The Truth About Taqlid
This paper addresses the issue of taqlid - "following a qualified juristic view without knowing the proof". In it, Abu Aaliyah tackles the following issues: Is a layman required to know the proof before he acts on a scholar's ruling or fatwa? Can a layman weigh-up proofs and draw his own conclusions? Are there different types of taqlid, and if so, what are they? When the great Imams forbade taqlid, who were they addressing? How should the lay people relate to hadith-collections, can they act on anything they find in it without consulting a scholar? And finally, what is ittiba‘ and is there a difference between it and taqlid?
Read MoreOn Adversity & Ordeals (People Cause Pain)
Our lives are fragile and short-lived. We are prone to diseases and accidents, old age and death. Added to this is the suffering human beings inflict on each other. From world wars to domestic misery, people cause pain. Whether it is natural evil, or moral evil brought about by others, life can sometimes thus be very cruel. This piece isn't about why there is evil or suffering in the world. Instead, it explains the four broad responses of people when they are afflicted with loss or tragedy. If the unfolding of our destiny is the way in which God speaks to us, then how we respond to adversity is how we talk to Him. Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymin explains.
Read MoreBefriending Non-Muslims
It has been said that, 'Life is partly what we make it, and partly what is made by the friends we choose.' Friendships are a crucial part of life and are often highly significant in moulding and influencing an individual's ideas and attitudes. Believers, therefore, are urged to choose their friends wisely. 'A person follows the way of life of his friend, so be careful who you take as a friend,' the Prophet, upon whom be peace, once advised. Friendships that are based on love of God and commitment to faith will, Muslims believe, be greatly blessed. So they tend to avoid those who mock faith, or deliberate agitate against it. In all cases, justice and civility must be maintained: to friend and foe. Shaykh Bin Bayyah tackles the issue.
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