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Category: Splitting up – Differing

The Roots of Innovations are Four – Sharh as-Sunnah | Dawud Burbank [Audio|En]

by

Bismillaah

Foundations of the Innovated Sects are Four
Sharh as-Sunnah : Lesson 64 : Point 110
Shaykh Fawzan | Dawud Burbank [Audio|English]

Imaam Barbahaaree rahimahullaah said:

Know that the roots of innovations (Al-Bid’ah) are four. From these seventy-two innovated sects branch off, each one of these have offshoots until they amount to two thousand eight hundred. All of them are misguidance. And all of them will be in the Fire except for one, which is those who believe in what is contained in this book, and who holds it as his creed, without having any uncertainty in his heart or any doubts. He will be a person of the Sunnah and he is the one who will be saved, if Allah wills [1].

NOTES

[1] That is, whatever the book comprises of, from the sayings of Allah, the words of His Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) and that which the Companions were united upon.

[Souncloud Audio Link] 

—

Ithaaful-Qaaree bit-Ta`leeqaat `alaa Sharhis-Sunnah
(A Gift To The Reader In Annotation Of Sharh As-Sunnah)
by Shaykh Saalih ibn Fowzaan al-Fowzaan hafizahullaah
Translated by Aboo Talhah Daawood Burbank, rahimahullaah

Posted with kind permission from Dawud Burbank rahimahullaah

Listen to the full Audio Series of Sharhus Sunnah
Sharh-us-Sunnah – Shaykh Saalih Fawzaan – Dawood Burbank [Audio|En]

Visit : Book Study of Sharh as-Sunnah of Imaam Barbahaaree

Related Link: https://abdurrahman.org/innovation

They called to Sectarianism (Furqah) & Sunnah became a Stranger – Sharh as-Sunnah | Dawud Burbank [Audio|En]

by

Bismillaah

Sharh as-Sunnah : Lesson 54: Point 90D & 90E
Shaykh Fawzan | Dawud Burbank [Audio|English]

Imaam Barbahaaree rahimahullaah said:(90D)

And they called to sectarianism (furqah) and Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic, forbade sectarianism. Some of them declared others to be disbelievers. And everyone called to his own opinion and to calling those who disagreed with him disbelievers. So the ignorant people, the rabble and those having no knowledge went astray. They caused the people to become greedy for the things of this life and to fear worldly punishment. So the people followed them upon fear regarding their religion and out of hope for what they possessed from this world.[1]

[Souncloud Audio Link] 

Transcribed Audio:

His saying, “And they called to sectarianism and Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic, has forbidden sectarianism.” Allaah has forbidden sectarianism, splitting; al-furqah. So He said:

وَلَا تَكُونُوا كَالَّذِينَ تَفَرَّقُوا وَاخْتَلَفُوا مِن بَعْدِ مَا جَاءَهُمُ الْبَيِّنَاتُ

And do not be like those who split up and differed after the clear signs had come to them. (Soorah Aali `Imraan (3), aayah 105)

وَمَا تَفَرَّقَ الَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْكِتَابَ إِلَّا مِن بَعْدِ مَا جَاءَتْهُمُ الْبَيِّنَةُ

And those who were given the scripture did not differ except after the clear truth had come to them.(Sooratul-Bayyinah (98), aayah 4)

So they differed and split not upon ignorance but rather upon knowledge; `ilm.

His saying, “And some of them declared others to be disbelievers,” The firaq (sects) started declaring each other to be disbelievers. And this is a sign which is manifest upon them. And this is a proof that they are all upon falsehood. As for the people of the truth and the people of the Sunnah then they do not declare each other to be disbelievers. Rather, they are friends and allies to each other, they love each other and they support each other and they advise each other. And likewise, they do not declare the other sects to be disbelievers except for what the Book and the Sunnah proves to be disbelief. Otherwise, it is the case that they (the people of sunnah) are justly balanced with regard to the matter of Takfeer. They do not declare anyone a disbeliever except for those whom the proof is established that he is a disbeliever and they are not hasty with regard to this matter.

His saying, “and each one called to his own opinion and to declaring those who disagreed with him to be disbelievers.” This is a sign of the people of misguidance. He, the Most High, said:

فَتَقَطَّعُوا أَمْرَهُم بَيْنَهُمْ زُبُرًا ۖ كُلُّ حِزْبٍ بِمَا لَدَيْهِمْ فَرِحُونَ

So they split into parties and sects, each one following a separate book, every group rejoicing in what it was upon.(Sooratul-Mu·minoon (23), aayah 53)

Zuburan; meaning books. They authored books and this occurs. They author books to support their own position and their own party and they rejoice in what they are upon. And if they had just been upon ignorance then it could be hoped that they would return. However, they rejoice in what they are upon from falsehood and they believe it to be the truth. And this is a punishment from Allaah for them.

His saying, “So the ignorant people and the ra`aa` (the common rabble) and those who had no knowledge went astray.” They led the ignorant people astray and the rubble and those who had no knowledge. But as for the people of the truth and the people of knowledge then they are not affected by these sects and these misguidances because they know that it is falsehood.

His saying, “And they caused the people to become greedy for things of this world and they cause them to fear the punishment of this world.” That is from the means which they utilise in their trial that they give their followers some of the things, which they crave after.

His saying, “So the creation followed them therefore, upon fear with regard to their religion and upon hope with regard to what they had of this world.” Many of the people have love of this world so therefore, they will follow anyone who will give them anything from wealth even if he is upon falsehood as a result of their craving for wealth.

Point Continues 

Imaam Barbahaaree rahimahullaah said:(90E)

So the Sunnah and the people of the Sunnah were suppressed and innovations appeared and became widespread. The people committed disbelief in many ways, which they were not aware of. They applied analogy and considered the ability of the Lord, His signs, His rulings, His commands and His prohibitions according to their own intellects and opinions. So whatever accorded with their intellects, they accepted it and whatever ran contrary to their intellects, they rejected it. So Islaam became a stranger and the Sunnah became a stranger and the people of the Sunnah became strangers within their own homes.

 The Explanation:

His saying, “So the Sunnah and the people of the Sunnah became suppressed and innovations appeared and became widespread.” After the people of the Sunnah had been apparent in the quroon al-mufaddalah (most excellent generations) and the people of evil had been subdued, then the affair became turned around and the people of the Sunnah became suppressed and the people of falsehood became apparent. However, this will not persist. Even if the people of falsehood become apparent at one time then they will decline in the future and they will collapse in the future. And the final outcome will always be for the people of Taqwa; those who are dutiful to their Lord. And Imaam Ibn ul-Qayyim rahimahullaah said:[2]

“And the truth is aided and tested so do not be surprised for this is the way of the Most Merciful.”

His saying, “And they applied analogy,” Analogy (Qiyaas), meaning in `aqeedah (creed and belief) because `aqeedah (creed and belief) has no analogy in it because it is tawqeefeeyah (reliant upon direct text). Action with regard to it is not upon except a proof. And no analogy is made in matters of creed and belief. Analogy can only be in fiqh.

His saying, “and they considered the ability of the Lord and His signs and His rulings and His commands and His prohibitions in accordance with their intellects and their own opinions.” This is al qiyaasul baatil (the false and futile analogy) making analogy with regard to Allaah, the Majestic and Most High, the One Who cannot be imagined by their minds and their opinions. So they rebut based upon the analogy of their intellects, the speech of Allaah and the speech of His Messenger.[3]

His saying, “So whatever conformed with their intellects, they accepted it and whatever was contrary to their intellects, they rejected it.” So they make their intellects and their opinions the judge, so whatever conflicts with it, they reject it, either by ta·weel (interpreting it away) or by rafd (directly rejecting it) and not accepting it.

His saying, “So therefore, Islaam became a stranger and the Sunnah became a stranger and the people of the Sunnah became strangers within their own homes.” Just as he sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam said:

Islaam began as a stranger and it will return to being a stranger just the same as it began. So give glad tidings of a tree in Paradise to the strangers.”[4] So then they said, “Who are the strangers O Messenger of Allaah?” So he said, “Those who are upon correctness when the people become corrupted.”

And in one narration:

“Those who correct whatever the people corrupt.”

They correct themselves are upon correctness and they correct whatever the people have corrupted. They are the ghurabaa (strangers). Why are they called strangers (ghurabaa)? Because those who contradict them are many and those who criticise them are many, so they are strangers amongst the people of their own lands and the people of their own time.[5]

Footnotes:

[1] Translator’s side point: Some of the versions have at the end , “So the people followed them upon fear regarding their worldly life and out of hope for what they possessed from this world.” W`Allaahu A`lam.

[2] Translator’s side point: Quote being from his famous poem Al-Kaffiyaat ash-Shaafiyah along with the explanation of it, they give a reference there.

[3] Shaykh Ahmad an-Najmee rahimahullaah mentioned in his explanation, “This seems to be referring to the like of the Jahmiyyah and the Mu`tazilah. They brought this matter of analogy and their intellect into the religion and used it to reject the texts; texts with regard to the attributes of Allaah, the Most High and other than them.”

[4] Shaykh Aal Ash Shaykh continues with the wordings of the hadeeth but this part of the hadeeth is reported by Muslim (145) of a hadeeth of Aboo Hurayrah radiyAllaahu `anhu without what follows in the main text here.

It is also reported by Muslim (146) from Ibn `Umar radiyAllaahu `anhuma from the Prophet that he said:

“Islaam began as a stranger and it will return to being a stranger just as it began and it will retreat between the two mosques just as a snake returns to its hole.”

[5] As for the wording, when the companions asked,

“Who are the strangers, O Messenger of Allaah? Then he replied, “They are those who are upon correctness when the people become corrupted.” 

This wording is reported by At–Tabaraaniyy in Al-Mu`jam al-Kabeer and Al-Mu`jam al-Awsat, Al-Mu`jam as-Sageer from Sahl ibn Sa`d as-Saai`dee. Al-Haythamee said in Majma` az-Zawaa`id, its narrators are those of the Saheeh except for Bakr ibn Sulaym and he was reliable as well.

As a side point, Shaykh Al-Albaaniyy declared this narration authentic in As-Saheehah under hadeeth no. 1273,

“The strangers are those who are upon correctness themselves when the people become corrupted.”

As for the last wording that’s mentioned, “They are those who correct whatever the people corrupt,” that is reported by At-Tirmidhiyy and At–Tabaraaniyy in al-Kabeer from a narration of `Amr ibn `Awf that Allaah’s Messenger sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam said:

“The religion began as a stranger and it will return to being a stranger. So give glad tidings to the strangers, those who rectify what the people have corrupted after me from my Sunnah.”

And as at–Tirmidhiyy said, “This hadeeth is hasan, saheeh (good, authentic).”

As for Shaykh al-Albaaniyy in his checking of Tirmidhiyy declared this particular report here as da`eef jiddan (very weak, not authentic).

In the footnote also, they mention a further wording reported by Ibn Abee Shaybah and Imaam Ahmad and ad-Daarimee and Ibn Maajah and others from a hadeeth of Ibn Mas`ood that contains the wording, it was said,

“Who are the strangers? And that he said, “An-nuzzaa` minal qabaa-il (they are the scattered ones from amongst the tribes).”

They mention here that Imaam al-Bukhaariyy declared that narration to be hasan, as was reported from him by his student, at–Tirmidhiyy. And Al-Baghawee said in Sharhus Sunnah, the hadeeth is saheeh gareeb with a singular chain. And again this particular report here was declared da`eef by Shaykh Al-Albaaniyy in the checking of Sunan Ibn Maajah, W`Allaahu A`lam.

—

Ithaaful-Qaaree bit-Ta`leeqaat `alaa Sharhis-Sunnah
(A Gift To The Reader In Annotation Of Sharh As-Sunnah)
by Shaykh Saalih ibn Fowzaan al-Fowzaan hafizahullaah
Translated by Aboo Talhah Daawood Burbank, rahimahullaah

Transcribed by Saima Zaher.

Posted with kind permission from Dawud Burbank rahimahullaah

Listen to the full Audio Series of Sharhus Sunnah
Sharh-us-Sunnah – Shaykh Saalih Fawzaan – Dawood Burbank [Audio|En]

Visit : Book Study of Sharh as-Sunnah of Imaam Barbahaaree

My Ummah will divide into 73 sects; all of them shall be in the Fire except one – Sharh as-Sunnah | Dawud Burbank [Audio|En]

by

Bismillaah

Sharh as-Sunnah : Lesson 52: Point 90A
Shaykh Fawzan | Dawud Burbank [Audio|English]

Imaam Barbahaaree rahimahullaah said:

And know that Allaah’s Messenger sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam said, “My nation will divide into 73 sects; all of them shall be in the Fire except one, and it is the Jamaa`ah; the united body upon the truth.” It was said, “Who are they, O Messenger of Allaah?” He said, “That which I and my companions are upon today.”[1]

[Souncloud Audio Link] 

Transcribed Audio:

His saying, “And you should know that Allaah’s Messenger sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam said, “My nation will divide into 73 sects, all of them in the Fire except one and it is al-Jamaa`ah; the united body upon the truth,” Allaah, the Majestic and Most High, commanded us to unite; to become ijtimaa` upon the truth.

وَاعْتَصِمُوا بِحَبْلِ اللَّهِ جَمِيعًا وَلَا تَفَرَّقُوا

And cling together to the rope of Allaah and do not separate. (Soorah Aali-Imraan (3), aayah 103)

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ فَرَّقُوا دِينَهُمْ وَكَانُوا شِيَعًا لَّسْتَ مِنْهُمْ فِي شَيْءٍ ۚ إِنَّمَا أَمْرُهُمْ إِلَى اللَّهِ ثُمَّ يُنَبِّئُهُم بِمَا كَانُوا يَفْعَلُونَ

Those who split up their religion and become sects, you have nothing to do with them. Their affair is just with Allaah. Then He will inform them of what they used to do. (Sooratul An`aam (6), aayah 159)

وَلَا تَكُونُوا كَالَّذِينَ تَفَرَّقُوا وَاخْتَلَفُوا مِن بَعْدِ مَا جَاءَهُمُ الْبَيِّنَاتُ ۚ وَأُولَٰئِكَ لَهُمْ عَذَابٌ عَظِيمٌ

And do not be like those who split and differed after the clear signs have come to them. And they are the ones for whom will be a tremendous punishment. (Soorah Aali-Imraan (3), aayah 105)

So He forbade us from splitting and He commanded us with uniting and with clinging on to the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger. So He said:

وَأَنَّ هَٰذَا صِرَاطِي مُسْتَقِيمًا فَاتَّبِعُوهُ ۖ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا السُّبُلَ فَتَفَرَّقَ بِكُمْ عَن سَبِيلِهِ

And this is my straight way so follow it and do not follow the divergent paths for they will split you and lead you away from His path. (Sooratul An`aam (6), aayah 153)

So it is not permissible to split and differ on account of desires or on account of taqleed (blindly following) fathers and forefathers or as a result of blindly following the Jews and the Christians. Differing is not permissible in the matters of `aqeedah (creed and belief) and in the fundamentals of the religion. Rather, it is obligatory to agree and to be united with regard to it. As for differing in issues of fiqh then this occurs. However, it is obligatory to return and refer back to those sayings which the proof establishes. He, the Most High, said:

فَإِن تَنَازَعْتُمْ فِي شَيْءٍ فَرُدُّوهُ إِلَى اللَّهِ وَالرَّسُولِ إِن كُنتُمْ تُؤْمِنُونَ بِاللَّهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الْآخِرِ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ خَيْرٌ وَأَحْسَنُ تَأْوِيلًا

So if you dispute about anything then refer it back to the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger if you truly believe in Allaah and in the Last Day. That is better and finer in its outcome. (Sooratun-Nisaa· (4), aayah 59)

Therefore ikhtilaaf (differing) in `aqeedah (creed and belief) is not permissible because `aqeedah (creed and belief) is tawqeefeeyah (reliant upon text). It is not a place for ijtihaad (scholarly deduction). But as for the issues of fiqh and istinbaat (deduction of rulings) then in that case, each one of the People of Knowledge in that matter who are suitable to promote ijtihaad can strive to deduce rulings and they may differ in their outlooks. However, they should not just remain upon their differing. Rather, they should refer back to the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger. So, whoever has proof then they should follow him and take his saying and leave their own opinions. This is the position of the people of the Sunnah and the Jamaa`ah and this is what the Messenger sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam directed us to. As for our saying, leave the people and let everyone have his own opinion and the differing of the nation is a mercy as they say then we say haathaa baatil (this is false and futile). Allaah, the Majestic and Most High, says:

وَلَا يَزَالُونَ مُخْتَلِفِينَ
إِلَّا مَن رَّحِمَ رَبُّكَ

And they will continue to disagree except for those who your Lord has mercy upon. (Soorah Hood (11), aayah 118-119)

So His saying, “Except for those who your Lord has mercy upon,” indicates that those whom Allaah has mercy upon do not differ and that differing is a punishment (athaab) and is not a mercy (a rahmah). Mercy is for those who do not differ and if they do differ then they refer back to the Book and the Sunnah and they take what is correct and they leave what is wrong. This is the way of Ahlus-Sunnah W`al Jamaa`ah.

But as for each one remaining upon his own opinion and what so and so said and so and so then this is not the way of the Muslims. This is the way of the Ahlul-Ahwaa (innovated sects) and the People of Shahawaat (followers of desires). They search for whatever saying will conform to their desires and whatever will conform to what they want and whatever differs with their desires, they abandon it even if the Imaam whom they say that they take his saying says it. Meaning, they do not accept from the sayings of the Imaams and the scholars except what is in accordance with their desires. As for what contradicts their desires then they reject it. So, this is a proof that they are just following their own desires, whatever conforms with their desires they accept it and whatever is contrary to their desires they abandon it. Wa laa hawla wa laa quwatta illaa billaah (and there is no movement and no ability except with the aid of Allaah).

And this is what is called to nowadays in the newspapers and magazines and meetings and conferences mostly and upon the channels. They promote disagreement and they say we are just making things open and easy for the people. With what are we making things open and easy for the people? With abandonment of the Book and the Sunnah and with going along with sayings whose people are not secure from error; those who make errors sometimes and are correct sometimes.

Whereas they; meaning the Imaams of the past, they forbade us from taking their sayings except what accords with the proof. They forbade us from taking their sayings, which are in contrary to the proof. So, this is a matter, which it is obligatory to be aware of because the people today have been put to trial on account of those people who confuse things for the people.

So his saying, “And you should know that Allaah’s Messenger sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam said, my nation will split into 73 sects, all of them will be in the Fire except one,” This hadeeth is authentic, when its chains of narration are gathered and its many narrations and the Imaams reported in their works and speak in praise of it and actual circumstances testify to its truth. So he sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam informed that this nation of Muhammad will split into 73 sects and these are the major fundamental sects and there are actually more than these sects.

He said all of them will be in the Fire, meaning the 72, all of them will be in the Fire except for one and it is the 73rd one, which is that which is upon the like of what the Messenger sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam and his companions were upon. So it is what will be saved from the Fire. And therefore, they are called al-Firqatun Naajiyah (the saved sect) and they are called Ahl-us-Sunnah W`al Jamaa`ah (the People of the Sunnah and the Jamaa`ah); the united body upon the truth.

And whatever is beside them then they are opposers to the truth under the threat of the Hellfire. So from them will be those who enter the Fire on account of disbelief (kufr) and from them will be those who enter the Fire on account of fisq (evil doing) and from them will be those who enter the Fire on account of ma`siyyah (sin, disobedience). They are not all the same with regard to entering the Fire. So it is not to be taken from this hadeeth that these sects, all of them are disbelievers.

His saying, “And it is the Jamaa`ah; the united body,” Al-Jamaa`ah (united body) is whoever is upon the truth even if it is a single person. This is the Jamaa`ah (the united body). As for Al-Kathrah (being numerous on its own); a group being numerous then this on its own does not indicate the truth. He, the Most High said:

وَإِن تُطِعْ أَكْثَرَ مَن فِي الْأَرْضِ يُضِلُّوكَ عَن سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ

And if you were to obey most of those upon the earth, they will lead you astray from the path of Allaah. (Sooratul-An`aam (6), aayah 116)

And He, the Most High, said:

وَمَا أَكْثَرُ النَّاسِ وَلَوْ حَرَصْتَ بِمُؤْمِنِينَ

And most of mankind even if you eagerly wish will not be believers. (Soorah Yoosuf (12), aayah 103)

وَمَا وَجَدْنَا لِأَكْثَرِهِم مِّنْ عَهْدٍ ۖ وَإِن وَجَدْنَا أَكْثَرَهُمْ لَفَاسِقِينَ

We have not found most of them to be true to their covenant, We have found most of them to be disobedient ones. (Sooratul-A`raaf (7), aayah 102)

So being numerous is not what is counted. What is counted is those who are upon the truth even if they are few in number, even if it is a single person then he will be the Jamaa`ah (the body upon the truth).

His saying, “It was said, “Who are they O Messenger of Allaah? He said, “That which is upon that which I and my companions are upon today.” This is the correct path, those who are upon that which the Messenger sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam and his companions were upon, they are the Jamaa`ah (the united body upon the truth).

Footnotes:

[1] Reported by At-Tirmithee (2641) and by al-Haakim and by others, Al-Laalikaa’ee in As-Sunnah and by others besides from a hadeeth of `Abdullaah ibn `Amr ibn al `Aas radiyAllaahu `anhumaa. And Shaykh Al-Albaaniyy mentioned that this hadeeth is hasan; has supporting narrations for its final wording and declared it hasan.

—

Ithaaful-Qaaree bit-Ta`leeqaat `alaa Sharhis-Sunnah
(A Gift To The Reader In Annotation Of Sharh As-Sunnah)
by Shaykh Saalih ibn Fowzaan al-Fowzaan hafizahullaah
Translated by Aboo Talhah Daawood Burbank, rahimahullaah

Transcribed by Saima Zaher.

Posted with kind permission from Dawud Burbank rahimahullaah

Listen to the full Audio Series of Sharhus Sunnah
Sharh-us-Sunnah – Shaykh Saalih Fawzaan – Dawood Burbank [Audio|En]

Visit : Book Study of Sharh as-Sunnah of Imaam Barbahaaree

Related Links: 

https://abdurrahman.org/ummah/
https://abdurrahman.org/salafiyyah/

al Jamaa’ah is what is true and correct, and separation is deviation and punishment – Dawud Burbank [Audio|En]

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Aqeedah Tahaawiyyah: Lesson 58 : Point [212]
Dawud Burbank [Audio|English]

212. And we hold that the united body upon the truth (al Jamaa’ah) is what is true and correct, and that separation is deviation and punishment.

[Souncloud Audio Link] 

At-Ta`leeqaat Al-Mukhtasarah `alaa Matn Al-`Aqeedah At–Tahaawiyyah. By Shaykh Saalih ibn Fawzaan al-Fawzaan hafizahullaah. Translated by Aboo Talhah Daawood Burbank, rahimahullaah, in 1426AH

Posted with kind permission from Dawud Burbank rahimahullaah

Listen to the Full Audio Series of Aqeedah Tahaawiyyah:
Explanation of Aqeedah at-Tahaawiyyah – Dawud Burbank [Audio|En]

Book Study Resource : Aqeedah at-Tahaawiyyah – Imam at-Tahaawi

Related Link :  Ummah & Unity – https://abdurrahman.org/ummah/

O Ahl-ul-Sunnah, Disseminate The Soul Of Love And Brotherhood Between Yourselves – Shaykh Rabee ibn Hadee

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Advice to the Salafiyyoon

O brothers, use beneficial knowledge and solid proof and beneficial wisdom in your Dawa’. You should have all the noble and beautiful manners encouraged by the Book and the Messenger of guidance; indeed they are causes for victory and causes for success.

You have to believe that the Companions did not spread Islaam or enter it into the hearts except with their wisdom and their knowledge more so than with their swords.  However, whoever enters into Islaam under the sword might not be firm, but whoever enters Islaam by way of knowledge, proof and evidence then this is what makes his Eemaan firm by Allaah’s permission and His assistance.

And it is upon you to have these good methods and also to be serious about knowledge.  You have to be serious about Dawa’ to Allaah.

Now – O brothers – I advise you with two issues:

Firstly: Brotherhood between all of Ahl -ul-Sunnah; So O you Salafees, disseminate the soul of love and brotherhood between yourselves.  Put into effect what the Messenger of Allaah – sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam – informed us of regarding the believers: ‘Like a building, some of its parts supporting others.’[2]

And that they are: ‘Like a single body if one limb complains then the rest of the body suffers with fever and insomnia.’[3]

This is how you should be O brothers: distance yourselves from the causes of splitting, I swear by Allaah indeed it is a dangerous evil and a disastrous disease.

Secondly: distance yourselves from the causes which lead to enmity, hatred, splitting up and dissension.

Keep away from these things; because this has become predominant nowadays at the hands of people, about whom only Allaah knows their condition and intent.  It has become predominant and has torn apart the youth in this country – whether in the university or other than it – or in the other parts of the Duniya.

Why?! Because those who are not from its people – neither in knowledge nor in understanding – entered into the arena of giving Dawa’ to Allaah.

It is possible that the enemies could have entered someone into the midst of theSalafeeyeen to tear them apart and split them up, and this issue is not unlikely, rather it can truly happen -BarakAllaahu Feekum.

Strive to have brotherhood.  If any dissension has occurred between you, then both parties should make themselves forget what is past and start with a clean slate now.

I say to the brothers: whoever falls short it is not allowed to debase him, nor destroy the one who is deficient.  Whoever makes a mistake amongst us we do not destroy him. -BarakAllaahu Feekum – but we cure him with gentleness, wisdom and face him with love and friendship and all the rest of the righteous manners, along with the correct Dawa’ until he repents.  And if there remains a weakness in him then we are not hasty with him, or otherwise, I swear by Allaah no one will remain, no one will remain!

There are some people now who chase after the Salafis so much so that they reached the scholars and called them those who water things down (Mumaya’een)!! There is hardly any scholar in the arena of Dawa’ today except that he has been falsely attacked with this claim about him!  Of course this is the way of the Ikhwaan al-Muslimeen and the way of Ahl-ul-Bida’ since, from the weapons of the Ahl ul-Bida’ is that they begin by overthrowing the scholars, rather it is the Jewish Masonic way: that if you wanted to discredit an idea, then discredit their scholars or their personalities.

So keep away from this rotten legacy and have respect for the scholars.

[1] Narrated by Bukhari (4855) & Muslim (177)

[2] Narrated by Bukhari (481) & by Muslim (2585) from the hadeeth of Abu Musa –radhiAllaahu anhu.

[3] Narrated by Bukhari (6011) & Muslim (2586) from the hadeeth of an-Nu’maan bin Basheer –radhiAllaahu anhu.

Excerpted from: Encouragement to have Affection and Friendliness and Warning Against Splitting up and Differing – Shaykh Rabee bin Haadee al-Madkhalee, Translated by Abbas Abu Yahya

The Obligation of Sticking to the Jamaa’ah – Proof from the Qur’aan – Shaikh ‘Abdus-Salaam Ibn Burjiss

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There is a unanimous agreement amongst Ahl-us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah that it is an obligation to stick to the Jamaa’ah [1] and that it is forbidden to break away from it, and that sticking to it is a virtue while separating oneself away from it is a vice.

Many evidences from the Qur’aan and the Sunnah, reaching the level of tawaatur, have been reported concerning this, and likewise there are many narrations from the Salaf with this regard. Allaah says:

“And hold onto the Rope of Allaah, all of you together, and be not divided…” [Surah Aali ‘Imraan: 103]

Ibn Abee Haatim [2] said: “My father narrated to me saying: ‘Amr Ibn ‘Alee As-Sairafee informed me, saying: ‘Abdu Rabbihi Ibn Baariq Al-Hanafee – and he praised him with good – narrated to me, saying: Simaak Ibn Al-Waleed Al-Hanafee narrated to me that he met Ibn ‘Abbaas in Madeenah and said:

‘What do you say about a ruler who governs us, yet oppresses and abuses us, shall we not prevent him?’

So Ibn ‘Abbaas said: ‘No, obey him, O Hanafee.’

And he said: ‘O Hanafee, the Jamaa’ah, the Jamaa’ah! Indeed, the nations that came before you were only destroyed because of their splitting up. Did you not hear Allaah say: ‘And hold onto the Rope of Allaah, all of you together, and be not divided…'”

Ibn ‘Atiyyah said in his Tafseer:[3]

“The expressions of the scholars of Tafseer have varied with regard to the meaning of this (part of the) ayah ‘The Rope of Allaah.’ So Ibn Mas’ood said:

‘The Rope of Allaah is the Jamaa’ah.’

Anas Ibn Maalik narrated that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said:

‘Indeed, the tribe of Israa’eel split up into seventy-one sects. And my ummah (nation) will split up into seventy-two sects – all of them will be in the Hellfire except one.’

So it was said to him: ‘O Messenger of Allaah (صلى الله عليه و سلم), which is this (saved) one?’

So he (صلى الله عليه و سلم) clenched his fist and said: ‘The Jamaa’ah.’

Then he recited the ayah: ‘And hold onto the Rope of Allaah, all of you together.’[4]

Ibn Mas’ood said in one of his khutbahs:

‘All of you together, adhere to obedience (of Allaah) and the Jamaa’ah, for indeed it is the Rope of Allaah that He has commanded us with.’

Qataadah said:

‘The Rope of Allaah that He commanded us to hold onto is the Qur’aan.’

As-Suddee said:

‘The Rope of Allaah refers to the Book of Allaah.’

Ibn Mas’ood and Ad-Dahhaak also said this. And other things have been said, all of which are similar to what has been mentioned.

The word jamee’an (all of you together) is connected to the command ‘Itasimoo (Hold onto), so the meaning becomes: ‘Be united upon your mutual holding of it (the Rope of Allaah).’

‘And be not divided’ refers to the kind of division that leads to not uniting for Jihaad and for protecting the Religion and the Word of Allaah. This is the dividing that comes from tribulations (fitan) and dividing in matters of Creed.” [End of Ibn ‘Atiyyah’s words, rahimahullaah]

I say that their differing on the tafseer of the part of the verse: “Rope of Allaah” is a differing indicating variety in meaning, not a contradiction in meaning, as has been indicated here by Ibn ‘Atiyyah, Ibn ‘Abdil-Barr and other muhaqqiqeen. And his interpreting it to be the Book of Allaah combines all of the mentioned statements (of the Salaf). [5]

Al-Qurtubee mentioned in his Tafseer[6] the opinion of those who say that the “Rope of Allaah” means the Qur’aan and the opinion of those who say it means the Jamaa’ah. Then he said: “The intended meanings are all close and similar for indeed Allaah commands unity and forbids division. This is since division is destruction while the Jamaa’ah is salvation.”

Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah said:

“The ‘Rope of Allaah’ has been interpreted as Allaah’s Book (i.e. the Qur’aan), His Religion, Islaam, Sincerity, His Command, His covenant, Obedience to Him and as the Jamaa’ah. All of these sayings have been stated by the Companions and those who followed them in goodness until the Day of Judgement. And all of it is correct, for the Qur’aan commands towards the Religion of Islaam – and this is Allaah’s Command, His covenant and obedience to Him. And adhering to it jamee’an (in a unified group) can only be done with the Jamaa’ah. And the Religion of Islaam in reality is Sincerity to Allaah.” [7]

By this, it is understood that their sayings (i.e. of the Salaf) in their interpretation of “The Rope of Allaah” are not contradictory of one another but rather each saying compliments the other such that Allaah’s intended meaning becomes clear.

Ibn Jareer At-Tabaree reported in his Tafseer [8] that Qataadah said concerning the ayah:

“And do not be divided – and remember Allaah’s blessing on you.”

“Verily, Allaah hates that you be divided – and He forbade you from it. And He loves that you hear and obey and (stick to) the Jamaa’ah. So love for yourselves what Allaah loves for you – if you are able. And there is no might except by (the leave of) Allaah.”

Footnotes:

[1] Translator’s Note: The Jamaa’ah refers to a collective body of Muslims upon the truth or upon a true state of affairs.

[2] Tafseer Ibn Abee Haatim (2/455) and in its chain of narration is ‘Abd Rabbihi Ibn Baariq Al-Hanafee. Al-Haafidh Ibn Hajr said of him: “He is honest but made mistakes (in narration).”

[3] Al-Muharrar Al-Wajeez fee Tafseer Al-Kitaab-il-‘Azeez (3/182) [Printed by Al-Maghrib]

[4] Reported by Ibn Jareer in his Tafseer (4/32), Ibn Abee Haatim in his Tafseer (2/452-453) from the path of Yazeed Ar-Raqaashee on Anas and its chain is weak. This hadeeth has been reported from numerous paths on the authority of Anas and others. All of them add strength to one another, except that there is not found in any of their wordings mention of this ayah besides this present narration of Anas, according to what I am aware of.

[5] They are six statements which Ibn Al-Jawzee has mentioned in his Tafseer Zaad Al-Maseer (1/432) [Printed by Al-Maktab Al-Islaamee]

[6] Al-Jaami’ Li-Ahkaam-il-Qur’aan (4/159) [Printed by Dar Al-Kutub]

[7] Minhaaj As-Sunnah (5/134) [Printed by Jaam’iah Al-Imaam Muhammad Ibn Sa’ood Al-Islaamiyyah]

[8] Jaami’ Al-Bayaan ‘an Ta’weel Ayy-il-Qur’aan (4/32)

Source: Shayks’s book “Al-Amr Bi-Luzoom Jamaa’at-il-Muslimeen” (pg. 7-11)
Translator: isma’eel alarcon

A Principle Concerning Unity and Splitting – Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah

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Allaah (subhanaha wa ta’aala) said:

“Those who were given the Scriptures did not differ except out of mutual jealousy and hatred (bagyan) after knowledge had come to them.” 

Informing that their differing arose after the coming of knowledge that made clear to them as to what they should steer clear of – for indeed Allaah does not let a people become misguided after He guided them except after telling them what they should steer clear of. And informing that they differed only due to the reason of mutual jealousy and hatred.

Al-Bagy means to exceed the proper bounds as was indicated by Ibn Umar (in his commentary to the verse): ‘arrogance and jealousy’ – this arising due to differing ijtihaads that were not based upon knowledge. What is not meant by al-Bagy is the permissible difference that arises between the scholars for al-Bagy is either the neglect or omission of the truth, or exceeding the proper bounds. Exceeding the proper bounds either by leaving an obligatory action or by performing a forbidden action and it is known that splitting and disunity is the outcome of this.

An example of this lies in what He said about the People of the Book:

“And from those who call themselves Christians, We took their covenant but they abandoned (or forgot) a portion of the Message that was sent to them. So we planted enmity and hatred till the Day of Resurrection.” (5:14)

So He informed us that in their forgetting/abandoning a portion of the Message – meaning leaving a portion of that which they were commanded with – lay the reason for their enmity and hatred.

This is what is occurring amongst the adherents of our religion and it can be found amongst the various parties that differ with regards to their principles and many subsidiary matters – found amongst the scholars and the worshippers – to the point that one finds a resemblance to the two nations about whom one says about the other: ‘They are upon nothing.’

This is like what we find amongst the legal jurists who stick to the outward actions of the religion, and those that take to the path of tasawwuf  who stick to the inward actions of the religion for each one of these negates the path of the other and claims that they are not from the People of the Religion, or they oppose the other in a way of opposing of those who do not consider the other to be part of the religion. There occurs between them enmity and hatred.

This is because Allaah has ordered that the heart be purified just as He has ordered that the body be purified. Both these aspects of purification are from the religion that Allaah has commanded and made obligatory. Allaah said,

“Allaah does not want to place you in difficulty, but He wants to purify you and to complete His Favour on you that you may be thankful.” (5:6 – the verse pertaining to wudu)

“In it (the mosque) are men who love to purify themselves and Allah loves those who purify themselves.” (9:108)

“Indeed Allaah Loves those who turn to Him in repentance and He loves those who purify themselves.” (2:222)

“Take charity from their wealth in order to purify and sanctify them.” (9:103)

“They are the ones whose hearts Allaah does not wish to purify.” (5:41)

“Indeed the polytheists are impure and filthy” (9:28)

So we find that the concern of many of the legal jurists and the worshipper is only the purification of the body, and he goes beyond the requirement of the sharee’ah with respect to his concern and action. And he leaves what he has been commanded and recommended with respect to the purification of the heart, and he does not understand purification except in this bodily aspect. And we find that the concern of many of the sufis is the purification of the heart only, to the extent that he will go beyond the requirement of the Sharee’ah with respect to his concern and action. And he leaves what he has been commanded and recommended with respect to the purification of the body.

So the first group go to the extreme of wasting water and considering to be impure that which is not impure, and staying away from that which has not been legislated to stay away from, this despite their hearts containing different shades of jealousy, arrogance and hatred towards their brothers. In this there is a clear resemblance to the Jews.

The other group goes to the extreme of negligence, they go to great extents to safeguard the heart to the point that they consider ignorance of that which is obligatory to know – such as the evil from which it is obligatory to steer clear of – from those things that safeguard the heart (from actually desiring that evil). In this they do not differentiate between safeguarding the heart from desiring evil, and safeguarding the heart through its knowing the evil and its knowing that with which it has been commanded. Then alongside this negligence and ignorance they do not preserve themselves from the impure things and therefore establish the obligatory purification in the way of the Christians.

So enmity has occurred between these two groups due to their leaving a portion of what they have been commanded with, and due to their bagy – which is to exceed the correct bounds, either by ignoring or omitting the truth, or by enmity and oppression. Bagy sometimes occurs amongst some people, or sometimes with regards to the rights of Allaah – both of these are implied. This is why He said: “out of mutual jealousy and hatred” for each group was displaying bagy to the other by not acknowledging the others right and not refraining from showing enmity to the other. Allaah said,

“Nor were the People of the Book divided until the clear proof came to them.” (98:4)

“Mankind was one nation and Allaah sent Messengers as bringers of glad-tidings and warners. And He revealed with them the Book in truth so that they may judge amongst mankind in that which they differed. And only those to whom it was given differed concerning it after clear proofs came to them through hatred, one to another.” (2:213)

“Indeed those who divide their religion into sects, you have no concern in them in the least.” (6:159)

“(Always) turning in repentance to Him, and be afraid an dutiful to Him: and establish the prayers and do not be of the polytheists – of those who split up their religion and became sects, each sect rejoicing in that which is with it.” (30:31-32)

This is because each party of the polytheists used to worship whatsoever god their desires dictated as Allaah said: “What you call the polytheists to is hard upon them.”

“O Messengers! Eat of the goodly things and do righteous deeds. Indeed I am Well-Acquainted with what you do. And Verily! This, your religion, is one religion and I am your Lord, so keep your duty to Me. But they have broken their religion into sects, each group rejoicing in what it has.” (23:51-52)

So it becomes clear the way of unity is by means of gathering all of the religion, and acting upon it in its entirety – that is worshipping Allaah Alone without any partners as He ordered, inwardly and outwardly.

The way to disunity is by leaving a portion of that which the servant has been commanded with, and by al-bagy.

The result of unity is: the Mercy and Pleasure of Allaah, His sending salaah upon the servants, and happiness in this world and in the hereafter, and white faces (on the Day of Judgement).

The result of disunity is: the Punishment of Allaah, His Curse, and black faces, and the Messenger (صلى الله عليه و سلم) declaring himself free of them.

This is one of the proofs that consensus is a definitive proof, for when they unite then they are all obeying Allaah in this and have Mercy showered on them. And there cannot be obedience to Allaah and His Mercy by way of an action that He has not commanded, in either belief, saying or action. For if there were to be a saying or action upon which they agreed that had not been commanded by Allaah, then this would not be obedience to Allaah and neither would it be a means of His Mercy. Abu Bakr al-Azeez depended upon this proof in the beginning of his ‘at-Tanbeeh.’

Source: Majmoo’-ul-Fataawaa (1/14 -17)
Published by old al-manhaj dot com website ( site no more exists)

Importance of Being United – Abu Muhammad al Maghribee [Audio|En]

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01 – Khutbah – Be United
[audio https://salafiaudio.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/khutbah-be-united-abu-muhammad-al-maghribi-abu-muhammad-al-maghribi.mp3]

02 – Importance of Being United Upon Tawheed part 1
[audio https://salafiaudio.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/importance-of-being-united-upon-tawheed-part-1-abu-muhammad-al-maghribi.mp3]

03 – Importance of Being United Upon Tawheed part 2
[audio https://salafiaudio.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/importance-of-being-united-upon-tawheed-part-2-abu-muhammad-al-maghribi.mp3]

05 – Importance of Being United and Legislative Means part 3
[audio https://salafiaudio.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/importance-of-being-united-and-legislative-means-part-3-abu-muhammad-al-maghribi.mp3]

07 – Importance of Being United and Dealing with Differences 
[audio https://salafiaudio.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/importance-of-being-united-and-dealing-with-differences-abu-muhammad-al-maghribi.mp3]

08 – Importance of Being United and Knowing the Ulema part 5
[audio https://salafiaudio.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/importance-of-being-united-and-knowing-the-ulema-part-5-abu-muhammad-al-maghribi.mp3]

10 – Telelink – The Means of Attaining Unity – Shaykh Musad
[audio https://salafiaudio.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/telelink-the-means-of-attaining-unity-shaykh-musad-abu-muhammad-al-maghribee.mp3]

11 – Closing Remarks Regarding Unity
[audio https://salafiaudio.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/closing-remarks-regarding-unity-abu-muhammad-al-maghribee.mp3]

Agreement & Unity Of the Hearts are From The Most Distinguished Qualities Of The Saved Group – Shaykh Uthaymeen

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[You may want to read Most Distinguished Qualities of the Saved Group – Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen before reading the below]

Question 55: Is there something you want to add concerning the qualities of the saved sect?

The Answer: The truth of the matter is that there isn’t anything to add, since the four fundamental matters that we have mentioned are clear and sufficient. However, it might need some details with respect to the matter of manners. So, the most important aspect of manners is unity and agreement on the truth, the thing that Allaah (Azza wa Jal) has enjoined on us:

Your Rabb (Allaah) prescribed for Noah, and that which We revealed to you –[O Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم)], and that which He prescribed for Ibraaheem, Moosaa, ‘Eesaa–that you should establish the Religion, acting upon what is prescribed, and not split into sects regarding it. [Qur’aan, soorat ash-Shooraa (42): 13].

And He (Allaah Azza wa Jal) informed us that those who split their Religion into sects, Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم) is clear of them:

Verily, those who divided their religion and break up into sects, you Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم) have no concern of them in the least. [Qur’aan, soorat al-An’aam (6): 159].

So agreement and unity of the hearts are from the most distinguished qualities of the saved group, ahlus-Sunnah wal Jamaa’ah. In case disagreement amongst them occurs due to Ijtihaad,[74] in matters where Ijtihaad is applicable, then they do not hold enmity, hatred or hostility against each other. Rather, they believe that they are brothers even if this kind of disagreement takes place amongst them. This is true to the extent that each of them would pray behind the Imaam believing that the latter is not in a state of Wudoo´ whilst the Imaam believes he does have his Wudoo’. An example for this is that each of them would pray behind someone who ate camel meat believing that it nullifies the prayer whilst this Imaam believes that it does not. Thus each of them consider that the prayer behind this Imaam is correct, even though if he would have prayed the same prayer [after eating camel meat] by himself, he would have consider it incorrect. All of this is because they consider that the difference in opinion arising from Ijtihaad, in cases where Ijtihaad is permissible, is, in reality, not a disagreement. Since each one of the disputants follows what is incumbent upon both for them to follow from the evidence that is impermissible for either one to relinquish. They see that if their brother disagrees with them regarding a certain action and does this in compliance with the evidence, then in reality he is in agreement with them. This is because they themselves call for the following of the proof wherever it may be. So if he disagrees with them based upon his conformance with what he regards as valid proof, then in reality he is in agreement with them, since he is in conformity with that which they call for and aim to, from judging by the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger (صلى الله عليه و سلم).

And it is well known to many scholars what took place between the companions with regard to similar matters of disagreement, even during the time of their Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم). He (صلى الله عليه و سلم) did not harshly denounce anyone of them. When he (صلى الله عليه و سلم) returned from the battle of al-Ahzaab, Jibreel came to him and directed him to set out for Banee Quraydhah who broke the covenant with the Muslims. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) then ordered his companions and said: “None of you should pray ‘Asr except at Banee Quraydhah.” [75] So, they left Madeenah for Banee Qurayadhah, and when the time for ‘Asr prayer arrived some of them delayed their prayer until they reached Banee Qurayadhah and therefore prayed it outside of its time. They did not pray until after sun set, since the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said: “None of you should pray ‘Asr except at Banee Quraydhah.” Others prayed on time and said that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) intention was for them to make haste in setting off. [76]

Those were the ones who were correct in their understanding. In spite of this, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) did not blame anyone of them, and none of them held any enmity or hatred against each other because of their disagreement in understanding this text. That is why I believe that it is a binding duty upon the Muslims who belong to the Sunnah that they should be one nation, and that factionalism should not occur amongst them–a person belongs to this group and another belongs to another group, and the third belongs to a third group and so on. In such a manner, they fight amongst each other with the spears of their tongues. They hate each other and take enemies out of each other because of a disagreement whose ruling is permissible to deduce by way of Ijtihaad. There is no need for me to specifically mention each group. But the sensible person would understand and the matter would be clear to him. So, I believe that it is incumbent upon ahlus-Sunnah wal Jamaa’ah to unite even though they may dispute in that wherein they have been differing as a result of their understanding of what is necessitated by the texts. All praise is due to Allaah, for this is a matter in which there is ample scope for accommodation.

What is important is agreement and unity of the hearts. And there is no doubt that the enemies of Islaam love that the Muslims are divided, regardless whether they are enemies who openly express their hostility, or enemies who pretend to be friends of Muslims or Islaam, while in reality they are not. So, the obligatory thing is that we should be distinguished with this distinctive mark and that is we are from the saved sect that agrees to unity.

References

[74] Ijtihaad: Deduction of reasoned decisions to suit particular circumstances based upon fundamental guidelines from the Qur’aan and/or authentic Sunnah.
[75] Saheeh al-Bukhaaree, vol.2, p.34, and Saheeh Muslim, vol.3, no.4376. In the report by Muslim, it is Thuhr prayer instead of ‘Asr.
[76] So that when the time for ‘Asr prayer arrived, they would already be at Banee Quraydhah.

Translated by Dr Saleh as Saleh rahimahullaah
Source : Understanding Worship – Fiqh ul-‘Ibadah – Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen – Page 145

al-Bay’aa wal Hizbiyyah (Allegiance and Partisanship) – Dr Saleh as Saleh

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بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

All Praise is due to Allah, and may the salaah and salaam be on Prophet Muhammad, his household, the noble companions and those who follow them until the Day of Resurrection.

The subject of this lecture is, “al-Bay’aa wa Hizbiyyah” (Allegiance and Partisanship).

al-Bay’aa (Allegiance):

Islam brought forth the obligation to give bay’aa (allegiance), and the Prophet (: sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) commanded it. The allegiance was originally given to him, then the leaders after him and then the khulafah (caliphs) afterwards. In our time, many deviated; making bay’aa to anyone they chose from those who set themselves up as leaders of Muslim groups. Due to the large number of groups, al-bay’aa has multiplied and varied, becoming even numerous. This has led to disputes, with each group claiming to be on the truth and that their leader deserves the legal bay’aa (allegiance).

Definition of al-Bay’aa:

Linguistically, al-bay’aa means to reach an agreement with respect to matters of trade or on obedience and following (i.e., a covenant).

As for the Islamic meaning (al-istilah), albay’aa means the covenant on obedience. It is as if the one who pledges allegiance gives the covenant to his ameer (leader), assigning him the ability to conclude matters concerning himself and the Muslims at large; this ameer can not be disputed with in any way. Similarly, the Muslim agrees to obey the ameer in what he assigns from certain tasks, whether it is in times of ease or difficulty, in that which he likes, and that which he dislikes.

When the people of the past used to give albay’aa to the leaders and give him the covenant, they would put their hands in his hand affirming the ‘ahd, confirming the promise of allegiance in a manner similar to the way people shake hands after reaching an agreement while selling and buying.

Definition of Hizbiyyah (Partisanship):

From the linguistic aspect, al-hizb means a group of people; the plural of hizb is ahzab (parties). The hizb of a man are his followers and his soldiers, who are holding to the same view as him. If a group of people’s hearts and deeds are in agreement, then they constitute a hizb, even though they may not physically meet. In addition, a hizb, linguistically, is a kind of people whose desires are the same.

The Islamic or legal meaning (i.e., in Islamic terminology) of hizb is not totally blameworthy nor is it entirely praiseworthy. It is blamed or praised in accordance with its intended use. For instance, Allah says in the Qur’an (in the translation of the meaning):

« Shaytan has overtaken them. So he has made them forget the remembrance of Allah. They are the party of Shaytan. Verily, it is the party of Shaytan (hizbushaytan) that will be the losers! » [Surah al-Mujadilah (58:19)]

Clearly, this is an example that is blameworthy. Similarly, in the same surah (chapter) of the Qur’an, Allah says (in the translation of the meaning):

«They are the Party of Allah (hizbaAllahi). Verily, it is the Party of Allah that will be the successful. » [Surah al-Mujadilah (58:22)]

Therefore, in one context, it was blameworthy when the hizb was associated with Shaytan, and in another instance, it was praiseworthy when it was the party of Allah, concerning the believers.1 Certainly, if the hizb comprises the people of wickedness, desires, misguidance and disbelief, then all of that is blameworthy.

Dangers of Hizbiyyah:

Everyone who examines the Islamic history finds that tahazub (bigotry) to opinions, madhahib (schools of thought), and innovations splits the Muslim ummah and takes away from its unity. That is why the textual proofs are replete with calls for unity and keeping from all means that leads to splitting.

The Ruling concerning al-Bay’aa

Many textual proofs came to confirm the command of pledging allegiance and to warn against abandoning it and the consequences of that. Allah says (in the translation of the meanings):

If any group would carry such a name, then it must not have convictions and practices that oppose Tawheed, like invoking other than Allah, and worshipping graves etc. This is shirk. So Muslims should not be deceived by emotional and (or) politically misleading practices.

« Indeed, Allah was pleased with the believers when they gave their Bay’aa (pledge) to you (O Muhammad ) under the tree, He knew what was in their hearts, and He sent down As-Sakinah (calmness and tranquility) upon them, and He rewarded them with a near victory. » [Surah al-Fath (48:18)]

Also, Allah says in the same surah:

«Verily, those who give Bay’aa (pledge) to you (O Muhammad ) they are giving Bay’aa (pledge) to Allah. The Hand of Allah is over their hands. Then whosoever breaks his pledge breaks only to his own harm, and whosoever fulfills what he has covenanted with Allah, He will bestow on him a great reward. » [Surah al-Fath (48:10)].

The Sunnah also emphasized al-bay’aa, calling for the believer to give allegiance and stating that whoever dies without having pledged allegiance to the Muslim ruler dies in the state of the pre-Islamic era. This refers to giving the pledge to the general Muslim imam who most people give the pledge to in his time or in his country, in the absence of the general Muslim khilaafah. This is the obligated pledge incumbent on every Muslim, and it is forbidden to abandon or dissent in terms of obedience on this pledge, whether in times of ease or difficulty, in that which he likes and that which he dislikes. This applies as long as the leader does not command sins, in which case, he can not be obeyed but rather is to be obeyed in other issues.

Not obeying the ruler on sins which he may command, does not necessitate rebellion against him, as many of the youth understand. When we talk about this imam, whether he was set up by influential people in the country or assigned by his predecessor or even to the degree that he took leadership by force, it is forbidden to rebel against him as long as he does not commit clear, plain kufr and until the conditions of rebellion to remove him are fulfilled. First, his kufr must be clear and can not tolerate any misinterpretation, requiring an unambiguous proof from Allah and (or) the Messenger () that his case (saying and/or action) is truly kufr. Moreover, there must be the ability to change him and that this change will not lead to a greater evil. When all these conditions are met, and it is obvious how difficult this is, only then can he may be removed; otherwise the Muslims are told to be patiently persevering until these conditions are fulfilled.

The Illegal Bay’aa:

In our time, numerous deviations have occurred with respect to illegal pledges, not condoned by shariah. This has had a negative impact on Muslim society at large. The following are some instances of deviant pledges.

The first example is that of the Sufis to their elders or their shaykhs. You find the Sufi mystic making an “eternal” pledge to his shaykh, such that he can never leave that shaykh’s way. Such a pledge has no basis in shariah; rather, it is without a doubt futile. Some mystic Sufis give the pledge by shaking hands between men and women. They say they will continue to be that shaykh’s students and adepts, no matter what that shaykh says. To that end, they even take the pledge to share their wealth and money with him. In fact, the shaykh can take a tax levee from them. These are criminal acts and mischief that have no basis in shariah and Islam.

From the second type of deviant pledges is that of group members to their group leaders; this is becoming widespread in many countries. Everyday you find these groups splitting, forming subgroups and sub leaders. In these groups, the leaders request from the members to make a full pledge, as if it were the legal pledge to the Muslim general leader or imam.

These groups vary with respect to the covenants they take. Some say that anyone who abandons giving the pledge of allegiance to the leader of their group is a kaafir (disbeliever). Others maintain that giving the pledge is fardh (obligatory) and that anyone who does not give it is sinful. As such, they assign an ameer for their group as a means to lift the sin from them. This kind of pledge is futile, baseless, and not found in shariah. Anyone who claims it is obligatory to give a pledge of allegiance to a leader of a group is certainly in error.

Consequences of the Illegal Bay’aa: The consequences of the illegal bay’aa are many.

Firstly, we now have more than one pledge at the same time and in the same country because each group thinks that the correct bay’aa is for their ameer.

Secondly, these bay’aa lead to enmity, conflict, and hatred between these groups. In turn, they compete with each other to acquire larger and larger numbers for their groups.

Thirdly, it has spread misconceptions regarding takfeer because some of these groups believe that the one who does not give the pledge is a kaafir and feels that their ameer is the only ameer. Therefore, they make takfeer on anyone who does not give the pledge to that ameer.

Fourthly, it has led to the spilling of the inviolable blood. In some Muslim countries, a member of a particular group may be killed if he decides to leave that group. Likewise, a leader of a group may kill a competitor or those who oppose his leadership. This is real, and not fictional, occurring in many places.

Fifthly, this has led and still leads to confrontations between these groups and the government. The consequences of that are terrible, including rebellion, bloodshed, harshness, takfeer, and evil on top of evil. It has reached the degree that some of these groups have adopted what they call “revolutionary concepts,” when even the term “revolution” has nothing to do with Islam.

Conclusion:

The consequences of these illegal ahzab (parties) who demand bay’aa are great. They have corrupted the souls and thoughts of many Muslim youths around the world. We refer the matter to Allah, the Most High. We ask Him to save us from falling into this mischief and to protect the ummah (Islamic nation) from such disputes.

There is no Power or Might except with Allah. May the salaah and salaam be on Prophet Muhammad, his household, the noble companions, and those who follow them until the Day of Resurrection.

Saleh As-Saleh,  18-5-1427, June 15, 2006

Acknowledgment: This work originally appeared on http://www.understand-islam.net in audio form. It was based upon an article by sh. Muhammad al-Khamees, may Allaah preserve him. It was transcribed and organized by br. Abu Abdullaah al-Amreeki, and then text was reviewed by sis Umm Ahmad Al-Kanadiyyah, Jazaahumu Allaahu Khairan.

Posted from : http://understand-islam.net/site/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=184

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al-Bay’aa wal Hizbiyyah (Allegiance and Partisanship) – Dr Saleh as Saleh [PDF]

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Q & A : The Causes For Differing And Splitting : Shaykh Abdullaah al-Ghudayaan

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Splitting and Differing – Shaykh Muhammad ibn Abdil-Lateef & Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibraaheem

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By Shaykh Muhammad ibn Abdil-Lateef (d.1376H) and Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibraaheem (d.1389H) [1] – Al-Istiqaamah Issue No.4 – Jumâdal-Awwal 1417H / November 1996

Allaah – the Most High – said:

“O you who Believe! Have tawraa (fear and obedience) of Allaah as you should do, and do not die except that you are Muslims. And hold fast all together to the rope of Allaah and do not be divided. And remember the favour of Allaah upon you, for you were once enemies one to another, but He joined your hearts together, so that by His Grace, you became brothers. And you were on the brink of a pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allaah make His Signs clear to you, that you may become guided. Let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining all that is good and forbidding all that is evil. They are the ones who are successful. And do not be like those who split up and differed amongst themselves, after the clear proofs had come to them. For them is a tremendous punishment. On the Day of Resurrection, some faces will be white and some faces will be black.” [Soorah Aal-‘Imraan 3:102-105].

One of the Scholars of tafseer (Qur’aanic explanation) said: “The faces of the people of Sunnah and Unity will be white, whereas the faces of the people of Sectarianism and Differing will be black.”

Shaykhul-Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah (d.728H) – rahimahullaah – said: “So Allaah – the Most High – ordered all of the Believers to cling to the Rope of Allaah collectively, and not to split-up. And clinging to this Rope of Allaah has been explained as meaning: Clinging to the Book of Allaah, to His Religion, to Islaam, to ikhlaas (purity of beliefs and actions to Allaah), to His Commands, to His Covenant, to His obedience and also to the Jamaa’ah. All of these explanations have been related from the Sahaabah (Companions) and also From those who followed them in righteousness – and all of it is correct. For the Qur’aan commands one with the Religion of Islaam; and that is Allaah’s Covenant, and His Command, and obedience to Him. It also entails clinging together collectively as a Jamaa’ah. And the Religion of Islaam – in its reality – is ikhlaas (purity and sincerity in beliefs and action) to and for Allaah alone.

Abu Hurayrah radiallaahu ‘anhu relates:
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “Indeed Allaah is pleased with three things: That you worship Allaah alone without associating a partner along with Him; that you hold fast altogether to the Rope of Allaah and not to become divided; and that you give sincere advice to whomsoever Allaah puts in charge of your affairs.”2

And Allaah – the Most High – has made oppressing the Muslims, both their living and their dead, haraam (forbidden). And he has made sacred their blood, their wealth and their honour. And it is established from the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam that he said during the farewell Hajj (Pilgrimage): “Indeed your blood, your property and your honour is sacred to each other, just like this day of yours, in this month of yours, in this city of yours. Have I not conveyed the message. Those who are present must convey (my words) to those who are absent. Perhaps the one to whom it is conveyed understands it better than the one who directly hears it.”3

Allaah – the Most High – said:

“Those who harm Believing men and women undeservingly, carry upon themselves the crime of slander and clear sin.” [Soorah al-Ahzaab 33:58].

Thus, whosoever harms any Believer, living or dead, not because of any sin sin which necessitates that – then he has entered into this Aayah (verse). And whosoever is a mujtahid (one who is sincerely striving to arrive at the truth), then there is no sin upon him. And if the mujtahid is harmed by someone, then he has harmed him undeservingly. And whosoever is sinful, but has repented from such sin, or he is forgiven due to some other reason; such that there is no punishment left for him – and then someone harms him, then he has harmed him undeservingly.”4

Abu Hurayrah radiallaahu ‘anhu relates:
“Do not envy one another. Do not inflate prices upon one another. Do not hate one another. Do not forsake one another. Do not undercut one another. But be worshippers of Allaah and be brothers. The Muslim is the brother of another Muslim he neither oppresses him, nor humiliates him, nor lies to him, nor holds him in contempt. And piety is right here – and he pointed to his chest three times. It is enough evil for a person to hold his brother Muslim in contempt. The whole of a Muslim for another Muslim is sacred; his blood, his property and his honour”5

Ibn ‘Umar radiallaahu ‘anhumaa relates:
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “A Muslim is a brother to another Muslim. He neither oppresses him, nor humiliates him, nor forsakes him. Whosoever helps his brother, Allaah will help him. Whosoever removes one of the griefs of this world from a Muslim, then Allaah will remove one of his griefs on the Day of Resurrection. And whosoever hides a fault of any Muslim, then Allaah will hide one of his faults of the Day of Resurrection.”6

Anas radiallaahu ‘anhu relates:
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “None of you will truly believe until you love for your brother what you loves for yourself.”7

The Prophet sallalaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said:
“The example of the Believers in their mutual love and mercy is like the example of a body, if one part of the body feels pain, then all the body suffers in sleeplessness and fever.”8

And he sallallaahu ‘alavhi wa sallam said:
“The Believer to the Believer is like a solid structure, one part supporting the other.” And he interlaced his fingers to demonstrate this.9

This is what we have mentioned in this small treatise, and what we hold as part of our Religion and belief in front of Allaah. And in it is a sufficiency for whosoever desires right guidance and whosoever intends to seek the truth.

We ask Allaah – both for us and our Muslim brothers and sisters – safety and protection from those things that bring about His wrath and anger and painful punishment. And we seek refuge in Allaah from the passing away of His blessings, and that His grant of the state of safety and well-being is changed into something else. And we seek Allaah’s refuge from His sudden retribution and from all that which angers Him. O Allaah! We seek refuge in You from the severe trials and from the place of lowest misery and despicability, and from the evil that has been decreed, and from the abuse of the enemies. And Allaah is sufficient for us and what an excellent Guardian. And may Allaah send the praises and blessings upon Muhammad and upon his Family, Companions and followers.

1. Naseehatun Muhimmah fee Thalaathi Qadaayaa (pp.57-61).
2. Related by Muslim (3/1340) and Ahmad (2/367).
3. Related by al-Bukhaaree (3/573-574) and Muslim (3/1305-1307), from Abu Bakrah radiallaahu ‘anhu.
4. Minaahjus-Sunnah an-Nabawiyyah (5/134-135).
5. Related by Muslim (no.2564).
6. Related by al-Bukhaaree (5/97) and Muslim (4/1996).
7. Related by al-Bukhaaree (1/57) and Muslim (1/67).
8. Related by al-Bukhaaree (no.6011) and Muslim (no.2586), from an-Nu’maan ibn Basheer radiallaahu ‘anhu.
9· Related by al-Bukhaaree (no.481) and Muslim (no.2585), from Abu Hurayrah radiallaahu ‘anhu

Misplaced Loyalty – Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Baz

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Al-Istiqaamah Magazine, Issue No.6

THE BASIS OF RIGHT GUIDANCE

Shaykhul-lslaam Ibn Taymiyyah (d.728H) – rahimahallaah – said:

“The Religion of the Muslims is built upon following the Book of Allaah, the Sunnah of His Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, and that which the Ummah has agreed upon. So these are the three infallible usool (fundamentals). So whatever the Ummah differs in, then it is referred back to Allaah and His Messenger. Thus, it is not for anyone to set-up a person for the Ummah, and to call to his way, and form walaa (love, loyalty and allegiance) and ‘adaa (enmity and hatred) based upon that, except for the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Nor is any speech set-up for them based upon which they form walaa and ‘adaa, except for the speech of Allaah, and that of His Messenger, and that which the Ummah has agreed upon. Rather, this is the practice of the people of Innovation, who set-up a person, or a saying, with which they cause splits in the Ummah; forming walaa or ‘adaa based upon that saying or ascription.”1

Imaam Ibn Taymiyyah – rahimahullaah – also said:
“It is not for anyone to ascribe himself to a particular Shaykh and to have walaa with those who follow him, or to have ‘adaa based upon that. Rather, he should have walaa for everyone who is from the people of eemaan (i.e. is a Muslim) and is known to have taqwaa (piety and obedience to Allaah in that which He has ordered and prohibited), from the Shaykhs, or from others. No one should be particularised with an increase in walaa except if he sees from him greater eemaan and taqwaa. So precedence and excellence is given to whomsoever Allaah and His Messenger have given them to. Allaah – the Most High – said: “O mankind! Indeed We created you from a man and a woman, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another. Indeed the most noblest of you with Allaah are those that have the most taqwaa (piety).” [Soorah al-Hujuraat 49:13].”2

SECTARIANISM AND MISPLACED LOYALTIES

Shaykhul-lslaam Ibn Taymiyyah said:
“Indeed the people of the truth and the Sunnah do not follow anyone (unconditionally) other than Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam; who does not speak from his desires, rather it is nothing less than Revelation sent down to him. So it is obligatory to affirm all that he informs, and to obey all that he commands. This status is not given to anyone else from this Ummah. Rather, every person’s saying can be taken or left, except that of Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. So whoever sets up an individual other than Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, such that the one who loves and agrees with him is reckoned to be from Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah, and the one that differs with him is reckoned to be from the people of innovations and sectarianism – as happens with those groups who follow certain Imaams of kalaam (theology and rhetorical speech) – then the person doing so is from the people of innovation, deviation and sectarianism.”3

He – rahimahullaah – further said:
“Indeed many – from the people who say such sayings – follow their desires in this, in order to elevate their egos, or to gain leadership; or whatever is connected to it. Their intention is not to make the word of Allaah uppermost, nor is it to make the Religion purely for Allaah. Indeed, they have hatred for those who oppose them – even if it is a mujtahid (a Scholar striving his utmost to arrive at the truth) who is excused, and whom Allaah is not angry with. Likewise, they are pleased with those who agree with them – even if it is an ignorant person with evil intentions, who neither has any knowledge, nor good intent. This leads them to praise those whom Allaah and His Messenger have not praised, and to censure those whom Allaah and His Messenger have not censured. It also causes them to have walaa (love and allegiance) and ‘adaa (enmity and hatred) based upon their own self-desires, not upon the Religion of Allaah and His Messenger … So whosoever does this will only bring about fitan (trials and discord) between the people.”4

PRESERVING THE LOVE AND UNITY

Shaykh ‘Abdul-‘Azeez bin Baaz – hafidhahullaah – said:

“The Religion of Allaah orders to judge (with justice) in all matters, and not to have walaa (love, loyalty and allegiance) with your brother merely because he agrees with you, or to have ‘adaa (enmity and being distant) from him merely because he disagrees with you on a certain opinion or issue. This is not from justice at all! The Companions – radiallaahu ‘anhum – differed in various issues, yet this did not affect the happiness and sincerity between them, nor their walaa and love for each other – may Allaah be pleased with them all. So the Believer acts upon the Sharee’ah (Prescribed and Divine Islaamic Law) of Allaah, follows the truth, gives priority to the evidences before anyone – yet in doing so, he does not oppress his brother, nor negate doing justice to him when he differs regarding any issue of ijtihaad in which the evidences are not so apparent. Likewise is the case for those issues in which differences occur due to a different interpretation of the text. So, in such instances he is excused, and it is upon you to sincerely advice him, and to love only the good for him, and not to split-up, nor to have enmity and hatred between you and your brother – and there is no might, nor any power, except with Allaah. “5

1. Majmoo’ Fataawaa (20/164) of Ibn Taymiyyah.
2. Majmoo’ Fataawaa (11/512).
3. Majmoo’ Fataawaa (3/346-347).
4. Minhaajus-Sunnah an-Nabawiyyah (5/255).
5. Majmoo’ Fataawaa wa Magaaalaat Mutanawwi’ah (11346).

 

Unity, Groups and Parties : Sh bin Baaz & Sh Saalih al-Fawzaan

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source: From Al-Istiqaamah

SHAYKH ‘ABDUL-‘AZEEZ BIN BAAZ

[Q]: What is the obligation upon the Muslim Scholars with regard to the large number of jam’iyyaat (societies) and jamaa’aat (groups) in many of the Islaamic lands and elsewhere, and with regard to the differences that exist between them, to the point that each group declares the others to be misguided. Do you not hold that it is fitting to enter into explaining the like of this matter, and to clarify the truth concerning their differences, for fear that these differences will increase and lead to evil consequences for the Muslims?

[A]: “Our Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam made clear to us a single way which it is obligatory upon the Muslims to follow and traverse, and that is Allaah’s Straight Path and the methodology of His upright religion. Allaah – the Most High – said: “And this is My Straight Path, so follow it and do not follow other paths that will separate you from His Path. This has He ordained for you, that you may become pious.” [Soorah al-An’aam 6:153]. Just as the Lord of Might and Majesty warned the Ummah (nation) of Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam against splitting and disunity, since that is one of the greatest causes of failure and of the enemy taking control, as occurs in the saying of Allaah – the Mighty and Majestic’s: “And fold fast altogether to the rope of Allaah and do not be divided.” [Soorah Aal-‘Imraan 3:101]. And His – the Most High’s – saying: “He has ordained for you the same religion which He ordained for Nooh, and that which We revealed to you, and that which We ordained for Ibraaheem, Moosaa and ‘Eesaa ‘alayhimus-salaam, saying: that you should establish the religion by doing that which you are ordered with, and make no divisions in it. Intolerable for the Pagans is that to which you call them.” [Soorah ash-Shooraa 42:13]. So this is a Divine call to unity and for hearts to be harmonised. And in any Islaamic land, if there are many groups for the purpose of good, aid, co-operating in righteousness and piety between the Muslims – without their being differences between the desires of the companions and followers – then this is good, is a blessing, and produces great benefit.

However, if each of them declare the others to be misguided and attack their actions, then this harm is very great and its evil consequences very serious. Then what is obligatory upon the Muslims is to clarify the true state of affairs and to discuss with each group and to sincerely advise all of them that they should proceed upon the way laid down by Allaah for His servants, and upon that which our Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam called to. Then those who ignore this, or continue in their stubbornness, due to personal benefit or goal – known only to Allaah – then what is obligatory upon those who know the reality is to make this known about them and to warn against them, so that the people may avoid their path, and that those who do not know the reality of their affair may not fall into it and be led astray, and that they are not turned away from the Straight Path which Allaah ordered that we follow, as occurs in His – the Mighty and Majestic’s – saying: “And this is My Straight Path, so follow it and do not follow other paths that will separate you from His Path. This has He ordained for you, that you may become pious.” [Soorah al-An’aam 6:153]. And from that which there is no doubt about is that the multitude of sects and groups in the Islaamic society is, firstly something desired by Shaytaan, and secondly something desired by the enemies of Islaam from amongst mankind. Since agreement and unification of the Muslims, and their being aware of the dangers which threaten them and their ‘aqeedah (beliefs), will make them active in refuting and rebutting it, and acting in a unified manner for the benefit of the Muslims – thus repelling the danger from their religion, their lands and their brothers. And this is something which the enemies – from amongst mankind and jinn – are not pleased with. Therefore they are very eager to split-up the Muslims, destroy their unity and to sow the seeds of enmity and discord between them. We ask Allaah that He unites the Muslims upon the truth and that He removes from their society every type of misguidance and every cause of discord. Indeed He is the One Who is able to do that, and He is the One having full power over it.” 1

[Q]: … and the students of knowledge refer back to you and to the other major Scholars and ask them. So what do you advise them? Do you advise and approve of entering (i.e. joining) the likes of these groups; such as Jamaa’atul-Ikhwaan, Jamaa’atut-Tableegh, Jamaa’atul-Jihaad, and so on, or do you advise them to remain upon seeking knowledge with the students of knowledge from those who call to the way of the Salaf (the Pious Predecessors)?

[A]: “All praise is for Allaah and may Allaah extol and send blessings of peace upon His Prophet. We advise them all to unite upon a single way and that is the way of seeking knowledge and attaining understanding of the Book and the Sunnah, and to proceed along the manhaj (methodology) of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah. I advise them all that their goal should be to follow the Book and the Sunnah and to proceed upon the manhaj of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah, and that they should all call themselves Ahlus-Sunnah or the followers of the Salafus-Saalih (Pious Predecessors). But as for tahazzub (bigotted partisanship) for the Ikhwaanul-Muslimeen, or Jamaa’atut-Tableegh, or so on, then I do not advise that. That is a mistake. Rather we advise them that they should be together upon a single way, a single jamaa’ah, advising one another with the truth and having allegiance to Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah. This is the correct way to prevent differences. But if there are various groups upon that same way (i.e. of following the Salafus-Saalih) – a group in such and such a place, and another in such and such a place – but all of them are upon the Salafee2 way, following the Book and the Sunnah, calling to Allaah and having allegiance to Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah – without tahazzub (partisanship) and without ta’assub (bigotted blind-following) – then that is not harmful – even if there are a number of groups – as long as their way and their goal is one.”3

SHAYKH SAALIH AL-FAWZAAN

[Q]: Noble Shaykh, with regards to the serious state in which the Ummah of Islaam lives – a state of confusion in peoples’ thoughts – particularly in matter relating to the Religion. For the Islamic Jamaa’ahs (groups) and sects have become many, and each of them claim that their manhaj (methodology) is the correct Islamic methodology which must be followed. So the Muslim is left in a state of confusion as to what he should follow and which one is upon the truth.

[A]: “Splitting up is not from the Religion, since the Religion commands us with unity and that we should be a single Jamaa’ah and a single Ummah upon the ‘aqeedah (belief) of Tawheed (i.e. to single out Allaah alone for worship) and upon following the Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Allaah – the Most High – said: “Indeed this Ummah of yours is a single Ummah and I am your Lord, so worship Me alone.” [Soorah al-Anbiyaa 21:92]. And Allaah – the Most High – said: “And hold fast altogether to the rope of Allaah and do not become divided.” [Soorah Aal-‘Imraan 3:103]. And Allaah – the Most Perfect – said: “Indeed those who split-up their Religion and become sects, you have no part with them in the least. Their affair is with Allaah who will tell them what they used to do.” [Soorah al-An’aam 6:159]. So this contains a severe warning against splitting and differing. Allaah – the Most High – said: “And do not be like those who split-up and differed after the clear evidences came to them. For them is a tremendous punishment.” [Soorah Aal-‘Imraan 3:105].

So our Religion is the Religion of al-Jamaa’ah, and the Religion of agreement and unity. Splitting is not from the Religion, since the Religion orders that we are a single Jamaa’ah and the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “The Believer to the Believer is like a building, one part supporting the other.”4 And he sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam also said: “The example of the Believers with respect to their mutual love, mercy and affection is like the example of a single body.”5 And it is known that a building and a body are a single cohesive thing, not disunited and fragmented – since if a building splits then it will collapse; and likewise a body, if it splits, then life will be lost. Thus, there must be a unity and we must be a single Jamaa’ah whose foundations is Tawheed and whose methodology is the da’wah (call) of the Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam; and which proceeds upon the Religion of Islaam. Allaah – the Most High – said: “And this is My Straight Path, so follow it, and do not follow other paths that will separate you from His Path.” [Soorah al-An’aam 6:153]. So these groups, and this splitting which is present today, is not approved of by Islaam. Rather, Islaam forbids it severely and commands uniting upon the ‘aqeedah (belief) of Tawheed and upon the methodology of Islaam, a single Jamaa’ah and a single Ummah, just as our Lord – the Most Perfect, the Most High – ordered. And splitting and their being many (differing) groups and parties is from the plots of the devils – from the jinn and mankind – against this Ummah. So the kuffaar (disbelievers) and the munaafiqs (hypocrites) have never ceased, since olden times, introducing their poison in order to split the Ummah. The jews said previously: “And a party of the People of the Book say: Believe in the morning in that which is revealed to the Muslims, but reject it at the end of the day, so they may turn back.” [Soorah Aal-‘Imraan 3:72]. Meaning: that the Muslims will leave their religion when they see you leaving it. And the Hypocrites said: “Do not spend on those who are with Allaah’s Messenger until they desert him.” [Soorah al-Munaafiqoon 63:7]. “And as for those who erect a mosque by way of disbelief and seeking to harm and disunite the Believers …” [Soorah at-Tawbah 9:107].” 6

[Q]: What is the ruling with regards to those who align themselves with those jamaa’ahs, particularly those that are established upon secrecy and giving bay’ah (pledge of allegiance to the party leader)?

[A]: “The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam informed us that splitting would occur and he ordered us, at that particular time, to come together and to be upon that which the Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and his Companions were upon. So he sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “The jews split-up into seventy-one sects and my Ummah would split-up into seventy-three sects. All of them are in the Fire except one.” They said: Who is it O Messenger of Allaah? So he replied: “That which I and my Companions are upon this day.”7 And he sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said, when his Companions asked him to advise him: “I advise you to have taqwaa (fear and obedience) of Allaah and to hear and to obey, even if an Abysinnian slave is a leader over you. And those of you who live long after me will see many differences of opinion. So hold fast to my Sunnah and the guidance of the Rightly-Guided Khaleefahs (Successors) after me; cling to it tightly …”8 So this is the manhaj (methodology) which is obligatory for all the Muslims to follow, until the Day of Resurrection. So when disagreements occur then they must return back to that which the Salaf (the Pious Predecessors) of this Ummah were upon, with regards to manhaj, bay’ah (pledge of allegiance), and other matter connected to the Religion.”

1. Majmoo’ Fataawaa wa Maqaalaat Mutanawwi’ah (5/202-204).
2. Imaam as-Sam’aanee (d.562H) said in al-Insaab (3/273): “As-Salafee: this is an ascription to the Salaf and following their ways, in that which is related from them.” Ibn al-Atheer (d.630H) said in al-Lubaab fee Tahdheebul-Insaab (2/162), commenting upon the previous saying of as-Sam’aanee: “And a group were known by this ascription.” So the meaning is: that the term Salafee, and its ascription to them, was a matter known in the time of as-Sam’aanee – the sixth century – or before him.
3. From a series of taped questions asked by Shaykh Abul-Hasan al-Misree in the house of the noble Shaykh ‘Abdul-‘Azeez bin Baaz – hafidhahullaah – on the 6th day of Dhul-Hijjah 1416H (equivalent to the 24th of April 1996CE).
4. Related by al-Bukhaaree (no.481) and Muslim (no.2585), from Abu Hurayrah radiallaahu ‘anhu.
5. Related by al-Bukhaaree (no.6011) and Muslim (no.2586), from an-Nu’maan ibn Basheer radiallaahu ‘anhu.
6. From a series of questions put to the noble Shaykh – hafidhahullaah – between the 13th and 15th day of Dhul-Hijjah, in the year 1413H. The questions have been reproduced from the book: Maraaji’aat fi Fiqhil-Waaqi’ (pp.44-45).
7. Hasan: Related by at-Tirmidhee (no.2792) and al-Haakim (1/128-129), from ‘Abdullaah ibn ‘Amr radiallaahu ‘anhu. It was authenticated by al-Albaanee in as-Saheehah (no.204).
8. Saheeh: Related by Ahmad (4/126) and Abu Daawood (no.4607), from al-‘Irbaad ibn Saariyah radiallaahu ‘anhu. It was authenticated by al-Haafidh Ibn Hajr in Takhreej Ahaadeeth Mukhtasar Ibnul-Haajib (1/137).
9. Maraaji’aat fi Fiqhil-Waaqi’ (pp.46-47).

A Single Ummah – Shaykh Ibn Baz, Shaykh Uthaymeen, Shaykh Fawzaan

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Source: Al-Istiqaamah – Shawwaal 1418H / February 1998 – Issue No.8

[1]:THE OBLIGATION TO UNIFY THE RANKS

Shaykh Ibn al-‘Uthaymeen – hafidhahullaah – said:

“From the sincere advice which I hold to be necessary in the Religion to give to the youths, a word which I hope that Allaah – the Most Perfect, the Most High – will cause to be of benefit, and it is:That they should all be in conformity and harmony, so that they may become strong, and become an obstacle blocking the way of those who plot against Islaam and its people. This is what Allaah – the Mighty and Majestic – has enjoined upon us. He – the Most High – said: “And hold fast altogether to the rope of Allaah and do not be divided. And remember the favour of Allaah upon you, in that you were once enemies to one another, but He joined your hearts together, so that by His Grace you became brothers.” [Soorah Aal-‘lmraan 3:103]. And Allaah the Blessed, the Most High – said: “Let there arise from amongst you a group of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining the good and forbidding the evil. It is they who are the successful ones, And do not be like those who differed amongst themselves after the clear proofs had come to them; for them is a painful punishment.” [Soorah Aal-‘lmraan 3:104-105]. So Allaah ordered that they should all cling together to His rope and He forbade splitting, and in other Aayahs He forbade differing, and informed us that it is the cause of failure and the cause of decline of strength, and He ordered us to persevere patiently. So Allaah – the Most High – said: “And do not differ, lest you lose courage and your strength departs, and be patient. Indeed Allaah is with those who are patient.” [Soorah al-Anfaal 8:46]. And as is known, the people of good who help the youths of the revival in their work – with what they are able from wealth, and so on – if they see them splitting in this way, then they will not be so eager to help and assist them. So I call all of our brothers to unite together, and to fear Allaah with regards to themselves and with regards to the Ummah (nation) of Islaam, and that they should not cover up this light which has appeared on the horizon; the call to Allaah – the Mighty and Majestic …”1

Ibn Taymiyyah (d.728H) – rahimahullaah – said:
“Holding fast to the rope of Allaah altogether and not becoming divided is one of the greatest usool (fundamentals) of Islaam.”2

[2]:THE PROHIBITION OF SPLITTING

Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan – hafidhahullaah – said: “Splitting up is not from the Religion, since the Religion

commands us with unity and that we should be a single Jamaa’ah and a single Ummah upon the ‘aqeedah (belief) of Tawheed (i.e. to single out Allaah alone for worship) and upon following the Messenger sallallaahu ‘aloyhi wa sallam. Allaah – the Most High – said:“Indeed this Ummah of yours is a single Ummah and I am your Lord, so worship Me alone.” [Soorah al-Anbiyaa 21:92]. And Allaah – the Most High -said: “And hold fast altogether to the rope of Allaah and do not become divided.” [Soorah Aal-‘lmaan 3:103]. And Allaah – the Most Perfect – said: “Indeed those who split-up their Religion and become sects, you have no part with them in the least. Their affair is with Allaah who will tell them what they used to do.” [Soorah al-An’aam 6:159]. So this contains a severe warning against splitting and differing. Allaah – the Most High – said: “And do not be like there who split-up and differed after the clear evidences came to them. For them is a tremendous punishment.” [Soorah Aal-‘lmraan 3:105].

So our Religion is the Religion of al-Jamaa’ah, and the Religion of agreement and unity. Splitting is not from the Religion, since the Religion orders that we are a single Jamaa’ah and the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “The Believer to the Believer is like a building, one part supporting the other.”3 And he sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam also said: “The example of the Believers with respect to their mutual love, mercy and affection is like the example of a single body.”4 And it is known that a building and a body are a single cohesive thing, not disunited and fragmented – since if a building splits then it will collapse; and likewise a body, if it splits, then life will be lost. Thus, there must be a unity and we must be a single Jamaa’ah whose foundation is Tawheed and whose methodology is the da’wah (call) of the Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam; and which proceeds upon the Religion of Islaam. Allaah – the Most High – said:“And this is My Straight Path, so follow it, and do not follow other paths that will separate you from His Path.” [Soorah al-An’aam 6:153]. So these groups, and this splitting which is present today, is not approved of by Islaam. Rather, Islaam forbids it severely and commands uniting upon the ‘aqeedah (belief) of Tawheed and upon the methodology of Islaam, a single Jamaa’ah and a single Ummah, just as our Lord – the Most Perfect, the Most High – ordered. And splitting and their being many (differing) groups and parties is from the plots of the devils – from the jinn and mankind against this Ummah. So the kuffaar (disbelievers) and the munaafiqs (hypocrites) have never ceased, since olden times, introducing their poison in order to split the Ummah. The jews said previously: “And a party of the People of the Book say: Believe in the morning in that which is revealed to the Muslims, but reject it at the end of the day, so they turn back.” [Soorah Aal-‘Imraan 3:72]

Meaning: that the Muslims will leave their religion when they see you leaving it. And the Hypocrites said: “Do not spend on those who are with Allaah’s Messenger until they desert him.” [Soorah al-Munaafiqoon 63:7]. “And as for those who erect a mosque by way of disbelief and seeking to harm and disunite the Believers …” [Soorah at-Tawbah 9:107].”5

[3]: THE CONNECTION BETWEEN UNITY AND REFUTING FALSE BELIEFS AND PRACTICES

Shaykh ‘Abdul-‘Azeez bin Baaz – hafidhahullaah – said:

“There is no doubt that it is obligatory upon the Muslims to unify their ranks and to unite their word upon the truth and to co-operate in goodness and piety against the enemies of Islaam – as Allaah, the Most Perfect – ordered them with in His saying: “And hold fast altogether to the rope of Allaah and do not become divided.” [Soorah Aal-‘lmraan 3:102]. And likewise, Allaah has warned the Muslims against splitting up, as occurs in His – the Most Perfect’s – saying: “And do not be like those who differed and split-up after the clear evidences came to them.” [Soorah Aal-‘lmraan 3:105]. However, the order to unify the Muslims and unite their word upon the truth and to hold fast to the rope of Allaah, does not mean that they should not censure wrong beliefs and practices – whether from the Soofees or other than them. Rather, what the order to hold fast to the Rope of Allaah necessitates is: To order the good; forbid the evil; to clarify the truth, with the clear Sharee’ah proofs, to whomsoever is misguided or has a mistaken opinion, until they unite upon the truth and turn away from that which opposes it. All of this is included in His – the Most Perfect’s – saying: “And help you one another in righteousness and piety, and do not help one another in sin and transgression.” [Soorah al-Maa’idah 5:2]. And His – the Most Perfect’s – saying: “Let there arise from amongst you a group of people calling to all that is good, enjoining the good and forbidding the evil, they are the ones who are successful.” [Soorah Aal’Imraan 3:1 10]. And when the people of truth hold back from clarifying the mistakes of those who have erred or are mistaken, then they will not have achieved that which Allaah ordered them with, as regards calling to goodness, ordering the good and forbidding the evil. So the person in error will remain upon his error, and the one acting in opposition to the truth will remain upon his mistake. And this is contrary to what Allaah – the Most Perfect – prescribed, with regards to sincere advice, co-operation upon goodness, ordering the good and forbidding the evil – and Allaah alone is the One Who grants success.”6

Shaykhul-lslaam Ibn Taymiyyah – rahimahullaah – said: “Refuting ahlul-bida’ (the innovators) is a Jihaad, to the extent that Yahyaa ibn Yahyaa (d.226H) said: “Defence of the Sunnah is more excellent than Jihaad in the path of Allaah.”7″8

Imaam al-Humaydee (d.218H) – rahimahullaoh – said: “By Allaah, that I fight against those who reject the hadeeth of Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is more beloved to me than fighting the unbelievers.”9

Imaam Ibn al-Qayyim (d.751H)- rahimahullaah – said: “Jihaad with the clear proofs and the tongue; Comes before Jihaad with the sword and the spear.”10

Shaykhul-lslaam Ibn Taymiyyah – rahimahullaah – said: “When some people asked Ahmad bin Hanbal (d.241H) that they felt uneasy about [criticising people] by saying that such and such is this, and such and such is that, he replied: “lf I were to remain silent, how would the ignorant ones know the authentic [narrations] from the inauthentic?” Similarly, the innovators who introduce heretical writings which oppose the Qur’aan and the Sunnah, and those who innovate in matters of worship, then explaining their true condition and warning the Ummah against them is an obligation by the unanimous agreement of the Muslim Scholars. In fact, when Imaam Ahmad bin Hanbal was asked whether a person who fasted, prayed and secluded himself in the mosque for worship was dearer to him than a person who spoke out against ahlul-bid’ah (the innovators), he replied: “When he fasts and prays and secludes himself, then he does so for the benefit of his own self. However, when he speaks out against the innovators, he does so for the benefit of the Muslims in general, and this is more virtuous.” So it is clear that opposing the Innovators is of general benefit to the Muslims and is considered one of the types of Jihaad in the path of Allaah. Since purifying the Religion of Allaah, and its minhaaj (methodology), its Shoree’ah, and defending it from their attacks and that of their enemies is a collective obligation – a fact which is agreed upon by the Scholars. For if Allaah did not raise up some people to repel the harms [caused by] others, then the Religion would become corrupted. Indeed, this type of corruption is even greater than the corruption resulting from the disbelievers conquering the Muslims. This is because when the disbelievers conquer the Muslims, they do not corrupt their hearts nor their Religion, except after some time. Whereas the innovators corrupt the hearts from the very outset.”11

1. From a series of questions and answers, recorded on the 16th of Dhul-Hijjah 1416H (corresponding to the 3rd of May 1996CE).
2. Majmoo’ Fataawaa (22/359).
3. Related by al-Bukhaaree (no.481) and Muslim (no.2585), from Abu Hurayrah radiallaahu ‘anhu.
4. Related by al-Bukhaaree (no.6011) and Muslim (no.2586), from an-Nu’maan ibn Basheer radiallaahu ‘anhu.
5. Maraaji’aat fi Fiqhil-Waaqi’ (pp.44-45).
6. Tanbeehaat fir-Radd ‘alaa man Ta’awwallis-Sifaat (pp.31-32).
7. Siyar A’laamun-Nubalaa (1015 18).
8. Naqdul-Mantaq wal-Kalaam (p.12).
9. Related by adh-Dhahabee in Siyar A’laamun-Nubalaa (10/619).
10. Qaseedah an-Nooniyyah (1112).
11. Majmoo’ Fataawaa (28/23 1-232)

 

Reconciling the Hearts

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Al-Istiqaamah, Issue No.3

Allaah – the One free from all imperfections – said:

“So have taqwaa (fear and obedience) of Allaah and reconcile the differences between yourselves.” [Soorah al-Anfaal 8:1].

“Indeed the Believers are but brothers. Therefore reconcile the differences between your brothers, and fear Allaah so that you may receive mercy.” [Soorah al-Hujuraat 49:10].

“So this is a knot which Allaah has bound the Believers together with, such that whenever a person is found possessing eemaan (faith) in Allaah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers and the Last Bay – whether in the eastern or western part of the world – then such a person becomes the brother of the Believers. This brotherhood obligates that the Believers should love for that person that which they love for themselves, and hate for that person that which they hate for themselves. Therefore, the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said – whilst ordering the brotherhood of eemaan (faith): “Do not envy one another. Do not inflate prices upon one another. Do not hate one another. Do not forsake one another. Do not under-cut one another. But be worshippers of Allaah and brothers. The Muslim is the brother of another Muslim; he neither oppresses him, nor humiliates him, nor lies to him, nor holds him in contempt. And piety is right here – and he pointed to his chest three times. It is enough evil for a person to hold his brother Muslim in contempt. The whole of a Muslim for another Muslim is sacred; his blood, his property and his honour.”1 And he sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “The Believer to the Believer is like a solid structure, one part supporting the other.” And he interlaced his fingers to demonstrate this.2

Thus Allaah and His Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam ordered that the rights of the Believers be fulfilled by each other, and that those matters which will bring about harmony, love and togetherness be carried out. All of this is to be done in order to further the rights that they have over one another. So from such tights is that when fighting occurs between them – thereby causing their hearts to separate and to have hatred and to cut-off from each other – then the Believers should bring about reconciliation between their brothers and do that which will remove the enmity. Then Allaah ordered taqwaa in general and made the bestowal of His Mercy the consequence of their having taqwaa and their fulfilling the rights of the Believers. So He said: “And have taqwaa of Allaah in order that you may receive mercy.” Thus, if Allaah’s Mercy is attained, then the good of this world and the Hereafter will also be attained.”3

‘Aaishah radiallaahu ‘anhaa used to say, that when people abandoned acting upon this Aayah (verse): “When two parties of the Believers fight each other, then make reconciliation between them.” [Soorah al-Hujuraat 49:9]. So when the Muslims began fighting each other, it was obligatory to reconcile them, as Allaah – the Most High – ordered. However, when they did not do this, then fitnah (trials and tribulations) spread, as did ignorance, and this is what caused the differences to continue.4

Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “Shall I not inform you of something that is greeter in degree than (optional) fasting, charity and Prayer?” They said: Indeed inform us. So he said: “It is reconciling the people. For indeed causing corruption between them is the shaver!”5

And he sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam explained this shaving in another saying: “The disease of the people before you has overcome you, namely envy and hatred and it is the shaver. I do not say that it shaves-off the heir. Rather, it shaves-off the religion!”6

1. Related by Muslim (no.2564), from Abu Hurayrah radiallaahu ‘anhu.
2. Related by al-Bukhaaree (no.481) and Muslim (no.2585), from Abu Hurayrah radiallaahu ‘anhu.
3. Tayseerul-Kareemur-Rahmaan (7/133-134) of Shaykh as-Sa’dee.
4. Related by Ibn Abil-‘lzz in Sharhul-‘Aqeedatit-Tahaawiyyah (2/777). Al-Bayhaqee related something similar to this in his Sunanul-Kubraa (8/172).
5. Saheeh: Related by at-Tirmidhee (no.2640) and Abu Daawood (no.4919), from Abud-Dardaa radiallaahu ‘anhu. It was authentitated by al-Albaanee in Ghaayatul-Maraam (no.414).
6. Hasan: Related by at-Tirmidhee (no.2641), from az-Zubayr ibn al-‘Awwaam radiallaahu ‘anhu. It was authenticated by al-Albaanee in Saheeh Sunan at-Tirmidhee (no.2038).

The Ruling Concerning Multiple Groups and Parties : al-Albaani, ibn Baz, ibn Uthaymeen

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Fatwaas by Shaykh ’Abdul-’Azeez bin Baaz, Shaykh Naasirud-Deen al-Albaanee, Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen
Al-Ibaanah Online, Issue No.3 – Dhul-Qa’dah 1416H / April 1996

Fatwa of Shaykh bin Baaz [1]

[Q] What is the obligation upon the Muslim Scholars with regard to the large number of jamiyyaat (societies) and jamaa’at (groups) in many of the Islaamic lands and elsewhere, and with regard to the differences that exist between them, to the point that each group declares the others to be misguided. Do you not hold that it is fitting to enter into explaining the like of this matter, and to clarify the truth concerning their differences, for fear that these differences will increase and lead to evil consequences for the Muslims?

[A]: Our Prophet sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam made clear to us a single way which it is obligatory upon the Muslims to follow and traverse, and that is Allaah’s Straight Path and the methodology of His upright religion. Allaah – the Most High – said: “And this is My Straight Path, so follow it and do not follow other paths that will separate you from His Path. This has He ordained for you, that you may become pious.” [Soorah al An’aam 6:153]. Just as the Lord of Might and Majesty warned the Ummah (nation) of Muhammad sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam against splitting and disunity, since that is one of the greatest causes of failure and of the enemy taking control, as occurs in the saying of Allaah – the Mighty and Majestic’s – : “And hold fast altogether to the rope of Allaah and do not be divided.” [Soorah Aal-Imraan 3: 101 ]. And His – the Most High’s – saying: “He has ordained for you the same religion which He ordained for Nooh, and that which We revealed to you, and that which We ordained for Ibraaheem, Moosaa and ’Eesaa ’alayhimus-salaam, saying: that you should establish the religion by doing that which you are ordered with, and make no divisions in it. Intolerable for the Pagans is that to which you call them.” [Soorah ash-Shooraa 42:13].

So this is a Divine call to unity and for hearts to be harmonised. And in any Islaamic land, if there are many groups for the purpose of good, aid, cooperating in righteousness and piety between the Muslims without their being differences between the desires of the companions and followers – then this is good, is a blessing, and produces great benefit.

However, if each of them declare the others to be misguided and attack their actions, then this harm is very great and its evil consequences very serious. Then what is obligatory upon the Muslims is to clarify the true state of affairs and to discuss with each group and to sincerely advise all of them that they should proceed upon the way laid down by Allaah for His servants, and upon that which our Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam called to. Then those who ignore this, or continue in their stubbornness, due to personal benefit or goal – known only to Allaah – then what is obligatory upon those who know the reality is to make this known about them and to warn against them, so that the people may avoid their path, and that those who do not know the reality of their affair may not fall into it and be led astray, and that they are not turned away from the Straight Path which Allaah ordered that we follow, as occurs in His – the Mighty and Majestic’s – saying: “And this is My Straight Path, so follow it and do not follow other paths that will separate you from His Path. This has He ordained for you, that you may become pious.” [Soorah al-An’aam 6:153]. And from that which there is no doubt about is that the multitude of sects and groups in the Islaamic society is, firstly something desired by Shaytaan, and secondly something desired by the enemies of Islaam from amongst mankind. Since agreement and unification of the Muslims, and their being aware of the dangers which threaten them and their ’aqeedah (beliefs), will make them active in refuting and rebutting it, and acting in a unified manner for the benefit of the Muslims, thereby repelling the danger from their religion, their lands and their brothers. And this is something which the enemies -from amongst mankind and jinn – are not pleased with. Therefore they are very eager to split-up the Muslims, destroy their unity and to sow the seeds of enmity and discord between them. We ask Allaah that He unites the Muslims upon the truth and that He removes from their society every type of misguidance and every cause of discord. Indeed He is the One Who is able to do that, and He is the One having full power over it.

The Fatwaa of Shaykh al-Albaanee [2]

[Q]: What is the Sharee’ah ruling concerning these numerous Islaamic groups, parties and organizations which differ amongst themselves in their minhaaj (methodology), their modes of operations, their da’wah (call), their ’aqeedah (beliefs) and the foundations upon which they are based. Especially when the group of truth is a single one, as is proven by the hadeeth?

[A]: We have spoken a lot about the answer to this question, therefore we shall be brief whilst speaking about it. So we say: It will not be hidden from any Muslim who has knowledge of the Book and the Sunnah and that which our Salafus-Saalih (Pious Predecessors) – may Allaah be pleased with them all – were upon, that firstly; formation of parties and organizing into groups with differing thought, and secondly; differing in the minhaaj (methodology), is not from Islaam at all. Rather it is from what our Lord – the Mighty and Majestic – has actually forbidden, in more than one aayah (verse) from the noble Qur‘aan. From this is His – the Most High’s – saying: “And do not be like those who worship others besides Allaah – those who split-up their religion and become sects. Each party rejoicing in only that which is with them.” [Soorah Room 30:31-32]. And our Lord – the Mighty and Majestic – also says: “And if your Lord has so willed, He could have made mankind a single nation. But they will not cease to differ, except those upon whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy.” [Soorah Hood 11: 118 -119] So Allaah – the Most Blessed, the Most High – made exempted from this differing and disagreement – a differing which must occur by Allaah’s creational Decree , but not as something that He is pleased with or desires from us – that sect upon which He has bestowed His Mercy, as occurs in His saying: “ … except those upon whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy.” And there is no doubt whatsoever, that any group that has purity of intention for Allaah, and earnestly desire to be from that nation which is exempted from this differing; and upon whom Allaah has bestowed His Mercy, then there is no way to practically reach and attain this in the Islaamic societies, except by returning to the Book and to the Sunnah of the Messenger sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam and to what our Salafus-Saalih (Pious Predecessors) – may Allaah be pleased with them all – were upon.

And Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam made clear the manhaj (methodology) and the correct way, in many authentic ahaadeeth: From the Prophet sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam, that one day he drew a straight line upon the ground, and drew short lines around the straight line. Then he recited Allaah – the Most Blessed, the Most High’s – saying: “And this is My Straight Path, so follow it, and do not follow paths other that will separate you from His Path.” [Soorah al-An’aam 6:153]. He then pointed with his finger to the straight line and said that this is Allaah’s Straight Path. Then he pointed to the other lines away from the Straight Path and said: “At the head of each of these other paths, there is a devil calling the people to it.” [3]

And there is no doubt that these short paths are those which represent the many parties and groups. Therefore, what is obligatory upon every Muslim who truly desires to be from al-Firqatun-Naajiyah (the Saved Sect) is that he proceeds upon the Straight Path – neither turning to its left or its right. And there is no party which is successful, except the Party of Allaah, about which the noble Qur‘aan mentions to us: “Indeed, it is the Party of Allaah who are succesful.” [Soorah al-Mujaadilah 58:22].

Therefore, every party which is not the party of Allaah is only from the party of Shaytaan and not from the party of ar-Rahmaan (the Most Merciful). And there is also no doubt at all, that proceeding upon the Straight Path requires correct knowledge of it, and this cannot be attained by mere organization and mere formation of parties – that desire to be upon true Islaam, but not truly understanding what was the Islaam that Allaah – the Most Blessed, the Most High – sent down upon the heart of Muhammad sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam. And the sign of the Saved-Sect was clearly stated by the Prophet sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam, when he was asked about it – so he said: “It is that which I and my Companions are upon.” [4]

So this hadeeth indicates to the one eagerly seeking knowledge of Allaah’s Straight Path, that one must have knowledge of two extremely important matters: – Firstly: That which the Messenger sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam was upon. Secondly. That which his sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam’s Companions were upon. this is because the noble Companions were those who transmitted the guidance of the Prophet sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam and his Sunnah to us, and secondly that they were the ones who best followed this Sunnah in practice. So since this is the case, it is not therefore possible for us to have a correct understanding of the Prophet’s Sunnah, except by way of his Companions … Thus, attaining a correct understanding of Islaam cannot be possible except through knowing the life examples of the Companions and how they followed this great Islaam which they took from the Prophet sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam – either from his sayings, actions or tacit approvals.

Therefore, we believe with certainty, that every group that does not establish itself upon the foundations of the Book and the Sunnah and the manhaj (methodology) of the Salafus-Saalih having extensively and comprehensively studied the rulings of Islaam, the large and the small, the principles and the branches then this group will not be from the Saved Sect; the Sect that which proceeds upon the Straight Path which was indicated by the Messenger sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam in the authentic hadeeth.

And if we imagined that there are separate groups in the Islaamic lands, upon this manhaj (methodology), then they will not be considered as being parties, rather they are a single group, with a single manhaj and its path is a single one. Though they are separated by land, they are not, however, separated in thoughts, ’aqeedah (beliefs), or manhaj. Rather this separation is only due to a physical separation of land – as opposed to the various groups and parties, which may even be in a single land, yet despite this, each party is pleased only with what it possess. As for these types of parties, we do not believe that they are upon the Straight Path. Rather we state with certainty, that they are upon those paths – at the head of each one there is a devil calling the people to it. And hopefully this contains an answer for what has preceded.

The Fatwaa of Shaykh Ibn al-’Uthaymeen [5]

[QJ: Are there any texts from the Book of Allaah or the Sunnah of His Prophet sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam which contain an allowance of multiple groups and parties or al-Ikhwaan?

[A]: I say: There is not in either the Book or the Sunnah that which allows multiple parties and groups. Rather, there is in the Book and the Sunnah that which censures this. Allaah – the Most High – said: “Verily those who split-up their religion and become sects, you have no concern with them in the least. Their affair is with Allaah, Who will tell them about what they used to do.” [Soorah al-An’aam 6: 159]. Allaah – the Most High – said: “Each sect rejoicing in only that which is with itself.” [Soorah Room 30:32]. And there is no doubt that these parties are contrary to what Allaah ordered. Rather what Allaah has ordered and encouraged is in His saying: “And indeed this Ummah of yours is one Ummah and I am your Lord, so fear and obey Me.” [Soorah al-Mu‘minoon 23:52]. And some people say: It is not possible for the da’wah (call) to be strong unless it is done within the framework of a party! We say to that: This is incorrect! Rather the da’wah will be strong whenever the person is under the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam following the narrations of the Prophet sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam and that of his Companions.

References

1. Majmoo’ Fataawaa wa Maqaalaat Mutanawwi’ah (5/202-204).
2. Fataawaa Shaykh al-Albaanee (pp.106-114)
3. Hasan: Related by Ahmad (l/435) and an-Nasaa‘ee (7/49).
4. Hasan: Related by at-Tirmidhee (5/26).
5. From a cassette entitled Majmoo’ Kalaamul-’Ulemaa fee ’Abdur-Rahmaan ’Abdul-Khaaliq (side two).

Comprehensive Guidance

From al-Haarith al-Ash’aree radiallaahu ’anhu, who said that Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam said:

Indeed Allaah – the Most High – ordered Yahyaa ibn Zakariyyaa ’alayhimus-salaam with five things; that he should act upon them and order the Chldren of Israa‘eel to cat upon them. ’Eesaa ibn Maryam ’alayhis-salaam said to him: Indeed Allaah ordered you with five things, that you act upon them and that you order the Children of Israa‘eel to act upon them. So either you order them, or I will order them. So Zakariyyaa said: If you precede me in that, I fear that I will be punished or swallowed up by the earth. So he gathered the people in the mosque of Jerusalem until it was filled, and the people sat upon its walls. He admonished them saying:

“Indeed Allaah has ordered me with five things which I should act upon and order you to act upon. The first of them is that you should worship Allaah and not associate anything along with Him in this worship. That one who associates anything in worship with Allaah is like a man who bought a slave with his own wealth – either gold or silver – and said: This is my house and this is my work, so work and give the wages to me. So the slave worked and gives the wages to other than his owner. So which of you would be pleased for his slave to be like that? But Allaah created you and provides for you, so do not associate anything in worship with Him.

And I order you with Prayer, and when you pray then do not turn aside.

And I order you with Fasting. And that is the like of a man, amongst a group of people, who had a small pouch containing musk. Each of them likes to smell it. And, to Allaah, the fasting person is better than the smell of musk.

And I order you with sadaqah (charity). For its likeness is that of a man taken prisoner by the enemy, so they take hold of him and tie his hand to his neck, so he says: Will you not allow me to ransom myself from you? So he gives them small and large amounts to escape from them.

And I order you to make mention and remember Allaah alot. And the like of this is a man being chased by the enemy, who are hastening after him. So he comes to a protected fortress and enters into its protection. Likewise is the case for the servant. For he does not protect himself from Shaytaan, except through the remembrance of Allaah – the Mighty and Majestic.”

Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam said: “I order you with five things which Allaah ordered me with: The Jamaa’ah, [1] hearing, obeying, hijrah (migration) and jihaad in the way of Allaah – the Mighty and Majestic. So whosoever separates from the Jamaa’ah by a hand-span, throws of the yoke of Islaam from his neck, unless he repents. And whosoever calls with the call of the days of ignorance, then he is from the horde of Hell-Fire” It was said: Even if he fasts and prays? He said: “Even if he fasts and prays. So call with the call of Allaah, which Allaah gave: The Muslims, the Believers, Worshippers of Allaah.” [2]

1. At Teebee said – as occurs in Tuhfatul-Awaadhee Sharh Sununut-Tirmidhee (5/162): “What is meant by the Jamaa’ah is the Companions, the Taabi’een and the generation after the Taabi’een – the Salafus-Saalih (Pious Predecessors): That is, I order you to cling to their guidance and their way, and to associate with them.”
2. Saheeh: Related by at-Tirmidhee (nos.2863.4), at-Tiyaalasee (nos.1161-2) and others. And its chain of narration is Saheeh

False Desires and its Evil Effects upon Unity

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Al-Istiqaamah, Issue No.7 ,July 1997

Allaah – the Most High – said:

“And those who were given the Scripture (the Jews and the Christians) did not split-up except out of baghee (hatred and envy) between each other, after the knowledge had come to them.” [Soorah Aal-‘lmraan 3:19].

Imaam as-Sa’dee (d.1376H)- rahimahullaah – said:

“This is why Allaah – the Most High – ordered the Muslims with ijtimaa’ (collectiveness) in their Religion, and prohibited them from tafarruq (splitting-up). He informed them that they must not reject what Allaah revealed to them from the Book. Indeed the People of the Book (i.e. the jews and the Christians) did not split-up until after Allaah had revealed to them the Scripture, in which He ordered them with ijtimaa’ (being unified). However, they did the opposite to what He ordered them with, due to mutual jealousy and hatred. So hatred and jealousy culminated in them having grudges and enmity between one another, they then fell into differing and splitting up. So – O Muslims – beware of doing the likes of this.”1

Ibn Taymiyyah (d.728H) – rahimahullaah – said:
“Allaah explained that their splitting only occurred after the knowledge had come to them, and which showed them what they were commanded to do and to avoid. For Allaah does not leave people to stray, except after giving them guidance, until He explains to them what they were commanded to do. And He informed that the reason for their tafarruq (splitting) was due to baghee (mutual envy, jealousy, hatred) And baghee occurs due to either falling short of the truth, or transgressing the limits. It is due either to abandoning an obligation, or doing something prohibited. So know that this is what necessitates tafarruq (splitting).”2

THE ROOT OF CORRUPTION

Imaam Ibn al-Qayyim (d.751H) – rahimahullaah – said:

“It is upon the one who speaks in this matter, or any other matter, that he should only do so based upon knowledge and the truth; and that his objective should be sincerity to Allaah, to His Book, to His Messenger; and the giving of sincere advice to his Muslim brothers. But if he makes the truth accord with his own whims and desires, then this will corrupt and ruin the heart, the actions, and the state of affairs. Allaah – the Most High – said: “And if the truth were to be in accordance with their desires, then indeed the heavens and the earth – and all that is therein – would be corrupted and ruined.” [Soorah al-Mu’minoon 23:71]. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “None of you truly believe until he makes his desires accord with what I have been sent with.”3 So ‘ilm (knowledge) and ‘adl (justice) are the root of every good, whereas dhulm (oppression) and jahl (ignorance) are the root of every evil. And Allaah – the Most High – sent His Messenger with the Guidance and the Religion of Truth, and He commanded the doing of justice between people and that none of them should follow their whims and desires. Allaah the Most High – said: “So call to Islaam and stand firm, and do not follow their whims and desires, but say: I believe in whatever has been revealed by Allaah from the Book, and I have been commanded to do justice between you. Allaah is our Lord and your Lord, for us our deeds and for you your deeds. There is no dispute between us and you. Allaah will assemble us all, and to Him is the final return.” [Soorah ash-Shooraa 42:15].”4

A NECESSARY JIHAAD

Shaykhul-lslaam Ibn Taymiyyah – rahimahullaah – said:
“Jihaad against the nafs (soul) and its whims and desires is the foundation of jihaad against the unbelievers and the hypocrites. Indeed a person will not have the ability to wage jihaad against them, until he wages jihaad against his own soul and its whims and desires first.”5

Shaykh al-Ghunaymaan – hafidhahullaah – said:
“It is obligatory upon all those who speak about an affair from the affairs of the Religion that they do so purely for Allaah’s sake, sincerely for the truth. And that they overcome their soul and strive hard against following their whims and desires, not inclining towards worldly matters; such as love of being praised, seeking fame and reputation, gaining a large following, and other such matters. So the one who seeks to gain any of this, will gain only the vanities of this world.”6

1. Tayseerul-Kareemur-Rahmaan (p.701).
2. Majmoo’ Fataawaa (1/14).
3. Da’eef: Related by Ibn Abee ‘Aasim (no.15). It was declared weak by Al-Haafidh Ibn Rajab in Jaami’ ul-‘Uloom wal-Hikam (no.41).
4. Madaarijus-Saalikeen (3/532-533).
5. Related by Ibn al-Qayyim in Dhammul-Hawaa wa Ittibaa’ihi (p.28).
6. Al-Hawaa wa Atharahu fil-Khilaaf (p.20).

Differing: Its Permitted and Prohibited

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Al-Istiqaamah Issue No.8 – Shawwal 1418H / February 1998

SETTING THE STANDARD

Shaykh Ibn Ibraaheem- rahimahullaah- (d. 1389H) said: “Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah [the Saved Sect] have an usool (set of fundamentals) which is firmly based upon proofs; and upon this are built the furoo’ (subsidiary issues).”1

GUIDELINES REGARDING DIFFERENCES

Imaam as-Sa’dee (d. 1376H)- rahimahullaah – said: “Differences of opinions that occur between the [Scholars] of the Ummah are from two angles:- Firstly: Differences in the furoo’ (subsidiary issues), and in issues of ijtihaad (qualified striving to reach the truth); such that when a person – whether it is a judge, muftee, writer, or teacher – strives to arrive at a ruling and is correct, he is rewarded two-fold. But if he strives and is mistaken, then he is rewarded once. Second: Differences in matters of usool (fundamentals); such as the issues related to Allaah’s Attributes, al-Qadr (Predestination and Pre-Decree), Eemaan (faith), and their like. These cause those who oppose [such usool] to be regarded as deviants, because of them opposing the proofs from the Book and the Sunnah, and that which the Salafus-Saalih (Pious Predecessors) – the Companions and those who followed them in goodness – were agreed upon.”2

THE PERMISSIBLE TYPE OF DIFFERING

Shaykh Ibn al-‘Uthaymeen – hafidhahullaah – said: “This sect [i.e. the Saved-Sect] unites upon the truth, even if its people do have differences of opinion between themselves. However, these differences do not harm their [unity], nor cause them to declare each other as deviants. Rather, their hearts are still united, even when these difference of opinion occur in matters linked to the ‘aqeedoh (beliefs); such as did the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam see his Lord with his eyes, or did he not see him [with his eyes]? Or is the punishment in the grave to the body and the soul, or just to the soul only? Or other such issues. This is because these issues are subsidiary issues connected with the usool, they are not in the actual usool itself. So they do not declare each other as being deviants when they differ in such matters – contrary to what the innovators do.”3

THE PROHIBITED TYPE OF DIFFERING

Ibn Taymiyyah (d.728H) – rahimahullaah – said:
“The Scholars – from the Companions, the Taabi’een, and those who came after them – when they differed in any matter, then they followed the command of Allaah – the Most High – in His saying: “If you differ in anything amongst yourselves then refer it back to Allaah and His Messenger, if you do truly believe in Allaah and the Last Day. That is better and more suitable for final determination.” [Soorah an-Nisaa 4:59]. So they would discuss concerning the issue; discuss, consult and sincerely advise. Sometimes they would differ in matters linked to the ‘aqeedah, as well as issues linked to actions, yet along with such differences, they still preserved the unity and brotherhood. Yes, whosoever opposes the clear Book and the beneficial Sunnah, or that which the Pious Predecessors of this Ummah had Ijmaa’ (consensus) upon, opposing it without a justifiable excuse, then such a person has acted with the action of the Innovators … As regards differing in matters of rulings and actions, then the examples are too many to be recorded. So if every Muslim who differed in something were to be boycotted and abandoned, then no unity or brotherhood would ever remain. And Abu Bakr and ‘Umar radiallaahu ‘anhumaa – who were the best of the Muslims – used to differ in matters, but they did not intend except good. And the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said to his Companions on the day of [the expedition to] Banu Quraydhah: “Let none of you pray ‘Asr except when you reach Bonu Quraydhah.” So the time for the ‘Asr Prayer came during the journey, so one group amongst them said: We will not pray until we reach Banu Quraydhah; so they missed the actual time for ‘Asr. The other group said: We will not miss it by delaying the Prayer; so they prayed along the way. And the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam did not criticise any of the two groups. This is related by al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, from Ibn ‘Umar.4 So this differing was in a matter related to rulings and actions, not in the important usool (fundamantels) itself.” 5

1. Fataawaa lil-Lajnatud-Daa’imah lil-Buhoothul-‘llmiyyah wal-Iftaa (no.830).
2. Tanbeehaatul-Lateefah (p.93).
3. Sharhul-‘Aqeedatul-Waasitiyyah (1153).
4. Related by al-Bukhaaree (no. 946) and Muslim (no. 1770).
5. Majmoo’ Fataawaa (241171-174), abridged

Loving One Another For The Pleasure Of Allah (The Harm Of Differing) – Abu Uwais Abdullah Ahmad [Audio|En]

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Loving One Another For The Pleasure Of Allah (The Harm Of Differing)
Abu Uwais Abdullah Ahmad (rahimahullaah)
[Mp3|English]

This lecture was done in Atlanta, GA. We are in more need of this lecture today than ever before. We ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, safety and wellbeing.

Listen / Download Mp3 Here  (Time 01:16:51)

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