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Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Gambia) Stands in Solidarity with Qatar

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq'.

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

May Allah strengthen and bless the Muslim rulers of Gambia as well as all Muslim rulers for uttering a statement of truth in support of the oppressed Amin.

https://x.com/AbdullahJallow9/status/1965881878461952366

Unity among Muslim governments in support of Qatar against far-right Zionist aggression

Pakistani Government stands in solidarity with Qatar against far-right Zionist aggression

Pakistani Government stands in solidarity with Qatar against far-right Zionist aggression

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
GOVERNMENT OF PAKISTAN

Quotes:

This highly provocative and reckless action constitutes a blatant violation of Qatar’s Sovereignty…

Pakistan expresses its complete solidarity with the brotherly State of Qatar against this unprovoked and unlawful aggression.

Pakistan has consistently maintained that such impunity must not be tolerated by the international community.

We reaffirm our principled position in support of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Qatar, and call upon the international community to hold Israel accountable.

Pakistan will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the brotherly people and the leadership of Qatar in defence of their national sovereignty and security.

9 September 2025

Unity among Muslim governments in support of Qatar against far-right Zionist aggression

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Imam Ibn Salah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “The leaders of the Muslims deserve to be advised, aided upon truth and obeyed in that. They should be notified and reminded with gentle and kind speech, avoid rebelling against them and supplicate for them to be blessed with guidance and good deeds. [1]

Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “The scholars hold a consensus that it is recommended to supplicate for the rulers and leaders of the Muslims during the Jumu’ah khutbah, that Allaah rectifies them, helps them to establish truth and justice, and what is similar to it, as well as supplicate for Muslim armies”. [2]

Muslim Rulers In Solidarity With The Rulers of Qatar Against Zionist Transgression

Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, may Allah protect him, affirmed the Kingdom’s full solidarity with Qatar and its condemnation of the blatant Zionist attack on the State of Qatar, which constitutes a criminal act. He also stressed that “the Kingdom is deploying all its capabilities” to support Qatar and the measures it is taking to safeguard its security and Sovereignty.

Turki Foreign Ministry, states that the attack by the Zionist Netanyahu Administration is clear proof of expansionist policies in the region and the adoption of terrorism as state policy.

The UAE denounced the attack, with Foreign Minister Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahyan calling it a “blatant and cowardly” violation of Qatar’s Sovereignty.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu also denounced the attack, calling it a “cowardly action” and “a serious violation….

The Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the kingdom “strongly condemns the blatant aggression” and denounces the violation of Qatar’s sovereignty.

Egyptian President expressed his country’s “full solidarity” with Qatar during a call with its emir, Sheikh Tamim Al Thani, the Egyptian presidency said.

“The president stressed Egypt’s strong condemnation and denunciation of the aggressive act committed against the brotherly State of Qatar, affirming Egypt’s categorical rejection of any violation of the sovereignty of the State of Qatar.

Algeria denounced the “brutal aggression” in Doha and voiced “full and absolute solidarity” with Qatar.

Oman condemned what it called the “brutal attack”. It expressed solidarity with Qatar.

Mauritania’s foreign ministry “affirms its support for the sisterly State of Qatar in all measures aimed at preserving its security and the safety of its citizens”.

Libya Prime Minister said he “strongly condemned the aggression against the State of Qatar, affirming full solidarity with its leadership and people”.

“Somalia strongly condemns the terrorist military actions carried out by the occupation authorities which violate the national sovereignty of the sisterly State of Qatar”.

 اللَّهمَّ إنِّي أسألُكَ بأنَّ لَكَ الحمدُ لا إلَهَ إلَّا أنتَ المنَّانُ بديعُ السَّمواتِ والأرضِ يا ذا الجلالِ والإِكرامِ يا حيُّ يا قيُّومُ

We ask Allah by His Greatest Name to protect the Muslim lands, strengthen the rulers and make them a thorn in the throats of the transgressors and aggressors among the Zionists and other enemies of Allah. O Allah! Raise for us the likes of those who dealt with the crusaders to deal with Netanyahu and his gang of far right Zionist transgressors. O Allah! Protect the Muslim lands from the plots of Netanyahu and his allies among the ideologues, demagogues and rabble-rousers. May Allah protect Qatar and its citizens, and grant the leaders of the Muslims strength, endurance and wisdom to repel all aggressors. O Allah! Unite the word of the Muslim rulers and their citizens to stand firm against all transgressors Amin.

(1) Siyaanatu Saheeh Muslim 244]

(2) Al-Majmoo 4/391

Whiteness and Blackness!

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul.

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

وَمِنۡ ءَايَـٰتِهِۦ خَلۡقُ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضِ وَٱخۡتِلَـٰفُ أَلۡسِنَتِڪُمۡ وَأَلۡوَٲنِكُمۡ‌ۚ إِنَّ فِى ذَٲلِكَ لَأَيَـٰتٍ۬ لِّلۡعَـٰلِمِينَ

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

Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّاسُ إِنَّا خَلَقْنَٰكُم مِّن ذَكَرٍ وَأُنثَىٰ وَجَعَلْنَٰكُمْ شُعُوبًا وَقَبَآئِلَ لِتَعَارَفُوٓا۟ إِنَّ أَكْرَمَكُمْ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ أَتْقَىٰكُمْ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ خَبِيرٌ

O mankind, We have created you from a male (Ādam) and female (Eve) (making you all of equal lineage) and We made you into nations and tribes that you may know one another (and fulfil each other’s rights). Verily, the most honourable of you with Allāh is the most pious of you (and not the noblest in lineage or most affluent) (so do not be boastful and belittle others). Indeed, Allāh is all-Knowing, all-Aware.

https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/search/49_13

Without delving too deeply, there is an ongoing conversation among humanity, alongside many other discussions, about the concepts of whiteness and blackness. As someone from a family that is quite diverse in terms of African inter-tribal blood relations with the Fulani, Mandinka, Wollof, Aku, Sereer, and Hausa, it is remarkable how Islam has brought us together to the point where our tribal origins are the last thing on our minds. Furthermore, some of our family members, including cousins, nieces and nephews, uncles, and children, are married to individuals of White English descent, Irish descent, Pakistani descent, German, Swedish, Caribbean descent, Kurdish descent, Hispanic descent and so on. And among our close brothers in Islam, there are those married to Indians, Turks, Banghalis, Chinese, Yeminis, Iraqis, Morroccans, Algerians etc. Therefore, we are indeed very diverse, alhamdulillah.

In light of the discussions among people regarding whiteness and blackness, we chose to examine the issue briefly. Whiteness, as some describe it, is a field of critical study that has emerged from Critical Race Theory. It investigates whiteness not as a biological fact but as a socially constructed racial category and a system of privilege. This field explores how the notion of whiteness has been historically influenced by social, economic, and political forces, creating unseen advantages for white individuals and establishing a racial hierarchy that positions whiteness as the societal norm. The theory scrutinizes how this racialization operates, sustains power dynamics, and affects lived experiences, challenging the often-overlooked privileges and standards associated with being white.

In this context, we assert that any race that has held dominance over others, be it black, white, or Asian, has established social systems that grant privileges to some while leaving others disadvantaged. Moreover, even within the tribes of particular nations, there exists oppression and discrimination. Consequently, every occurrence of structural inequality is supported by either prejudice, tribalism, clanism, or racism, none of which align with the teachings of the noble prophets. Thus, we declare that Islam abolishes all of this. Refer to this article – starting on page 10 – which discusses the Conditions Leading Up to the Arrival of the Final Messenger, the Elimination of Social Class Conflict, and the Abolishment of Structural Inequality.

Click to access A-precise-scrutiny-of-Human-Rights_1.pdf

Regarding blackness, some authors do not refer to it as something linked to individuals whose ancestors originate from Africa; instead, they approach it as a cultural phenomenon of being Black. This is because they argue that one can be African American without being Black, just as one can be both African American and Black. They contend from a cultural standpoint that Blackness encompasses a multitude of meanings across the past, present, and future, making it impossible to encapsulate in mere words. It represents a culture, a style, an unwritten constitution, a perspective, a way of life, an expectation, an emotion, a source of motivation, a catalyst for change, radicalism, potential, history, current reality, and future possibilities; it embodies everything. For instance, some might say: I was born to Black parents in a Black neighborhood in the Black city of Atlanta. From an early age, I was immersed in the civil rights movement and its key figures. Some individuals argue that that the notion of “blackness” (referring to black skin) has been utilised to describe both external and internal traits of a “black group” (or “race”). This study outlines the evolution of this concept from ancient times, through the Middle Ages, and into modernity, where it laid the groundwork for developing race theories.

After reviewing various points in this subject on Whiteness and Blackness, I encountered several disturbing racist notions, which, when examined more closely, appear to originate from mere misguidance and a straying from Allah’s path. The two verses mentioned at the start of this article are adequate for believers to grasp that virtue is not defined by race; rather, it is based on piety and righteous deeds, as found in Surah al-Hujurat ayah 13. Thus, there is no need to refer to any of those comments about Blackness and Whiteness, as they are merely expressions of racist ideology. It is also crucial to recognize that, in response to racism, some black individuals have resorted to labeling white people as devils. This clearly stems from misguidance. The solution is simple: we must return to the Creator’s path, who created us from one male and one female, forming us into nations and tribes, and stated that the best among us are those who exhibit piety, end of discussion, with no need for theories or counter-theories regarding Blackness and Whiteness. Nonetheless, this does not imply that we should become complacent when any individual or group from a particular race commits acts of injustice against another race purely based on a flawed sense of racial superiority.

Furthermore, we do not endorse any cultural practices, whether labeled as Whiteness or Blackness, that are in conflict with Allah’s Shariah. In this context, we reject everything that opposes Allah’s Shariah, including any pan-Africanists whose views extend beyond what is prescribed by the Creator in one’s quest for justice. Read below:

A brief dialogue with the African Muslim regarding Pan-Africanism

We express our gratitude to Allah for leading us to Islam and for the blessing of having relatives from diverse clans, tribes, nations, and skin tones. This includes our cousins, wives, in-laws, children, and grandchildren, along with our brothers in Islam from various backgrounds, some of whom have the fairest complexions while others possess a range of skin tones. The one thing that brings us together is Islam.

And Allah knows best

Worship and the two types of hearts during Fitna

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

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

Maqil Bin Yasar, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Worship during Al-Harj is like emigrating to me”. [1]

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

The intent behind Al-Harj in this Hadith is when the affairs of the people are in a state of Ikhtilaat [i.e. chaos, confusion, disorder, disarray etc]. The reason behind the great virtue of worship during this state of affairs is because the people are heedless of worship and diverted from it, and none fulfils it except individuals. [2]

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

The intent behind Al-Harj is Al-Ikhtilaat [i.e. chaos, confusion, disarray] when it occurs between the Muslims. This is because many people are diverted from worship due to this state of confusion. Also killing and blood shed occurs during this state of affairs. Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, urges a person to engage in worship during the time of fitan because the majority of the people are diverted from worship. The one who busies himself with worship is like one who has migrated to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. You know the virtue Al-Hijrah [migration]! Al-Hijrah in the Arabic language means to abandon. Allah said: [وَٱلرُّجۡزَ فَٱهۡجُرۡ – And keep away from the idols]. [Al-Muddathir. 5]

The one who engages in worship during times of fitan and it does not divert him from worship has the reward of one who migrated to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, because a Muhaajir [emigrant] leaves his country and flees to Allah’s Messenger in order to safeguard his religion. This took place in the early Islamic era – during the era of the Messenger. So, the word Hijrah [migration] in the Islamic legislation means to leave the land of kufr and settle in the land of Iman in order to safeguard one’s religion.

The word Hijrah is also intended to mean abandonment in general, so the one who abandons Fitna and busies himself with worship has abandoned Fitna and proceeded towards worship. Therefore, Hijrah means to abandon something. Allah’s Messenger said: “A (true) Muslim is the one whom other Muslims are safe from his tongue and hands, and a Muhaajir [emigrant] is one who refrains from what Allah has forbidden”.[a] Therefore, he is a Muhaajir because he abandons what Allah has forbidden and fulfils what Allah has commanded. This Hadith urges a person to engage in worship during times of fitna because Fitna diverts people from worship except the one whom Allah blesses with the ability to abandon Fitna and engages in worship.

However, this does not mean that one refrains from warning against Fitna and clarifying for the people, rather – firstly – he abandons Fitna, warns the people and forbids them from it. This is because just as he would like the people to come to him with good, he should also go to them with good. Just as he loves to be safe from Fitna, he should also love the same for the people. This deed of his is Jihad [striving in the path of Allah] and Inkarul Munkar [i.e. the virtuous act of rejecting evil]. [3]

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

Let us increase in obedience to (Allah). Let us be mindful of Shubuhaat and Shahawaat, for indeed the Fitan will be exposed to the hearts. Hudhaifah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported from Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, who said, “The Fitan will be exposed to the hearts of the people like a reed mat woven stick by stick, and any heart afflicted by them will have a black mark put into it, but any heart that rejects them will have a white mark put into it. Thus there will be two kinds of hearts: one is pure like a white gemstone and it will not be harmed by any tribulation as long as the heavens and earth endure, and the other is black and dusty like a worn-out vessel, neither recognizing good nor rejecting evil, but rather immersed in its desires”. [Sahih Muslim. Number 144]

The first type of heart: “Pure like a white gemstone and it will not be harmed by any tribulation as long as the heavens and earth endure”. This is because Allah grants them firmness and not due to their own power or strength; rather Allah grants them firmness:

يُثَبِّتُ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ بِٱلْقَوْلِ ٱلثَّابِتِ فِى ٱلْحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنْيَا وَفِى ٱلْءَاخِرَةِ

Allah will keep firm those who believe, with the word that stands firm in this world (i.e. they will keep on worshipping Allah Alone and none else), and in the Hereafter. [Ibrahim 27]

Allah bestows His favour upon them by granting them firmness, thus, they are not harmed regardless of the greatness of the Fitan. Let me strike a similitude: I say, indeed amongst the people in the midst of these Fitan – just as Allah’s Messenger described the situation- are those who are firm like mountains; the winds, floods, hurricanes and storms come along, but they do not shake because the Iman in the hearts is like the firm mountains. Allah keeps them away from the Fitan and makes them firm, so they are not harmed. However, other people are like the trees that are moved -by the wind – to the right and the left until they finally fall. Others are like feathers and the Henna leaves- flying along with the Fitan when little Fitna occurs, such as when a mild wind (blows) the fragile leaves to a far-off place. We ask Allah to keep us firm.

The second type of heart is described as “Black and dusty like a worn-out vessel, neither recognising good nor rejecting evil, but rather immersed in its desires”. This is the state of the one whose heart is immersed in Fitnah. He agrees with it and does not reject it, so the Fitnah enters him gradually until his heart is worn out and thus becomes black like a worn-out vessel – a vessel whose mouth is turned upside down, this, regardless of the amount of water, butter fat and other things one attempts to pour into it, it will not accept anything. Indeed, we have often experienced the affair of this category of people – whose hearts are worn out – and regardless the of proofs and pieces of evidence- from the Qur’an and Sunnah – presented to nullify their falsehood, they do not accept that from you. This has to be the case because indeed Allah’s Messenger described such a person as one with a heart that is similar to a worn-out vessel- a heart that neither recognises truth nor rejects evil; rather it is immersed in its desires. Whatever agrees with his desires, he accepts it- not because it is the truth, but rather only because it agrees with his desires. This is similar to the Yahud [i.e. those Yahud who rejected the clear message of the final Messenger], for they know the truth, but wage war against it – accepting what agrees with their desires and rejecting what opposes their desires and wage war against it. This is something rife in this era amongst those whose hearts are worn-out, thus, they reach this state that has been described by Allah’s Messenger.

It is as if we are witnessing this matter whilst Allah’s Messenger describes these people -in our presence- and we can see their deeds and dishonourable stances. [4]

We ask Allah after Tashahud and before tasleem:

اللَّهُمَّ بِعِلْمِكَ الْغَيْبَ وَقُدْرَتِكَ عَلَى الْخَلْقِ أَحْيِنِي مَا عَلِمْتَ الْحَيَاةَ خَيْراً لِي وَتَوَفَّنِي إِذَا عَلِمْتَ الْوَفَاةَ خَيْراً لِي، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ خَشْيَتَكَ فِي الْغَيْبِ وَالشَّهَادَةِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ كَلِمَةَ الْحَقِّ فِي الرِّضَا وَالْغَضَبِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ الْقَصْدَ فِي الْغِنَى وَالْفَقْرِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ نَعِيماً لَا يَنْفَذُ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ قُرَّةَ عَيْنٍ لَا تَنْقَطِعُ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ الرِّضِا بَعْدَ الْقَضَاءِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ بَرْدَ الْعَيْشِ بَعْدَ الْمَوْتِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ لَذَّةَ النَّظَرِ إِلَى وَجْهِكَ وَالشَّوْقَ إِلَى لِقَائِكَ فِي غَيْرِ ضَرَّاءَ مُضِرَّةٍ وَلَا فِتْنَةٍ مُضِلَّةٍ، اللَّهُمَّ زَيِّنَّا بِزِينَةِ الْإِيمَانِ
وَاجْعَلْنَا هُدَاةً مُهْتَدِينَ

O Allah! By Your Knowledge of the unseen and by Your Power over creation, let me live if life is good for me, and let me die if death is good for me; O Allah! I ask You to grant me (the blessing of having) fear of You in private and public, and I ask You (to make me utter) a statement of truth in times of contentment and anger, and I ask You for moderation when in a state of wealth and poverty, and I ask you for blessings that never ceases, and I ask You for the coolness of my eye that never ends, and I ask You (to make me pleased) after (Your) decree; and I ask You for a life of (ease, comfort, tranquillity, etc) after death; I ask You for the delight of looking at Your Face (i.e. in the Hereafter) and yearning to meet You without any harm and misleading trials (coming upon me). O Allah! Adorn us with the adornment of Iman, and make us (from those who are) guided and guiding (others).

O Allaah! Let Me Live If Life is Good For Me And Let Me Die if Death is Good For Me

We ask Allah in general:

اللَّهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ لِي دِينِي الَّذِي هُوَ عِصْمَةُ أَمْرِي
وَأَصْلِحْ لِي دُنْيَايَ الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَاشِي
وَأَصْلِحْ لِي آخِرَتِي الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَادِي
وَاجْعَلِ الْحَيَاةَ زِيَادَةً لِي فِي كُلِّ خَيْرٍ
وَاجْعَلِ الْمَوْتَ رَاحَةً لِي مِنْ كُلِّ شَرٍّ

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

O Allaah! Rectify My Religion For Me, Which The Safeguard of My Affairs – [A Tremendous Supplication]

[1] Saheeh Muslim: Kitaab Al-Fitan Wa-Ash’raat As-Saa’ah- Chapter: The virtue of Ibaadah During Al-Harj. Hadeeth Number 2948]

[2] Saheeh Muslim Bi-Sharhi An-Nawawi. Vol 17. page 70. Hadeeth Number 2948. slightly paraphrased. Publishers: Daar al-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. Ist Edition 1421 (Year 200) ]

[a] Bukhaari. Hadeeth Number 2382 and Muslim. Hadeeh Number 84]

[3] https://youtu.be/-HxAEXdPD-M?si=tk1PPPvtR57pA4QR

[4] An Excerpt from Marhaban Yaa Talib Al-Ilm. pages 206-208

[5] Gentleness of our pious predecessors

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Brotherhood, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

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

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

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

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

[1] Gentleness of our pious predecessors

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

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

Gentleness of our pious predecessors when dealing with the common people

Thābit al-Bunānī, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Ṣilah ibn Ashyam, mya Allah have mercy upon him, and his companions went past a young man dragging his garment. [1] Silah’s companions were about to reprimand him harshly, but he intervened, saying: ‘Leave him; I will suffice you regarding his affair’. Then he said to the young man, ‘O my nephew! I have a need from you’. He (the young man) said: ‘What is your need’?’ He said, ‘I would like you to lift your garment’. The young man said: ‘Certainly, and what a delightful request it is!’ Then he lifted his garment. Silah said to his companions: ‘This was a better than what you wanted to do. If I had insulted him and caused him distress, he would have retaliated with insults towards you'”.

al-Amr bi-l-Maʿrūf wa-l-Nahy ʿan al-Munkar by Ibn Abī al-Dunyā. page 48

[1] Read article by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah, may Allah preserve him. https://abukhadeejah.com/whatever-is-below-the-ankles-from-the-garment-will-be-in-the-fire-long-trousers-without-kibr/

Shaikh Abu Khadeejah

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Basics, Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq'.

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

Allah, The Exalted, said:

وَلَا تَقْفُ مَا لَيْسَ لَكَ بِهِۦ عِلْمٌ إِنَّ ٱلسَّمْعَ وَٱلْبَصَرَ وَٱلْفُؤَادَ كُلُّ أُو۟لَٰٓئِكَ كَانَ عَنْهُ مَسْـُٔولًا

And follow not (O man i.e., say not, or do not or witness not, etc.) that of which you have no knowledge (e.g. one’s saying: “I have seen,” while in fact he has not seen, or “I have heard,” while he has not heard). Verily! The hearing, and the sight, and the heart, of each of those you will be questioned (by Allah). [Al-Isra 36]

Last year, I posted an article regarding speculations some individuals had about Salafibookstore and Shaikh Abu Kahdeejah, may Allah protect him. You can find it at this link. https://salafidawah.uk/2024/08/25/is-the-salafi-bookstore-his-personal-business-pursuit/

Today, I want to briefly clarify a misconception held by some individuals who suggest that no decision is finalised without the consent of Abu Khadeejah, or that if you can get Abu Khadeejah on board with something, others will inevitably follow. This is yet another misconception that leads some to believe that Shaikh Abu Khadeejah, may Allah protect him, is like an army commander in various places. In reality, Shaikh Abu Khadeejah, like other Mashayikh, is consulted on local Dawah matters. Shaikh Abu Khadeejah, along with the other local Mashayikh, is respected for his experience in Dawah issues in the UK, and he has earned the trust of Al-Allamah Rabee, Al-Allamah Ubaid, and Al-Allamah Al-Ghudiyaan, may Allah have mercy upon them. Their trust in him and other Salafi teachers stems from their honesty and commitment to the Salafi methodology for over thirty years.

Secondly, I (Abdullah) have had easy access to Shaikh Abu Khadeejah for nearly 17 years, primarily because of living in Birmingham. However, my ability to meet him in person has decreased recently due to his busy schedule and other commitments. Additionally, the brothers from the Manchester Masjid Committee and the Stoke On Trent Masjid Committees (Masjid al-Furqan and Masjid Abi Hurairah), along with other Salafi brothers, have easy access to Shaikh Abdul Ilah and others. Various Salafi brothers from different cities reach out to these local Mashayikh for a variety of reasons. Our relationship is built on cooperation and mutual advice, and we are all fully aware that certain matters should be addressed only by senior scholars, such as Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, Al-Allamah Abdul Aziz Aala Ash-Shaikh, and Al-Allamah Abdul Muhsin Al-Abbad, may Allah preserve them. Thus, the situation is quite straightforward to grasp: we work alongside our elder teachers on matters that are widely recognised, and they are the first to insist that serious issues be truthfully referred back to the senior, old, wise, insightful and experienced scholars we previously mentioned. In addition, there is no doubt that our elders and the Marakiz collaborate with others, both at their own level and with those who possess greater knowledge in the Muslim lands. May Allah protect all the Mashayikh in the East and West. Amin.

In this context, allow me to provide an example of how Shaikh Abu Khadeejah ensures that others among his brothers are consulted as well. Here are a few discussions we recently had with him, may Allah preserve him, regarding some matters related to the Masjid in Manchester. You will observe that during these conversations, he emphasises the importance of consulting others. I was the one who posted a proposal and then said: “Give your thoughts”. Then came the following replies:

Following our discussion, we still haven’t reached a conclusion since the issue isn’t urgent or serious. We are continuing to consult with other Mashayikh and some other experienced brothers. Indeed, someone who has witnessed events firsthand is different from someone who has only been informed. I have participated in many of these discussions both through WhatsApp and in person on several occasions. Additionally, we collaborate with others, including Ustadh Abdul Hakim Mitchel, a resident teacher in Manchester, along with others from various Marakiz. Therefore, greatly mistaken and misinformed is the one who thinks that Shaikh Abu Khadeejah is the one whose decision is always taken as the final one. We hold Shaikh Abu Khadeejah and the other Mashayikh in the West and the East in high regard, while placing our senior scholars above everyone. This does not diminish the value of other knowledgeable individuals below these senior scholars; rather, we respect, appreciate, and learn from all of them.

And Allah knows best

A brief dialogue with the African Muslim regarding Pan-Africanism

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Tawhid – The Original Religion of Humankind

Allah, The Most High, stated:

إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ هُوَ ٱلرَّزَّاقُ ذُو ٱلْقُوَّةِ ٱلْمَتِينُ

And I did not create the jinns and humans except to worship Me. I desire not from them any provision, and nor do I desire that they feed Me. (On the contrary), it is Allāh who is the Great Provider, the possessor of mighty strength. [Adh-Dhariyat 56-58] [1]

Allah said:

وَلَقَدْ بَعَثْنَا فِى كُلِّ أُمَّةٍ رَّسُولًا أَنِ ٱعْبُدُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ وَٱجْتَنِبُوا۟ ٱلطَّٰغُوتَ فَمِنْهُم مَّنْ هَدَى ٱللَّهُ وَمِنْهُم مَّنْ حَقَّتْ عَلَيْهِ ٱلضَّلَٰلَةُ فَسِيرُوا۟ فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ فَٱنظُرُوا۟ كَيْفَ كَانَ عَٰقِبَةُ ٱلْمُكَذِّبِينَ

And verily, We have sent among every nation a Messenger (saying): Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) from all false deities, i.e. do not worship anything besides Allah. ” Then of them were some whom Allah guided and of them were some upon whom the straying was justified. So travel through the land and see what was the end of those who denied (the truth). [An-Nahl. 36]

Allah said:

كَانَ ٱلنَّاسُ أُمَّةً وَٰحِدَةً فَبَعَثَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلنَّبِيِّۦنَ مُبَشِّرِينَ وَمُنذِرِينَ وَأَنزَلَ مَعَهُمُ ٱلْكِتَٰبَ بِٱلْحَقِّ لِيَحْكُمَ بَيْنَ ٱلنَّاسِ فِيمَا ٱخْتَلَفُوا۟ فِيهِ وَمَا ٱخْتَلَفَ فِيهِ إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُوهُ مِنۢ بَعْدِ مَا جَآءَتْهُمُ ٱلْبَيِّنَٰتُ بَغْيًۢا بَيْنَهُمْ فَهَدَى ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ لِمَا ٱخْتَلَفُوا۟ فِيهِ مِنَ ٱلْحَقِّ بِإِذْنِهِۦ وَٱللَّهُ يَهْدِى مَن يَشَآءُ إِلَىٰ صِرَٰطٍ مُّسْتَقِيمٍ

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

Allah said:

وَمَا كَانَ ٱلنَّاسُ إِلَّآ أُمَّةً وَٰحِدَةً فَٱخْتَلَفُوا۟ وَلَوْلَا كَلِمَةٌ سَبَقَتْ مِن رَّبِّكَ لَقُضِىَ بَيْنَهُمْ فِيمَا فِيهِ يَخْتَلِفُونَ

Mankind were but one community (i.e. on one religion – Islamic Monotheism), then they differed (later), and had not it been for a Word that went forth before from your Lord, it would have been settled between them regarding what they differed]. [Yunus. 19]

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

Between Nuh and Adam, all of them used to be upon the true path [worshipping Allah alone], then they differed and started worshipping idols, false deities and images, then Allah sent Messengers with clear proofs and evidences. [2]

Shirk first started amongst the people of Nuh when they exaggerated (the status) of the righteous people and turned away from the call of their Prophet [Nuh] out of pride. They said: “You shall not leave your gods, nor shall you leave Wadd, nor Suwa’, nor Yaghuth, nor Ya’uq, nor Nasr”. [Nuh. Ayah 23]

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

It has been narrated from Ibn Abbas that these were the names of pious people amongst the people of Nuh, and when they died, Shaytan inspired their people to (prepare) and place idols at the places where they used to sit, and to call those idols by their names. They did so, but did not worship them until those people (who initiated them) had died and the origin of the idols had become obscure, whereupon people began worshipping them”. [3]

All prophets and messengers were Muslims as they submitted to Allah and worshipped Him alone without ascribing partners to Him in worship. Read here: https://salafidawah.uk/2020/10/18/one-must-call-himself-a-muslim-if-he-truly-follows-the-path-of-the-prophets-and-messengers/

This is the faith that Allah designated for both humanity and Jinn, aligning perfectly with the sound innate disposition. Allah said:

فَأَقِمْ وَجْهَكَ لِلدِّينِ حَنِيفًا فِطْرَتَ ٱللَّهِ ٱلَّتِى فَطَرَ ٱلنَّاسَ عَلَيْهَا لَا تَبْدِيلَ لِخَلْقِ ٱللَّهِ ذَٰلِكَ ٱلدِّينُ ٱلْقَيِّمُ وَلَٰكِنَّ أَكْثَرَ ٱلنَّاسِ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ

So, set you “O Muhammad” your face towards the religion of pure Islamic Monotheism, worshipping Allah alone by devoting all forms of worship purely for Him. The natural state which Allah determined and upon which He created and moulded mankind. Let there be no change in the creation of Allah “Islamic Monotheism. That is the straight religion, but most of men do not know. [Ar-Rum 30]

Iyaa Ibn Himar, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

Verily, my Lord has commanded me to teach you what you do not know, from what he has taught me this day, “All wealth I bestowed upon them is lawful. I have created all of My servants inclined to worship me alone, but devils come to them who turn them away from their religion. They outlaw what has been made lawful for them, and they command them to associate partners with Me for which no authority has been revealed”. Verily, Allah looked at the people of the earth and He detested all of them, Arabs and non-Arabs alike, except for remnants of the people of the Book”. [Ṣaḥīh Muslim 2865]

All of humanity, the descendants of Adam and Hawa, were created with the purpose of worshiping Allah alone. Throughout history, Allah has sent messengers to guide us back to this divine path whenever we have strayed, often due to the deceptions of shaytan. In light of this truth, the only course left for us is to follow the final Prophet, Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. In this context, concepts like colonization or decolonization become irrelevant; what truly matters is the religion established by our Creator. Ultimately, individuals have been given the free will to choose to submit to Islam, worship Allah alone and follow His last Prophet, Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. They are not forced or coerce, but if they choose other than Islam, they have made a choice for which they will be held accountable in the Hereafter. Allah said:

لَآ إِكْرَاهَ فِى ٱلدِّينِ قَد تَّبَيَّنَ ٱلرُّشْدُ مِنَ ٱلْغَىِّ فَمَن يَكْفُرْ بِٱلطَّٰغُوتِ وَيُؤْمِنۢ بِٱللَّهِ فَقَدِ ٱسْتَمْسَكَ بِٱلْعُرْوَةِ ٱلْوُثْقَىٰ لَا ٱنفِصَامَ لَهَا وَٱللَّهُ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ

There is no compulsion in religion. Verily, the Right Path has become distinct from the wrong path. Whoever disbelieves in all false deities and believes in Allah (by worshipping Him alone), he has indeed grasped the most trustworthy handhold that will never break. And Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower. [Al-Baqarah 256]

Allah said:

وَمَن يَبْتَغِ غَيْرَ ٱلْإِسْلَٰمِ دِينًا فَلَن يُقْبَلَ مِنْهُ وَهُوَ فِى ٱلْءَاخِرَةِ مِنَ ٱلْخَٰسِرِينَ

And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers. [Aal Imran 85]

Therefore, what is essential to understand is that an individual faces a choice: to either adhere to the traditions of ancestors after the arrival of the Prophets and Messengers or to wholeheartedly submit to the path of Prophets and Messengers, with Muhammad being the final Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon all of them. True beliefs must align with the revelations given to the Prophets and Messengers, rather than the customs of forebears that contradict their teachings. Sadly, some African Americans and African intellectuals have attempted to muddy this straightforward issue. As African Muslims, we are called to follow the path of the final Prophet in both belief and practice, just like any Muslim around the globe. Cultural customs from any group, whether Arab or non-Arab, are acceptable as long as they do not conflict with the final divine message. It is perfectly fine for individuals from different backgrounds to adopt and celebrate the cultural practices of others, provided these do not contradict the final revelation. We will share insights from scholars on this topic shortly, but for now, it is crucial to reiterate that one must choose between the path of the final Prophet or the ancestral traditions that stand in opposition to divine guidance. Historically, the latter has been a common fallacy among nations when Messengers urged them to return to the right path. Al-Allamah Salih al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, stated:

Indeed, polytheistic (practices and beliefs) have become rife within this Ummah due to detachment from (he teachings of)the Qur’an and the Sunnah, blindly following ancestors without proper guidance, elevating the status of deceased figures by constructing (shrines and tombs) over their graves, and due to being ignorant of the islam that Allah instructed His Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, as Umar Ibn al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “The very foundations of Islam will crumble one by one when a generation arises that is unaware of the ignorance that preceded Islam.” Furthermore, the proliferation of Shubhah—doubts that masquerade as truth but are fundamentally false—has led many astray. Among these misconceptions is the argument used by those who engage in Shirk, both in the past and present, claiming legitimacy by adhering to the beliefs of their forefathers. Allah said:

وَكَذَٰلِكَ مَآ أَرْسَلْنَا مِن قَبْلِكَ فِى قَرْيَةٍ مِّن نَّذِيرٍ إِلَّا قَالَ مُتْرَفُوهَآ إِنَّا وَجَدْنَآ ءَابَآءَنَا عَلَىٰٓ أُمَّةٍ وَإِنَّا عَلَىٰٓ ءَاثَٰرِهِم مُّقْتَدُونَ

And similarly, We sent not a warner before you (O Muhammad) to any town (people) but the luxurious ones among them said: “We found our fathers following a certain way and religion, and we will indeed follow their footsteps.” [Az-zukhruf 23]

Therefore, following ancestors is only praiseworthy if they were upon the truth. Allah [The Most High] said that Yusuf, peace be upon him, said:

وَٱتَّبَعْتُ مِلَّةَ ءَابَآءِىٓ إِبْرَٰهِيمَ وَإِسْحَٰقَ وَيَعْقُوبَ مَا كَانَ لَنَآ أَن نُّشْرِكَ بِٱللَّهِ مِن شَىْءٍ ذَٰلِكَ مِن فَضْلِ ٱللَّهِ عَلَيْنَا وَعَلَى ٱلنَّاسِ وَلَٰكِنَّ أَكْثَرَ ٱلنَّاسِ لَا يَشْكُرُونَ

And I have followed the religion of my fathers, – Ibrahim (Abraham), Ishaque (Isaac) and Ya’qub (Jacob), and never could we attribute any partners whatsoever to Allah. This is from the Grace of Allah to us and to mankind, but most men thank not (i.e. they neither believe in Allah, nor worship Him). [Yusuf. 38]

This doubt was embedded in the souls of the polytheists and they utilised it to oppose the call of the Prophets. Allah said:

وَلَقَدْ أَرْسَلْنَا نُوحًا إِلَىٰ قَوْمِهِۦ فَقَالَ يَٰقَوْمِ ٱعْبُدُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ مَا لَكُم مِّنْ إِلَٰهٍ غَيْرُهُۥٓ أَفَلَا تَتَّقُونَ
فَقَالَ ٱلْمَلَؤُا۟ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا۟ مِن قَوْمِهِۦ مَا هَٰذَآ إِلَّا بَشَرٌ مِّثْلُكُمْ يُرِيدُ أَن يَتَفَضَّلَ عَلَيْكُمْ وَلَوْ شَآءَ ٱللَّهُ لَأَنزَلَ مَلَٰٓئِكَةً مَّا سَمِعْنَا بِهَٰذَا فِىٓ ءَابَآئِنَا ٱلْأَوَّلِينَ

And indeed We sent Nuh (Noah) to his people, and he said: “O my people! Worship Allah! You have no other Ilah (God) but Him (Islamic Monotheism). Will you not then be afraid (of Him i.e. of His Punishment because of worshipping others besides Him)?” But the chiefs of those who disbelieved among his people said: “He is no more than a human being like you, he seeks to make himself superior to you. Had Allah willed, He surely could have sent down angels; never did we hear such a thing among our fathers of old]. [Al-Muminoon. 23-24]

So, they used as proof that which their ancestors were upon to oppose that which their Prophet Nuh brought. Allah informed us that the people of Sali said to him: “Do you (now) forbid us the worship of what our fathers have worshipped?”[Hud. 62]

The people of Shu’aib said: “Does your Salat (prayer) (i.e. the prayers which you offer has spoiled your mind, so you) command that we leave off what our fathers used to worship]. [Hud. 87]

Allah informed us about Ibraheem and his people when he silenced them with clear proofs: “What do you worship?” They said: “We worship idols, and to them we are ever devoted”. He said: “Do they hear you, when you call (on them)? “Or do they benefit you or do they harm (you)?” They said: “Nay, but we found our fathers doing so”. [Ash-Shu’ara 70-74]

This is the nature of disbelief! Its people do not have any proof by way of which to repel the truth except these flimsy proofs. [4]

Therefore, a sensible individual understands the reasons behind the misdirection of nations, which often stems from prioritizing the traditions of their ancestors over the teachings of Allah’s Messengers. If you were to inquire about the beliefs of our ancestors from 2000 years ago, we would struggle to categorize them as polytheists, Christians, or Jews. However, what we do know with absolute certainty is that Allah sent Messengers to every nation, including Prophet Isa, peace be upon him, who preached the oneness of Allah, Tawhid. Following his time, Allah sent Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, to both Arabs and non-Arabs, addressing all of humanity and even the Jinn. If you were to ask again about the faith of our forefathers during Muhammad’s era, we could only guess based on the historical accounts regarding that region of West Africa. However, what we do know is that Allah sent Muhammad as the final Messenger, and many sincere followers of the Scriptures acknowledged his Prophethood and accepted Islam. This historical fact is well established. Subsequently, Islam spread throughout Africa, leading to our birth into Muslim families by the Will of Allah. Islam is practiced independently of ancestral customs that contradict divine revelation. This approach does not equate to succumbing to Arab colonialism. Whether it stems from African, Arab, European, or any other cultural background, any practice that stands in opposition to divine revelation is not embraced.

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

“Indeed, Allah [The Most High] has removed from you the pride of the pre-Islamic period and its boasting about ancestors. One is only a pious believer or a wretched sinner. You are sons of Adam and Adam (was created from) dust. Let the people abandon boasting about their ancestors, for they are merely fuel in Jahannam; or they will become more insignificant in (the sight of) Allah than the beetle which rolls dung with its nose”. [5]

The Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: “Whoever is held back by his deeds, his (nobility) of lineage will not push him forward”. Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“Its meaning is that the one whose deeds are deficient and he does not catch up with the performers of (good) deeds, then it is obligatory upon him not to crown himself with nobility of lineage and the virtues of his forefathers, whilst he is lagging behind in (performing good) deeds”. [6]

Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baz [may Allah have mercy upon him] said:

“It is obligated to every Muslim that he does not depend on custom; rather he presents it to the pure Islamic legislation (to be judged), so whatever the Islamic legislation affirms is permissible and whatever it does not affirm is impermissible. The customs of the people are not proof to determine the lawfulness of anything. All the customs of the people in their countries or tribes must be presented to the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] for judgement, so whatever Allah and His Messenger made permissible is permissible, and whatever they forbid, then it is obligatory to abandon it even if it is the custom of the people”. [7]

Imam Muhammad Bin Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“The customs cannot make something that is not legislated (in the divine revelation) as something legislated, because of Allah’s statement: [ It is not Al-Birr (piety, righteousness, etc.) that you enter the houses from the back] [Surah Al-Baqarah. 189], despite the fact that it was something they took as their custom and considered it to be an act of righteousness. Whoever takes something as a custom and believes that it is an act of righteousness, then it should be presented to Allah’s divine legislation [i.e. to be judged]”. [8]

Imam Muhammad Bin Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, also said:

“Extremism in related to customs is stringent adherence to old customs and not diverting to what is better than them. As for if the customs are equal in benefit [i.e. the ones judged to be permissible by the divine legislation], then a person remaining upon what he is upon would be better than going along with the new (or emerging) customs”. [9]

It’s undeniable that Allah sent Prophets and Messengers and provided Scriptures to lead humanity, culminating in the final message delivered by Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon all of them. Various nations, tribes, and clans accepted Islam, with non-Arabs emerging as significant leaders and scholars. Al-Allamah Salih Aala Ash-Shaikh, may Allah safeguard him, stated:

“When the Muslims conquered the different regions of the earth and Islam spread, the affair became as if it started from the non-Arabs, until the people of Persia and other non-Arabs became the scholars and the Imams of the mosques, and people acquired knowledge from them. It is recorded in Islamic history that many non-Arabs led the Muslims in knowledge, in issuing religious verdicts and many affairs. Take for example Abu Hanifah, may Allah have mercy on him, who was not an Arab, and Imam Al-Bukhari [may Allah have mercy on him] and how his book became an upright example, and there’s none amongst the Muslims except that he (or she) knows Imam Abu Abdillah Muhammad Bin Ismaa’eel Al-Bukhari. And consider other examples – besides Al-Bukhari and Abu Hanifah – amongst the Imams of Islam.

So when Islam came with its implementation, it abolished the differences that were initiated by the people and those non-Arabs became the leaders and Imams of the Arabs; why? Because they carried the religion, raised the banner of pure Islamic monotheism – there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and because there is no distinction in virtue between a non-Arab and an Arab, except through fear of Allah. When the Muslims disciplined themselves with Islam, there was no dispute between them regarding social class by way of that pre-Islamic dispute and distinction, because indeed neither did they accept leadership nor give precedence to anyone based on this; rather they accepted everyone because people are equal in this affair. Quraish’s rulership, the Umayyad rulership and the Abbasid rulership ended; then the rulership of the Mamluks arose and thereafter the rulership of Banee Uthman – meaning in the beginning when it was upright; so the Muslims obeyed them and they became the leaders and rulers, because the Muslims saw that there was welfare for the people in doing so (based on the texts of the Qur’an and the Sunnah, and understanding of the Sahabah). Therefore, class differentiation and its practice was abolished from the beginning; rather no one had any reservation in implementing Islam. So, Islamic history attests to the implementation of this great principle [i.e. sound equality]”. [10]

The subsequent decline and stagnation can be attributed to a deviation from the fundamental tenets of Islam, which has given rise to numerous challenges, including tribalism and various societal dilemmas. Read: https://abukhadeejah.com/state-of-ummah-causes-of-weakness-means-of-rectification-ebook/

However, it is essential to recognise that Muslim scholars have remained acutely aware of these issues throughout Islamic history and continue to engage with them in contemporary discourse. The blame does not lie with Islam itself, despite the misguided assertions of some ignoramuses and certain pan-Africanists advocating for a so-called decolonisation of religion. Such claims reveal a profound ignorance, as they overlook the original faith bestowed by the Creator and fail to address the true root of the problem: a departure from pure monotheism and the teachings of the Prophets, the last of whom is Muhammad. Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge that regardless of an individual’s chosen faith, they will be held accountable for their choices after the Prophets and Messengers have conveyed the message of Islamic Monotheism. However, any form of oppression against people is unequivocally condemned regardless of the race, social status or religion of the victims. The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said that Allah, The Almighty, said: “O My servants, I have forbidden injustice for Myself and I have forbidden it among you, so do not oppress one another”. [Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2577]

The Messenger said: “Whoever would love to be delivered from Hellfire and admitted into Paradise, let him meet his end with faith in Allah and the Last Day, and let him treat people as he would love to be treated.” [Muslim 1844]

It is of utmost significance that any sense of injustice directed towards our race, clan, tribe, or nation does not disrupt our bond with Allah as Muslims. We must resist the allure of pan-Africanist ideologies that may lead us astray and jeopardize our eternal well-being under the guise of pride. Instead, let us embrace a path of piety rooted in the final revelation, for it is the true avenue to salvation. Allah said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّاسُ إِنَّا خَلَقْنَٰكُم مِّن ذَكَرٍ وَأُنثَىٰ وَجَعَلْنَٰكُمْ شُعُوبًا وَقَبَآئِلَ لِتَعَارَفُوٓا۟ إِنَّ أَكْرَمَكُمْ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ أَتْقَىٰكُمْ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ خَبِيرٌ

O mankind, We have created you from a male (Ādam) and female (Eve) (making you all of equal lineage) and We made you into nations and tribes that you may know one another (and fulfil each other’s rights). Verily, the most honourable of you with Allāh is the most pious of you (and not the noblest in lineage or most affluent) (so do not be boastful and belittle others). Indeed, Allāh is all-Knowing, all-Aware.[11]

Allah said:

تِلْكَ ٱلدَّارُ ٱلْءَاخِرَةُ نَجْعَلُهَا لِلَّذِينَ لَا يُرِيدُونَ عُلُوًّا فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ وَلَا فَسَادًا وَٱلْعَٰقِبَةُ لِلْمُتَّقِينَ

That home of the Hereafter (i.e. Paradise), We shall assign to those who rebel not against the truth with pride and oppression in the land nor do mischief by committing crimes. And the good end is for the pious.[Al-Qasas 83]

Those who depart from this world while associating partners with Allah in worship or rejecting Allah and His final Messenger, without repentance, will face eternal failure. Allah has stated:

إِنَّهُۥ مَن يُشْرِكْ بِٱللَّهِ فَقَدْ حَرَّمَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ ٱلْجَنَّةَ وَمَأْوَىٰهُ ٱلنَّارُ وَمَا لِلظَّٰلِمِينَ مِنْ أَنصَارٍ

Verily, whosoever sets up partners in worship with Allah, then Allah has forbidden Paradise for him, and the Fire will be his abode. And for the Zalimun (polytheists and wrong-doers) there are no helpers. [Al-Ma’idah 72]

Allah said:

وَمَن يَبْتَغِ غَيْرَ ٱلْإِسْلَٰمِ دِينًا فَلَن يُقْبَلَ مِنْهُ وَهُوَ فِى ٱلْءَاخِرَةِ مِنَ ٱلْخَٰسِرِينَ

And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers. [Aal Imran 85]

Indeed, there is nothing wrong with either a Muslim or a non-Muslim standing up against oppression and exploitation. Therefore, we assert without hesitation that Africa has the right to call for an end to the post-colonial oppressive systems, just as they stood resolutely against the brutality and greed of colonialists during the colonial period. We agree wholeheartedly that Africa should not be subjected to exploitation through so-called financial aid, foreign military bases, sanctions, debt, NGOs, unequal trade, loans, and so forth. We also support the view that both African and Asian nations have the right to seek liberation from oppression through debt restructuring, strategic partnerships, diversified economies, de-dollarization, fair negotiations, food security, Agro-processing, solar energy, information technology, state-owned mines, pharmaceuticals, and more. It is a fact that other nations have pursued these initiatives for their economic stability, and similarly, Africa and others have the right to do the same. This is simply common sense and does not necessitate adherence to pan-Africanism or any other ideology that contradicts the final revelation ordained by the Creator, for which He will reward or punish humanity and Jinn in the Hereafter. Thus, we clearly state that the oppression and exploitation of African or Asian countries must cease. Our responsibility as African Muslims is to call our societies to Tawhid and Sunnah, following the path of the righteous predecessors, while also addressing any injustices faced by people. All praise is due to Allah for guiding us to Islam, which is indeed enough as a blessing. And Allah knows best.

Read: https://salafidawah.uk/2024/11/16/the-uncivilised-third-world-and-developing-countries/

[1] https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/search/51_56

[2] Misbaah Al-Muneer Fee Ta’dheeb Tafseer Ibn Katheer

[3] Al-Bukhaari 4920

[4] An Excerpt from “Muhaadaraat Fil Aqeedah Wad-Dawah” 1/18-20. Slightly paraphrased]

[5] Saheeh Sunan Abee Dawud. Hadith Number 5116. Declared ‘Hasan’ by Imaam AlAlbaanee]

[6] Sharh Saheeh Muslim – (The Book Pertaining to the Remembrance of Allah, Supplication, Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness). Hadeeth Number 2699; Vol 17 page 18]

[7] Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 6/510]

[8] Tafseer Surah Al-Baqarah 2/299]

[9] Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 7/7]

[10] https://youtu.be/wRkeYjcJ728?si=V1cqv_4t4vL_uoVd

[11] https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/search/49_13

Cannot expect us to refrain from speaking truth, while they boldly co-operate with unreliable people in Salafiyyah’s name

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Basics, Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allah, The Exalted, said:

مَّا كَانَ عَلَى ٱلنَّبِىِّ مِنْ حَرَجٍ فِيمَا فَرَضَ ٱللَّهُ لَهُۥ سُنَّةَ ٱللَّهِ فِى ٱلَّذِينَ خَلَوْا۟ مِن قَبْلُ وَكَانَ أَمْرُ ٱللَّهِ قَدَرًا مَّقْدُورًا
الَّذِينَ يُبَلِّغُونَ رِسَالاتِ اللَّهِ وَيَخْشَوْنَهُ وَلا يَخْشَوْنَ أَحَداً إِلاَّ اللَّهَ وَكَفَى بِاللَّهِ حَسِيباً

There is no blame on the Prophet in that which Allah has made legal for him. That has been Allah’s Way with those who have passed away of (the Prophets of) old. And the Command of Allah is a decree determined. Those who convey the Message of Allah and fear Him, and fear none save Allah. And Sufficient is Allah as a Reckoner. [Al-Ahzab. 38-39]

“Those who convey the Message of Allah” – Meaning, they propagate Allah’s Ayaat (verses, signs lessons, commands, and prohibitions), His proofs, and evidences to His servants. They call them to Allah’s path, they fear Allah alone without ascribing partners to Him, and they fear none except Allah. [1] “And Sufficient is Allah as a Reckoner”- Meaning: Preserve (and record) the deeds of His creation and will recompense them. [2]

In Surah Al-Ma’idah Ayah 54, Allah said about the true believers:

يُجَٰهِدُونَ فِى سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ وَلَا يَخَافُونَ لَوْمَةَ لَآئِمٍ ذَٰلِكَ فَضْلُ ٱللَّهِ يُؤْتِيهِ مَن يَشَآءُ وَٱللَّهُ وَٰسِعٌ عَلِيمٌ

“They strive in the Way of Allah, and are never afraid of the blame of the blamers”.

Meaning, they strive in the path of Allah with their wealth and lives, through their statements and actions. They do not fear the blame of the blamer; instead, they give precedence to the pleasure of their Lord and the fear of His blame over the blame of the people. This shows the strength of their resolve and determination, as the one whose heart is weak is weak in his resolve, which falters in the face of the blame of the blamers, and his strength diminishes when criticised by the critics. [3]

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

There are three people in relation to this matter: The first person is one hindered from what Allah loves due to fear of blame. The second manifests their love for what Allah loves, regardless of the blame of the blamers. The third conceals his deed that may attract blame to fulfil what is beloved to Allah. So, the first person is excessively negligent, the third person is a weak believer, and the second person is in the best position, and he is a strong believer. A strong believer is more virtuous and beloved to Allah than a weak believer. The highest type of love for Allah and His Messenger is found in striving in the path of Allah despite the numerous blamers since many souls dislike being in this situation. [4]

Allah says in Surah Rum, Ayah 60:

فَٱصۡبِرۡ إِنَّ وَعۡدَ ٱللَّهِ حَقٌّ۬ۖ وَلَا يَسۡتَخِفَّنَّكَ ٱلَّذِينَ لَا يُوقِنُونَ

And let not those who have no certainty of faith, discourage you from conveying Allah’s Message (which you are obliged to convey)].

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

In contrast to an individual who possesses certainty, a person lacking certainty tends to be unstable and acts without caution. Certainty is characterised by a steadfast belief in the heart, grounded in both knowledge and action. It is possible for an individual to have a solid understanding yet fail to demonstrate patience in times of adversity, allowing emotions to dictate their responses. Al-Hasan Al-Basri said: “If you wish to see a person with insight but lacking patience, you will find such an individual; similarly, if wish to see someone who exhibits patience but lacks insight, you will also encounter that person. However, if see a person who embodies both insight and patience, that person is the one referred to by Allah in the verse”.

Then he recited the Ayah:

وَجَعَلۡنَا مِنۡہُمۡ أَٮِٕمَّةً۬ يَہۡدُونَ بِأَمۡرِنَا لَمَّا صَبَرُواْۖ وَڪَانُواْ بِـَٔايَـٰتِنَا يُوقِنُونَ

And We made from among them (Children of Israel), leaders, giving guidance under Our Command when they were patient and used to believe with certainty in Our Ayat (proofs, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.)]. [As-Sajdah. 24] [5]

Al-Allamah Abdur Rahman Bin Yahyah Al-Mu’allimee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: When the Christians initially exaggerated the status of Isa, peace be upon him, the extremists began to accuse anyone who rebuked them of harboring animosity towards Isa and diminishing his status. Thus this became the greatest means for the proliferation of extremism, as those who adhered to the truth saw that rebuking the extremists would lead to accusations of a more detestable nature, such as hating and belittling Isa, as well as being hated by the majority and subjected to harm. This held them back from rebuking the extremists, allowing Shaytaan to operate without restraint. The circumstances surrounding the extremists among the Rawaafid, grave worshippers, and advocates of blind adherence in the religion bear a striking resemblance to this scenario. [6]

Al-Allamah Ibn Aqeel, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “If the truthful ones were to keep silent and the falsifiers speak, the creation would relinquish what they have witnessed (of truth) and reject what they have not witnessed. So when the devout ones desire to revive the Sunnah, the people would reject it and think that it is Bidah”. [7]

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

فإنه من يعش منكم فسيرى اختلافا، فعليكم بسنتي

“Indeed the one who lives long amongst you will see differences; so upon you is to (adhere) to my Sunnah”.

Imam Abu Hatim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “This is clear evidence that the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, commanded his Ummah to know the weak (or unreliable people) amongst them and distinguish them from the trustworthy ones. That is because the Sunnah cannot be adhered to alongside the lies and falsehood mixed with it, except by way of knowing the weak (or unreliable people) and distinguishing them from the trustworthy (reliable) people”. [8]

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, said:

It is incumbent upon the people of truth to have patience and deepen their commitment to this religion of truth. In times when frivolous desires are prevalent, it is essential to enhance one’s understanding of the truth and to remain steadfast in following it, as the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The one who lives long amongst you will see a lot of differences, so upon you is that you follow my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly guided khulafa. Bite onto it with your molar teeth (i.e. hold onto it firmly) and beware of newly invented matters (in the religion), for every newly invented matter (in the religion) is innovation in religion and every innovation in religion is misguidance’”. [9]

[1] An Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi

[2] An Excerpt from Tafsir Al-Baghawi

[3] An Excerpt from “Tafsir as-Sadi”

[4] An Eccerpt from Badaa’i at-Tafsir Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim 1/324

[5] An Excerpt from “Al-Fawaa’id’ page 300

[6]at-Tankil Bimaa Fee Ta’neeb Al-Kawtharee Minal Abaateel. 1/80

[7] Shifaa As-Sudoor Fee Ziyaaratil Mashaahid Wal-Quboor page: 148

[8] Muqaddimah Kitaab Al-Majrooheem Minal Muhadditheen of Imaam Ibn Hibbaan (rahimahullaah) Page: 66

[9] Majmoo 14/294