviver is none else but a scholar who has a sound understanding of the religious sciences that deal with acts of worship, the underlying wisdom of the religion, and the texts that deal with beliefs of the heart. [10]

And Allah knows best

—————————————

Footnote a:

Living With non-Muslims in the West with fine conduct- By Shaikh Abu Khadeejah [may Allaah preserve him]:

Living With Non-Muslims In The West: With Fine Conduct

Informing The Authorities of Terrorist Plots – By Shaikh Abu Khadeejah [may Allaah preserve him]:

Informing the Authorities of Terrorist Plots—By Ustaadh Abu Khadeejah (may Allaah preserve him)

Al-Allaamah Salih Aal Ash-Shaikh: Shariah Calls for Protection of Life and Property
http://www.shariah.ws/articles/csuslgk-shaikh-salih-aal-ash-shaikh-shariah-calls-for-protection-of-life-and-property.cfm

Al-Allaamah Salih Al-Fawzan: The Islamic Shariah Provides Security for Muslims and Non-Muslims and Those Who Violate It Are Kharijites Who Are to Be Fought and Severely Punished

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

The Islamic Shariah on the Foundation of Muslim Relations With Non-Muslims Who Do Not Show Aggression and Hostility

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

Islam and the Muslims Are Free and Innocent of the Kharijite Extremists and the Islamic Shariah Has Come With a Command to Fight Them

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

The Prophet of Islam would not kill diplomats, ambassadors, emissaries or foreign delegations even if they were sent by the worst of his enemies

The Prophet of Islam would not kill diplomats, ambassadors, emissaries or foreign delegations even if they were sent by the worst of his enemies.

[1] Excerpt from ‘Al-Haqeeqatus Shar’iyyah Fee Tafseeril Qur’aan Al-A’dheem Was-Sunnatin Nabawiyyah’ page 17

[2] An Excerpt from Al-Bayan Li-Akhta’i Ba’dil Kuttaab. 2/177-180

[3] An Excerpt From Tafseer As-Sadi

[4] خطة لويس التاسع – page 6

[5] An Excerpt from ‘Muhaadaraat Fil Aqeedah Wad-Da’wah’ 1/7

[6] Al-Adillah Al-Qawaati Wal-Baraaheen Fee Ibtaalil Usoolil Mulhideen 49-50

[7] Al-Adilladul Qawaati Wal Baraaheen Fee Ibtaalil Usoolil Mulhideen. 45-46]

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

[9] Saheeh Sunan Abee Dawud. Hadith Number 4291.

[10] An Excerpt from Awnul Ma’bood Sharh Sunan Abee Daawud. 11/259-260

 

[3] The major catalysts behind the Ummah’s weakness and deterioration- By Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Shirk, Sin, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

Arabic text: weakness_part3

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz – may Allah have mercy upon him- continued…..

When we know the disease, which is evident and apparent, just as we know the prevalence of ignorance, the lack of pursuit of knowledge and understanding of religion, turning away from the knowledge of the Shariah, the contentment with worldly sciences that merely serve as qualifications for employment, albeit feeble and inadequate sciences that only equip individuals for work within their country and state, rather than pursuing knowledge that would render us self-sufficient and not reliant on the enemies and failing to fulfil the command of Allah and avoid His displeasure, then it becomes obligatory to address the disease through the knowledge of the Shariah. This is because only a few people pay attention to the beneficial knowledge conveyed by the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and only a few people prepare against the enemies so that the people and the state can attain independence from them. The disease is evident and apparent, encompassing several remedies for the issues that have emerged, such as ignorance, turning away from the religion, and being heedless until the fear of death arose, and worldly given precedence and (became) more desirable, Jihad became a frightening specter appealing to only a few people, the objective shifted from upholding the word of Allah to pursuing nationalism, patriotism, or other objectives unrelated to the elevation of Allah’s word, instead of manifesting one’s religion and eradicating anything that opposes it.

Apart from what Allah wills (to remain in terms of strength, adherence to the religion, etc), the preparation is feeble or non-existent, and the objectives are misguided. Thus, the path to success and advancement in confronting the enemies, the absence of weakness, the path to prosperity and success, reaching high positions and noble aspirations, and prevailing over enemies, all lies in seeking beneficial knowledge, and pursuing understanding in the religion, prioritising Allah’s pleasure over His wrath, fulfilling obligations, avoiding prohibitions, sincerely repenting for past sins and shortcomings, complete cooperation between the state and the people in obeying Allah and His Messenger, refraining from what is forbidden, and preparing oneself as Allah says:

وَأَعِدُّوا لَهُمْ مَا اسْتَطَعْتُمْ مِنْ قُوَّةٍ

“And prepare against them whatever you are able of power” [Al-Anfal 60]

There must be physical and material preparation, as well as preparation in all other aspects so that we can depend on what Allah has bestowed upon us rather than what our enemies possess. It is very difficult to confront our enemies with what they possess. And if the enemy prevents you from acquiring weapons, what will you fight with, (especially when) coupled with weak insight and lack of knowledge? Therefore, it is crucial to prepare to the best of our abilities, and it would be enough as long as Muslims strive not to rely on their enemies, engage in Jihad against them, and safeguard their nations, with the intention of establishing Allah’s command and seeking the hereafter as much as possible. This is because Allah says:

وَأَعِدُّوا لَهُمْ مَا اسْتَطَعْتُمْ مِنْ قُوَّةٍ

“And prepare against them whatever you are able of power”.

Allah did did not say “And prepare against them like their power” because this may not be possible.
If the Muslims are truthful, unite, and prepare as much as they can against their enemies, and support the religion ordained by Allah, then Allah will help and grant them victory, exalted be He. He will place them in front of their enemies and above their enemies, not beneath them. Allah says, and He is truthful in His words and promises:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِن تَنصُرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ يَنصُرْكُمْ وَيُثَبِّتْ أَقْدَامَكُمْ

O you who believe, if you aid (the cause of) Allāh, He will aid you (against your enemy) and make your foothold firm (upon faith and upon the straight path and against your enemy). https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/search/47_7

Allah is not powerless or in need of people, but He tests His righteous servants with the wicked, to make known between the truthful and the liars, the ones who strive in His path and others, otherwise, He is capable of supporting His allies and destroying His enemies without war, without the need for Jihad, preparation, and other means, as He says:

ذَلِكَ وَلَوْ يَشَاءُ اللَّهُ لانْتَصَرَ مِنْهُمْ وَلَكِنْ لِيَبْلُوَ بَعْضَكُمْ بِبَعْضٍ

That (is what you are commanded) and if Allāh had so willed, He could have punished (and destroyed) them (without you). But (He commanded you to fight against them) in order to test some of you with others. https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/verse/47/4

In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah says regarding the story of the battle of Badr:

[وَمَا جَعَلَهُ اللَّهُ إِلا بُشْرَى وَلِتَطْمَئِنَّ بِهِ قُلُوبُكُمْ – Allah made it only as glad tidings, and that your hearts be at rest therewith. [Al-Anfal. 10]

This means that He provided them with reinforcements from the angels. Allah says:

 وَمَا ٱلنَّصْرُ إِلَّا مِنْ عِندِ ٱللَّهِ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَزِيزٌ حَكِيمٌ

And there is no victory except from Allah. Verily, Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

Similarly, in a verse from Surah Al-Imran, Allah says:

وَمَا جَعَلَهُ ٱللَّهُ إِلَّا بُشْرَىٰ لَكُمْ وَلِتَطْمَئِنَّ قُلُوبُكُم بِهِۦ وَمَا ٱلنَّصْرُ إِلَّا مِنْ عِندِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلْعَزِيزِ ٱلْحَكِيمِ

Allah made it not but as a message of good news for you and as an assurance to your hearts. And there is no victory except from Allah, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. [Aal Imran. 126]

Therefore, victory is from Him, the Almighty and Wise, but He, glorified be He, sends reinforcements through the angels, the provision of weapons, wealth, and a large number of troops are all reasons for victory, good tidings, and reassurance. However, victory is not solely dependent on these factors. Allah, glorified be He, says:

كَمْ مِنْ فِئَةٍ قَلِيلَةٍ غَلَبَتْ فِئَةً كَثِيرَةً بِإِذْنِ اللَّهِ وَاللَّهُ مَعَ الصَّابِرِينَ

“How often a small group overcame a mighty host by Allah’s Leave?” And Allah is with As-Sabirin (the patient ones, etc.). [Al-Baqarah. 249]

At the Battle of Badr, they were three hundred and thirteen, with little weaponry and riding animals. It is well-known that they possessed seventy camels, which they took turns riding. Their arsenal was meagre, with only two horses among them. On the other hand, the disbelievers’ army numbered around a thousand, equipped with immense power and numerous weapons. However, when Allah desired their defeat, He vanquished them, rendering their strength and soldiers useless. Despite their feeble forces, Allah defeated the thousand with the three hundred and thirteen. Through the facilitation, victory, and support of Allah, they emerged victorious, capturing seventy disbelievers and eliminating seventy others, while the remaining disbelievers were defeated. All of this is from Allah’s signs and His aid. On the day of the Confederates, the disbelievers embarked upon a military expedition against the city of Madina with ten thousand fighters from various Arab tribes including the Quraysh and others. They besieged the city and the Prophet dug the trench, which was one of the reasons for the decisive victory. They stayed for a while besieging the city, and then Allah removed them without any fighting. He instilled fear in their hearts and unleashed winds and hosts upon them until they had no choice but to retreat defeated to their lands. All of this was from Allah’s aid and assistance, Glorified and Exalted is He. Then they were abandoned and did not attack the Prophet in Madina, rather he attacked them on the day of Hudaybiyyah, and the famous treaty was concluded. Then he attacked them in the eighth year in Ramadan and Allah opened Makkah for him. After that, people entered into the religion in large numbers.

The intended message is that Allah, the Exalted, holds the key to victory and serves as the protector of His followers. However, Allah, the Exalted, has prescribed certain means to attain victory, with the most significant being obedience to Allah and His Messenger. A crucial aspect of this obedience is that you acquire knowledge and understanding of the religion so that you are acquainted with Allah’s Judgement and His Shariah in the context of Jihad against your enemy, in preparing yourself for your enemy, in refraining from engaging in what Allah has prohibited, in fulfilling the obligations set by Allah, in adhering to the boundaries established by Allah, in collaborating with fellow Muslims, in offering valuable contributions from oneself and one’s wealth in the cause of Allah, and in supporting the religion ordained by Allah and elevating His word, and not merely (doing so) for a specific country or nationality.

This is the way and the path to victory over the enemies for the leader, the subjects, the elder, and the youth, through religious education and understanding of the religion ordained by Allah. Then, acting accordingly and abandoning what we are doing that Allah has forbidden. Allah says:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ لا يُغَيِّرُ مَا بِقَوْمٍ حَتَّى يُغَيِّرُوا مَا بِأَنْفُسِهِمْ

“Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves” [Ar-Ra’d: 11]

Therefore, whoever wants victory, support, and the elevation of Allah’s word must change what they are doing in terms of sins and disobedience that is in opposition to Allah’s command. Your Lord, Exalted and glorified be He, says:

وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنْكُمْ وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ لَيَسْتَخْلِفَنَّهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ كَمَا اسْتَخْلَفَ الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ وَلَيُمَكِّنَنَّ لَهُمْ دِينَهُمُ الَّذِي ارْتَضَى لَهُمْ وَلَيُبَدِّلَنَّهُمْ مِنْ بَعْدِ خَوْفِهِمْ أَمْنًا يَعْبُدُونَنِي لا يُشْرِكُونَ بِي شَيْئًا

Allah has promised those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practice their religion, that which He has chosen for them (i.e. Islam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear (provided) they (believers) worship Me and do not associate anything (in worship) with Me. But whoever disbelieved after this, they are the Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah). [An-Nur. 55]
Allah did not say: “Allah has promised those who are affiliated with Quraysh or Arabs or those who build palaces and extract petroleum… etc., but rather linked the promise to sincere faith and righteous deeds whether they are Arabs or non-Arabs.

These are the factors for victory and succession on earth, not Arabism or non-Arabism, but rather sincere faith in Allah and His Messenger and righteous deeds. This is the reason, the condition, and the axis around which it revolves. Whoever adheres to it will have empowerment, succession on earth, and victory over enemies. Whoever deviates from that is not guaranteed victory, safety, or honour; rather, a disbeliever may triumph over another disbeliever, a criminal over another criminal, or a hypocrite over another hypocrite. However, the guaranteed victory promised by Allah to His believing servants over their enemies is only achieved through the conditions set by Him, and the qualities He has clarified, which are sincere faith and righteous deeds. This is how the religion of Allah is victorious, as He has says:

وَلَيَنْصُرَنَّ اللَّهُ مَنْ يَنْصُرُهُ إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَقَوِيٌّ عَزِيزٌ
الَّذِينَ إِنْ مَكَّنَّاهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ أَقَامُوا الصَّلاةَ وَآتَوُا الزَّكَاةَ وَأَمَرُوا بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَنَهَوْا عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ

Verily, Allah will help those who help His (Cause). Truly, Allah is All-Strong, All-Mighty. Those (Muslim rulers) who, if We give them power in the land, (they) order for Iqamat-as-Salat. [i.e. to perform the five compulsory congregational Salat (prayers) (the males in mosques)], to pay the Zakat and they enjoin Al-Ma’ruf (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do), and forbid Al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism and all that Islam has forbidden) [i.e. they make the Quran as the law of their country in all the spheres of life]. And with Allah rests the end of (all) matters (of creatures). [Al-Hajj. 40-41]

This is the victory of the religion ordained by Allah. Whoever enjoins what is good and forbids what is evil has indeed achieved the victory of the religion ordained by Allah. This includes fulfilling the obligations set by Allah and abstaining from what Allah has prohibited. And Allah, the Most High, says:

كُنْتُمْ خَيْرَ أُمَّةٍ أُخْرِجَتْ لِلنَّاسِ تَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَتَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ وَتُؤْمِنُونَ بِاللَّهِ

You [true believers in Islamic Monotheism, and real followers of Prophet Muhammad SAW and his Sunnah (legal ways, etc.)] are the best of peoples ever raised up for mankind; you enjoin Al-Ma’ruf (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam has ordained) and forbid Al-Munkar (polytheism, disbelief, and all that Islam has forbidden), and you believe in Allah. [Aal Imran 110]

And He, Glorified be He, says:

وَلْتَكُنْ مِنْكُمْ أُمَّةٌ يَدْعُونَ إِلَى الْخَيْرِ وَيَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ وَأُولَئِكَ هُمُ الْمُفْلِحُونَ

Let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good (Islam), enjoining Al-Ma’ruf (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do) and forbidding Al-Munkar (polytheism and disbelief and all that Islam has forbidden). And it is they who are the successful. [Aal Imran 104]

The righteous who are to receive success, support, and a praiseworthy outcome are those who do good deeds, enjoin what is good, forbid what is evil, establish prayer, give charity, and aid Allah’s cause. They are the ones mentioned in the verse:

وَكَانَ حَقًّا عَلَيْنَا نَصْرُ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ

“And (as for) the believers it was incumbent upon Us to help (them). [Ar-Rum. 47]

The cure is clear and the treatment is evident, but where are those who seek the cure? Where are those who seek the treatment? And where are those who apply it?!

This is the obligation of the rulers, the scholars, and the influential and important personalities everywhere, and in all Islamic countries if they are sincere in calling to Islam; by establishing prayer, giving zakat, preserving that, enjoining good, forbidding evil, pursuing understanding in the religion, reforming curricula in schools at all levels, and also cooperating in unity against enemies and uniting with sincerity to Allah in work and truthfulness in it, and intending the Hereafter. By doing so, they deserve victory from Allah and His support, as our righteous predecessors did, which is not hidden from the people of knowledge. Just yesterday, when the reviver of the signposts of Islam in the twelfth century witnessed the great ignorance, the nullification of rulings of the Shariah, the abundance of ignorance in the peninsula and elsewhere, the scarcity of callers to Allah, and the division of the people of this peninsula into small states without guidance and knowledge, he believed (or saw) that it was his duty to call people to Allah, to warn them of the dangers they faced, and to strive to unite them on the truth under one leader who would establish the command of Allah among them. So, he diligently worked towards this goal, calling people to Allah, contacting rulers, writing letters about pure Islamic monotheism and the implementation of Allah’s law, and the abandonment of polytheism. He did not cease being patient and steadfast in his mission, seeking reward from Allah after studying and gaining knowledge of religion from scholars. He then focused on calling people to Allah and Jihad, starting in Huraymila, then Al-Aynah, before moving to Diriyah where he pledged allegiance to Muhammad Bin Saud for jihad and establishing the command of Allah. They all believed in this cause, united, and fought against their weaknesses until Allah granted them victory. They proclaimed pure Islamic monotheism, called people to truth and guidance, and implemented Allah’s law among His servants. Due to their sincerity, reliance on Allah, and good intentions, Allah supported and aided them, and their stories are known to many with even the slightest insight.

Then, after the period of stagnation and division that occurred, King Abdulaziz, may Allah have mercy on him, emerged and took charge of this matter with diligence and zeal. He sought the help of Allah and then turned to the people of knowledge, faith, and insight. Allah supported and aided him, and united for him the word of the Muslims in this peninsula on one word, upon judging by Allah’s Shariah and Jihad in the cause of Allah, until its affair was straightened, thus this peninsula (from its north to its south, east, and west) united on truth and guidance with the means of truthfulness, Jihad, and elevation of the word of Allah – the Exalted. The point is that there are many examples of that. Similarly, Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi’s story is well-known, as is that of Mahmud Zanki. The point is that our righteous predecessors, due to being truthful in their jihad during the time of their Prophet and afterward, Allah honoured them and elevated their status. They conquered the two great kingdoms – the Persian and the Roman Kingdom in the Levant and its surroundings. Then, those who followed them in the religion ordained by Allah, Allah granted them victory due to their sincerity and unity in upholding the word of Allah. Subsequently, at various times, individuals emerged with truthfulness and what they possessed of sincerity, so Allah supported and helped them against their enemies according to their level of sincerity, striving, and sacrifice.

The Almighty, Allah, is the one who granted victory to the early and later believers. He is the one who supports those who aid His cause and forsakes those who forsake Him, as Allah says:

أَلَيْسَ اللَّهُ بِكَافٍ عَبْدَهُ

“Is not Allah sufficient for His Servant?” [Az-Zumar: 36]

And He, glorified be He, says:

وَإِنْ تَصْبِرُوا وَتَتَّقُوا لا يَضُرُّكُمْ كَيْدُهُمْ شَيْئًا

“And if you are patient and fear Allah, their plot will not harm you at all.” [Aal-Imran. 120]

And the Almighty says:
كَمْ مِنْ فِئَةٍ قَلِيلَةٍ غَلَبَتْ فِئَةً كَثِيرَةً بِإِذْنِ اللَّهِ وَاللَّهُ مَعَ الصَّابِرِينَ

“How often a small group overcame a mighty host by Allah’s Leave?” And Allah is with As-Sabirin (the patient ones, etc.). [Al-Baqarah: 249]

However, the calamity is due to our own doings as Allah -The Almighty says:

وَمَا أَصَابَكُمْ مِنْ مُصِيبَةٍ فَبِمَا كَسَبَتْ أَيْدِيكُمْ وَيَعْفُو عَنْ كَثِيرٍ

“And whatever misfortune befalls you, it is because of what your hands have earned. And He pardons much.” [Ash-Shurah 30].

The calamity occurred from the Muslims’ weakness, laziness, ignorance, seeking immediate gains, love of the worldly life (at the expense of one’s religious well-being), fear of death, neglecting Allah’s commands, forsaking the prayers, following desires, prioritising worldly life, engaging in forbidden acts, listening to obscene songs, and corrupters of the hearts and morals… and so on. Allah, allowed the Muslims to be overcome by their enemies through this and similar circumstances, as He says:

وَإِذَا أَرَدْنَا أَنْ نُهْلِكَ قَرْيَةً أَمَرْنَا مُتْرَفِيهَا فَفَسَقُوا فِيهَا فَحَقَّ عَلَيْهَا الْقَوْلُ فَدَمَّرْنَاهَا تَدْمِيرًا

And when We decide to destroy a town (population), We (first) send a definite order (to obey Allah and be righteous) to those among them [or We (first) increase in number those of its population] who are given the good things of this life. Then, they transgress therein, and thus the word (of torment) is justified against it (them). Then We destroy it with complete destruction. [Al-Israa. 16]
We ask Allah- The Almighty- to favour us and all Muslims and their leaders with repentance and adherence to His commandments, cooperation in righteousness and piety, and preparation against our enemies with the necessary things, the pursuit of understanding in the religion, patience in following what is pleasing to Him and distance from His displeasure. We also ask Him, the Exalted, to protect us all from all the pitfalls of trials and tribulations, and the causes of His wrath, and to support the religion He has ordained and elevate His word; frustrate His enemies and unite the Muslims upon truth and guidance. May He rectify the affairs of our leaders and grant them insight. Truly, He is All-Hearer, Ever Near (to all things by His perfect knowledge).

May Allah send salutations (of peace and blessings upon) our master Muhammad, his family, and companions.

The End

Source: Majmoo Fataawaa Wa Maqaalaat Shaikh Ibn Baz 5/101

We welcome your feedback to enhance this translation.

I ask Allah to bless my beloved Salafi brother, bosom buddy, and colleague Ustaadh Abu Tasneem Mushaf Al-Banghali for recommending the translation of this article.

Read the article by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah transmitted from Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan:

Salafi Shaikh Fawzaan on Jihad in our times and the guidelines of Jihad according to Islam

[2] The major catalysts behind the Ummah’s weakness and deterioration- By Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz

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

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

Arabic text: weakness_part2

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz [may Allah have mercy upon him] continued….

(This reformation based on knowledge) also involves the presence of industry in Muslim nations, readiness, and the strength that each person can muster up through all means so that he does not need his enemy and the enemy is aware of their level of readiness and preparation, which will make the enemy fearful and ensure that he treats him fairly, upholds his rights and remain in his rightful place. (Also) to be physically ready and not overindulge in (luxuries) that detract from fighting the enemy and weaken one’s strength and heart, so that one is strengthened for Jihad.

The pursuit of understanding in the religion also offers sufficient information (or knowledge) about the afterlife, paradise, its bliss, palaces, and the immense goodness within it; and about the hell fire, its torment, punishments, and the various types of suffering it entails, thus it instils vigour in hearts to seek the hereafter, detachment from worldly desires, preparation for the enemy, and eagerness for Jihad and martyrdom in Allah’s path. Similarly, the pursuit of understanding in the religion gives complete zeal to society and leaders in everything pleasing and beloved to Allah, while steering clear of anything that may incur His anger. It gives the hearts a strong yearning for unity with other Muslims, collaboration against the enemy, the enforcement of Allah’s command, judging by His law, and abiding by the limits he has ordained. Consequently, arises cooperation upon all that is beloved to Allah and His servants. This is because beneficial knowledge prompts action, solidarity, mutual advice, and collaboration for goodness. It also gives them complete eagerness to fulfil obligations, shun prohibitions, yearn for the Hereafter, and not fear death in the pursuit of truth, in Jihad for the sake of Allah, in combatting the enemy, and receiving one’s rights from him.

With knowledge, souls, and wealth become insignificant in seeking Allah’s pleasure and elevating the word of Allah, liberating Muslims from the clutches of their enemies, delivering them from various types of afflictions, rescuing the oppressed from the hands of their enemies, preserving the existence of the Muslims and their assets, so that their countries and rights do not diminish. However, if ignorance prevails, all these things, the rights, the goodness, information (related to different sciences and subject matters), the sacrifices, and the insignificance given to lives and wealth in the path truth will be lost, as the poet said:

ما يبلغ الأعداء من جـاهل
ما يبلغ الجاهل من نفسه

“What the enemies come to know about the ignorant is not known to the ignorant person about himself”.

Ignorance is a chronic disease that kills the hearts and perceptions, weakens bodies and strength, and make its people resemble animals that only care about the desires of their stomachs, private parts and bellies. Anything beyond that is just a continuation of their desire for houses and clothing. The ignorant person weakens his heart and perceptions, and his insight is diminished. He has no aspirations or desires beyond his immediate desires and needs. It is narrated in a hadith that was reported by Ahmad and others with a good chain from Thawban, may Allah be pleased with him, that the Prophet- peace and blessings of Allah be upon him – said: “The nations are about to gather against you, just as diners gather on a plate”. It was said: “O Allah’s Messenger! Would be because of our small number?” He said: “No, but you are like the foam of the flood. The awe the enemies had for you will be removed from their hearts and Wahn is placed in your hearts.” They said: “O Allah’s Messenger! What is Wahn?” He said: “Love of the worldly life and hatred of death.”

The “Wahn” highlighted in the hadith stems from the ignorance through which they have become like the foam of a flood. They do not possess insight into what is obligated to them because of this ignorance through which they have reached this state. They have been overcome by “Wahn” and it has settled in their hearts, so they are unable to proceed towards higher stations, engage in Jihad for the sake of Allah, and elevate His word. That is because their love for the worldly life and its desires, such as food, drink, clothing, housing, and other things have hindered them from seeking high goals and from Jihad in the path of Allah, fearing that these things will escape them.

Similarly, their stinginess has driven them to only spend wealth on these desires, and this ignorance has deprived them of the righteous and influential leadership that is solely concerned with elevating the word of Allah, participating in Jihad for the sake of Allah, establishing the supremacy of the Muslims, protecting them from their enemies, preparing in every way and by every means to preserve the religion of the Muslims, protect and elevate it, as well as safeguarding the lands of the Muslims, and their lives and offspring from their enemies.

The harms of ignorance are great and its ramifications are catastrophic, as demonstrated by the Prophet’s depiction of the Muslims’ humiliation in front of their enemies as being like the foam of a flood; and that the reason for this is due to the removal of the awe from the hearts of the enemies towards them: meaning that neither do their enemies fear nor value them due to what they know regarding their ignorance, the pursuit of worldly things and attachment to them. The enemy maximizes strength, activity, high ambition, and great sacrifice for the sake of its principle; so when the enemy sees that this potential opponent does not have this ambition, but rather is concerned with his desires and immediate share of worldly things, he gives him some of that until he weakens his strength and distracts him from thinking about fighting him due to preoccupation with the love of the worldly life and indulging in desires.

“Wahn” has afflicted the hearts, except for those whom Allah wills (to be unaffected). It has prevailed over most of them, except for the few whom your Lord has shown mercy upon. They have mostly shown weakness in the face of their enemies, and their enemies no longer fear them. Their enemies no longer consider them important or treat them fairly, as they are aware of their weakness, lack of strength, protective jealousy, and patience for battle. Furthermore, they lack the support and preparation needed for such situations. Consequently, the enemy belittles them, disregards them, and treats them as slaves or subjects. Except for those whom your Lord has shown mercy upon, they are engrossed in the love of worldly life and avoid anything that may lead to death. They are eager to fulfil their desires by any means necessary, cautious of death and seek treatment and medication for every small and big ailment out of fear of death. They are also careful to avoid anything that may cause death or jeopardize their satisfaction with these desires.

Whoever aspires for the hereafter, to elevate the word of Allah and Jihad for the sake of Allah, their state should not be like this. In the events that unfolded during the time of our pious predecessors, under the leadership of our Prophet, peace be upon him, and his companions, and those who followed their path thereafter, in their acts of Jihad, preparations, and endurance of fatigue and harm, they serve as examples and reminders for us with regards to elevating the word of Allah, Jihad for His sake, save our lands and our people from the hands of our enemies, with patience, forbearance, striving, preferring the hereafter, giving wealth and oneself for Jihad for the sake of Allah, training in Jihad and fighting, eagerness for toughness, patience, and forbearance, always keeping the hereafter in mind, giving concern to everything that would aid in Jihad against the enemies, enduring it with patience, cooperating and uniting in order to achieve the goal of elevating the word of Allah and saving the Muslims from the plots of their enemies.

To be continued InShaAllah

Source: Majmoo Fataawaa Wa Maqaalaat Shaikh Ibn Baz 5/101

We welcome your feedback to enhance this translation.

I ask Allah to bless my beloved Salafi brother, bosom buddy, and colleague Ustaadh Abu Tasneem Mushaf Al-Banghali for recommending the translation of this article.

Read article by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah transmitted from Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan:
https://abukhadeejah.com/salafi-shaikh-fawzaan-on-jihaad-in-our-times-and-the-guidelines-of-jihaad-according-to-islam/

 

 

[1] The major catalysts behind the Ummah’s weakness and deterioration- By Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

Arabic text: weakness_part1

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated:

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, the Lord of the entire existence, and the (commendable final) outcome is for the righteous. May peace and blessings be bestowed on His servant and messenger – the one He chose, declared trustworthy, and entrusted with His divine message, and the most excellent among His creations, our Prophet, leader, and master, Muhammad, the son of Abdullah, the son of Abdul-Muttalib. May peace and blessings be upon his family (the believers among them), all his companions (without any exceptions), and all those who follow his path and are guided by his guidance until the end of time. To proceed:

Indeed, Muslim intellectuals, individuals with a strong sense of protective jealousy for Islam, and those who deeply ponder over the well-being of the Muslim Ummah have expressed great concern about the current state of Muslims and the factors that have contributed to it. This issue has consumed their thoughts, prompting them to reflect extensively on the causes of Muslim weakness, trailing behind their adversaries, their differing and lack of unity, and the factors that have allowed their enemies to overcome them until they took some of their lands. After acquaintance with clear reasons, they also directed their attention toward identifying the solutions for these causes that led to the regress and weakness, which are also well known. However, it is essential to spread and clarify this information, as describing the disease and its treatment is one of the greatest factors in attaining a cure and well-being. Indeed, it is appropriate for a patient to take charge of administering the medication for their illness when they are aware of both the nature of the disease and its treatment. This is the nature of a rational human being who loves (or values) life and strives to be free from diseases. He pays attention to familiarising himself with the disease and its cure.

However, some people may find themselves overwhelmed by the illness to the extent that they become pleased with it and derive satisfaction from it, eventually losing sight of the reality of their situation. Consequently, they do not care about those who describe the cure for them because the disease has become a source of comfort and a habitual way of life, thus leading them to persist in their condition due to a distortion in their mental state, a lack of insight, and the overpowering influence of their base desires on their intellect, heart, and behaviours, as is the case for most people when it comes to religious cures and treatments. The majority, indeed, derive pleasure from their illnesses and evil deeds, which have weakened them, impeded their progress towards beneficial actions, and rendered them oblivious to the true nature of the disease, its repercussions, and its consequences in both this life and the hereafter. They do not seek remedy, nor do they display any enthusiasm towards it, even when it is described and explained to them, even when it is readily available, for it holds no significance to them. The cause of this lies solely in the potency of the ailment, the contentment of the soul with it, the concealment of its harm, and the absence of lofty aspirations to attain lofty objectives.

The scholars, individuals with bright thoughts, and those with profound insight and experience have clarified the state of the nations in both the present era and the past, along with the factors contributing to the weakness and the Muslims being delayed in (attaining beneficial things). They have also clarified the path of the effective remedies and the outcomes if properly utilised. The causes of weakness, setbacks, and the enemies prevailing can be traced back to a multitude of factors, with one primary factor giving rise to several others. This key factor is ignorance; ignorance concerning Allah and the religion He has prescribed, and the consequences that overwhelmed the majority, thus knowledge became scarce and ignorance prevailed. Due to this ignorance, factors, and reasons arose, such as a love of the worldly life and a fear of death (at the expense of one religious welfare), neglecting prayers and succumbing to vain desires, failing to prepare for their enemies, and contentment with receiving necessities from them; the lack of lofty aspiration in seeking after their need from lands and resources. Also, from this ignorance arose division, differences, and the absence of (sound) unity, cohesion, and cooperation.

Except what Allah willed (to remain of strength, virtue etc), weakness in the face of the enemy arose, along with delay in all matters, due to these perilous factors, their repercussions and outcomes, such as inclination towards forbidden desires, preoccupation with what hinders a person from guidance and Allah’s path, lack of preparation against the enemy in terms of industry and sufficient weapons that would frighten the enemy and help in fighting and striving against him, taking what is rightfully ours, failure to prepare physically for Jihad, not spending wealth on what is necessary to prepare against the enemy, and safeguarding against his evil, defending the religion and the homeland. As a result of this disease, emerged the eagerness to acquire worldly possessions through any path and accumulate them through any means. Every individual became concerned only with themselves and what is related to their country, even if it meant disregarding their religion or most of it.

This is the situation of the majority, and it is prevalent in the nations that ascribe to Islam at present; rather, it is correct to state that this is the reality, except that which Allah wills concerning some individuals, and those who are protected in a manner that is not entirely complete and required in all aspects (of steadfastness). This shows that the greatest cause (of this situation) is ignorance about Allah and the religion He has prescribed, as well as (ignorance about) the realities that should be acted upon and adopted, (which can be inferred from) the saying of the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] in the authentic hadith: “Whomever Allah intends good for, He gives him understanding of the religion”, along with the verses and hadiths that highlight the evil of ignorance, its evil ramifications and outcomes, and what follows from that. The Quran is replete with denunciations of ignorance and its followers, and cautions against it, as Allah – The Most High – states:

وَلَكِنَّ أَكْثَرَهُمْ يَجْهَلُونَ

“But most of them behave ignorantly”. [Al-An’am 111]

وَأَكْثَرُهُمْ لا يَعْقِلُونَ

“And most of them have no understanding”. [Al-Ma’idah 103]

And other verses that demonstrate the condemnation of being ignorant about Allah, ignorance about the religion He has ordained, and ignorance about the enemy, and what should be prepared in terms of readiness, unity, and cooperation.

These things that have arisen from ignorance have led to division, differing, inclination toward vain desires, neglect of what Allah has obligated, lack of prioritising the Hereafter, and lack of truthful affiliation with it; rather, the majority only cares about the immediate worldly life, as stated in the noble verse from Allah’s Book:

كَلا بَلْ تُحِبُّونَ الْعَاجِلَةَ
وَتَذَرُونَ الْآخِرَةَ

But (you) love the present life of this world, and leave (neglect) the Hereafter. [Al-Qiyamah 20-21]

And as Allah says:

فَأَمَّا مَنْ طَغَى
وَآثَرَ الْحَيَاةَ الدُّنْيَا
فَإِنَّ الْجَحِيمَ هِيَ الْمَأْوَى

Then as for he who transgressed, and preferred the life of the world (over working for the hereafter), then indeed, Hellfire will be the abode (for him). [An-Nazi’at 37-39] etc

Except what Allah wills (to remain of virtue), these debacles and evil ramifications, such as the love of worldly life and the hatred of death (at the expense of one’s religious wellbeing), inclination toward vain desires, neglecting obligations and the prayers, and failing to prepare for the enemy in all aspects, as well as division, differing, lack of cohesion and cooperation, all arise from ignorance.

Therefore, the saying of the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] that “Whomever Allah wishes good for, He grants him understanding in the religion” highlights that one of the signs of goodness and happiness for individuals, societies, and nations is to possess understanding in religion. Indeed, striving to understand the religion, to learn and gain insight into what is obligated to them concerning this life and the Hereafter are among the most important obligations. This is a sign that Allah wishes goodness for them. Part of this is the fulfilment of the obligations ordained by Allah, abstaining from what Allah has prohibited, and adhering to the boundaries set by Allah, in addition to making preparations for the enemies.

To be continued InShaAllah

Source: Majmoo Fataawaa Wa Maqaalaat Shaikh Ibn Baz 5/101

We welcome your feedback to enhance this translation.

Click here for Arabic text:

weakness_part1

I ask Allah to bless my beloved Salafi brother, bosom buddy, and colleague Ustaadh Abu Tasneem Mushaf Al-Banghali for recommending the translation of this article.

Read article by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah transmitted from Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan:
https://abukhadeejah.com/salafi-shaikh-fawzaan-on-jihaad-in-our-times-and-the-guidelines-of-jihaad-according-to-islam/

As time passes, actions will validate the claims of everyone who transmits the teachings of Al-Allamah Rabee about unity

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

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

Allah [The Exalted] says:

وَمِنَ ٱلنَّاسِ مَن يُعۡجِبُكَ قَوۡلُهُ ۥ فِى ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا وَيُشۡهِدُ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا فِى قَلۡبِهِۦ وَهُوَ أَلَدُّ ٱلۡخِصَامِ
وَإِذَا تَوَلَّىٰ سَعَىٰ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ لِيُفۡسِدَ فِيهَا وَيُهۡلِكَ ٱلۡحَرۡثَ وَٱلنَّسۡلَ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ ٱلۡفَسَادَ

وَإِذَا قِيلَ لَهُ ٱتَّقِ ٱللَّهَ أَخَذَتۡهُ ٱلۡعِزَّةُ بِٱلۡإِثۡمِ‌ۚ

And of mankind there is he whose speech may please you (O Muhammad), in this worldly life, and he calls Allah to witness as to that which is in his heart, yet he is the most quarrelsome of the opponents. And when he turns away, his effort in the land is to make mischief therein and to destroy the crops and the cattle, and Allah likes not mischief. And when it is said to him, “Fear Allah”, he is led by arrogance to (more) crime.

[وَمِنَ ٱلنَّاسِ مَن يُعۡجِبُكَ قَوۡلُهُ ۥ فِى ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا – And of mankind there is he whose speech may please you in this worldly life]: Meaning, the one who hears his speech is pleased when he speaks and he thinks that he has uttered beneficial speech.

He emphasises what he says [وَيُشۡهِدُ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا فِى قَلۡبِهِ – and he calls Allah to witness as to that which is in his heart]: Meaning, he states that Allah knows that what is in his heart agrees with what he says, even though he is lying regarding what he says because his speech contradicts his deeds. His speech would have agreed with his deeds had he been truthful, because this is the case regarding the believers- those who are not hypocrites. And due to this Allah said: [وَهُوَ أَلَدُّ ٱلۡخِصَامِ – yet he is the most quarrelsome of the opponents] (1)- Meaning, extremely quarrelsome based on falsehood. (2) When you disagree with him, you’ll find him to be the most quarrelsome, bigoted, and difficult person to deal with, as well as the ugly characteristics that result from this behaviour, which are the opposite of the manners of the believers- those who make ease their way, submit to the truth and pardon people. (3)

[وَإِذَا تَوَلَّىٰ سَعَىٰ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ لِيُفۡسِدَ فِيهَا وَيُهۡلِكَ ٱلۡحَرۡثَ وَٱلنَّسۡلَ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ ٱلۡفَسَادَ – And when he turns away, his effort in the land is to make mischief therein and to destroy the crops and the cattle, and Allah likes not mischief]: Ibn Abbas said, “When he becomes angry”, Al-Hasan said, “When he turns away from the statement he made” (4) or when he gains the upper hand and possesses authority (5), [سَعَىٰ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ لِيُفۡسِدَ فِيهَا – his effort in the land is to make mischief therein]- Meaning, by way of disbelief and oppression. (6) When this person – the one whose speech amazes you – is not in your presence, he strives to commit sins which is tantamount to corruption in the earth, so cattle and crops are destroyed as a result of that corruption. The blessings in the vegetation, fruits, and livestock decrease and become little due to evil deeds. (7)

[وَٱللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ ٱلۡفَسَادَ – and Allah likes not mischief]: Meaning, when it is the case that Allah does not like corruption, then He has an intense hatred for the person who sows corruption in the earth, even if such a person utters a good speech merely on the tongue (i.e. says one thing and does something else).

This Ayah contains proof regarding the fact that the statements uttered by individuals are not proof regarding their truthfulness or whether they are upon falsehood, neither that they are righteous nor wicked until deeds ascertain them. And it is obligatory to examine the condition of those who bear witness, the one who is in the right and the falsifier amongst the people based on the righteousness of their deeds – examine the clear indications and their behaviour, and not to be deceived by how they portray themselves and the praise they give themselves. Then Allah mentioned that when this person – the one who causes corruption in the earth through acts of disobedience to Allah – is commanded to fear Allah, he becomes arrogant and haughty: [ أَخَذَتۡهُ ٱلۡعِزَّةُ بِٱلۡإِثۡمِ‌ۚ -he is led by arrogance to (more) crime]. So, he combines disobedience to Allah and arrogance towards the sincere advisers. (8)

Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud [may Allah be pleased with him] said: “Indeed, the people deliver their speeches effectively and suitably, however, the one whose words align with their actions is the one who has truly attained their share of goodness, while the one whose speech contradicts their actions has only rebuked himself”. (9)

Umar Ibn Al-Khattaab [may Allaah be pleased with him] said: “People were (sometimes) judged by the revealing of a Divine revelation during the lifetime of Allah’s Messenger but now there is no longer any more (new revelation). Now we judge you by the deeds you practice publicly, so we will trust and favour the one who does good deeds in front of us, and we will not call him to account about what he is really doing in secret, because Allah will judge him for that; but we will not trust or believe the one who presents to us an evil deed even if he claims that his intentions were good”. (10)

Imam Abdul-Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: “Whoever manifests good, it will be accepted from him and a good suspicion is held about him. And if he manifests evil, it will be held against him and an evil suspicion is held about him”. (11)

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ لِي دِينِي الَّذِي هُوَ عِصْمَةُ أَمْرِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي دُنْيَايَ الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَاشِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي آخِرَتِي الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَادِي

وَاجْعَلِ الْحَيَاةَ زِيَادَةً لِي فِي كُلِّ خَيْرٍ

وَاجْعَلِ الْمَوْتَ رَاحَةً لِي مِنْ كُلِّ شَرٍّ

O Allah! Rectify my religion for me, which is the safeguard of my affairs; rectify my worldly [affairs], wherein is my livelihood; and rectify my Afterlife to which is my return; and make life for me [as a means of] increase in every good and make death for me as a rest from every evil. [Saheeh Muslim Number: 2720]

[1] Tafseer As-Sadi

[2] Roohul Ma’aanee by Imaam Al-Aloosee

[3] Tafseer As-Sadi

[4] Zaadul Maseer

[5] Roohul Maaanee

[6] Zaadul Maseer

[7] Tafseer As-Sadi

[8] Tafseer As-Sadi

[9] Al-Fawaa-id by Imaam Ibnul Qayyim page 218

[10] Saheeh Bukhaari; Vol 3; Hadith Number:2641]

[11] An Excerpt from Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min At-Taleeqaat Al-Baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaariy page:397 Vol 2 footnote 1]

The Ruling On Visiting and Exploring Ancient Ruins of The Destroyed Nations

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors).

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

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

The focus on artefacts by Archaeologists in this era was not present during the era of the Prophet’s companions and the pious predecessors. Instead, Muslims began to imitate the Europeans and Americans, who aimed to revive pre-Islamic nationalistic traits like Pharaonism, Babylonianism, and Phoenicianism in the Muslim lands. They were largely successful in achieving these objectives, leading to the emergence of pre-Islamic national pride and the glorification of these nationalistic identities in Muslim societies.

Imam Al-Bukhaaree said: “Abdullah Bin Muhammad Al-Ju’fee narrated to us that Abdur Razzaaq narrated to them from Az-Zuhree who narrated from Salim, who narrated from Ibn Umar who said that when the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] passed by Al-Hijr, he said, ‘Do not enter the dwelling places of those people who were unjust to themselves unless you enter in a weeping state lest the same calamity similar to theirs should befall you’. Then he covered his head and increased his speed till he crossed the valley. Yahyah Bin Bukayr narrated to us who said that Malik narrated to us from Abdullah Bin Deenaar who reported from Ibn Umar who said that Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said to his companions who were at Al-Hijr, “Do not enter upon these people who are being punished, except in a weeping state, lest the same calamity similar to theirs should befall you”. [Sahih Al-Bukhaari. Numbers 4419 and 4420]

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

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

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