Ruling on taxes that are paid on goods

What is the ruling on customs tax paid on imported goods?
Is it permissible to pay a sum of money to any of the customs officers in order to reduce the customs payment? For example – paying a sum of money to the officer who evaluates the customs so that he will charge less for customs or submit a report that does not tell the truth?

Praise be to Allaah.

With regard to the maks (duty, tax) that is taken from the Muslims, this is haraam, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“O you who believe! Eat not up your property among yourselves unjustly” [al-Nisa’ 4:29]

And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “It is not permissible to take the wealth of a Muslim except with his consent.” (Narrated by Ahmad and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Irwa’, 1459). Siddeeq Hasan al-Bukhaari said in al-Rawdah al-Nadiyyah, 2/215, concerning customs duty that is levied on the Muslims: “ If we think about it, this is undoubtedly nothing more than the maks.” Maks is a kind of tax and refers to money that was taken from vendors in the market-places during the Jaahiliyyah, or taken from merchants when they passed through. (See ‘Awn al-Ma’bood, hadeeth no. 2548). This tax is one of the major sins, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, concerning the woman who had committed zina (adultery), then came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) so that the hadd punishment might be carried out on her, “By the one in Whose hand is my soul, she has repented in such a way that if the one who wrongfully takes the maks from people had repented like this, he would have been forgiven.” (Narrated by Muslim, 3208). Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in Sharh Saheeh Muslim (11/203): “This shows that the maks is one of the most evil of sins and actions that condemn a man to Hell.”

If a Muslim cannot find any means of warding off this evil from himself other than paying a sum of money to the customs official, then it is permissible for the one who is paying to do that, but for the official who takes this money, it is haraam for him. See Majmoo’ al-Fataawa by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (30/359, 358). This is so long as no greater evil will result from that unavoidable bribe. But if a greater evil will result from that, then it is not permissible to pay it in that case. Also, we must point out the importance of not telling lies. If a person is forced to pay then he should pay and seek the reward for his being wronged with Allaah. And Allaah knows best.

Islam Q&A
Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid

THE SAYINGS OF THE SCHOLARS ON JAMAA’AT UT-TABLEEGH

THE SAYINGS OF THE SCHOLARS ON JAMAA’AT UT-TABLEEGH

By: Shaikh Rabee’ bin Haadee al-Madkhalee Source: salafipublications. Trans. Abu Abdullaah

=> The final fatwa of Shaykh ‘Abdul-‘Azeez bin Baaz in warning against the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh
=> The Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh and the Ikhwaan are amongst the 72 sects
=> The ruling regarding going out with the Jaam’ah at-Tableegh
=> Fatwa of the Noble Shaykh, Muhammed Ibn Ibraaheem Aal-ash-Shaykh in warning against the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh
=> Fatwa of the Noble Shaykh Muhammed Naasiruddeen al-Albaanee regarding the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh
=> Fatwa of the noble Shaykh, ‘Abdur-Razzaaq ‘Afeefee regarding the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh
=> Fatwa Shaykh Saalih Ibn Fowzaan al-Fowzaan

All Praise is for Allaah alone, and prayer and salutations upon the Messenger of Allaah and upon his family and companions and those who follow his guidance. As what follows/to proceed:

Some papers reached me containing statements of the two Salafee Allaamahs’ Shaykh Ibn Baaz andShaykh Ibn al-‘Uthaymeen which the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh circulate amongst the ignorant and those who do not know the reality of their false manhaj and ‘aqeedah.

And the reality is that the statements of the two Shaykhs supports them.

So the statement of Shaykh Ibn Baaz is based upon a report from a Tableeghee man, or one who is sympathetic to them, which was narrated to Shaykh Ibn Baaz contrary to that which they are upon and depicted them contrary to their true nature, and confirms that which we say the statement ofShaykh Ibn Baaz (rahima-hullaah):

“…and no doubt, certainly the people are in severe need of such good meetings gathering upon the remembrance of Allaah and inviting to holding steadfast to Islaam and applying it’s teachings and ridding the Tawheed (of Allaah) of (all) innovations and superstitions…” [see his fatwa, reference number 1007, dated 17/08/1407 A.H which the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh now circulate].

So this (fatwa) suggests that the narrator mentioned in his report that certainly that this Jamaa’ah calls to holding steadfast to Islaam, applying it’s teachings and ridding the Tawheed (of Allaah) of (all) innovations and superstitions. So, as a result, the Shaykh has praised them.

And if the narrator of the report spoke the truth and depicted them upon their reality and explained the truth of their false manhaj, then we would not have seen from Imaam Ibn Baaz, the Salafee, the monotheist, except impugnation towards them and warning against them and their innovations, as he had done in the last fatwa regarding them attached to this one (above).

And in the statement of Allaamah Ibn al-‘Uthaymeen as to that which supports them, refer to his statement as follows:

“Remark: If the difference (of opinion) is in ‘aqeedah issues, then it is obligatory to correct (this) and that which opposes the way of the Salaf. For indeed, it is obligatory to detest it and warn those who tread (the path of) that which opposes the methodology of the Salaf in this aspect. [See Fataawa Ibn al-‘Uthaymeen – Volume 2, Page 939-944, similar to that which the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh distribute].

And no doubt the difference of opinion amongst the Salafees, the Ahlus-Sunnah wat-Tawheed and the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh is an extreme and profound difference in ‘aqeedah and manhaj.

For they are upon the way of the Maatureediyyah, those who have innovated in the attributes of Allaah and who are from the Soofiyyah in their worship and manners, giving the oath of allegiance and from that, these sects uphold (the belief) in al-Hulool and Wahdatil-Wujood and shirk with the graves and other than that from (their) falsehood.

And without a doubt the noble Shaykh Ibn al-‘Uthaymeen does not know, and if he were to know this about them, then certainly he would have denounced them for the falsehood (upon which they are on) and would have severely warned against them. He would certainly have trodden the Salafee path with them just as both his Shaykhs, Imaam Muhammed Ibn Ibraaheem and Imaam Ibn Baaz had done. And just as Shaykh al-Albaanee, Shaykh ‘Abdur-Razzaaq ‘Afeefee, Shaykh Fowzaan, Shaykh Hamood at-Tuwayjaree, Shaykh Taqqee ad-Deen al-Hilaalee, Shaykh Sa’d al-Husayn, Shaykh Sayf ar-Rahmaan, Shaykh Muhammed Aslam had (all) done with their great publications, which clarified the falsehood of the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh and their danger and that which they are upon in their false ‘aqeedah and manhaj so the serious student of knowledge should refer to them.

And Shaykh ‘Abdur-Rahmaan al-Misree reverted (back) from having written in praise of the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh and he admitted his mistakes to me.

As for Yoosuf al-Malaahee, then he is amongst those who spent many years with them, then wrote a book about them which explained their falsehood and corrupt ‘aqeedah, then sadly he reverted back from the truth and then wrote another book about them. His first book assists him and that which the scholars of manhaj wrote about them refutes his falsehood; and the (most) important rule is (in the science of al-Jarh wat-Ta’deel) is that al-Jarh takes precedence over and above at-Ta’deel. So it nullifies all praise from anyone, even if the Tableeghees uphold the correct Islaamic rules (teachings) and trod the path of the people of knowledge and advice for Islaam and the Muslims.

Written by Shaykh Rabee bin Haadee al-Madkhalee/ 29 Muharram – 1421 A.H [Top]

THE FINAL FATWA OF SHAYKH ‘ABDUL-‘AZEEZ BIN BAAZ IN WARNING AGAINST THE JAMAA’AH AT-TABLEEGH

In the Name of Allaah, All Compassionate, All Merciful

His excellency, Shaykh ‘Abdul-‘Azeez bin Baaz (rahima-hullaah) was asked about the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh, so the questioner asked:

Your excellency, we hear about the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh and that which their da’wah entails. So would you advise me to join this Jamaa’ah (group). I anticipate your guidance and advice, and may Allaah reward you immensely.

So the Shaykh responded by saying:

Whoever invites to (the path of) Allaah, then he is a muballigh (one who conveys the message (of Islaam)), (as the hadeeth mentions): ((Convey from me, even if it be a (single) Aayah)); However, the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh (originally) from India have many deviations. They have some aspects of bid’ah and shirk, so it is not permissible to go (out) with them, except for a person who has knowledge and goes (out) with them to disapprove of what they are upon and to teach them (the truth). If, however, he goes (out) to follow and adhere to them, then no.

That is because they have deviations, mistakes and lack of knowledge. However, if there was a Jamaa’ah doing tableegh other than them, from the people of knowledge, then (it is permissible to) go out with them for daw’ah purposes.

If there was a person of knowledge who goes out with them to enlighten and guide them, along with teaching them such that they leave their falsehood and embrace the way of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah, (then that is good).

[So, the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh and those who sympathise with them, will benefit from this fatwa, illustrating the reality of their ‘aqeedah and Manhaj and the writings of their scholars whom they blindly follow]

[This was extracted from the tape: ‘Fatwa Samaahatush-Shaykh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez Ibn Baaz concerning the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh’ which was published in Ta’if about two years before the Sahykh’s death. The tape refutes the cover-up of the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh and the old statement of the Shaykh which was published before their reality and manhaj was made clear to him. [Top]

THE JAMAA’AH AT-TABLEEGH AND THE IKHWAAN ARE AMONGST THE 72 SECTS

His Excellency, Shaykh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez Ibn Baaz (Rahima-ullaah) was asked:

Question: May Allaah grant you the best (of His favours).

In the hadeeth of the Prophet , relating to the splitting of the Ummah, he says: ((…and my Ummah shall split into 72 sects…)).

So, is the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh, with what they have in terms of shirk and innovations; and also the Jamaa’ah al-Ikhwaan al-Muslimeen, with what they have in terms of partisanship and revolting/rebelling against the leaders and lack of obedience; from the 72 sects?

So, he (the Shaykh) responded, may Allaah forgive him and bestow upon him His immense mercy:

They are from the 72 (sects). Whoever opposes the ‘aqeedah of Ahlus-Sunnah enters the fold of the 72 (sects). The meaning of the Prophet’s statement ((My Ummah)) is: the Ummah of Ijaabah, i.e. the Ummah of response; those who responded to the Prophet’s call and revealed their allegiance to him. And the meaning of 73 sects: the victorious sect which adhered to him and was upright in their religion and 72 of those sects – amongst them the kuffaar, the sinners and various innovators.

So, the questioners asked: Are these two groups (Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh and Jamaa’ah al-Ikhwaan al-Muslimeen) from amongst the 72 sects?

He responded: Yes, they are from the amongst the 72 sects, along with the Murji’ah and other than them; the Murji’ah and the Khawaarij – some of the people of knowledge regard the Khawaarij from amongst the kuffaar, out of the fold of Islaam although amongst the 72 sects.

[Taken from the recording of the Shaykh’s lessons in Sharh al-Muntaqaa in Ta’if approximately 2 years or less before his death]. [Top]

THE RULING REGARDING GOING OUT WITH THE JAAM’AH AT-TABLEEGH

His excellency, Shaykh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez Ibn Baaz (rahima-hullaah) was asked:

Question: “I went out with the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh to India and Pakistan. We used to congregate and pray in masaajid within which there were graves and I heard that the salaah in a masjid within which there is a grave is invalid. What is your opinion of my salaah and should I repeat them? What is the ruling about going out with them to these places?”

Response: “Indeed, the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh do not have real knowledge pertaining to issues of ‘aqeedah so it is not permissible to go out with them except for the one who has real knowledge of the correct ‘aqeedah of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah. In this, he can enlighten them, advise them and co-operate with them in good because they are active in their affairs. However, they are in need of more knowledge from those who can enlighten them amongst the scholars of Tawheed and Sunnah. May Allaah grant everyone understanding of the religion and firmness upon it.

As for the salaah in the masaajid within which are graves, then it is incorrect and it is obligatory upon you to repeat all that you did (in those masaajid) due to that which the Prophet Muhammad said: ((Allaah has cursed the Jews and the Christians who have taken the graves of their Prophets’ as places of worship)) – it’s authenticity is agreed upon.

Also, his  statement: ((Indeed those before you used to take the graves of their Prophets’ and pious people as places of worship, so do not take the graves as places of worship, for certainly I prohibit you from that)), transmitted by Muslim in his Saheeh.

And the ahaadeeth on this subject are numerous – and with Allaah lies all success and may Allaah send prayers upon our Prophet Muhammed, his family and his companions.”

[Fatwa dated 2/11/1414 A.H]

Regarding Shaykh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez Ibn Baaz (rahima-hullaah) statement: “Therefore, it is not permissible to go out with them except for the one who has knowledge and understanding of the correct ‘aqeedah upon which the Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah are upon, such that he can enlighten them, advise them and co-operate with them in good.”

I say: May Allaah bestow mercy upon the Shaykh for if they had accepted the advice and guidance from the people of knowledge, then there would not be any harm in going out with them. However, the actual reality is that they do not accept advice, nor do they leave their falsehood for the severity of their allegiance and adhering to their desires.

If they accepted the advice of the scholars, then they would have left their false manhaj and trodden the path of the Ahlut-Tawheed and Sunnah.

If the matter is like that, then likewise it is not permissible to go out with them as the manhaj of the Salaf as-Saalih is built upon the Book and the Sunnah, warning against the people of bid’ah and against mixing and sitting with them. This is because in this (i.e. going out with them) is adding to their numbers and assisting and granting them strength in propogating their falsehood, and that is misleading (in the name of) Islaam and also misleading the Muslims and (ultimately) deceiving them (the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh) and assisting them in sin and wrongdoing. [Top]

FATWA OF THE NOBLE SHAYKH, MUHAMMED IBN IBRAAHEEM AAL-ASH-SHAYKH IN WARNING AGAINST THE JAMAA’AH AT-TABLEEGH

From Muhammed Ibn Ibraaheem to his excellency Prince Khaalid Ibn Sa’ood, leader of the Royal Court, as-Salaam ‘Alaykum wa-Rahmatullaahe wa-Barakaatuhu, to proceed:

I received the noble correspondence of your excellency (No.36/4/5-D on 21/1/1382 A.H) and that which it contains of the request directed to his excellency, the king, from Muhammed Ibn ‘Abdul-Haamid al-Qaadiree, Shaah Ahmad Nooraanee, ‘Abdus-Salaam al-Qaadiree and Sa’ood Ahmad Dahlawee regarding their request for assistance in the project of their organisation which they have named (Kulliyyatud-Daw’ah wat-Tableegh al-Islaamiyyah) – and also the pamphlets that have been enclosed with their request.

I inform your excellency that there is no good in this organisation for certainly it is an organisation of innovation and falsehood which I have discovered by reading their pamphlets which were attached to their requests. We found it to comprise of falsehood, innovation and the inviting to the worshipping of graves and shirk. Quite simply, something which (we) cannot remain quiet about.

Therefore, we shall (inshaa-Allaah) put forward a refutation revealing their misguidance and falsehood.

We ask Allaah to assist his religion and make high His Word, was-Salaam ‘Alaykum wa-Rahmatullaahe wa-Barakaatuhu [S-M-405 on 29/1/1382 A.H]. [Top]

FATWA OF THE NOBLE SHAYKH MUHAMMED NAASIRUDDEEN AL-ALBAANEE REGARDING THE JAMAA’AH AT-TABLEEGH

He (rahima-hullaah) was asked:

“What is your opinion concerning the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh? Is it permissible for a student of knowledge or other than him to go out with them under the guise of inviting to (the path of) Allaah?”

So he responded: The Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh does not uphold the manhaj of the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger  and that which our Salaf as-Saalih were upon.

And if the situation was such, then it is not permissible to go out with them because it defies our manhaj in calling to the manhaj of the Salaf as-Saalih. So in the path of inviting to Allaah, then an ‘aalim (one who is knowledgeable) can go out with them but as for those (ignorant – without knowledge) who go out with them, then it is obligatory upon them to remain in their countries and (study Islaam) seek knowledge in their masaajid until there graduates from amongst them people of knowledge who hold study circles inviting to the path of Allaah.

As long as the situation is like that, it is upon the student of knowledge to invite these people (those from Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh) to study the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah and invite people to it.

And the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh, with respect to da’wah to the Book and the Sunnah, do not intend by it a starting point, rather they consider that to be a divided call (da’wah)/approach; And because of this, they most resemble the Jamaa’ah of al-Ikhwaan al-Muslimeen.

They say their da’wah is based upon the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah, however this is mere idle talk for certainly they have no ‘aqeedah upon which they are united (which unites them) – so you find some are Maatureedee, others are Ash’aree, whilst others are Soofee and even some who have no madhhab (affiliation to any particular ideology).

This is because their da’wah is built upon amassing (the people), then gathering together and culturising/instructing them, and in reality they do not really have any culture. More than half a century has passed and there has not appeared from amongst them a scholar.

As for us, then we say instruct them, then gather together, such that the gathering together is based upon a foundation in which there is no doubt.

So the da’wah of the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh is that of the Soofiyyah, they call to good manners, as for correcting the differing ‘aqeedah of the group, then they do not exert themselves one iota. This is because they believe this will cause differences (and splitting apart).

It came to pass that a brother, Sa’d al-Husayn had much correspondence with the leader of the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh in India or Pakistan and it became clear from that they acknowledge (belief in) intercession and seeking help (from other than Allaah) and many other such things. And they require their people (members) to make bay’ah (oath of allegiance) based upon four issues: amongst them the Naqshbandiyyah methodology. So it is upon every tableeghee (one who ascribes to the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh) to make bay’ah of these fundamentals (issues).

A questioner may ask: Indeed this group has corrected its faults (returned to Allaah) as a result of the efforts of many individuals and quite possibly many non-Muslims have accepted Islaam at their hands. Is this not sufficient (proof) for the permissibility of going out with them and participating in that which they call to?

So we say: Indeed we know these words and hear them a lot and know them to emanate from the Soofiyyah! For example, there is a Shaykh whose ‘aqeedah is incorrect and does not know anything about the Sunnah. Instead they deceitfully take from the wealth of the people, so together with this, many open sinners seek forgiveness from them!

So every group which invites to good, then it is imperative they should be in adherence (to the Qur’ân and the Sunnah), and (this) our approach is pure, so what are they (others) calling to?

Are they calling to adherence to the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of the Messenger and the ;aqeedah of the Salaf as-Saalih, abandoning blind following of the madhhabsto such an extent that they adhere to the Sunnah over and above their madhhab!? So the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh do not have a knowledge-based (manhaj), rather, their manhaj is according to the place where they are to be found, so they change their “colours” to suit themselves.

[al-Fataawa al-Imaaraatiyyah of al-Albaanee]. [Top]

FATWA OF THE NOBLE SHAYKH, ‘ABDUR-RAZZAAQ ‘AFEEFEE REGARDING THE JAMAA’AH AT-TABLEEGH

The Shaykh was asked regarding going out with the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh to remind the people of the Greatness of Allaah.

So the Shaykh said: That which is the case, is that they are innovators and those who adhere to the manhaj of the Qadariyyah and other than them and their going out is not (regarded as) in the Path of Allaah, rather it is in the path of Illiyaas. They do not invite to the Book (of Allaah) [There book is Fazail-e-Aamaal and Bahest-e-Zewar] and nor the Sunnah, rather they invite to Illiyaas, their Shaykh in Bangladesh. [one of their Shaikh]

As for going out with them with the intention to invite to the path of Allaah, then that is (regarded as) going out in the path of Allaah but not that which is going out with the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh.

And I know of the Jamaa’ah at-Tableegh from a long time and they are innovators wherever they may be; Egypt, Israel, America, Saudi Arabia and all of them attach themselves to their Shaykh Illiyaas.

[Fataawa wa Rasaa.il Samaahhtu ‘Abdur-Razzaaq ‘Afeefee, Volume 1, Page 174]. [Top]

FATWA SHAYKH SAALIH IBN FOWZAAN AL-FOWZAAN

The noble Shaykh Saalih Ibn Fowzaan al-Fowzaan was asked:

Question: What is your opinion concerning those who travel outside the Kingdom to give da’wah whilst they have never studied/sought knowledge. They encourage this and make odd statements firmly believing that whoever goes out in the path of Allaah for da’wah then Allaah will assist them with “inspirations/ revelations” and they also believe that having knowledge is not a condition to do so.

And you know that one who travels outside the Kingdom will find differing madhaahib and religions/sects with questions which shall be posed to the one giving da’wah.

Is it not your opinion, O Shaykh, regarding the one who travels (outside the Kingdom) in the path of Allaah, that he should be appropriately equipped so that he can face the people, and especially in East Asia where they are actively against the da’wah of Shaykh Muhammed Ibn ‘Abdul-Wahhaab? I request an answer to my question such that benefit can be gained.

Response: Going out in the path of Allaah is not the sort of going out which is implied today. Going out in the path of Allaah (really means) going out for war. As for that which they call going out nowadays, then this is an innovation which is not mentioned on the authority of any of the Salaf.

And going out calling to Allaah is not specific to any particular day(s) rather one should call to Allaah according to circumstances and abilities, without specifying a group (with which to go out with) nor 40 days or more or less.

And similarly from that which is obligatory upon the caller is to have knowledge. It is not permissible to call to Allaah whilst one is ignorant (lacking knowledge). Allaah (Subhaanahu wa-Ta’Aala) says:{Say: This is my way, I invite to Allaah with sure knowledge…}, [Soorah Yoosuf, Aayah 108].

i.e. upon (sound) knowledge, because it is imperative the caller knows what he is calling to from that which is: waajib (obligatory), mustahab (recommended), muharram (impermissible) and makrooh (disliked) and also knows what is shirk, sinning, kufr (disbelief), fisq (open sinning) and knows the (different) levels and the manner in which to forbid and discourage.

And going out whilst one is busy seeking knowledge is not befitting because seeking knowledge is an obligation and is not achieved except by learning/studying and this is from the evil and ignorant ways of the misguided Soofees because any action without knowledge leads to misguidance.

Characteristics of the saved group

Characteristics of the saved group

What are the most prominent characteristics of the saved group? If a person is lacking in any of these characteristics does that mean that he is not one of the saved group?

Praise be to Allaah.

The most prominent characteristic of the saved group is adherence to the way of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in ‘aqeedah (belief), ‘ibaadah (worship), manners and attitude, and dealings with others. The saved group has distinct characteristics in these four areas.

In matters of ‘aqeedah you will find that they adhere to that which is indicated by the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), i.e., absolute Oneness (Tawheed) of the Divinity and Lordship of Allaah, and of His Names and Attributes.

In matters of worship, you will find that this group is distinguished by its total adherence to and application of that which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to do with regard to different kinds of acts of worship, how they are done, to what extent, where and when, and for what reasons. You will not find them introducing innovations into the religion of Allaah, rather they show the utmost respect towards Allaah and His Messenger, so they do not put themselves forward before Allaah and His Messenger (cf. al-Hujuraat 49:1) by suggesting any innovated act of worship for which He has not granted permission.

In matters of manners and attitude, you will also find that they differ from others by virtue of their good attitudes such as wishing the Muslims well, being content, having a cheerful countenance, speaking well, being generous, being courageous, and other noble and good characteristics.

In matters of dealings with others, you will find that they deal with others in an open and sincere manner.  They are the ones to whom the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) referred when he said: “The two parties (to a transaction) have the choice (of proceeding with the transaction or cancelling it) until they separate. If they are sincere and open, their transaction will be blessed for them, and if they are lying or deceitful, the blessing will be lost.”

If a person is lacking in any of these characteristics, then does not mean that he is not one of the saved group, but for all, there will be degrees according to that which they did (cf. al-Ahqaaf 46:19). Falling short in matters of Tawheed may put a person outside the saved group, such as lacking in ikhlaas (sincerity or purity of intention). The same applies to bid’ah, as a person may do acts of bid’ah which put him outside the saved group.

In matters of morals and dealings with others, defects in such matters do not put a person outside this group, although they may reduce him in status.

We need to look in more detail at the matter of attitude and manners. One of the most important matters of attitude and manners is unity and uniting upon the truth. This is what Allaah urges us to do in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning):

“He (Allaah) has ordained for you the same religion (Islamic Monotheism) which He ordained for Nooh (Noah), and that which We have revealed to you (O Muhammad), and that which We ordained for Ibraaheem (Abraham), Moosa (Moses) and ‘Eesa (Jesus) saying you should establish religion (i.e. to do what it orders you to do practically) and make no divisions in it (religion) (i.e. various sects in religion)” [al-Shoora 42:13]

Allaah tells us that those who divide their religion and break up into sects, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) has nothing to do with them. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“Verily, those who divide their religion and break up into sects (all kinds of religious sects), you (O Muhammad) have no concern in them in the least” [al-An’aam 6:159]

Unity and harmony are among the most prominent characteristics of the saved sect – Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaa’ah. If any dispute arises among them, stemming from ijtihaad in matters where ijtihaad is permitted – they do not bear ill-will, enmity or grudges against one another. Rather they regard one another as brothers even though these differences arise between them. One of them will pray behind another even if he thinks that he does not have wudoo’ whilst the imaam thinks that he does have wudoo’. For example, one of them may pray behind another who has eaten camel meat, and this imaam thinks that this does not break wudoo’ whereas the person praying behind him thinks that it does break wudoo’. So he believes that his prayer behind this imaam is valid, but if he himself were to pray in that state on his own he would think that his prayer is not valid. All this is because they believe that differences which arise from ijtihaad in cases where ijtihaad is allowed, are not really differences, because each of them has followed evidence (daleel) as he is obliged to do, and which should not be ignored. So they believe that if their brother differs from them with regard to some action because he is following the evidence (daleel), then in effect he is agreeing with them, because they advocate following the evidence wherever it is. So although he differs from them, he is still following evidence from the Book of Allaah or the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). The scholars are not unaware of the differences of this nature that arose among the Sahaabah even during the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), but he did not rebuke them. When he (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came back from the campaign of al-Ahzaab, and Jibreel came to him and told him to go out to Bani Qurayzah, who had broken the treaty, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told his companions, “None of you should pray ‘Asr until he reaches Bani Qurayzah.” They set out from Madeenah to Bani Qurayzah, and they were worried about missing the ‘Asr prayer. Some of them delayed the ‘Asr prayer until they reached Bani Qurayzah, and they prayed it after the time for the prayer had passed, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had said, “None of you should pray ‘Asr until he reaches Bani Qurayzah.” Others prayed ‘Asr on time, saying that all the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had meant was that they should hasten to go out (to Bani Qurayzah); he did not mean that they should delay the prayer. These are the ones who were correct, but the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did not rebuke either of the two groups, and neither expressed enmity towards the other. The Muslims who claim to follow the Sunnah should be one ummah and not divide into groups, fighting one another verbally and arguing and hating one another for a matter in which it is allowed to have different opinions. There is no need to mention every group by name; the smart person will understand what I mean.

I think that Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaa’ah should unite even though they differ in the ways in which they understand those texts which may be interpreted in different ways. That is a matter in which there is room for differences, may Allaah be praised. What matters is harmony and unity. No doubt the enemies of Islam want the Muslims to be divided, whether they are enemies who express their enmity openly or they are enemies who make an outward display of friendliness towards Muslims and Islam, but that is not real. We must be distinguished by this characteristic which is the characteristic of the saved group, i.e., being united.

Majmoo’ Fataawa wa Rasaa’il li Fadeelat al-Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen, vol. 1, p. 38-41

Tableeghi Jamaat Exposed

The movement of Tableeghi Jamaat is being utilised by the enemies of Islam as an effective instrument in their struggle to prevent the emergence of a true Islamic movement in Europe and elsewhere in the world. Therefore, it is incumbent on all Muslims to disown it and discourage its activity in every way. The British were continually looking for ways of infiltrating and subverting Islam. They kept, through their comprehensive spy network, a very careful eye, on any new Muslim group and movement. The Tableeghi Jamaat was set up under the British Rule in India. After closely watching the Jamaat for some time, the British realised that here was exactly what they were looking for, a movement that totally absorbed the energy of its members and yet did not threaten British domination in any way as the doctrine of Jihad was totally absent in this movement. They saw that instead of the Jamaat’s directing their energies outwardly towards their legitimate Kaafir enemies, was now directed inwardly towards the rest of the Muslims. Therefore, it was a group that was allowed to flourish. This news was spread to other interested parties.
THEIR BRAND OF TRUE ISLAM: The book that is held by many among the Tableeghi Jamaat to be as important as the study of the Quran itself is the “Teachings of Islam.” In “Teachings of Islam” the Jamaat says that there is “NO WAY to gain honour, happiness, peace and tranquillity in this life OTHER THAN to adopt and firmly hold on to the work and system of Tabligh.” This statement shows that the Tableeghi Jamaat wants to be an exclusive sect of Muslims, which excludes all other Muslims who do not follow its peculiar definition of what it means to convey the message of Islam, a definition which is clearly and erroneous and far removed from the one which Allah gives in the Quran. One can only conclude from this statement that all other Muslims are considered by them to be misguided.

If one reads through their five point action plan which the author of “Teachings of Islam” says that one must put into practice and “will automatically ensure the growth and expansion of Islam in its true form.” He claims that this is the Prophetic method and was followed by their ancestors and early Muslims. If one looks deeply, this five point action plan meets the complete approval of the enemies of Islam, since there is no mention anywhere of anything which might even slightly inconvenience a Kaafir government. How different this is from the actual practice of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)!

From the day the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) made his Prophethood public, the very people who held him in high regards became hostile to him. Whenever the message of Islam is truly conveyed, it strikes at the very roots of every other system with which it comes into contact. How different is the case with the Tableeghi Jamaat. The British Weekly, “The Economist”, the mouthpiece of the Kufaar, in its article entitled “The Other Side of Islam” pays glowing tribute to the Tableeghi Jamaat, saying, “So long as such movements exist, and attract millions of Muslims, essential Islam remains alive and well.” Even the Kaafir authorities positively welcome what is happening, as they clearly do in the case of the Tableeghi Jamaat, because they know that other than the true Islam is being propagated.

Their brand of true Islam only centres around Ijtima, Ghust, Chilla and Kitaab reading. To them, Moulood, Urs Celebrations, Esaale Sawaab, the Recitation of Salaams, visiting of the Mazaars of Awliya Allah, etc. are all Shirk and Bid’at.

TABLEEGHI JAMAATS ROLE IN KUFAAR COUNTRIES: The thousands of members of the Tableeghi Jamaat are utilising all their energy exclusively inwards towards other Muslims and leaves the Kaafir powers to pursue their Godless exploitation of the Muslims completely unimpeded. They have defined Jihad to be “spreading the Kalima of Allah and enforcing of Allah’s Commandments.” (Teachings of Islam). In the very same book, under the heading of “General Principles”, the following point is made – “No controversial matter or points of secondary importance to be discussed at any time …. and confine all talk to the main points of Tabligh.” Thus, a programme originally designed to ensure that the adherents of Tableeghi Jamaat did not come into conflict with the British authorities in India has now been extended to include all aspects of Kufaar domination in the world. The members of the Jamaat are actually forbidden to question it at all. No wonder the enemies of Islam are delighted.

This is the reason why the Tableeghi Jamaat moves freely in Kufaar countries in Europe and the rest of the world, while other Muslims are being imprisoned, tortured, and killed on a daily basis. In Israel, under Zionist control, the Jamaat is allowed free access to any part to do “Allah’s Work” while Palestinian men, women and children, who are opposing Zionist rule, are tortured and killed.

It is also not surprising that under the Apartheid government in South Africa and under the cruel “State of Emergency” in which gatherings were restricted and carefully monitored under the vigilant eye of the then police force, the Ijtima’s used to draw crowds of thousands of devotees – and there was not a single policeman in sight. It is obvious. With the type of Islam that they portrayed of being completely subservient to Kufaar politics and their rejection of Jihad in all its practical aspects, this Jamaat was not even considered as a threat. Not a word was uttered by the Jamaat’s leaders condemning the then Apartheid regime. This is their policy throughout the world – do not condemn the Kufaar and the Kufaar governments!

TABLEEGHI JAMAAT’S ROLE UNDER PUPPET MUSLIM GOVERNMENTS: The Jamaat has also flourished under the puppet governments of Muslim countries who rule in the name of they Kaafir paymasters (Israel, America, Britain, France, etc.) – thousands upon thousands as well-behaved, submissive Muslims praying in their mosques, quite content to live under a system which is opposed to Islam in every way and which is openly dedicated to the suppression of true Islam wherever it emerges.

SOME OF THEIR MAKRUH? PRACTICES

(1) EATING AND SLEEPING IN MOSQUES : Uninvited, they take over the local mosques for days at a time, sleeping and eating in them and imposing their own programme in complete disregard of the actual needs and on-going organisation of the community concerned.

(2) RECRUITMENT DRIVES: They also cause great offence to Muslims in the way that they disrupt the worship in the mosques they visit by they announcements immediately after the Fard prayers and their offensive recruitment drives. As a result of which is to keep away from the mosque many people who would normally be present. They encourage and force poorer ignorant Muslims to leave their family and places of work for 3, 10, 20, 40, etc. days and go out for Ghast, while they themselves, belonging to the upper strata in society have accumulate enough wealth to live comfortable lives. We often hear their women-folk, of course, after being brainwashed by their husbands, as saying “Allah will give us Jannat for allowing our husbands to go in the path of Allah.”

(3) THEY REGARD ALL OTHERS AS INFERIOR MUSLIMS: They always treat those not in the Jamaat as inferior beings in need of guidance. They often repeat the same speeches regardless of the people that they are speaking to. Much of their activity is based on having a bad opinion of Muslims, something in fact forbidden by Allah and completely contrary to the Messenger (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), who, as we know, refused to listen to anything that would give him a bad opinion of any of the Muslims. In “Teachings of Islam” they condemn all Muslims as only being involved in vice and sinning. Besides, 99.9% of their devotees in South Africa belong to the Gujerati community and look down upon other ethnic groups!

(4) IGNORING THE MESSAGE OF ISLAM TO BE GIVEN TO THE KUFAAR: They address their message solely to Muslims, the vast majority of whom are as knowledgeable or more knowledgeable than they themselves are, ignoring the Kaafir populations among whom they move, who actually are the people to whom the message should be directed. Allah’s words are frequently, and sometimes specifically, directed towards the Kufaar and the efforts of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the Companions (radiya’allahu ‘anhum ajma’een) were devoted to conveying Islam to them (kuffar). Even when they visit the African townships, their only aim is to “convert” the poorer African Muslims (who have already reverted to Islam) to their brand of Islam. In fact, they do not even pass the message of Islam to the non-Muslims in the townships.

(5) LARGE NUMBERS THAT ATTEND THE IJTIMA: If the leaders of the Tableeghi Jamaat are sincere, let them hold their next annual gathering on the East bank of Jordan and let them cross the river and march to Al-Quds and liberate it from Jewish/Zionist occupation. Let them hold their Ijtima near the Babri Masjid in India and counter-attack the might of Hindu extremist and capture the mosque. Lem them hold their Ijtima near the Shia’ centre in Ottawa and take over the centre in defence of true Sunni beliefs. They would not! The Jamaat is only interested in increasing its number and wasting the energy of thousand and thousand of Muslims.

When the Tableeghi Jamaat is asked about their complete indifference to the dominance of the Kufaar, they say “We are not yet strong enough to do anything yet.” Yet, they boast of the large numbers that attend their Ijtima’s. The Quran says that if you are a hundred, steadfast, you will overcome two hundred and if there are a thousand of you, you will overcome two thousand by Allah’s permission (Surah al-Anfal: 65-6). The Tableeghi Jamaat’s lack of strength cannot be considered as a valid excuse.

And speaking about the mass Nikahs that take place at the Ijtimas, which is by the way, a meeting place of the rich upper class, the grooms are immediately shoved off to sleep in some mosque for 40 days. And after 40 days, these “spiritually enlightened” individuals qualify as Molvis!

THE UNANSWERED QUESTIONS:

The Jamaat claims that it is a Sunnah of the Prophets and the Sahaba and, on the other hands, it says that Molvi Ilyas is the founder of this movement. The questions we ask, are:-

1. If, in reality, this is a Sunnah of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) as claimed, then it must be proven by authentic Islamic books that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Sahaba also used to form Jamaats and do Ghast and Tableegh of Kalimah and Namaaz amongst Muslims.

2. Why was this Sunnah ignored for 1 419 years? Do we classify all the past spiritual luminaries as anti-Sunnah?

3. If this is a Sunnah practice, then surely Molvi Ilyas cannot be its founder. But, if he is the founder, then obviously this type of Tableegh did not exist before him. It is a Bid’ah!

It is the religious duty of the members of Tableeghi Jamaat to clarify the position with their Tableegh work and deceiving the Muslim community. The answers are obvious. This is a new movement founded by a Molvi Ilyas and definitely not a Sunnah.

THE AQEEDA OF THE TABLEEGHI JAMAAT

To have good and strong Imaan, one must have the proper Aqeeda. It is for this reason that we quote a few un-Islamic beliefs of the leaders of the Tableeghi Jamaat together with the proper Islamic answers. The present Molvis and devotees of the T. Jamaat refuse to condemn the persons who wrote such bad beliefs and to even disassociate themesleves from such false beliefs. The un-Islamic beliefs which we have quoted below are quotations from those individuals who possess such beliefs and by writing them in this handbill, we have no intention of Kufr.

FALSE BELIEF 1: “Allah can speak lies”. (“Barahine Qaatia” by Khaleel Ambetwi; “Yakrozi” by Ismaeel Dehlwi; “Fatawa Rasheedia” by Rasheed Ahmed Gangohi).
ANSWER: Lies is a defect which is not worthy of the Zaat of Almighty Allah and is totally Muhaal (Impossible) for Almighty Allah. Allah is free from all shortages and defects thus making lies Muhaal for Almighty Allah.

FALSE BELIEF 2: “The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had died and is mixed in the sand.” (“Taqweeyat-ul Imaan” by Ismaeel Dehlwi).
ANSWER: It has been stated in the Hadith: “Verily, Almighty Allah has made it Haraam upon the earth to eat the bodies of the Ambiya”. It has also been stated that Ambiya are alive and are blessed with Sustenance from Almighty Allah.

FALSE BELIEF 3: “Every creation, no matter how big or small, is equivalent to a cobbler before Allah.” (“Taqweeyat-ul Imaan” by Ismaeel Dehlwi).
ANSWER: The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is the most beloved Nabi of Almighty Allah. Almighty Allah took Qasm (Oath) even on the city of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He is the greatest of the creations of Almighty Allah. His every word is accepted in the Court of Allah. He is a perfection in the Attributes of Almighty Allah and Allah has not created any unique being besides Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

FALSE BELIEF 4: “To think of an ox and donkey in Salaah is permissible, but to think of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in Salaah is Shirk (Polytheism).” (“Seerate Mustaqeem” by Ismaeel Dehlwi).
ANSWER: For a Muslim to perform any Ibaadat accepting that it is a noble action of Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is the true sense of Ibaadat. If one reads Namaaz thinking of it as the Sunnah of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), then, without doubt, one will think of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). This belief creates in the mind of the performer the thought of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Not only is the thought of the Prophet in Namaaz permissible, it is also the demand of Shari’ah that one must remember the Holy Prophet (salall laahu alaihi wasallam) at the time of Tasha’hud. According to the Fuqaha (Jurists) it is Waajib to believe that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is observing you and that he is aware of your actions.

FALSE BELIEF 5: Any person who says the Nabi to be Haazir and Naazir is a Kaafir. (“Jawaahirul Quraan” by Ghulaamullah Khan).
ANSWER: Until and unless we do not accept Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) as being Haazir and Naazir, the concept of Risaalat will be incomplete. Our Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is Shaahid, Mubashir and Nazeer.

FALSE BELIEF 6: To commemorate the Meelad is like commemorating the function of the Hindu deity. (“Baharine Qaatia” by Khaleel Ambethwi).
ANSWER: Meelad is a means of gaining blessings and closeness to Almighty Allah. It is the practice of all the great predecessors. Many sources of Shari’ah are available to prove it’s authencity. In fact, Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) observed fast on Monday as he was born on a Monday.

FALSE BELIEF 7: If Allah wills, then he may create a million Muhammads. (“Taqweeyatul Imaan”) A Prophet can even come after Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). (“Tahzeerun Naas”)
ANSWER: The doors of Prophethood have been sealed. Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is the Seal of Prophethood. The Prophet also said that no Prophet shall come after him. Any person who claims Nabuwat after the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is a Liar, Dajjal Kazaab and a Shaitaan.

FALSE BELIEF 8: “Rahmatul Lil Alameen” (Mercy unto the Worlds) is not a special title of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), but the Ummati are also “Rahmatul Lil Alameen”. (“Fatawa Rasheedia”)
ANSWER: “Rahmatul Lil Alameen” is the unique quality of Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) as stated in the Holy Quran.

Note: To believe all these above mentioned false “Islamic” beliefs makes one a hypocrite, and one is included in the ranks of the Shia, Rafazi, Khaarijite, Qadiani, Ghair-Muqallid (Ahle Hadith), Tabligi, Deobandi, Maudoodi, Ahle Quran (People of Quran), etc. which are totally out of Islam. Any person who falsely claims to be the true Mahdi is misguided and a Faasiq. Any person who says that Allah can lie, that the Prophet’s (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) knowledge are like those of animals, that the Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is not the Final Messenger, that the swearing of the Sahaba does not make one a criminal, that the Prophet’s knowledge is less than Shaitaan, etc. IS A KAAFIR (totally out of the folds of Islam). We should not perform Salaah or associate with such persons as their companionship is detrimental to our Imaan.

IN CONCLUSION:

The members of Tableeghi Jamaat have become extremely unpopular with many communities of Muslims throughout the world and even in South Africa. However, many continue to tolerate them. In fact, what they do, in the manner of Christian evangelists, is to play on the guilt of insecure people and then offer them an emotional environment in which they can redeem themselves and find others in a similar plight who are ready for the same treatment. Such “conversions” are frequently very superficial and sometimes superficially quite dangerous for the individuals concerned.

As we have seen, the ludicrous claim is made that the programme of the Tableeghi Jamaat comprises in every respect the way followed by the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Companions (radia’llahu ‘anhum ajma’een), in their establishment of Islam. In fact, the opposite is true. From its inception, the programme of the Tableeghi Jamaat was designed, while giving the appearance of Islamic activity, to leave in place the very Kaafir forces whose explicit intention was precisely the prevention of the establishment of Islam in any real way. In the light of all the foregoing:

1. We declare that the Tableeghi Jamaat is, by its own admission, a deviant sect of Islam and that it is being used by the enemies of Islam to help them in their continuing battle to prevent governance by the laws of Allah from being re-established in the world.

2. We therefore call on the leadership of the Tableeghi Jamaat to acknowledge that they are directly responsible for the misguidance of millions of Muslims and to abandon their present programme which only furthers the interest of the enemies of Allah.

3. We therefore call on all members of the Tableeghi Jamaat to reject the subversive role they have been unwittingly persuaded to play and leave this sect which is being used by the enemies of Islam to prevent Allah’s Deen being restored and governance by His Laws re-established.

4. We therefore call on all Muslims to disown the Tableeghi Jamaat and to discourage its activities by refusing to give its members permission to sleep in mosques and to use them for their activities. And we call on all Muslims to reject the modernist perspective of Islam that they have been given to and respond to Allah and His Messenger (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) by giving their wealth and lives to see the totality of Islam once again re-established on the earth.

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