Remedy for the confusion

The cause of the confusion
March 9, 2015
A debate comes unexpectedly
March 9, 2015

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Remedy for the Confusion

My guest spoke while I listened with rapt attention. It was clear that he had fallen victim to a campaign orchestrated by well-funded Shia organisations with the purpose of converting our youth to the Shi’ism by causing them to doubt their beliefs. We take solace in Allah’s words:

 

اِنَّ الَّذِیْنَ کَفَرُوْا یُنْفِقُوْنَ اَمْوَالَهُمْ لِیَصُدُّوْا عَنْ سَبِیْلِ اللّٰهِ ؕ فَسَیُنْفِقُوْنَهَا ثُمَّ تَكُوْنُ عَلَیْهِمْ حَسْرَةً ثُمَّ یُغْلَبُوْنَ ؕ وَ الَّذِیْنَ کَفَرُوْا إِلٰی جَهَنَّمَ یُحْشَرُوْنَ

Certainly, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to hinder (mankind) from the Path of Allah, and so will they continue to spend it; but in the end it will become an anguish for them. Then they will be overcome. And those who disbelieve will be gathered unto Jahannam.[1]

 

Before I responded, I asked my guest if there were others from among the Ahlus Sunnah who were in the same situation as he is and who attend Shia gatherings. He answered that there were three other young men and that they had all embraced the Shia religion.

This confirmed my suspicion that the Shia propaganda machine had advanced greatly in their efforts. I was very sad with this phenomenon. For, how could falsehood be allowed to be spread freely? I then reminded myself that it was during the slumber of the truth and its supporters that falsehood reigns. I pitied some of our deluded scholars who did not know the reality of the Shia religion and its dubious activities.

I realised that the uncertainties and misconceptions with which my guest was living could not be removed with a brief explanation.

I thus asked him: My brother, have you ever read any book of beliefs written by our eminent scholars of Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah?

He said: Frankly, I have not read anything of such but I know the belief of Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah.

I said: From where did you learn it?

He said: I have lived all my life among the Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah and listened to them. I also know about belief in Allah, and in His Angels, Books, and Messengers. I also know about belief in destiny, whether good and bad.

I told him: These are pillars of faith and they are the foundations of a Muslim’s belief, but do you think that your knowledge of these pillars is sufficient for you to decide which is correct between the way of Ahlus- Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah and that of the Shia?

He kept silent for a while and then said: You are right. This information is not sufficient to know which of the two ways is correct.

I then moved closer to my guest and told him: The remedy of your confusion is easy with the permission of Allah.

He said: How?

I asked him whether he reads the Qur’an and he answered in the affirmative. I then asked: “Have you read Allah’s word:

كُنْتُمْ خَیْرَ اُمَّةٍ اُخْرِجَتْ لِلنَّاسِ

You are the best of nations ever raised for mankind.[2]

He replied in the affirmative.

I then said: What did you understand from this verse?

He said: What I understood there is that the Muslims are the best nation ever raised up for mankind.

I said: May Allah reward you with good. The followers of Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam are the best of all nations. They are the best of all people because they enjoin all that is good and prevent all that is evil. They believe in Allah and they guide people to the way of iman.”

I then added: The ones who have greatest right to this description are the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions. They were the ones who bore the message of Islam with the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and fought on his side with their lives and wealth, so that this religion could be spread and that people could be guided to the right path and believe in Allah.”

My friend agreed.

I went on saying: But the Shia claim that after the death of the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam all his Companions apostatised except five[3] who are: al Miqdad, Hudhayfah, Abu Dhar and ‘Ammar who remained with ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu. Is it then reasonable that of about one hundred thousand Companions who were with the Messenger of Allah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam during the farewell pilgrimage, only six men or thereabout remained upon Islam after his death? Is it then reasonable that this is the best nation ever raised up for mankind? If these Companions were as described by the Imami Shia, who are the rejecters of truth, it should then follow that they are the worst nation ever raised for mankind; for they apostatised and bargained away their faith!

Do you know, my dear friend, how the Shia recite this verse? They read it as: “You are the best A’immah[4] ever raised for mankind.” Since they could not agree to the message of this verse, they resorted to this malicious distortion in order to be able to interpret the “Ummah” to mean “Shia A’immah”.

My friend said: But the Shia believe in the Qur’an as it was revealed and in its present form without any addition or omission. This is, at least, what they told me.

I said: Wait a minute. It is not yet time for this. They only told you this in line with their concept of taqiyyah (dissimulation). This concept is one of the basics of their religion. The one who does not practise it, his religion is null and void. In their corrupt belief the more you practise taqiyyah the greater your piety and religiosity. But this concept according to the Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah is nothing but deception and hypocrisy. They deceive you so that you and others like you will not slip away from their hands. Their situation is as described by Allah in His saying:

 

وَ اِذَا لَقُوا الَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْا قَالُوْٓا اٰمَنَّا ۖ وَ اِذَا خَلَوْا اِلٰی شَیٰطِیْنِهِمْ ۙ قَالُوْٓا اِنَّا مَعَكُمْ ۙ اِنَّمَا نَحْنُ مُسْتَهْزِءُوْنَ

And when they meet those who believe they say: “We believe” but when they are alone with their shayateen (polytheists, hypocrites), they say: “Truly, we are with you; verily, we were but mocking.”[5]

 

My brother, it is not yet time for discussing taqiyyah and whether they believe in the Qur’an or not. We are now talking about their stand in respect to the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum. Did you read Allah’s saying:

 

مُحَمَّدٌ رَّسُوْلُ اللّٰهِ ؕ وَ الَّذِیْنَ مَعَهٓ اَشِدَّآءُ عَلَی الْكُفَّارِ رُحَمَآءُ بَیْنَهُمْ تَرٰىهُمْ رُکَّعًا سُجَّدًا یَّبْتَغُوْنَ فَضْلًا مِّنَ اللّٰهِ وَ رِضْوَانًا سِیْمَاهُمْ فِیْ وُجُوْهِهِمْ مِّنْ اَثَرِ السُّجُوْدِ ؕ ذٰلِکَ مَثَلُهُمْ فِی التَّوْرٰىةِۖ وَ مَثَلُهُمْ فِی الْاِنْجِیْلِ ۖ کَزَرْعٍ اَخْرَجَ شَطْـَٔه فَاٰزَرَه فَاسْتَغْلَظَ فَاسْتَوٰی عَلٰی سُوْقِه یُعْجِبُ الزُّرَّاعَ لِیَغِیْظَ بِهِمُ الْكُفَّارَ ؕ وَعَدَ اللّٰهُ الَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْا وَ عَمِلُوا الصّٰلِحٰتِ مِنْهُمْ مَّغْفِرَةً وَّ اَجْرًا عَظِیْمًا

Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is the Messenger of Allah, and those who are with him are severe against the disbelievers, merciful among themselves. You see them bowing and falling down prostrate (in prayer), seeking Bounty from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure. The mark of them (i.e. of their Faith) is on their faces (foreheads) from the traces of prostration (during prayers). This is their description in the Torah. And their description in the Injil (Bible) is like a (sown) seed which sends forth its shoot, then makes it strong, and then becomes thick and it stands straight on its stem, delighting the sowers, that He may enrage the disbelievers with them. Allah has promised those among them who believe and do righteous deeds, forgiveness and a mighty reward (i.e. Paradise).”[6]

 

This verse is one of the greatest proofs of the Companions uprightness and sound iman. Since Allah is referring to them: “and those who are with him (the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). His statement: “severe against disbelievers” is a reference to their strong and certain belief in Allah. His saying: “merciful among themselves” is a commendation for them from Allah. His saying: “you see them bowing and falling down prostrate (in prayer)” is an allusion to their worship. And His saying: “seeking Bounty from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure” indicates that they were sincere in their acts of worship and they did not expect reward except from Allah alone. These are the qualities of the Companions as mentioned in the Qur’an.

My friend, do you know who are those who become enraged when the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum are mentioned? They are the disbelievers, as Allah describes them in the Qur’an: “that He may enrage the disbelievers with them”. Therefore, it is only disbelievers and apostates who are enraged whenever the Prophet’s Companions. radiya Llahu ‘anhum are mentioned.

Now, which of the two should be regarded as disbelievers: the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum or those who are enraged when the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum are mentioned? You have a decisive verse from the Qur’an before you. It is now up to you to decide.

My friend said: Why did Allah add in the same verse: “and do righteous deeds (among them)”? His saying: “among them” is a proof that there are some from among the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who did not believe and who did not do righteous deeds.

I said: May Allah guide you! All the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum were indeed noble and righteous people. They were all believers and pious. We all know that most of those who were with the Messenger of Allah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam were sincere and righteous Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who fought along with him. There were also hypocrites known for their hypocrisy such as ‘Abdullah ibn Ubay ibn Salul and his cohorts. So the verse clarified that those who deserve Allah’s praise are the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who were sincere and righteous, those who raced to obey Allah and His Messenger salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam

It should also be realised that the preposition ‘من’ in the verse, which is interpreted as ‘from among’, does not – in the correct interpretation of the verse – apply to only a section of the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum. It is rather used to describe them as a class of people to the exclusion of others who are not Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum.

Here is what the scholars of tafsir have to say on this preposition:

The preposition ‘من’ here is not to distinguish some Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum from others. It is rather used to describe them all as a class of people. An example of this is Allah’s command:

فَاجْتَنِبُوا الرِّجْسَ مِنَ الْاَوْثَانِ وَاجْتَنِبُوْا قَوْلَ الزُّوْرِ

So shun the abomination (worshipping) of idols, and avoid false statement.[7]

 

The word ‘من’ in the verse above could never imply that only a part of idol worshipping is abominable and therefore only that form should be shunned. On the contrary. the meaning is ‘idol worshipping is a class of abomination that should be shunned’. However, some scholars said that the word ‘from among them’ in the verse refers to the shoot which the sown seed sends forth and they are those who enter Islam. The shoot is therefore referred to in plural form ‘from among them’ to allude to those who will enter into the religion of Islam till the Day of Resurrection.[8]

I proceeded: Have you not read Allah’s saying:

 

وَالسّٰبِقُوْنَ الْاَوَّلُوْنَ مِنَ الْمُهٰجِرِیْنَ وَالْاَنْصَارِ وَالَّذِیْنَ اتَّبَعُوْهُمْ بِاِحْسَانٍ ۙۙ رَّضِیَ اللّٰهُ عَنْهُمْ وَرَضُوْا عَنْهُ وَ اَعَدَّ لَهُمْ جَنّٰتٍ تَجْرِیْ تَحْتَهَا الْاَنْهٰرُ خٰلِدِیْنَ فِیْهَآ اَبَدًا ؕ ذٰلِكَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِیْمُ

And the foremost to embrace Islam of the Muhajirin (those who migrated from Makkah to Madinah) and the Ansar (the citizens of Madinah who helped and gave aid to the Muhajirin) and also those who followed them exactly (in iman). Allah is well-pleased with them and they are well-pleased with Him. He has prepared for them gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein forever. That is the supreme success.[9]

 

Who then are “the foremost to embrace Islam” if not Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman, Zubair, Talhah, Sa’d, Sa’id and Abu ‘Ubaidah radiya Llahu ‘anhum, who are those given the glad tidings of paradise? Who are they if not the participants in the Battle of Badr and whose faith is attested to?

The foremost men to embrace Islam – who are the Muhajirin and the Ansar and then those who followed them in righteousness – are the ones who have attained Allah’s pleasure. He has prepared for them gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they shall abide forever.

In light of this verse, is it then logical to think that the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who were praised in such glowing tributes, would apostatise with the exception of only three, four or five?

Have you not listened to Allah’s saying:

 

لِلْفُقَرَآءِ الْمُهٰجِرِیْنَ الَّذِیْنَ اُخْرِجُوْا مِنْ دِیَارِهِمْ وَ اَمْوَالِهِمْ یَبْتَغُوْنَ فَضْلًا مِّنَ اللّٰهِ وَ رِضْوَانًا وَّ یَنْصُرُوْنَ اللّٰهَ وَ رَسُوْلَه ؕ اُولٰٓئِكَ هُمُ الصّٰدِقُوْنَ﴿٨﴾ وَ الَّذِیْنَ تَبَوَّؤُا الدَّارَ وَ الْاِیْمَانَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ یُحِبُّوْنَ مَنْ هَاجَرَ اِلَیْهِمْ وَ لَا یَجِدُوْنَ فِیْ صُدُوْرِهِمْ حَاجَةً مِّمَّآ اُوْتُوْا وَ یُؤْثِرُوْنَ عَلٰٓی اَنْفُسِهِمْ وَلَوْ کَانَ بِهِمْ خَصَاصَةٌ ؕ وَ مَنْ یُّوْقَ شُحَّ نَفْسِه فَاُولٰٓئِكَ هُمُ الْمُفْلِحُوْنَ ﴿٩﴾ وَ الَّذِیْنَ جَآءُوْ مِنْۢ بَعْدِهِمْ یَقُوْلُوْنَ رَبَّنَا اغْفِرْلَنَا وَ لِاِخْوَانِنَا الَّذِیْنَ سَبَقُوْنَا بِالْاِیْمَانِ وَ لَا تَجْعَلْ فِیْ قُلُوْبِنَا غِلًّا لِّلَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْا رَبَّنَآ اِنَّكَ رَءُوْفٌ رَّحِیْمٌ

(And there is also a share in this booty) for the poor Muhajirin, who were expelled from their homes and their property, seeking bounties from Allah and to please Him, and helping Allah (His religion) and His Messenger (Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). Such are indeed the truthful ones.

And (it is also for) those who, before them, had homes (in Madinah) and had adopted the faith, love those who emigrate to them, and have no jealousy in their chests for that which they have been given, and give them (Muhajirin) preference over themselves even though they were in need. And whosoever is saved from his own covetousness, it is they who will be successful.

And those who came after them say: “O our Rabb! Forgive us and our brethren who have preceded us in faith, and put not in our hearts any hatred against those who have believed. O our Rabb! You are indeed full of kindness, Most Merciful.[10]

 

These three verses exemplify the perfect and complete way of refuting the allegations of the Shia and the rejecters of the truth against the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum.

The first verse praises the Muhajirin, describing them to be truthful and sincere, and it depicts Allah’s love for them.

The second verse praises the Ansar and describes them as selfless and successful. The two verses therefore commend the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum.

As for the third verse, it refused and repudiated the belief of the rejecters of the truth (the Shia). Since Allah emphasized therein that the believers who would come after the Companions shall invoke Allah’s forgiveness for themselves and for the believers who preceded them in faith, and that they would ask Allah not to put in their hearts any hatred against those who have believed.

Since the Shia revile the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum and declare them as disbelievers, they have practically excluded themselves from any of the three categories of believers mentioned previously: the truthful Muhajirin, the successful Ansar and the seekers of forgiveness who came after them and bear no malice in their hearts against those who preceded them in faith.

(I clarified further to my friend that the third verse indicates Allah’s praise for the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions who accepted Islam before and after the Conquest of Makkah and that Allah promised both groups great reward.)

I then asked him: Now tell me, how could the Shia regard it a religious obligation to revile, curse and declare as disbelievers the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam earlier and latter Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum, whom Allah has promised great reward?

Have you not listened to Allah’s saying:

 

وَکَذٰلِكَ جَعَلْنٰكُمْ اُمَّةً وَّسَطًا لِّتَكُوْنُوْا شُهَدَآءَ عَلَی النَّاسِ

Thus We have made you a just (and the best) nation that you be witnesses over mankind.[11]

 

The Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam that he may read it to his Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum and to inform them they were the witnesses over mankind. Then tell me, how could these witnesses be apostates? This is, indeed, the greatest absurdity!

I said further: In the Qur’an there are many verses preceded by the phrase: “O you who have believed.” Who were the ones the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was reading these verses to?

He said: To those who were around him.

I said: Yes! Those who were around him were his Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum. Then how could Allah address them as believers if they were not? Who knows better about the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions: Allah or the Shia? My friend, may Allah grant you happiness in invoking His pleasure on the noble Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who conveyed the Qur’an, the sunnah and the laws of Islam to us. They were the ones who sacrificed their lives and their wealth so that this religion might spread and prevail

Dear Friend! If it had not been for the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum after Allah’s mercy, we would not have become Muslims today and our countries would not have practised Islam. Should the compensation for these great deeds then be insults, curses and accusations of apostasy? No Muslim would ever do this!

My friend said: No one can deny that the Qur’an praised the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum, but after the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam death they changed, and they deprived Imam ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu of his right. They wronged him, set his house ablaze and struck his wife Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha, the daughter of Allah’s Messenger salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, in her belly. This resulted in her miscarrying and eventually leading to her death.

I told my friend: Wait a minute! Where did you get these lies and false narrations from? The recognized scholars of Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah regard these stories as false. The authentic narrations are those that reported the mutual love and affection that existed between the Companions and ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhum and members of the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam household. I would then like to ask you: What are the names of ‘Ali’s radiya Llahu ‘anhu sons? Do you know that it was out of his love for his fellow Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum, especially, the rightly-guided caliphs, that he named some of his sons after Abu Bakr, ‘Umar and ‘Uthman radiya Llahu ‘anhum? Do you know to whom ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu married his daughter, Umm Kulthum? He married her to the dearest person to him, ‘Umar radiya Llahu ‘anhu.

Do you know that ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu was the Judge of Madinah during the Caliphate of ‘Umar radiya Llahu ‘anhu? Do you know that he was keenest to give him sincere advice? When ‘Umar radiya Llahu ‘anhu intended to lead the battle against the Persians himself it was ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu who advised him to stay at Madinah, because he was the pillar unto whom the Muslims would return, and he advised him to send someone else he trusted to lead the army in his stead.

Do you know that ‘Uthman radiya Llahu ‘anhu played an important role in Fatimah’s marriage to ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhuma?

Indeed, the mutual love that existed among the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum was so legendary that Allah described them as such in His glorious Book:

 

مُحَمَّدٌ رَّسُوْلُ اللّٰهِ ؕؕ وَ الَّذِیْنَ مَعَه اَشِدَّآءُ عَلَی الْكُفَّارِ رُحَمَآءُ بَیْنَهُمْ

Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is the Messenger of Allah. And those who are with him are severe against disbelievers, and merciful among themselves.”[12]

 

A Muslim should, therefore, believe in the purity of the minds of all the prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions. For, it was the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam who nurtured and trained them under Allah’s protection. Could it then be acceptable that the prophet of mercy and wisdom, who was sent to purify the entire mankind, would be unable to purify those who were around him?

Allah says about him:

 

هُوَ الَّذِیْ بَعَثَ فِی الْاُمِّیّنَ رَسُوْلًا مِّنْهُمْ یَتْلُوْا عَلَیْهِمْ اٰیٰتِه وَ یُزَکِّیْهِمْ وَ یُعَلِّمُهُمُ الْکِتٰبَ وَ الْحِكْمَةَۗ وَ اِنْ کَانُوْا مِنْ قَبْلُ لَفِیْ ضَلٰلٍ مُّبِیْنٍ

It is He Who sent among the unlettered ones a Messenger (Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) from among themselves, reciting to them His Verses, purifying them (from the filth of disbelief and polytheism), and teaching them the Book (Qur’an) and Hikmah (the sunnah) although they had been in manifest error before.[13]

 

My friend said: I agree with you concerning the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum but there is a more important issue, which is fundamental with regards to them. It is the issue of Imamah (leadership) and the explicit proof that indicated that ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu is the leader and the khalifah (after the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). If this is proved correct then we must agree that the Companions deprived ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu of his right, but if it is proved incorrect then I will have to accept that you are right.

I told him: This issue is much easier than the earlier one, but I think we should study it academically so that all ambiguities related to it will be completely dispelled. I would like to acquaint you with what our scholars said about these misconceptions. After that, we can discuss whatever you like.

He said: How is it possible to study the issue of contention between the Shia and the Ahlus Sunnah academically, as you say?

I got up and brought three books and then told him: These are books I would like us to read together. After that, we can discuss the misconceptions.

He said: I would like to ask for permission to leave because it is already late. Tomorrow – Allah willing – I will remain with you until we arrive at the clear truth, but what are the three books?

I said: Al ‘Awasim min al Qawasim, by Abu Bakr ibn al ‘Arabi, Al Sunnah wa al Shia by Ihsan Ilahi Zahir; and Al Shia wa Ahlul Bayt also by Ihsan Ilahi Zahir.

On the following day, my friend came with a small bag and told me: I know that you live alone these days. So, I have taken leave from my workplace so that I can devote my time to searching for the truth. Therefore, I am going to be your guest until my doubts are replaced with certainty. With all praise due to Allah, last night was the first time I could get a good night sleep for the past three months. This is largely due to the restored confidence I have in the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum and the restored confidence I have in my faith and religion.

I told him: You are warmly welcome – not as a guest – but as the owner of the house. Rest for a while and after that, we can resume our study.

He said: I have already had enough rest. Let us start our study with Allah’s permission.

(I gave him the book Al ‘Awasim min al Qawasim by Abu Bakr ibn al ‘Arabi and told him: “You can read the book while I sit beside you. If anything is unclear to you, we can then read it together.” I watched him reading the book with total concentration. The book deals with the Shia allegations concerning the Companions’ radiya Llahu ‘anhum stand after the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam death, providing articulate and convincing responses to these allegations. My friend continued reading the book and occasionally shared his feelings with me about what he had read. He would say: “Where was I in relation to this knowledge? Ibn al ’Arabi has really restored my life with this knowledge.”

He then enthusiastically turned to me and said: I have finished the first book. Where is the second one?

I said: No! That will be too much on you. Take a rest for today, and tomorrow, Allah willing, you can read the second book. (But upon his-insistence on having the second book, I gave it to him and said:) Now, your mind is at peace concerning the Companions of the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. The first book alone was enough to destroy the false Shia ideology. This second book will reveal to you the reality of the Shia religion and the reality of its stand on the Qur’an, the sunnah, the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum and the entire Muslim nation. After realising the truth about these Shia, you will not be able to resist cursing them[14] and denouncing their religion which explicitly goes against the religion of Islam in every aspect.

 

The academic study continues

My friend began reading the pages of the second book Al Shia wa al Sunnah by Ihsan Ilahi Zahir, striking his hands together in amazement when he realised the gravity of the beliefs of the Shia and what they had been concealing from him over these past months. He was entirely absorbed in reading for the next two consecutive days. Nothing would stop him except the obligatory prayers and short naps. During these two days, he finished reading the three books.)

After finishing the books, his sentiments changed towards his friends of yesterday. He now realised that he was only being honoured by the Shia as a hunter would honour his prey. He realised the havoc that the Shia concept of taqiyyah wreaks on simple-minded Muslims. He then started renouncing and cursing them. He would say: “It is safer for me to curse these Shia than to curse and insult Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman and the rest of the noble Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum. Far indeed are the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum from deserving any curse!”

My friend then got ready to leave. He hugged me, thanked me and asked me for advice. I advised him to hold unto the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah, and to concentrate on the books of beliefs written by our recognised erudite scholars.

I also warned him that these Imami Shia are sinful liars who should preferably be avoided, for they are hypocrites. Their hearts are distorted. They neither listen to the truth nor reason with it. They are as Allah says:

صُمٌّ ۢ بُكْمٌ عُمْیٌ فَهُمْ لَا یَرْجِعُوْنَ

They are deal. dumb, and blind, so they return not (to the Right Path).[15]

 

NEXT⇒ A Debate comes Unexpectedly


[1] Surah al Anfal: 36

[2] Surah Al ‘Imran: 110

[3]  Some Shia claim that all the Companions apostatised with the exception of only twelve who are: ‘Ali and some members of his family, Salman, Abu Dhar, ‘Ammar, al Miqdad, Hudhayfah, Abu Haytham ibn Tayhan, Sahl ibn Hanif, ‘Ubadah ibn Samit, Abu Ayub al Ansari, Khuzaimah ibn Thabit and Abu Sa’id al Khudri radiya Llahu ‘anhum. However, majority of the Imamiyyah Shia believe that their number is much less than that.

[4] A’immah is the plural of Imam.

[5] Surah al Baqarah: 14

[6] Surah al Fath: 29

[7] Surah al Hajj: 30

[8]Tafsir al Tabri vol. 26 pg. 115-166, Tafsir al Qurtubi vol. 16 pg. 295-296 and Tafsir Ibn al Kathir vol. 7 pg. 344

[9] Surah al Taubah: 100

[10] Surah al Hashr: 8-10

[11] Surah al Baqarah: 143

[12] Surah al Fath: 29

[13] Surah al Jumu’ah: 2

[14] The Shia referred to here are the Imamiyyah Ithna ‘Ashariyyah.

[15] Surah al Baqarah: 18

BACK Return to Table of contents

 

Remedy for the Confusion

My guest spoke while I listened with rapt attention. It was clear that he had fallen victim to a campaign orchestrated by well-funded Shia organisations with the purpose of converting our youth to the Shi’ism by causing them to doubt their beliefs. We take solace in Allah’s words:

 

اِنَّ الَّذِیْنَ کَفَرُوْا یُنْفِقُوْنَ اَمْوَالَهُمْ لِیَصُدُّوْا عَنْ سَبِیْلِ اللّٰهِ ؕ فَسَیُنْفِقُوْنَهَا ثُمَّ تَكُوْنُ عَلَیْهِمْ حَسْرَةً ثُمَّ یُغْلَبُوْنَ ؕ وَ الَّذِیْنَ کَفَرُوْا إِلٰی جَهَنَّمَ یُحْشَرُوْنَ

Certainly, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to hinder (mankind) from the Path of Allah, and so will they continue to spend it; but in the end it will become an anguish for them. Then they will be overcome. And those who disbelieve will be gathered unto Jahannam.[1]

 

Before I responded, I asked my guest if there were others from among the Ahlus Sunnah who were in the same situation as he is and who attend Shia gatherings. He answered that there were three other young men and that they had all embraced the Shia religion.

This confirmed my suspicion that the Shia propaganda machine had advanced greatly in their efforts. I was very sad with this phenomenon. For, how could falsehood be allowed to be spread freely? I then reminded myself that it was during the slumber of the truth and its supporters that falsehood reigns. I pitied some of our deluded scholars who did not know the reality of the Shia religion and its dubious activities.

I realised that the uncertainties and misconceptions with which my guest was living could not be removed with a brief explanation.

I thus asked him: My brother, have you ever read any book of beliefs written by our eminent scholars of Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah?

He said: Frankly, I have not read anything of such but I know the belief of Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah.

I said: From where did you learn it?

He said: I have lived all my life among the Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah and listened to them. I also know about belief in Allah, and in His Angels, Books, and Messengers. I also know about belief in destiny, whether good and bad.

I told him: These are pillars of faith and they are the foundations of a Muslim’s belief, but do you think that your knowledge of these pillars is sufficient for you to decide which is correct between the way of Ahlus- Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah and that of the Shia?

He kept silent for a while and then said: You are right. This information is not sufficient to know which of the two ways is correct.

I then moved closer to my guest and told him: The remedy of your confusion is easy with the permission of Allah.

He said: How?

I asked him whether he reads the Qur’an and he answered in the affirmative. I then asked: “Have you read Allah’s word:

كُنْتُمْ خَیْرَ اُمَّةٍ اُخْرِجَتْ لِلنَّاسِ

You are the best of nations ever raised for mankind.[2]

He replied in the affirmative.

I then said: What did you understand from this verse?

He said: What I understood there is that the Muslims are the best nation ever raised up for mankind.

I said: May Allah reward you with good. The followers of Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam are the best of all nations. They are the best of all people because they enjoin all that is good and prevent all that is evil. They believe in Allah and they guide people to the way of iman.”

I then added: The ones who have greatest right to this description are the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions. They were the ones who bore the message of Islam with the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and fought on his side with their lives and wealth, so that this religion could be spread and that people could be guided to the right path and believe in Allah.”

My friend agreed.

I went on saying: But the Shia claim that after the death of the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam all his Companions apostatised except five[3] who are: al Miqdad, Hudhayfah, Abu Dhar and ‘Ammar who remained with ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu. Is it then reasonable that of about one hundred thousand Companions who were with the Messenger of Allah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam during the farewell pilgrimage, only six men or thereabout remained upon Islam after his death? Is it then reasonable that this is the best nation ever raised up for mankind? If these Companions were as described by the Imami Shia, who are the rejecters of truth, it should then follow that they are the worst nation ever raised for mankind; for they apostatised and bargained away their faith!

Do you know, my dear friend, how the Shia recite this verse? They read it as: “You are the best A’immah[4] ever raised for mankind.” Since they could not agree to the message of this verse, they resorted to this malicious distortion in order to be able to interpret the “Ummah” to mean “Shia A’immah”.

My friend said: But the Shia believe in the Qur’an as it was revealed and in its present form without any addition or omission. This is, at least, what they told me.

I said: Wait a minute. It is not yet time for this. They only told you this in line with their concept of taqiyyah (dissimulation). This concept is one of the basics of their religion. The one who does not practise it, his religion is null and void. In their corrupt belief the more you practise taqiyyah the greater your piety and religiosity. But this concept according to the Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah is nothing but deception and hypocrisy. They deceive you so that you and others like you will not slip away from their hands. Their situation is as described by Allah in His saying:

 

وَ اِذَا لَقُوا الَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْا قَالُوْٓا اٰمَنَّا ۖ وَ اِذَا خَلَوْا اِلٰی شَیٰطِیْنِهِمْ ۙ قَالُوْٓا اِنَّا مَعَكُمْ ۙ اِنَّمَا نَحْنُ مُسْتَهْزِءُوْنَ

And when they meet those who believe they say: “We believe” but when they are alone with their shayateen (polytheists, hypocrites), they say: “Truly, we are with you; verily, we were but mocking.”[5]

 

My brother, it is not yet time for discussing taqiyyah and whether they believe in the Qur’an or not. We are now talking about their stand in respect to the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum. Did you read Allah’s saying:

 

مُحَمَّدٌ رَّسُوْلُ اللّٰهِ ؕ وَ الَّذِیْنَ مَعَهٓ اَشِدَّآءُ عَلَی الْكُفَّارِ رُحَمَآءُ بَیْنَهُمْ تَرٰىهُمْ رُکَّعًا سُجَّدًا یَّبْتَغُوْنَ فَضْلًا مِّنَ اللّٰهِ وَ رِضْوَانًا سِیْمَاهُمْ فِیْ وُجُوْهِهِمْ مِّنْ اَثَرِ السُّجُوْدِ ؕ ذٰلِکَ مَثَلُهُمْ فِی التَّوْرٰىةِۖ وَ مَثَلُهُمْ فِی الْاِنْجِیْلِ ۖ کَزَرْعٍ اَخْرَجَ شَطْـَٔه فَاٰزَرَه فَاسْتَغْلَظَ فَاسْتَوٰی عَلٰی سُوْقِه یُعْجِبُ الزُّرَّاعَ لِیَغِیْظَ بِهِمُ الْكُفَّارَ ؕ وَعَدَ اللّٰهُ الَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْا وَ عَمِلُوا الصّٰلِحٰتِ مِنْهُمْ مَّغْفِرَةً وَّ اَجْرًا عَظِیْمًا

Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is the Messenger of Allah, and those who are with him are severe against the disbelievers, merciful among themselves. You see them bowing and falling down prostrate (in prayer), seeking Bounty from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure. The mark of them (i.e. of their Faith) is on their faces (foreheads) from the traces of prostration (during prayers). This is their description in the Torah. And their description in the Injil (Bible) is like a (sown) seed which sends forth its shoot, then makes it strong, and then becomes thick and it stands straight on its stem, delighting the sowers, that He may enrage the disbelievers with them. Allah has promised those among them who believe and do righteous deeds, forgiveness and a mighty reward (i.e. Paradise).”[6]

 

This verse is one of the greatest proofs of the Companions uprightness and sound iman. Since Allah is referring to them: “and those who are with him (the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). His statement: “severe against disbelievers” is a reference to their strong and certain belief in Allah. His saying: “merciful among themselves” is a commendation for them from Allah. His saying: “you see them bowing and falling down prostrate (in prayer)” is an allusion to their worship. And His saying: “seeking Bounty from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure” indicates that they were sincere in their acts of worship and they did not expect reward except from Allah alone. These are the qualities of the Companions as mentioned in the Qur’an.

My friend, do you know who are those who become enraged when the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum are mentioned? They are the disbelievers, as Allah describes them in the Qur’an: “that He may enrage the disbelievers with them”. Therefore, it is only disbelievers and apostates who are enraged whenever the Prophet’s Companions. radiya Llahu ‘anhum are mentioned.

Now, which of the two should be regarded as disbelievers: the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum or those who are enraged when the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum are mentioned? You have a decisive verse from the Qur’an before you. It is now up to you to decide.

My friend said: Why did Allah add in the same verse: “and do righteous deeds (among them)”? His saying: “among them” is a proof that there are some from among the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who did not believe and who did not do righteous deeds.

I said: May Allah guide you! All the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum were indeed noble and righteous people. They were all believers and pious. We all know that most of those who were with the Messenger of Allah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam were sincere and righteous Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who fought along with him. There were also hypocrites known for their hypocrisy such as ‘Abdullah ibn Ubay ibn Salul and his cohorts. So the verse clarified that those who deserve Allah’s praise are the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who were sincere and righteous, those who raced to obey Allah and His Messenger salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam

It should also be realised that the preposition ‘من’ in the verse, which is interpreted as ‘from among’, does not – in the correct interpretation of the verse – apply to only a section of the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum. It is rather used to describe them as a class of people to the exclusion of others who are not Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum.

Here is what the scholars of tafsir have to say on this preposition:

The preposition ‘من’ here is not to distinguish some Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum from others. It is rather used to describe them all as a class of people. An example of this is Allah’s command:

فَاجْتَنِبُوا الرِّجْسَ مِنَ الْاَوْثَانِ وَاجْتَنِبُوْا قَوْلَ الزُّوْرِ

So shun the abomination (worshipping) of idols, and avoid false statement.[7]

 

The word ‘من’ in the verse above could never imply that only a part of idol worshipping is abominable and therefore only that form should be shunned. On the contrary. the meaning is ‘idol worshipping is a class of abomination that should be shunned’. However, some scholars said that the word ‘from among them’ in the verse refers to the shoot which the sown seed sends forth and they are those who enter Islam. The shoot is therefore referred to in plural form ‘from among them’ to allude to those who will enter into the religion of Islam till the Day of Resurrection.[8]

I proceeded: Have you not read Allah’s saying:

 

وَالسّٰبِقُوْنَ الْاَوَّلُوْنَ مِنَ الْمُهٰجِرِیْنَ وَالْاَنْصَارِ وَالَّذِیْنَ اتَّبَعُوْهُمْ بِاِحْسَانٍ ۙۙ رَّضِیَ اللّٰهُ عَنْهُمْ وَرَضُوْا عَنْهُ وَ اَعَدَّ لَهُمْ جَنّٰتٍ تَجْرِیْ تَحْتَهَا الْاَنْهٰرُ خٰلِدِیْنَ فِیْهَآ اَبَدًا ؕ ذٰلِكَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِیْمُ

And the foremost to embrace Islam of the Muhajirin (those who migrated from Makkah to Madinah) and the Ansar (the citizens of Madinah who helped and gave aid to the Muhajirin) and also those who followed them exactly (in iman). Allah is well-pleased with them and they are well-pleased with Him. He has prepared for them gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein forever. That is the supreme success.[9]

 

Who then are “the foremost to embrace Islam” if not Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman, Zubair, Talhah, Sa’d, Sa’id and Abu ‘Ubaidah radiya Llahu ‘anhum, who are those given the glad tidings of paradise? Who are they if not the participants in the Battle of Badr and whose faith is attested to?

The foremost men to embrace Islam – who are the Muhajirin and the Ansar and then those who followed them in righteousness – are the ones who have attained Allah’s pleasure. He has prepared for them gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they shall abide forever.

In light of this verse, is it then logical to think that the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who were praised in such glowing tributes, would apostatise with the exception of only three, four or five?

Have you not listened to Allah’s saying:

 

لِلْفُقَرَآءِ الْمُهٰجِرِیْنَ الَّذِیْنَ اُخْرِجُوْا مِنْ دِیَارِهِمْ وَ اَمْوَالِهِمْ یَبْتَغُوْنَ فَضْلًا مِّنَ اللّٰهِ وَ رِضْوَانًا وَّ یَنْصُرُوْنَ اللّٰهَ وَ رَسُوْلَه ؕ اُولٰٓئِكَ هُمُ الصّٰدِقُوْنَ﴿٨﴾ وَ الَّذِیْنَ تَبَوَّؤُا الدَّارَ وَ الْاِیْمَانَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ یُحِبُّوْنَ مَنْ هَاجَرَ اِلَیْهِمْ وَ لَا یَجِدُوْنَ فِیْ صُدُوْرِهِمْ حَاجَةً مِّمَّآ اُوْتُوْا وَ یُؤْثِرُوْنَ عَلٰٓی اَنْفُسِهِمْ وَلَوْ کَانَ بِهِمْ خَصَاصَةٌ ؕ وَ مَنْ یُّوْقَ شُحَّ نَفْسِه فَاُولٰٓئِكَ هُمُ الْمُفْلِحُوْنَ ﴿٩﴾ وَ الَّذِیْنَ جَآءُوْ مِنْۢ بَعْدِهِمْ یَقُوْلُوْنَ رَبَّنَا اغْفِرْلَنَا وَ لِاِخْوَانِنَا الَّذِیْنَ سَبَقُوْنَا بِالْاِیْمَانِ وَ لَا تَجْعَلْ فِیْ قُلُوْبِنَا غِلًّا لِّلَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْا رَبَّنَآ اِنَّكَ رَءُوْفٌ رَّحِیْمٌ

(And there is also a share in this booty) for the poor Muhajirin, who were expelled from their homes and their property, seeking bounties from Allah and to please Him, and helping Allah (His religion) and His Messenger (Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). Such are indeed the truthful ones.

And (it is also for) those who, before them, had homes (in Madinah) and had adopted the faith, love those who emigrate to them, and have no jealousy in their chests for that which they have been given, and give them (Muhajirin) preference over themselves even though they were in need. And whosoever is saved from his own covetousness, it is they who will be successful.

And those who came after them say: “O our Rabb! Forgive us and our brethren who have preceded us in faith, and put not in our hearts any hatred against those who have believed. O our Rabb! You are indeed full of kindness, Most Merciful.[10]

 

These three verses exemplify the perfect and complete way of refuting the allegations of the Shia and the rejecters of the truth against the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum.

The first verse praises the Muhajirin, describing them to be truthful and sincere, and it depicts Allah’s love for them.

The second verse praises the Ansar and describes them as selfless and successful. The two verses therefore commend the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum.

As for the third verse, it refused and repudiated the belief of the rejecters of the truth (the Shia). Since Allah emphasized therein that the believers who would come after the Companions shall invoke Allah’s forgiveness for themselves and for the believers who preceded them in faith, and that they would ask Allah not to put in their hearts any hatred against those who have believed.

Since the Shia revile the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum and declare them as disbelievers, they have practically excluded themselves from any of the three categories of believers mentioned previously: the truthful Muhajirin, the successful Ansar and the seekers of forgiveness who came after them and bear no malice in their hearts against those who preceded them in faith.

(I clarified further to my friend that the third verse indicates Allah’s praise for the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions who accepted Islam before and after the Conquest of Makkah and that Allah promised both groups great reward.)

I then asked him: Now tell me, how could the Shia regard it a religious obligation to revile, curse and declare as disbelievers the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam earlier and latter Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum, whom Allah has promised great reward?

Have you not listened to Allah’s saying:

 

وَکَذٰلِكَ جَعَلْنٰكُمْ اُمَّةً وَّسَطًا لِّتَكُوْنُوْا شُهَدَآءَ عَلَی النَّاسِ

Thus We have made you a just (and the best) nation that you be witnesses over mankind.[11]

 

The Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam that he may read it to his Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum and to inform them they were the witnesses over mankind. Then tell me, how could these witnesses be apostates? This is, indeed, the greatest absurdity!

I said further: In the Qur’an there are many verses preceded by the phrase: “O you who have believed.” Who were the ones the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was reading these verses to?

He said: To those who were around him.

I said: Yes! Those who were around him were his Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum. Then how could Allah address them as believers if they were not? Who knows better about the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions: Allah or the Shia? My friend, may Allah grant you happiness in invoking His pleasure on the noble Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum who conveyed the Qur’an, the sunnah and the laws of Islam to us. They were the ones who sacrificed their lives and their wealth so that this religion might spread and prevail

Dear Friend! If it had not been for the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum after Allah’s mercy, we would not have become Muslims today and our countries would not have practised Islam. Should the compensation for these great deeds then be insults, curses and accusations of apostasy? No Muslim would ever do this!

My friend said: No one can deny that the Qur’an praised the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum, but after the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam death they changed, and they deprived Imam ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu of his right. They wronged him, set his house ablaze and struck his wife Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha, the daughter of Allah’s Messenger salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, in her belly. This resulted in her miscarrying and eventually leading to her death.

I told my friend: Wait a minute! Where did you get these lies and false narrations from? The recognized scholars of Ahlus Sunnah wa l-Jama’ah regard these stories as false. The authentic narrations are those that reported the mutual love and affection that existed between the Companions and ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhum and members of the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam household. I would then like to ask you: What are the names of ‘Ali’s radiya Llahu ‘anhu sons? Do you know that it was out of his love for his fellow Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum, especially, the rightly-guided caliphs, that he named some of his sons after Abu Bakr, ‘Umar and ‘Uthman radiya Llahu ‘anhum? Do you know to whom ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu married his daughter, Umm Kulthum? He married her to the dearest person to him, ‘Umar radiya Llahu ‘anhu.

Do you know that ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu was the Judge of Madinah during the Caliphate of ‘Umar radiya Llahu ‘anhu? Do you know that he was keenest to give him sincere advice? When ‘Umar radiya Llahu ‘anhu intended to lead the battle against the Persians himself it was ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu who advised him to stay at Madinah, because he was the pillar unto whom the Muslims would return, and he advised him to send someone else he trusted to lead the army in his stead.

Do you know that ‘Uthman radiya Llahu ‘anhu played an important role in Fatimah’s marriage to ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhuma?

Indeed, the mutual love that existed among the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum was so legendary that Allah described them as such in His glorious Book:

 

مُحَمَّدٌ رَّسُوْلُ اللّٰهِ ؕؕ وَ الَّذِیْنَ مَعَه اَشِدَّآءُ عَلَی الْكُفَّارِ رُحَمَآءُ بَیْنَهُمْ

Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is the Messenger of Allah. And those who are with him are severe against disbelievers, and merciful among themselves.”[12]

 

A Muslim should, therefore, believe in the purity of the minds of all the prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions. For, it was the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam who nurtured and trained them under Allah’s protection. Could it then be acceptable that the prophet of mercy and wisdom, who was sent to purify the entire mankind, would be unable to purify those who were around him?

Allah says about him:

 

هُوَ الَّذِیْ بَعَثَ فِی الْاُمِّیّنَ رَسُوْلًا مِّنْهُمْ یَتْلُوْا عَلَیْهِمْ اٰیٰتِه وَ یُزَکِّیْهِمْ وَ یُعَلِّمُهُمُ الْکِتٰبَ وَ الْحِكْمَةَۗ وَ اِنْ کَانُوْا مِنْ قَبْلُ لَفِیْ ضَلٰلٍ مُّبِیْنٍ

It is He Who sent among the unlettered ones a Messenger (Muhammad salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) from among themselves, reciting to them His Verses, purifying them (from the filth of disbelief and polytheism), and teaching them the Book (Qur’an) and Hikmah (the sunnah) although they had been in manifest error before.[13]

 

My friend said: I agree with you concerning the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum but there is a more important issue, which is fundamental with regards to them. It is the issue of Imamah (leadership) and the explicit proof that indicated that ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu is the leader and the khalifah (after the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). If this is proved correct then we must agree that the Companions deprived ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu of his right, but if it is proved incorrect then I will have to accept that you are right.

I told him: This issue is much easier than the earlier one, but I think we should study it academically so that all ambiguities related to it will be completely dispelled. I would like to acquaint you with what our scholars said about these misconceptions. After that, we can discuss whatever you like.

He said: How is it possible to study the issue of contention between the Shia and the Ahlus Sunnah academically, as you say?

I got up and brought three books and then told him: These are books I would like us to read together. After that, we can discuss the misconceptions.

He said: I would like to ask for permission to leave because it is already late. Tomorrow – Allah willing – I will remain with you until we arrive at the clear truth, but what are the three books?

I said: Al ‘Awasim min al Qawasim, by Abu Bakr ibn al ‘Arabi, Al Sunnah wa al Shia by Ihsan Ilahi Zahir; and Al Shia wa Ahlul Bayt also by Ihsan Ilahi Zahir.

On the following day, my friend came with a small bag and told me: I know that you live alone these days. So, I have taken leave from my workplace so that I can devote my time to searching for the truth. Therefore, I am going to be your guest until my doubts are replaced with certainty. With all praise due to Allah, last night was the first time I could get a good night sleep for the past three months. This is largely due to the restored confidence I have in the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum and the restored confidence I have in my faith and religion.

I told him: You are warmly welcome – not as a guest – but as the owner of the house. Rest for a while and after that, we can resume our study.

He said: I have already had enough rest. Let us start our study with Allah’s permission.

(I gave him the book Al ‘Awasim min al Qawasim by Abu Bakr ibn al ‘Arabi and told him: “You can read the book while I sit beside you. If anything is unclear to you, we can then read it together.” I watched him reading the book with total concentration. The book deals with the Shia allegations concerning the Companions’ radiya Llahu ‘anhum stand after the Prophet’s salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam death, providing articulate and convincing responses to these allegations. My friend continued reading the book and occasionally shared his feelings with me about what he had read. He would say: “Where was I in relation to this knowledge? Ibn al ’Arabi has really restored my life with this knowledge.”

He then enthusiastically turned to me and said: I have finished the first book. Where is the second one?

I said: No! That will be too much on you. Take a rest for today, and tomorrow, Allah willing, you can read the second book. (But upon his-insistence on having the second book, I gave it to him and said:) Now, your mind is at peace concerning the Companions of the Prophet salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. The first book alone was enough to destroy the false Shia ideology. This second book will reveal to you the reality of the Shia religion and the reality of its stand on the Qur’an, the sunnah, the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum and the entire Muslim nation. After realising the truth about these Shia, you will not be able to resist cursing them[14] and denouncing their religion which explicitly goes against the religion of Islam in every aspect.

 

The academic study continues

My friend began reading the pages of the second book Al Shia wa al Sunnah by Ihsan Ilahi Zahir, striking his hands together in amazement when he realised the gravity of the beliefs of the Shia and what they had been concealing from him over these past months. He was entirely absorbed in reading for the next two consecutive days. Nothing would stop him except the obligatory prayers and short naps. During these two days, he finished reading the three books.)

After finishing the books, his sentiments changed towards his friends of yesterday. He now realised that he was only being honoured by the Shia as a hunter would honour his prey. He realised the havoc that the Shia concept of taqiyyah wreaks on simple-minded Muslims. He then started renouncing and cursing them. He would say: “It is safer for me to curse these Shia than to curse and insult Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman and the rest of the noble Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum. Far indeed are the Companions radiya Llahu ‘anhum from deserving any curse!”

My friend then got ready to leave. He hugged me, thanked me and asked me for advice. I advised him to hold unto the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah, and to concentrate on the books of beliefs written by our recognised erudite scholars.

I also warned him that these Imami Shia are sinful liars who should preferably be avoided, for they are hypocrites. Their hearts are distorted. They neither listen to the truth nor reason with it. They are as Allah says:

صُمٌّ ۢ بُكْمٌ عُمْیٌ فَهُمْ لَا یَرْجِعُوْنَ

They are deal. dumb, and blind, so they return not (to the Right Path).[15]

 

NEXT⇒ A Debate comes Unexpectedly


[1] Surah al Anfal: 36

[2] Surah Al ‘Imran: 110

[3]  Some Shia claim that all the Companions apostatised with the exception of only twelve who are: ‘Ali and some members of his family, Salman, Abu Dhar, ‘Ammar, al Miqdad, Hudhayfah, Abu Haytham ibn Tayhan, Sahl ibn Hanif, ‘Ubadah ibn Samit, Abu Ayub al Ansari, Khuzaimah ibn Thabit and Abu Sa’id al Khudri radiya Llahu ‘anhum. However, majority of the Imamiyyah Shia believe that their number is much less than that.

[4] A’immah is the plural of Imam.

[5] Surah al Baqarah: 14

[6] Surah al Fath: 29

[7] Surah al Hajj: 30

[8]Tafsir al Tabri vol. 26 pg. 115-166, Tafsir al Qurtubi vol. 16 pg. 295-296 and Tafsir Ibn al Kathir vol. 7 pg. 344

[9] Surah al Taubah: 100

[10] Surah al Hashr: 8-10

[11] Surah al Baqarah: 143

[12] Surah al Fath: 29

[13] Surah al Jumu’ah: 2

[14] The Shia referred to here are the Imamiyyah Ithna ‘Ashariyyah.

[15] Surah al Baqarah: 18