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Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Madkhali 87

The Wasiyah of Shaikh, Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Umayr Al-Madkhali, may Allah have mercy on him, who passed away on the night of Thursday, the 15th of Muharram, 1447 AH. His (Janazah) prayer was performed in the Prophet’s Mosque at dawn on Thursday. He was buried in the Baqi, may Allah have mercy on him and grant him a spacious abode in Paradise.

The text of the Shaikh’s Wasiyah

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

Indeed, all praise is due to Allah; we praise Him, seek His assistance, and ask for His forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evils of our souls and from the evils of our deeds. Whomever Allah guides, there is no one to misguide him, and whomever He (abandons) to stray (due to their own fault), there is no guide for him. I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, alone without partner, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger. To proceed:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ ٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ حَقَّ تُقَاتِهِۦ وَلَا تَمُوتُنَّ إِلَّا وَأَنتُم مُّسْلِمُونَ

O you who believe! Fear Allah (by doing all that He has ordered and by abstaining from all that He has forbidden) as He should be feared. [Obey Him, be thankful to Him, and remember Him always], and die not except in a state of Islam (as Muslims) with complete submission to Allah. [1]

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّاسُ ٱتَّقُوا۟ رَبَّكُمُ ٱلَّذِى خَلَقَكُم مِّن نَّفْسٍ وَٰحِدَةٍ وَخَلَقَ مِنْهَا زَوْجَهَا وَبَثَّ مِنْهُمَا رِجَالًا كَثِيرًا وَنِسَآءً وَٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ ٱلَّذِى تَسَآءَلُونَ بِهِۦ وَٱلْأَرْحَامَ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ عَلَيْكُمْ رَقِيبًا

O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife [Hawwa (Eve)], and from them both He created many men and women and fear Allah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights), and (do not cut the relations of) the wombs (kinship). Surely, Allah is Ever an All-Watcher over you. [2]

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ ٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ وَقُولُوا۟ قَوْلًا سَدِيدًا
يُصْلِحْ لَكُمْ أَعْمَٰلَكُمْ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ ذُنُوبَكُمْ وَمَن يُطِعِ ٱللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُۥ فَقَدْ فَازَ فَوْزًا عَظِيمًا

O you who believe! Keep your duty to Allah and fear Him, and speak (always) the truth. He will direct you to do righteous good deeds and will forgive you your sins. And whosoever obeys Allah and His Messenger, he has indeed achieved a great achievement (i.e. he will be saved from the Hell-fire and made to enter Paradise). [3]

Indeed, the best speech is the Book of Allah, and the best guidance is the guidance of Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. The worst of all matters are the newly introduced ones (in the religion), and every newly invented matter (in the religion) is a Bidah, every Bidah is misguidance and every misguidance is in the fire.

This is a Wasiyah for all the Muslims – from a weak servant (of Allah) who is about to leave this worldly life and approaching the Hereafter – to fear Allah as He should be feared, hold firmly to His rope altogether, not to be divided and not to divide their religion; for in the fear of Allah and holding firmly to His rope – the Book (i.e. the Qur’an) and the Sunnah – (depends) their happiness and Siyadah in this worldly life (ie. honour, nobility, upright leadership, dominance, authority in this worldly life) and the Hereafter (i.e. honour, safety in the Hereafter); and in division and diferring lies their humiliation and disgrace. Their unity and cohesion cannot be accomplished through anything except the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Therefore, it is (incumbent upon) them to adhere to this great means (or determinant) that leads to happiness in both this worldly life and the Hereafter, and steer clear of what opposes it, (such as) division and differing, which are both the cause of misery and humiliation in this worldly life and the Hereafter.

I advise the Salafis – and they are the ones distinguished through adherence to the Book and the Sunnah, and calling to both of them – that they intensify their efforts in rectifying the conditions of Muslims in (terms) of creed, worship, politics, economics, society, and other aspects of Muslim life that should all be based on the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. They should make this clear to all the Muslims and highlight their good intentions and objectives, and that they desire nothing else for this Ummah except goodness – every goodness – and that they do not desire except to repel all evils and Makruh (harm, injury, mishap etc) that have befallen this Ummah due to their distance from adherence to the Book and the Sunnah.

I advise the students of knowledge and the scholars [من مختلف الاتجاهات – adhering to the different perspectives, viewpoints] to fear Allah with regards to their Ummah, and to strive with all they are able to return the Ummah to the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and to that which the pious predecessors were upon in terms of creed, worship, politics, social matters, and manners; and that they should completely distance from (vain) desires and the causes of differing that has gravely harmed the Ummah. It is high time for these people to rise to accomplish these noble goals and to steer Muslims away from anything that leads them to weakness and humiliation. The latter part of this Ummah can only be rectified by what rectified its first part. It is (incumbent upon) everyone to understand that this Ummah did not attain superiority over all other nations except that it is the best nation brought forth for mankind, enjoining good, forbidding evil, and believing in Allah.

The early Muslims – the companions and those who followed them in righteousness- attained this Khayriyyah (superiority or virtue over other nations) based on the testimony of Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him: “The best of the people are those living in my generation, then those who will follow the latter and then those who come after them. Then there will come after them people who will be treacherous and will not be trustworthy, they will bear witness without being asked to do so (a), and they will vow, but will never fulfil their vows, and fatness will appear among them”. (b) (4)

And his, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, statement: “The righteous (pious people will depart (die) in succession one after the other, and there will remain (on the earth) useless people like the useless husk of barley seeds or dates; and Allah will show no concern for them”. (5)

Therefore, it is (incumbent upon) the bearers of knowledge to advise for the sake of Allah, His Book, His Messenger, for the (welfare) of believers, for (the welfare) of Muslims in general and in specific, in order that Allah, the Blessed and Exalted, may rescue those among the Muslims who are in a state of Al-Ghutha (i.e. a state tantamount to uselessness, insignificance, etc) and degradation because there is no other reason for this except due to the distance many among them are from adhering to the Book of Allah and seeking judgment from Allah and His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. If they declare this with diligence and truthfulness, it will lead to great goodness for this Ummah.

We ask Allah, the Blessed and Exalted, to fulfill this and to keep all causes of humiliation and disgrace away from the Muslims, (distanced from) the causes of division, envy, animosity, and hatred, whose effects are felt (observed, perceived) by everyone who wishes good for this Ummah.

Dictated by Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Madkhali On the Thursday evening of 25th of Dhul-Hijjah, 1420 AH.

Written by his student and son, Khalid bin Dhuhai Al-Dhafiri. And he ordered me to publish it in every place, in newspapers and elsewhere.

The Wasiyah of Shaikh, Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Umayr Al-Madkhali, may Allah have mercy on him (was) written at the end of the year 1420 AH during a time when he was severely ill, may Allah have mercy on him. He dictated it to Shaikh Khalid Adh-Dhafiri while he was on his bed in Al-Awali in Makkah, may Allah forgive him and grant him a place in the highest paradise. [https://rabee.net/9155-2/]

[1] Aal Imran 102
[2] Al-Nisaa 1
[3] Al-Ahzab 70-71
[4] Al-Bukhari 3650
[5] Al-Bukhari 6434


Translator’s addition:

(a) Al-Allamah Rabee, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated in Marhaban Yaa Talib Al-Ilm pages 268-270: They give false testimony, act treacherously and deceitfully. They behave in a very sinful manner and follow evil desires, except those whom Allah safeguards amongst the Ta’ifatul Mansurah– those whom Allah’s Messenger, and blessings of Allāh be upon him, praised. Therefore, it is obligated to us to acquire knowledge for the sake of Allah and act upon it. Ignorance is a deadly disease and knowledge is a weapon that will destroy you if you do not act upon it, and Allah’s refuge is sought.

Regarding the statement, “They will bear witness without being asked to do so”. Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “This can mean that they bear witness before being asked, or they bear witness based on falsehood, or they give witness without being from those who are worthy of it”. [Sharh Sahih Muslim 12/17)]. However, there is another Hadith in which the Prophet stated: “Should I not inform you about the best of witnesses, they are those who bear witness before being asked”. The scholars say that what is intended by this hadith is for example: someone has a witness to give on behalf of another person based on truth, but the person does not know about it, so he informs the person about it; or for example, a person has already passed away and another person knows what the deceased person has left behind as inheritance, so he bears witness to that and makes it known. [Fat-hul Baari 5/260]

[b] Regarding the statement, “And fatness will appear among them.’’ – Meaning: These people give importance to the means of fattening themselves – food, drink and over-indulgence. Their only concern is their bodies and fattening themselves. As for being fat without choice, one cannot be blamed for that, just as a person cannot be blamed for being tall, short, black or white. [Majmu Al-Fatawaa 10/1056 -By Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allāh have mercy upon him]

Exercise caution when certain individuals start engaging in excessive praise

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

A man among the companions of the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, used to say when he was praised:

اللهُمَّ لا تؤاخِذْني بما يقولون، واغفِرْ لي ما لا يعلمونَ

“O Allah! Do not take me to account for what they say and forgive me for what they do not know (about me)”.

Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Hadi Al-Madkhali, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

This is one of the supplications, specifically when praised and one hears it. For example, when it is said, “Fulaan (such and such person) is upright and righteous”, so he hears what was said about him, or such praise reaches him; or it is said, “Fulaan is very truthful, such and such is a good doer, a charitable person, a scholar and so on”. If he hears this, a believer fears for himself and feels shy that he is the opposite of what the people say about him, and because of this he re-examines himself and becomes active in carrying out deeds to make him righteous- a good doer and worthy of the praise given to him by the people. If he does this, he will be successful and blessed; but if he becomes deceived by what the people say and becomes oblivious of his mistakes and shortcomings, shaytan will afflict him with self-importance. Due to this, when a believer hears the people commending and praising him with righteousness, he makes this supplication “O Allah! Do not take me to account for what they say” – Meaning: “Do not hold me account due to this praise and commendation, and the good characteristics (mentioned about me”. This is because he fears for himself.

The soul of a person is  weak, thus he says, “And forgive me for what they do not know (about me)”- Meaning: “The people commend a person based on what they know about him outwardly, so the person fears that he has Mukhaalafaat [i.e. deeds in opposition to the commands and prohibitions in the Shariah] which are unknown to the people, thus he asks his Lord [The Blessed and Exalted] not to hold him to account and to forgive those sins, his shortcomings and mistakes that are unknown to the people. The children of Adam are deficient, but there are those among them who fall short and return to (repentance or rectification) and are active again in the performance of good deeds after falling short. Among them are those who fall short and persist upon (sin) until punishment comes upon them. (1)

We ask Allah:

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

O Allah! Rectify my religion for me, which is the safeguard of my affairs; rectify my worldly [affairs], wherein is my livelihood; and rectify my Afterlife to which is my return; and make life for me [as a means of] increase in every good and make death for me as a rest from every evil. [Saheeh Muslim Number: 2720] (2)

Nafi, may Allah have mercy upon him, reported that a man said to Ibn Umar, may Allah be pleased with him and his father: “O you the best of people” or “the son of the best of people”. Ibn Umar responded, stating, “I am neither the best of people nor the son of the best of people; I am merely a servant of Allah, hoping for His mercy and fearing Him. By Allah, you will continue to (elevate) a man until you lead him to his destruction.” (3)

Muttarif Ibn Abdillah, may Allah have mercy upon, said: “No one has ever praised me except that my self-worth diminished.” (4)

Malik Ibn Dinar, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Whoever distances himself from the allure of the worldly life is one who has dominated his desires and one who takes pleasure in false praise has enabled shaytan to enter his heart.” (5)

Fudayl Ibn Iyad, may Allah have mercy upon him, reported that it was said to Sulayman al-Taymi, may Allah have mercy upon him: “You are such and such! Who is like you?” He said, “Do not speak in such a manner. I do not know what may be revealed to me by my Lord, the Mighty and Majestic. I have heard Allah, the Exalted and Majestic, say (i.e. in the Qur’an):

وَبَدَا لَهُمْ مِنَ اللَّهِ مَا لَمْ يَكُونُوا يَحْتَسِبُونَ

And there will become apparent to them from Allah, what they had not been reckoning. (6)

 

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked: He (i.e. the questioner) also says: You have responded -may Allah bless you- about seeking assistance from the Mashayikh, but he also asks about praising the Mashayikh?

Response: Similarly, there is further details regarding praise. Leaving it is better because it may lead to exaggeration, and the praised individual might become self-amazed, thus, it may lead him to arrogance and vanity. Therefore, it is better to avoid praise. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “If you see those who praise, throw dust in their faces”. [a]

Praise carries risks. He, peace and blessings be upon him, is the leader of creation, yet he stated: “Do not exaggerate my status (or overpraise me) as the Christians did with the son of Mary; I am only a servant. Thus, say: the servant of Allah and His Messenger.” [b] He forbade any additional praise, excess compliment, and exaggeration, as this could lead to polytheism. For this reason, he, peace and blessings be upon him, feared for his Ummah and forbid them from excess compliment, as the Christians did until they said about the son of Mary that he is the son of Allah, and even worship him alongside Allah due to exaggeration and excess compliment.

So, the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, prohibited excessive praise and that one should only praise based on truth. He is praised for his qualities as the Messenger of Allah, as the servant of Allah and His Messenger, as the trustworthy one, and that Allah sent him as a mercy, and that he’ll intercede for people on the Day of Judgment, and that he is the leader of the creation – peace and blessings be upon him. However, it is not permissible to exaggerate in this regard by invoking him besides Allah, seeking help from him, or requesting assistance or victory from him – after his death – over one’s enemies. This is exaggeration and evil praise.

It is obligated to the Mashayikh to follow the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, with regards to hating praise, and they should not be lackadaisical in this matter because unrestrained praise directed towards them by their followers or their students may lead to evil, self-amazement, vanity and arrogance. Therefore, what is befitting (or obligated to the) scholars is to hate praise and do not allow their followers and students to increase in this (or go beyond bounds). However, little praise, which serves to encourage one to do good, strengthen one’s resolve towards goodness, and invigorate such actions, there is no harm in this. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, praised some of his companions, and he stated about Umar: “Never does Satan find you going on a way, but he takes another way other than yours. [c]

A little praise from which it is not feared that evil will occur, there is no harm in that for the purpose of encouraging one towards good. As for an increase in praise and doing it a lot, it is more befitting to avoid it even if it is deserved (or based on truth). This is because it is feared that trial will result from it. If the praised individual is alive and can hear it, it is feared that it will expose him to Fitna. [paraphrased and abridged] (7)

أيضًا يقول .. أجبتم -بارك الله فيكم- عن طلب المدد من المشايخ، لكنه أيضًا يسأل عن مديح المشايخ؟

الجواب:
كذلك المديح، المديح فيه تفصيل: ترك المديح أولى؛ لأنه قد يسبب الغلو، وقد يعجب الممدوح بنفسه، فربما أكسبه الكبر والخيلاء، ترك المديح أولى، النبي -عليه الصلاة والسلام- قال: إذا رأيتم المداحين فاحثوا في وجوههم التراب فالمدح فيه خطر، وقال وهو سيد الخلق -عليه الصلاة والسلام-: لا تطروني كما أطرت النصارى ابن مريم، إنما أنا عبد، فقولوا: عبد الله ورسوله نهى عن الزيادة في مدحه والإطراء والغلو؛ لأن هذا قد يفضي إلى الشرك؛ ولهذا خاف على أمته -عليه الصلاة والسلام-، ونهاهم عن الإطراء كما فعلت النصارى حتى قالت في ابن امريم إنه ابن الله، وحتى عبدوه من دون الله بسبب الغلو والإطراء.
فالنبي ﷺ نهى عن الإطراء، وألا يمدح إلا بحق، يمدح من صفاته أنه رسول الله، وأنه عبد الله ورسوله، أنه الأمين، أن الله بعثه رحمة، أنه يشفع للناس يوم القيامة، أنه سيد الخلق -عليه الصلاة والسلام-، يمدح بما وصفه الله به -عليه الصلاة والسلام-، لكن لا يجوز الغلو فيه، بأن يدعى من دون الله، أو يستغاث به، أو يطلب منه المدد، أو النصر على الأعداء بعد موته -عليه الصلاة والسلام-، لا، هذا غلو، وهذا إطراء منكر.
والمشايخ يجب عليهم اتباع النبي ﷺ في كراهة المدح، وأن لا يتساهلوا في هذا؛ لأن إطلاق المديح لهم من أتباعهم أو من طلبتهم قد يفضي إلى شر، وإلى عجب وإلى خيلاء وكبر، فالذي ينبغي للعلماء أن يكرهوا المدح وأن لا يسمحوا لأتباعهم وطلبتهم بالتوسع في هذا.
أما المدح القليل، الشيء القليل الذي للتشجيع على الخير، والتقوية على الخير، والتنشيط عليه فلا بأس، قد مدح النبي ﷺ بعض الصحابة، وقال في عمر: إنك الفاروق وقال فيه: إنك ما سلكت فجًا إلا سلك الشيطان فجًا غير فجك….، وقال في ابن عمر: إنه رجل صالح فالمدح القليل الذي لا يخشى منه الشر لا بأس به للتشجيع على الخير والدعوة إليه.
أما التوسع في المديح، والإكثار منه فالأولى تركه، ولو كان بحق؛ لأنه يخشى فيه الفتنة إذا كان الممدوح حيًا يسمع، فإنه يخشى عليه الفتنة، نعم.

[a] Sahih Ibn Hibban 5770
[b] Al-Bukhari 3445
[c] Al-Bukhari 3683


(1) Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharh Al-Adabil Mufrad’ 2/389

(2) https://salafidawah.uk/2020/12/29/o-allaah-rectify-my-religion-for-me-which-the-safeguard-of-my-affairs-a-tremendous-supplication/

(3) Hilyatul Awliyaa 1/307

(4) Hilyatul Awliyaa 2/198

(5) Hilyatul Awliyaa 2/364

(6) Hilyatul Awliyaa 3/30

(7) https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/13485/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D9%85%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%AD-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B4%D8%A7%D9%8A%D8%AE

Supplication for or against the people of Bidah – Clarification of a Senior Scholar

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

Supplication for or against the people of Bidah – By Al Allamah Ubaid Al-Jabiri, may Allah have mercy upon him.

Question: May Allah bless you, our Shaikh. This is the seventh question from Saudi Arabia. What is the ruling on making Du’aa for the guidance of those who call to Bidah and Fitan, including the Khawarij, concerning the misguidance they are in?

Response: Those who smake du’aa for them have Salaf (a precedent or basis) for doing so; however, the people of Bidah fall into two groups:

A group who are callers to their Bidah, having loyalty and enmity in that. They exert every effort to attack the people of the Sunnah based on lies, falsehood, and slander. Therefore, whoever makes Du’aa against them to be annihilated, eradicated, and for their efforts to be frustrated, and their plots to be repelled against them, he has a precedent. And whoever makes Du’aa for their guidance, I hold that it should be done in a restricted manner, saying: “O Allah! The one among these people who possses goodness, hasten guidance for him and bring him back to You in a beautiful manner. And for the one does not possess goodness, suffice us against him through whatever way You wish”.

The matter does not reach the level of severe reproach, such that the one who makes Du’aa for their guidance is reprimanded, as if they have committed a grave evil or spoken falsehood, contrary to the first (stance), which is to make Du’aa for them in a restricted manner, saying: O Allah! The one among them who possess goodness, hasten their guidance, and for those who do not possess goodness, suffice us with whatever You will”.

One might say, “O Allah! Show us through them the wonders of Your power in them, and make them a lesson for those who take heed.” Na’am (surely), some callers to Bidah display enmity, hatred and attack against the people of the Sunnah, especially the Khawarij among them. If I wished, I could mention their names, but they are well-known, the leaders of the revolutionary thought that began in the year 1411 are well-know. In reality, these people I make Du’aa against them that Allah destroys their plots, frustrates their efforts, show Ahlus Sunnah a lesson through them, and make them a lesson for those who reflect. However, I do not reprimand those who oppose me and make Du’aa for their guidance; I do not reprimand them, as the Prophet – peace and blessings of Allah be upon him – made Du’aa for the guidance of the unbelievers. [paraphrased]

السؤال : بارك الله فيكم شيخنا؛ هذا السؤال السابع من السعودية؛
ما حكم الدعاء بالهداية لدعاة البدع والفتن وحتى الخوارج ممَّا هم فيه من الضلال؟
الجواب :
من دعا لهم بالهداية لهُ سَلَف، لكن أهل البدع قسمان:
قسمٌ هُم دعاة إلى بدعهم، يوالون ويعادون فيها، ويَعْمَلون كُلَّ ما استطاعوا للنيلِ من أهلِ السُّنة كذبًا، وزورًا، وبهتانًا، فمن دعا عليهم بالهلاك، والدَّمار، وإحباط السَّعي، ورَدْ كيدهم في نحورِهم لهُ سَلَف، ومَن دعا لهم بالهداية؛ وأرى أن تكون هكذا مُقيَّدة فيقول: اللهم من تعلم أنه فيه من هؤلاء خير فعجِّل له بالهداية، ورُدَّه إليكَ ردًّا جميلًا، ومن كنت لا تعلم فيه خيرًا فأكفيناه بما شئت
فالأمر لا يصل إلى حد النكير الشديد؛ بحيث من دعا لهم بالهداية يُثَرَّبُ عليه، وكأنه أتى منكرًا من القولِ وزورا، خالَف الأوْلى يعني يدعو لهم دعاء هكذا مقيَّدًا؛ اللهم من كان فيه من هؤلاء خير فعجل له بالهداية ومن ليس منهم فيه خير فأكفيناه بما شئت
وقد يقول اللهم أرِنا فيهم عجائب قدرتك، واجعلهم عبرة لمن اعتبر، نعم بعض دعاة البدع مكشِّرون عن أنياب العداوة والبُغض والنَّيل من أهل السُّنة، لاسيما الخوارج منهم، ولو شِئْت ذكرت أسمائهم لكنهم معروفون، أقطاب الثورة الفكرية العالمة التي انطلقت من عام 1411 معروفون، فهؤلاء في الحقيقة أنا أدعو عليهم بأن يدمِّر الله كَيْدَهم ويخيِّب سَعْيَهم، ويُرِيَ أهل السُّنة فيهم العبرة، ويجعلَهُم عبرةً لِمَن اعتبر، لكن لا أُثَرِّبُ على من خالَفَنِي فدعا لهم بالهداية، لا أُثَرِّبُ عليه، النبي
صلى الله عليه وسلم
دعا بالهداية للكُفَّار
نعم
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THZHHyLm5uI

Upright senior scholars depart, and we recall their admonitions before we depart

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

Allah [The Exalted] said:
وَٱلۡعَصۡرِ
إِنَّ ٱلۡإِنسَـٰنَ لَفِى خُسۡرٍ
إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَعَمِلُواْ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ وَتَوَاصَوۡاْ بِٱلۡحَقِّ وَتَوَاصَوۡاْ بِٱلصَّبۡرِ

By (the phenomenon of) time (which Allah manifests through His creation of night and day and in which the servants perform their deeds). Indeed, (all of) mankind is in loss. Except those who believe (in Allāh, His Angels, Books, Prophets, the Last Day and the Divine Decree) and work righteous deeds (which are sincere and correct) and mutually advise each other (in calling to and abiding by) the truth and mutually advise each other with patience (in facing the inevitable harms brought by calling to the truth). [ https://salafidawah.uk/2023/12/15/the-pinnacle-of-human-perfection-is-attained-through-four-qualities/ ]

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

I have left you with two matters; you will not go astray as long as you hold fast to them: the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Prophet. [Al-Muwatta 2/899]

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

The devil has despaired of being worshipped in your land (i.e. The Arabian Peninsula); however, he is content to be obeyed in other matters that you may consider trivial in your actions. Therefore, be cautious. I have left with you that which, if you hold fast to it, you will never go astray: the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Prophet”. [Sahih at-Targhib 40]

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

Whoever ponders upon the state of affairs of the world will find that every affair of rectification is due to Tawheed, singling out Allah in worship and obedience to His Messenger (Muhammad). And every evil in the world, trial, affliction, scarcity (in livelihood), being overpowered by an enemy and other than that is due to (our) opposition to the Messenger and the call to other than (the way of) Allah and His Messenger. Whoever truly ponders upon this and examines the state of affairs of the world- since its beginning and until the time Allah will take it away and those upon it- he will realise this affair regarding himself and others, in general and specific (circumstances). And there is no Might or Power except with Allah –The Most High, The Most Great. [Badaa’i Al-Fawa’id 3/525-526]

Imam Al-Lalaka’ee, may Allah have mercy upon him said:

Indeed, the most obligated matter to a person is to understand the creed of the religion, and what Allah has imposed on His servants regarding the comprehension of His oneness and attributes, the affirmation of (belief) in His Messengers (and what they have conveyed) through evidence and certainty, and the means to access its paths, using them for proofs and evidences. The mightiest of statements and the clearest evidence is the Book of Allah, the unequivocal truth, followed by the sayings of Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and his righteous companions, then that which the pious predecessors agreed upon (consensus) and then adherence to all of them until the Day of Judgment, while avoiding Bidah and not lending an ear to it which has been initiated by the misguided ones. These inherited and followed advices, preserved and transmitted narrations (on creed, worship, methodology, manners, dealings etc) established paths of truth, well-known and evident proofs, and compelling arguments that were acted upon by the companions and their successors, as well as by both the distinguished men of piety and their folk among the Muslims, they believed in them as proof between them and Allah, the Lord of the worlds. Furthermore, those who emulate them among the guided Imams and those adherents who followed in their footsteps, striving to follow the path of the pious, are counted among those who are truly righteous and the good doers. Those who embark on such a path and consistently adhere to these proofs in accordance with the path of the Shariah will find security in their religion in both this life and the hereafter, and will hold firmly to the trustworthy handhold -(none has the right to be worshipped except Allah) – that will never break. [(1)]

Imam Al-Hasan al-Basri, may Allah have mercy on him, said:

I swear by the One (Allah) besides whom there is no deity worthy of worship but Him! The Sunnah is between the extremes of those who are excessive and those who are neglectful. Therefore, be patient upon it (the Sunnah) – may Allah have mercy on you- for the people of the Sunnah were the fewest among the people in the past, and they remained the fewest among those who remained. Neither did they go along with the excessive ones in their excesses nor with the proponents of Bidah in their Bidah, while remaining steadfast in their adherence to the Sunnah until they met their Lord. Thus, if Allah wills, let it be the same for you. [(2)]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Sirin, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

They (the pious predecessors) held as their belief that the right path is what is based on the authentic narrations of the Prophet and his companions. [(3)]

Imam Umar Ibn Abdul Aziz, may Allah have mercy on him, stated:

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and the leaders who succeeded him (Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman and Ali) established matters based on the pure revelation; adhering to them is an affirmation of Allah’s Book (the Qur’an), complete obedience to Allah, and strength in the religion ordained by Allah. No one has the authority to alter or change these practices, nor substitute them in opposition. Whoever follows these practices is rightly guided, and he who seeks assistance will be assisted (through them). Whoever opposes them and pursues a path other than that of the believers (the companions of the Prophet), Allah will leave him to what he has chosen and cast him into Hell, and what an evil destination. [(4)]

Imam Az-Zuhri, may Allah have mercy on him, said:

Those who preceded us among our scholars used to say: “Adhering to the Sunnah is salvation and that knowledge is rapidly taken away. The presence of knowledge is the stability of both the religion and worldly affairs, and with the loss of knowledge follows the loss of all of that (i.e. the emergence of corruption).” [(5)]

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

Whoever introduces a bidah in Islam and considers it to be good, he has implied that Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, has betrayed his mission. This is because Allah says:[اليوم أكملت لكم دينكم – “This day I have perfected your religion for you]. Therefore, anything that was not part of the religion at that time cannot be considered part of the religion today. [(6)]

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

Whoever becomes acquainted with the path of truth, it has been made easy for him to follow. And there is no proof for adhering to the path of Allah except through emulating the Messenger, peace be upon him, in his conduct, statements, and deeds.” [(7)]

Ibn Ataa, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Whoever commits himself to the etiquettes of the Sunnah, Allah will illuminate their heart with the light of knowledge, and there is no status more noble than following the beloved (Prophet) in His commands, actions, and manners.” [(8)]

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

Acts of worship are to be based on the authentic Sunnah, neither vain desires nor Bidah”. [(9)]

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

Whoever adheres to the Book and the Sunnah, distancing himself from his vain desires and that of others, and turns to Allah with his heart, he is truthful and upon what is correct”. [(10)]

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

Whoever abandons the evidence will stray from the path, and there is no evidence except that which has been brought forth by the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him”. [(11)]

Saudi King Abdul Azeez Bin Abdir-Rahman, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The foundation of the Islamic Creed is the Book of Allah, the Sunnah of His Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] and that which the Sahabah were upon; then the pious predecessors after them, and then after them the four Imams of the Muslims- Imam Malik, Imam Shafi’i, Imam Ahmad and Imam Abu Hanifah. The creed of these people is one in the foundation of the religion and that is the three categories of Tawheed- the Oneness of Allah in His Lordship, the Oneness of Allah in that He (alone) has the right to be worshipped and His Oneness in His Names and Attributes”.

It is obligatory that we adhere to the Rope of Allah  [i.e. the Qur’an, Sunnah etc] and that which the Salafus Saaleh [pious predecessors] were upon. If we adhere to this, we will be callers to Allah  [i.e. Callers to Tawheed, the Sunnah and everything Allah has commanded], establish our affairs based on what Allah has revealed, speak and establish our economic affairs based on Taqwaa [i.e. fear of Allah by fulfilling everything Allah has commanded and keeping away from everything Allah has forbidden], so that Allah may show us kindness. However, if we do not do so and we are abandoned to our own selves, then we might become like what Ali  [may Allah be pleased with him] that Allah said: [نَسُوا اللَّهَ فَنَسِيَهُمْ – They have forgotten Allah, so He has forgotten them]”. [Al-Anfal. 67]

O Muslims! It is obligatory that we hold onto the Rope of Allah (i.e. the Qur’an), follow the Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger Muhammad [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him], follow the guidance of the Messenger, act on Allah’s orders and keep away from what Allah has forbidden. Indeed, every speech that is not followed by action is false. There can be no rectification for the Muslims except through their unity upon singling out their Lord in [His Lordship, Names and Attributes and worshipping Him alone and associate none to Him as a partner in Worship]. And during every differing that leads to splitting and division, the Religion commands us to hold onto Allah’s Shariah, enjoin one another with the truth and patience, just as Allah [The Most High] commanded us in the Qur’an. We should be truly acquainted with our Lord and seek His Aid and Assistance. We do not fear except the (consequences of) our sins and it is obligated on the Muslims to follow Allah’s Religion and obey all that Allah has ordered, practically. In this is the (means of) rectifying their worldly affairs and the upright establishment of all their (other) affairs”.

Deeds that are in opposition to the Shariah can never be beneficial for anyone and all harm (is found) in following other than the foundation brought by our Prophet Muhammad [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him].

Indeed, the progress and advancement of the Muslims is among those affairs we (pursue) – we call to it by the will of Allah. (However), there cannot be advancement for the Muslims without a return to their religion, adherence to their sound creed and holding onto the Rope of Allah (i.e. the Qur’an and the Sunnah). The path towards this is clear and provided for the one who wants to follow it, and that is to single out Allah in worship – to be free from shirk and bidah- and act on that which the religion has commanded us, for indeed there is no benefit in speech if not (accompanied) by action. [(12)]

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

The latter part of this Muslim nation will not be rectified except through that which rectified its early part”, just as the people of knowledge and sound faith have stated. This is a statement of Imam Malik [may Allah have mercy upon him]- the well-known scholar of sound understanding and piety. Many other people of knowledge reported this statement during and after his era and they all agreed that the latter part of this Muslim nation will not be rectified except by way of that which rectified its earlier part. This means that the path followed by its earlier generations -the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His noble Messenger – is what will rectify its future generations until the Day of Judgement. The one who wishes to rectify an Islamic society or any other society in this worldly life through other than the path and practical steps that rectified those who have preceded, then such a person is mistaken and has spoken untruth. There is no path other than the path (of the Messenger and his companions). The only path of rectification and uprightness is the one that was followed by our Prophet and his noble companions, and then those who follow them exactly in righteousness till this era of ours. And this necessitates:

-To give close attention to the Great Qur’an and the authentic Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger and convey them to the people.

-To acquire understanding of the Qur’an and authentic Sunnah and convey both of them with knowledge and clear-sightedness.

-To clarify the rulings found in the Qur’an and the Sunnah, including – first and foremost – the sound creed and the views that must be accepted by the Islamic society. On the other hand, one should clarify the forbidden creeds and views that are to be avoided.

-To clarify the boundaries of Halaal and Haraam that have been legislated by Allah and His Messenger, so that they are not violated. Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] said: [تِلْكَ حُدُودُ اللَّهِ فَلَا تَقْرَبُوهَا – These are the limits (set) by Allah, so approach them not] [Al-Baqarah. 187]

These limits are the unlawful deeds forbidden by Allah because they lead to sins. And just as Allah forbade mankind from going beyond the boundaries of Halaal and Haraam, He also legislated acts of worship and rulings in the religion. [(13)]

Imam Abu Shamah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “When the command to adhere to the Jamaa’ah (the main body) is (mentioned), then the intent behind it is to adhere to the truth, even if those who follow it are few and those who oppose it are numerous. That is because the truth is that which the first Jamaa’ah was upon- the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] and his companions [may Allah be pleased with them]- and one does not give consideration to the numerous people of falsehood”. [(14)]

Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Let every Muslim be careful of being deceived by the great numbers [of people upon such and such idea, view, belief, way of life, etc], whilst saying, “Indeed, the people have become such and such, and have become accustomed to such and such, so I am with them”. This is a great calamity, for indeed many people of the past were destroyed due to this [i.e. blindly following the majority]. Therefore, O sensible one! It is obligated on you to examine yourself; take account of yourself and adhere to the truth, even if the people abandon it. Beware of what Allaah has forbidden, even if the people do it, for indeed the truth is more worthy of being followed, just as Allaah [The Most High] said:

[وَإِنْ تُطِعْ أَكْثَرَ مَنْ فِي الْأَرْضِ يُضِلُّوكَ عَنْ سَبِيلِ اللَّه ِ -And if you obey most of those on earth, they will mislead you far away from Allah’s Path. [Surah Al An-aam Ayah 116]

And Allah [The Most High] said: [ وَمَآ أَڪۡثَرُ ٱلنَّاسِ وَلَوۡ حَرَصۡتَ بِمُؤۡمِنِينَ-And most of mankind will not believe even if you desire it eagerly]. [Surah Yusuf Ayah 103] [(15)]

Al-Allamah Muqbil Bin Hadi Al-Waadi’ee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

If numbers are the scale by way of which you judge, then the majority are mostly blameworthy; and if persuasive speech and eloquence is the scale by way of which you judge, then indeed Allah described the Munaafiqoon that they have tongues that utter beautiful speech. Allah said: [وَإِن يَقُولُواْ تَسۡمَعۡ لِقَوۡلِهِمۡ – And when they speak, you listen to their words]. [Al-Munaafiqoon. 4]

Therefore, what is given consideration is that one knows the people of truth by their characteristics – that they call to the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, his family, and companions], and they neither desire reward from the people nor seeking to be thanked. [(16)]

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

A large number of people around a person is not proof that such a person is virtuous because some of the Prophets were only followed by a few people. “A Prophet will come on the day of judgment with a few followers and a Prophet will come with no followers”. [Bukhaari 5705]. Therefore, does this mean that such a Prophet is not virtuous? Absolutely not! A person does not look at the large number of people who are present because the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said to Ali, “If Allah gives guidance to a single man through you, it is better for you than possessing red camels”. [Bukhaari 3009]

The Shaikh, may Allah preserve him, also stated, “Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah is not harmed by those who oppose them. If you are with them- all praise is due to Allah, they are pleased with this because indeed they want good for the people. If you oppose them, you cannot harm them and due to this the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “There will not cease to be a group of my Ummah who will be manifest upon the truth- not harmed by those who forsake them until the command of Allah comes to pass (i.e. the day of judgment) whilst they are (still) upon that (truth)”. The one in opposition does not harm except himself. What is given consideration is not the great numbers; rather what is given consideration is to agree with the truth, even if a small number of people were upon it. And even if in some eras there is only one person (upon truth), then he is the one upon truth and he is the Jamaa’ah. The Jamaa’ah does not necessitate great numbers; rather the Jamaa’ah is what is in agreement with the truth – in agreement with the Book and the Sunnah, even if those upon it are few. However, if many come together and (upon) truth, then – all praise is due to Allah- this is strength. But if the majority oppose it (i.e. the truth), then we side with the truth even if only a few are upon it”. ([17)]

Al-Allamah Ahmad Bin Yahyah An-Najmi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Know that the truth is that what (has been revealed by) Allah and (given to) His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him in the Book and the Sunnah, even if its adherents and those who embrace it are few. What is conveyed in the Islamic legislation is the truth one is commanded to follow, even if the majority of the people free themselves from it and those who follow it are few. Allah stated:

ثُمَّ جَعَلْنَاكَ عَلَىٰ شَرِيعَةٍ مِنَ الْأَمْرِ فَاتَّبِعْهَا وَلَا تَتَّبِعْ أَهْوَاءَ الَّذِينَ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ
إِنَّهُمْ لَنْ يُغْنُوا عَنْكَ مِنَ اللَّهِ شَيْئًا ۚ وَإِنَّ الظَّالِمِينَ بَعْضُهُمْ أَوْلِيَاءُ بَعْضٍ ۖ وَاللَّهُ وَلِيُّ الْمُتَّقِينَ

Then We have put you (O Muhammad) on a plain way of (Our) commandment [like the one which We commanded Our Messengers before you (i.e. legal ways and laws of the Islamic Monotheism)]. So follow you that (Islamic Monotheism and its laws), and follow not the desires of those who know not. Verily, they can avail you nothing against Allah (if He wants to punish you). Verily, the Zalimun (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.) are Auliya’ (protectors, helpers, etc.) to one another, but Allah is the Wali (Helper, Protector, etc.) of the Muttaqun (pious). [Al-Jaathiya. 18-19]

Therefore, O slave of Allah! Be eager to follow the truth, follow the straight path and the path of early pious predecessors- the companions of the Messenger, and do not feel lonely due to the small numbers of those who follow it and the large numbers of those who oppose it, for indeed Ibrahim, peace be upon him, was an Imam on his own and with Allah lies all success. [(18)]

Read article by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah, may Allah preserve him:

The State of the Ummah: Causes that led to its Weakness and the Means of Rectification (eBook)

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الثَّبَاتَ فِي الْأَمْرِ، وَالْعَزِيمَةَ عَلَى الرُّشْدِ

O Allah! Indeed, I ask You for steadfastness in this affair (regarding sound adherence to the religion) and firm resolve to adhere to the path of guidance. [(19)]

اللّهُـمَّ رَبَّ جِـبْرائيل ، وَميكـائيل ، وَإِسْـرافيل، فاطِـرَ السَّمواتِ وَالأَرْض ، عالـِمَ الغَيْـبِ وَالشَّهـادَةِ أَنْـتَ تَحْـكمُ بَيْـنَ عِبـادِكَ فيـما كانوا فيهِ يَخْتَلِفـون. اهدِنـي لِمـا اخْتُـلِفَ فيـهِ مِنَ الْحَـقِّ بِإِذْنِك ، إِنَّـكَ تَهْـدي مَنْ تَشـاءُ إِلى صِراطٍ مُسْتَقـيم

O Allah! Lord of Jibraa’eel, Meekaa’eel, and Israafeel, Creator of the heavens and the Earth, The Knower of the seen and the unseen. You judge between Your slaves regarding in that which they differ. Guide me to the truth regarding that in which there is differing, by Your Will. Verily, You guide whomever you will to the straight path. [(20)]

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). [(21)]

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. [(22)]


[(1)] Sharh Usul Al-Ittiqad Ahl As-Sunnah Wal Jama’ah 1/7
[(2)] Ighatha Al-Lahfan 1/70
[(3)] Sunan Ad-Darimi 1/66
[(4)] Ighatha Al-Lahfan 1/159
[(5)] Al-Darimi 1/5
[(6)] Al-I’tisam 1/28
[(7)] Madarij As-Salikin 2/486
[(8)] Madarij As-Salikin 2/486
[(9)] Majmoo Al-Fatawa 4/170 (Ibn Taymiyyah)
[(10)] Madarij As-Salikin 2/487
[(11)] Miftah Dar As-Sa’adah 1/85
[(12)] An Excerpt from  “Haqeeqah Manhaj Al-Mamlakah Al-Arabiyyah As-Su’oodiyyah”. Pages 26-33]
[(13)] An Excerpt from ‘Awaamil Islaah Al-Mujtama’ah pages 1-2]
[(14)] Al-Baa’ith Alaa Inkaaril Bid’ah Wal-Hawaadith’ page 22
[(15)] An Excerpt from ‘Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 12/ 412
[(16)] قم المعاند – 2/547
[(17)] An Excerpt from ( لمحة عن الفرق الضالة )– pages 14 -15
[(18)] An Excerpt from Irshaad As-Saaree Fee Sharh Sunnah Lil-Barbahaaree page: 47
[(19)] Irwaa al-Ghaleel 1/115
[(20)] Saheeh Muslim 770
[(21)] As-Saheehah Number 1301
[(22)] Sahih Muslim. 2720]

Never allow anyone, especially in this era, to divert you from fulfilling what is found in this hadith

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

Suhail Ibn Abi Salih narrated from his father, who narrated from Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Verily Allah loves three things for you and He hates three things for you. He loves that you worship Him alone and that you do not join anyone else in your worship of him and that you do not worship other than him; He loves that you hold tight altogether to the rope of Allah and that you do not be divided; and that you advice the one placed in charge over your affairs. And Allah hates for you Qeel Wa Qaal [i.e. he said and she said – spreading rumours]; He hates for you the wasting of wealth and He hates for you excessive questioning [i.e. questioning devoid of benefit]. [Sahih Muslim 1715]

An illustration of exemplary behaviour of senior scholars when truth reaches them

In the Name of Allāh, The Most-Merciful (to His creation), the Ever-Merciful (to His believing servants). [1]


Your feedback is more than welcome to improve this translation. May Allah bless you all.

Arabic Text

Shaikh_Rabee_Humility


Accepting Advice and Wholehearted Submission to The truth is One of the Great Obligations (Obligated) to all Muslims

All praises be to Allāh, [2] and may peace and blessings be upon Allah’s Messenger, his family, his companions, and those who follow his guidance. To proceed:

I came across what some internet websites have disseminated (or posted) regarding a statement attributed to me, that I stated during one of my lectures: “If the Messenger of Allah disowned (or freed himself) from you through (or upon) the tongue of our Lord”. I said it while citing (or utilising as proof) the statement of Allah, the Exalted:

إن الذين فرقوا دينهم وكانوا شيعا لست منهم في شيء

“Verily, those who divide their religion and break up into sects (all kinds of religious sects), you (O Muhammad) have nothing to do with them” [3] regarding the prohibition of splitting (divergent sects, groups, parties). Then I stated: “How can we, my brothers, not fear while we choose this splitting and live with it for generations and ages?”

I seek Allah’s forgiveness – a hundred times – for this ugly (disgusting) and false statement. I request the removal of this statement from all cassettes (recordings) in which it appears, and I emphasise that anyone who possesses a recording containing this statement should delete it. And I say: Indeed, this statement is ugly (disgusting) and false; exalted is Allah above it, and free is He from it. That is because He, The Exalted, is free from any resemblance to the created things, as He, Glorified be He and free from all imperfections, says:

لَيْسَ كَمِثْلِهِۦ شَىْءٌ وَهُوَ ٱلسَّمِيعُ ٱلْبَصِيرُ

There is nothing like (similar) to Him, and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer. [4]

Likewise, He, The Mighty and Majestic, says:

قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ
ٱللَّهُ ٱلصَّمَدُ
لَمْ يَلِدْ وَلَمْ يُولَدْ
وَلَمْ يَكُن لَّهُۥ كُفُوًا أَحَدٌۢ

Say (with a firm, resolute statement): “He is Allāh, (who is) uniquely One (in His perfect names, attributes, actions, and His right to worship). Allāh, the Eternal, Self-Sufficient Master (of utmost perfection in His attributes, to whom all creatures turn for their needs whilst He has none). He did not beget (such that He became a father) nor was He begotten (such that He became a son). And there is none equal, similar or comparable to Him (in His perfect names, attributes and actions).” https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/sura/112/1

And He, the Exalted, says:
هَلْ تَعْلَمُ لَهُۥ سَمِيًّا
Do you know of any that is worthy of His name (due to having similarity to Him)? [5]

In these noble verses are an affirmation of the Attributes of His Perfection and the descriptions of His majesty, while also exalting Him above attributes and descriptions of deficiency and the likeness to created beings. Neither is anyone similar nor comparable to Him in His Dhat (Self), and His Attributes, nor in any of His Magnificent Attributes. [6]

Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama’ah affirm all of the attributes mentioned in the Qur’an and Sunnah without Tashbih, Ta’teel, Takyeef, or Tamtheel with regards to anything of His Attributes, such as Ascension above His Throne – above all of His creations, His Highness, Descent, Hearing, Sight, Ability, Iraadah, knowledge, Speech, and Wisdom, and the fact that He, The Exalted, is the Creator, the Provider, Giver of Life, and Causer of Death, among the other affirmed Names and Lofty Attributes of His. Ahlus Sunnah affirm them without Takyeef, Tamtheel, Tashbih, or Ta’teel, standing in opposition to Ahlul Ahwa (the sects upon vain desires in their creed), such as the Jahmiyyah, Khawarij, Mu’tazilah, Rawaafid, and Ash’ariyyah. [7]

And all praises be to Allah, I am from those whom Allah blessed with this methodology, which I firmly believe in the depth of my inner-self. I teach it, advocate for it, and defend it as a student and a teacher; calling to it with all my ability, establishing allegiance and enmity based on it from the beginning of my life (i.e. when he became acquainted with it). This statement, which I made during my lecture- in which I called to this path and urged those who oppose it to revise it – is extremely hated to me. This ugly (repugnant, disgusting) statement was a slip of the tongue on my part and had someone alerted me at the moment I uttered it, I would have rejected and distanced myself from it. It is not justified for anyone who comes across it to remain silent about it. It is akin to the statement made by the man whom the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, cited as an example, who said out of overwhelming happiness: “O Allah! You are my servant and I am Your Lord”. [8] Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, stated, “He (i.e. this man) erred due to overwhelming happiness.” Nevertheless, I experience profound pain from it and strongly condemn it for both myself and others (.e. not to utter this statement).

I beseech Allah, the Generous Lord of the Mighty Throne, to forgive me for all my sins, both those I have concealed and those I have made known. I ask for forgiveness for my slips and errors, including those of the pen, the tongue, the limbs, and the heart. “All the children of Adam commit mistakes, and the best of those who err are the repentant.” I beseech Allah to make me among the repentant and the purified. Accepting advice and adhering to the truth is one of the most obligatory duties for all Muslims, regardless of the source. It is not permissible for a Muslim to belittle or disdain the advisor, no matter their status. I seek refuge in Allah from rejecting advice or defending any wrong or falsehood that originates from me, for such behavior is characteristic of the corrupt, arrogant, obstinate, and those who, when given a reminder do not reflect (or take heed). I seek refuge in Allah from these ugly (repugnant, disgusting) traits. I ask Allah to include me among those about whom He says:

وَٱلَّذِینَ إِذَا ذُكِّرُوا۟ بِـَٔایَـٰتِ رَبِّهِمۡ لَمۡ یَخِرُّوا۟ عَلَیۡهَا صُمࣰّا وَعُمۡیَانࣰا

And those who, when they are reminded of the Signs of their Lord, fall not deaf and blind thereat. [9]

I advise myself and all Muslims to adhere to this methodology and remain steadfast in it, to accept the advice of those who advise, and to follow the path of the righteous predecessors in mutual advice, enjoining one another upon truth, and accepting guidance, in consideration (and application) of Allah’s statement:

وَٱلْعَصْرِ
إِنَّ ٱلْإِنسَٰنَ لَفِى خُسْرٍ
إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ وَعَمِلُوا۟ ٱلصَّٰلِحَٰتِ وَتَوَاصَوْا۟ بِٱلْحَقِّ وَتَوَاصَوْا۟ بِٱلصَّبْرِ

By (the phenomenon of) time (which Allah manifests through His creation of night and day and in which the servants perform their deeds). Indeed, (all of) mankind is in loss. Except those who believe (in Allāh, His Angels, Books, Prophets, the Last Day and the Divine Decree) and work righteous deeds (which are sincere and correct) and mutually advise each other (in calling to and abiding by) the truth and mutually advise each other with patience (in facing the inevitable harms brought by calling to the truth). https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/sura/103/1 [10]
And in consideration (and application) of Allah’s statement:

والمؤمنون والمؤمنات بعضهم أولياء بعض يأمرون بالمعروف وينهون عن المنكر

The believers, men and women, are Auliya’ (helpers, supporters, friends, protectors) of one another, they enjoin good and forbid evil. [11]

Among the signs of upright guidance, uprightness, truthfulness (in statement and action), and salvation in this worldly and the Hereafter is to be steadfast upon the Book and the Sunnah, and to follow this methodology in belief, action, manners, and in enjoining good and forbidding evil, addressing shortcomings with wisdom and through (honourable, straight forward, honest) ways.

And I beseech Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, to grant success to this Ummah, particularly Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama’ah, to advance this great methodology, unite their word upon it, and enable them to achieve (or attain upright) leadership, dignity, and honour in this worldly life; enable them to adhere to this methodology that will lead them to safety and salvation in the Hereafter. Indeed, my Lord is All-Hearing of supplications.

May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his companions.

Written by:
Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali
8/7/1425 AH
Makkah Al-Mukarramah


[1] https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/sura/1/1

[2] https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/search/1_2

[3] Al-An’aam. 159

[4] Ash-Shura 11

[5] https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/search/19_65

[6] and [7] https://abukhadeejah.com/categories-of-the-attributes-sifat-of-allah/#:~:text=Examples%20are%20Life%20(Al%2DHay%C4%81t,such%20Attributes%20of%20the%20Self.
https://abukhadeejah.com/ibn-uthaimeen-important-principles-regarding-the-names-and-attributes-of-allaah-the-aqeedah-of-ahlus-sunnah-and-a-refutation-of-the-opposers/
https://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?subsecID=AQD03&articleID=AQD030007&articlePages=1

[8] Anas Bin Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessing of Allah be upon him, said: Allah is more pleased with the repentance of His servant when he turns back to Him than one of you would feel upon finding his lost camel in a desolate land, which had carried his food and drink. When he loses hope of recovering it, he lies down in the shade and is disappointed about his camel, thus he suddenly sees his camel standing right beside him. Overwhelmed with joy, he grabs its reins and exclaims: “O Allah! You are my servant, and I am Your Lord.” He has made a mistake due to the intensity of his happiness. [Sahih Muslim 2747]

[9] https://salafidawah.uk/2024/03/21/medication-from-the-quran-for-one-who-only-desires-reminders-from-a-specific-person/

A Noteworthy Incident Involving Salih, His Father, Imam Ahmad, and Dawud Ibn Ali Al-Asbahani

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

أتى داود بن علي الأصبهاني إلى صالح بن أحمد بن حنبل وكان بينه وبين صالح بن أحمد حسن (يعني: علاقته به كانت حسنة) فكلم صالحا أن يتلطف له في

الاستئذان على أبيه.

فأتى صالح أباه أحمد بن حنبل) فقال له : رجل سألني أن يأتيك؟

قال: ما اسمه ؟

قال داود

قال : من أين؟

قال: من أهل أصبهان.

قال: أي شيء صناعته ؟

قال : وكان صالح يروغ عن تعريفه إياه. فما زال أبو عبد الله يفحص عنه حتى فطن.

فقال: هذا قد كتب إلي محمد بن يحيى النيسابوري في أمره انه زعم أن القرآن محدث فلا

يقربني.

قال : يا أبت ينتفي من هذا وينكره.

فقال أبو عبد الله (أحمد بن حنبل): محمد بن يحيى أصدق منه لا تأذن له في المصير إلي “.

Dawud Ibn Ali al-Isfahani approached Salih Ibn Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, with whom he had a good relationship. He requested Salih to kindly seek permission for him to visit his father. Salih then went to his father- (Imam Ahmad)- and said: “A man has asked me to come to you.” He (Imam Ahmad) said: “What is his name?” He (Salih) said: “Dawud”. He said: “Where is he from?” He (Salih) said: “He is from the people of Isfahan”. He said: “Has he done anything (i.e. involved in anything wrong)?” Salih hesitated, thus Abu Abdillah (Imam Ahmad) did not cease scrutinising until he realised (who this Dawud is). Then he said: “Muhammad Ibn Yahyah An-Naysaabooree wrote to me concerning the affair of this one (i.e. Dawud) that he claims that the Quran came into existence (created), [a] so he should not come near me (i.e. should not come to me).” Salih said: “O My father! He has disclaimed and rejected this (statement or claim)”. Abu Abdillah (Imam Ahmad) said: “Muhammad Ibn Yahya is more truthful than him; do not grant him permission to approach me”. [1] 

[a] https://www.salafisounds.com/the-quran-is-the-speech-of-allah-uncreated-and-a-refutation-of-the-opposers-foundations-of-the-sunnah-of-imam-ahmad-bin-hanbal-lesson-19-by-abu-khadeejah-abdul-wahid/

https://abukhadeejah.com/who-first-spoke-with-the-innovation-that-the-speech-of-allaah-is-created-their-isnaad/


[1] Tarikh Baghdad 8/374]

Some of the Characteristics of Ahlul Hadith – 1

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

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

Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, may Allah have mercy upon him, excelled in interpreting this report that Ahlul Hadith ‘the adherents to the hadith in belief, acts of worship and sound methodology’ are the Ta’ifah Al-Mansurah ‘The Victorious Group’ from whom being forsaken (by Allah) is removed until the Day of Judgment. Who could be more deserving of this interpretation (being applied to them) than a people who follow the path of the righteous, adhere to the footsteps of the Salaf ‘first three generations of Pious’ predecessors, subdue Ahlul Bidah ‘the followers or proponents of innovated beliefs, acts of worship or methodologies in the religion’ and opponents of the Sunan of Allah’s  Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him and his family.

Marifah Ulum Al-Hadith page 2

Respect for scholars, harmony, different levels of scholars, love of truth, piety etc

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

Kathir Ibn Qays, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: I was sitting with Abu Ad-Darda, may Allah be pleased with him, in the mosque of Damascus. A man came to him and said: “O Abu Darda! I have come to you from the city Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, for a hadith that I have heard you relate from the Messenger of Allah. I have come for no other purpose”. He said: “Indeed, I heard the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessinngs of Allah be upon him, say: “Whoever takes a path in pursuit of knowledge, Allah will make him follow a path to Paradise. The angels lower their wings in their great pleasure for the one who seeks knowledge, the inhabitants of the heavens and the earth and the fish in the deep waters ask forgiveness for the scholar. The superiority of the scholar over the devout worshipper is like that of the moon, on the night when it is full, over the rest of the stars. The scholars are the heirs of the Prophets, and the Prophets leave neither dinar nor dirham, but they leave behind knowledge, thus, he who acquires it has acquired an abundant portion”. [Sahih Abi Dawud 3641]

Respect and Appreciation For The Scholars

Harmony, respect and love between senior scholars

The different levels of the scholars of Ijtihad

Seeking out the most elderly and senior scholars

I have met the Mashayikh

https://salafidawah.uk/2021/07/31/basis-of-truth-is-not-attached-to-the-character-or-personality-we-love-choose-or-prefer/

https://salafidawah.co.uk/2025/04/20/nobility-determined-based-on-adherence-to-truth-and-not-due-to-the-level-of-ones-intellect-or-status/

https://salafidawah.co.uk/2025/04/22/one-of-the-great-blessings-bestowed-upon-teacher-and-student/

https://salafidawah.co.uk/2025/04/20/recalling-discussions-with-inquisitive-pupils/

https://abukhadeejah.com/differing-where-there-is-room-for-ijtihad-should-not-damage-our-unity/

https://salafidawah.uk/2019/12/07/from-the-sunnah-is-that-you-do-not-help-anyone-in-disobedience-to-allaah-by-imaam-al-barbahaaree-rahimahullaah/

He is more concerned for our wellbeing than our own parents

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

لَقَدْ جَآءَكُمْ رَسُولٌ مِّنْ أَنفُسِكُمْ عَزِيزٌ عَلَيْهِ مَا عَنِتُّمْ حَرِيصٌ عَلَيْكُم بِٱلْمُؤْمِنِينَ رَءُوفٌ رَّحِيمٌ

Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger (Muhammad) from amongst yourselves. It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty. He was is anxious over you (to be rightly guided, to repent to Allah, and beg Him to pardon and forgive your sins, in order that you may enter Paradise and be saved from the punishment of the Hell-fire), for the believers (he is) full of pity, kind, and merciful. [Al-Tawbah 128]

Allah, the Exalted, bestowed His grace upon His believing servants by sending them the unlettered Prophet who is from among themselves. They are familiar with his circumstances and are able to learn from him, willingly submitting to his guidance. He, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is very sincere in advising them and strives for their welfare.

It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty“, meaning, it is difficult for him to see the matters that trouble you and cause you hardship.

He is anxious over you (to be rightly guided“, meaning, he loves good for you and exerts his utmost effort to deliver it to you. He is eager for you to be guided to Iman and hates evil for you, and strives diligently to steer you away from it.

for the believers (he is) full of pity, kind, and merciful“, meaning, very kind and merciful to them, even more than their own parents. Due to this, his rights take precedence over all other rights of creation, and it is obligated to the Ummah to believe in him, honour him,  support him, and show him respect.

 فَإِن تَوَلَّوْا فَقُلْ حَسْبِيَ اللَّهُ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ۖ عَلَيْهِ تَوَكَّلْتُ ۖ وَهُوَ رَبُّ الْعَرْشِ الْعَظِيمِ

But if they turn away, say (O Muhammad): “Allah is sufficient for me. La ilaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), in Him I put my trust and He is the Lord of the Mighty Throne.

An Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi.