Misguided Follower Of Evil Sunnah Distorting The Truth About Hadith Of Good Sunnah In Islam.

[MuhammedAli]

... Below ... 

Edited 16 مئی 2023 by MuhammedAli
Double post.

[MuhammedAli]

Misguided Follower Of Evil Sunnah Distorting The Truth About Hadith Of Good Sunnah In Islam.

Introduction:

Muslims believe Hadith of good Sunnah in Islam establishes Muslims are guaranteed reward for those good Sunnahs which they have innovated and made part of Islam. The supporters of heresy traditionally have argued this Hadith of good Sunnah is regarding a Sunnah which is already part of Islam and to be about prophetic Sunnah of Sadaqah. But there as been a tiny progress and one from them has argued it refers to innovated Sunnah of giving Sadaqah with [silver] coins. He argued evil Sunnah part f Hadith refers to Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance.

0.0 - About The Discussion Which Resulted This Article:

This article will be responding to a brother who challenged Islamic understanding in a discussion. During this discussion Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) resorted to distorting the text of Hadith: He replaced Sunnah (i.e. way, precedent, tradition, practice) with Amal (i.e. action) and distorted the wording of Hadith in such a way; it indicated as if said Hadith is referring to a action of Islam (i.e. prophetic Sunnah). Noting he has stooped too low to preserve his theological position then it was decided to withdraw from discussion because Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) has said: “And when they hear ill speech, they turn away from it and say: "For us are our deeds, and for you are your deeds. Peace will be upon you; we seek not the ignorant." [Ref: 28:58] But this happened at a time when all avenues and arguments were satisfactorily responded to and believers saw the Noor of Islam shine and dispel the darkness of innovation.

1.0 - Ahadith Relevent Focus Of Discussion:

“Mundhir b. Jarir reported on the authority of his father: While we were in the company of the Messenger of Allah in the early hours of the morning, some people came there (who) were barefooted, naked, wearing striped woollen clothes, or cloaks, with their swords hung (around their necks). Most of them, nay, all of them, belonged to the tribe of Mudar. The colour of the face of the Messenger of Allah underwent a change when he saw them in poverty. He then entered (his house) and came out and commanded Bilal (to pronounce Adhan). He pronounced Adhan and Iqima, and he (the Holy Prophet) observed prayer (along with his Companion) and then addressed (them reciting verses of the Holy Qur'an): '" 0 people, fear your Lord, Who created you from a single being" to the end of the verse," Allah is ever a Watcher over you" (iv. 1). (He then recited) a verse of Sura Hashr:" Fear Allah. and let every soul consider that which it sends forth for the morrow and fear Allah" (lix. 18). (Then the audience began to vie with one another in giving charity.) Some donated a dinar, others a dirham, still others clothes, some donated a sa' of wheat, some a sa' of dates; till he (the Holy Prophet) said: (Bring) even if it is half a date. Then a person from among the Ansar came there with a money bag which his hands could scarcely lift; in fact, they could not (lift). Then the people followed continuously, till I saw two heaps of eatables and clothes, and I saw the face of the Messenger glistening, like gold (on account of joy). The Messenger of Allah said: He who sets a good precedent in Islam, there is a reward for him for this (act of goodness) and reward of that also who acted according to it subsequently, without any deduction from their rewards; and he who sets in Islam an evil precedent, there is upon him the burden of that, and the burden of him also who acted upon it subsequently, without any deduction from their burden.” [Ref: Muslim, B5, H2219] "Jarir b. Abdullah reported that some desert Arabs clad in woollen clothes came to Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him). He saw them in sad plight as they had been hard pressed by need. He (the Holy Prophet) exhorted people to give charity, but they showed some reluctance until (signs) of anger could be seen on his face. Then a person from the Ansar came with a purse containing silver. Then came another person and then other persons followed them in succession until signs of happiness could be seen on his (sacred) face. Thereupon Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: He who introduced some good Sunnah (i.e. practice, way, tradition) in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it, without their rewards being diminished in any respect. And he who introduced some evil practice in Islam which had been followed subsequently (by others), he would be required to bear the burden like that of one who followed this (evil practice) without their's being diminished in any respect." [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466]

1.1 - Misguided Brothers Position On The Important Part Of Ahadith:

Initially he said following part of Hadith referrs to prophetic Sunnah of Sadaqah: “He who introduced some evil Sunnah (i.e. practice, way, tradition, precedent) in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it, without their rewards being diminished in any respect.” [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] Then he changed his goal post and said companion gave coins [of silver] therefore this use of coins for Sadaqah was the new Sunnah in Islam, none gave coins before this. He was asked: What does the evil Sunnah part of Hadith refer to in context of historical event? After being pressured to accept that the evil Sunnah part of Hadith has no relevance to historical context. He replied evil Sunnah in Islam part of Hadith refers to following words Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam😞 “The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing is an innovation and every innovation is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] What he implied was Hadith of; whoever introduces evil Sunnah in Islam referred to Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance Hadith. Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) then emphasised generality of the Hadith. At one point Shaykh explicitly said there is no Takhsees/distinction of evil innovation in words of Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam). In the beginning of discussion on Hadith of good Sunnah in Islam he claimed that the following prophetic statement is restricted to its context; “He who introduced some good Sunnah in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured…” And his this argument was refuted during the discussion but I feel it is important to address it here as well. Please note where ever his position will be represented it will be done in my own words but his position will be represented accurately. With this said; I will begin with his last point first and then continue in the reverse order.

2.0 - Contextualising General Statements To Negate Generality:

Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) employed tactic of; the prophetic statement is to be interpreted in the context of the event. And this was responded with if this is the case then Ahadith of reward of deeds depends upon intentions is in context of marriage and migration as it is evidence here: “Narrated 'Umar bin Al-Khattab: I heard Allah's Messenger saying: "The reward of deeds depends upon the intentions and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended. So whoever emigrated for worldly benefits or for a woman to marry, his emigration was for what he emigrated for." [Ref: Bukhari, B1, H1] It was argued will you restrict this prophetic statement to its context or will you apply its ruling upon all other actions not mentioned by Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) in the context of Hadith? I cannot recall what his exact response was but rest assured it was less then sensible and it went along the line of: It depends. The thumb rule employed by all great scholars is; if they interpret a general statement in the context they do not negate its generality and continue to apply it upon non-contextual matters as well. In other words they do not restrict general statements of Hadith in the context of event nor restrict its injunctions to people present at the event. But if idiots want to be idiots lets be idiot with them. You beat em now join em and its best way to teach em a lesson.

2.1 - Ahadith Of Every Innovation Restricted To Context:

It was said in previous section that we’re going to play dirty with the dirty ones. Round one of mocky fights. Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) made statement every innovation is misguidance in context of following Hadith: "It was narrated from Abdullah bin Mas'ud that: The Messenger of Allah said: "Verily there are two things - words and guidance. The best words are the words of Allah, and the best guidance in the guidance of Muhammad. Beware of newly-invented matters, for every newly-invented matter is an innovation (Bid'ah) and every innovation is a going-stray. Do not let the desire for a long life causes your hearts to grow hard. That which is bound to happen is close to you, and the only thing that is far away is that which is not going to happen. The one who is doomed to Hell is doomed from his mother's womb, and the one who is destined for Paradise is the one who learns from the lessons of others. Killing a believer constitutes disbelief (Kufr) and verbally abusing him is immorality (Fusuq). It is not permissible for a Muslim to forsake his brother for more than three days. Beware of lying, for lying is never good, whether it is done seriously or in jest. A man should not make a promise to a child that he will not keep. Lying leads to immorality and immorality leads to Hell. Truthfulness leads to righteousness and righteousness leads to Paradise. It will be said of the truthful person: 'He spoke the truth and was righteous', and it will be said of the liar, 'He told lies and was immoral.' "For a person continues to tell lies until he is recorded with Allah as a liar." [Ref: Ibn Majah, B1, H46] “It was narrated that Jabir bin 'Abdullah said: "When the Messenger of Allah delivered a sermon, his eyes would turn red, he would raise his voice and he would speak with intensity, as if he were warning of an (enemy) army, saying, 'They will surely attack you in the morning, or they will surely attack you in the evening!' He would say: 'I and the Hour have been sent like these two,' and he would hold his index and middle finger. Then he would say: 'The best of guidance is the guidance of Muhammad. The most evil matters are those that are newly-invented, and every innovation (Bid'ah) is a going astray.' And he used to say: 'Whoever dies and leaves behind some wealth, it is for his family, and whoever leaves behind a debt or dependent children, then they are both my responsibility.'" [Ref: Ibn Majah, B1, H45] Note; to see related Ahadith see footnote one. Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) wished to restrict prophetic statement of good Sunnah in Islam to context of event. But Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) will not be consistent in his methodology when it comes to these Ahadith. He applied and will continue to apply the above Ahadith without limiting/restricting to context which resulted the following statement: “The truest of word is the Book of Allah and best of guidance is the guidance of Muhammad. The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing is an innovation and every innovation is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.'” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] And to restrict the Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance to context would mean Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) would have no argument against innovated good Sunnahs such as Mawlid. Simply because the basis/grounds of objection against Mawlid has been restricted to context and there remains no legal/Shar’ri basis of objecting to Mawlid.

2.2 - People Without Methodology And Their Reality:

The core problem is that people have already decided what ultimate truth is and have fallen in love with their own beliefs. As result everything has become fair to them when it comes to proving/arguing their own position. A honest and objective Muslim seeking the guidance of Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) would adopt a methodology of interpreting Hadith: (i) contextually (ii) non-contextually, (iii) or combination of both, and then he would consistently apply his methodology upon all Ahadith. Whether he chooses wrong or right methodology but his consistency would establish his sincerity and true desire to learn truth. Those who deceive themselves switch between the three depending upon need. It is tactical decision to switch from one methodology. Normally both parties would hold to same methodology but Wahhabis/Salafis change methodology when they are put in tough spot. In rare cases, due to lack of knowledge and conditioning which has resulted in firm belief upon a notion, an individual may flap around like fish out of water, trying hard to defend what is cherished by him. Sign of knowledgeable and sincere truth seeker is consistent methodology. And when he gets knocked down then he gets up revises his methodology and starts the research again. This way directly/indirectly consistently acknowledges his mistakes. This was methodology I was upon and all seekers of truth of Islam should be on.

3.0 - Evil Sunnah Hadith Is Directing To Hadith Of Every Innovation Is Misguidance:

What he said and what he demonstrated were two completely different things. Coming to what he demonstrated but not said. Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) said: “He who introduced some good Sunnah (i.e. practice, way, tradition) in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it, without their rewards being diminished in any respect.” [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) said these words refer to following prophetic words: “The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing is an innovation and every innovation is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] And what he intended and demonstrated [via his interpretation] that Hadith of evil Sunnah is directing toward the Hadith of every innovation is misguidance. As part of this he completely ignored Hadith of evil Sunnah and instead Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) went on to emphasise the generality of every innovation is misguidance. Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) assumes Ahadith are game of monopoly with the rule: When you land on Hadith of evil Sunnah, skip explanation and do not understand it, instead go to Hadith of every innovation is misguidance, then emphasis the generality of every/qullu.

3.1 Hadith Of Evil Sunnah In Islam And Takhsees:

Coming to what he said and what it means. Whenever a scholar connects a scholar XHadith with another it is to interpret both in light of each other. Our Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) likely just heard or read it being employed some where and employed it in our discussion without knowing what it actually understanding what it implies. What he said is; Hadith of evil Sunnah interprets Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance. It was immediately pointed out to him; Shyakh (hafidha-ullah) you’re making Takhsees (i.e. specification) of generality of following Hadith; every innovation is misguidance. Note Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) said: “And he who introduced some evil Sunnah in Islam which had been followed subsequently (by others), he would be required to bear the burden ..." [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] Prophetic Sunnah is already part of Islam and his Sunnah cannot be evil. The evil Sunnah mentioned this Hadith is not part of Islam. Innovation is not part of Islam. Therefore evil Sunnah in here is innovated evil Sunnah. It is established the Hadith itself is talking about evil innovations which are made part of Islam. Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) said the evil Sunnah part of Hadith refers to Hadith of every innovation is misguidance: “The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing is an innovation and every innovation is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.”[1] [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] Alhasil if the Hadith of evil Sunnah referrs to innovation and Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) directed it toward Hadith of every innovation is misguidance then meaning should be obvious for intelligent people; Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) without knowing is actually making Takhsees of generality of following Hadith: “The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing is an innovation and every innovation is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] In other words Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) is saying; every newly-invented thing; innovated evil Sunnah is innovation, every innovation is misguidance. But being Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) he never understood nor realized implications of his own utterance.

3.2 - Qullu/Every In Hadith For Every Innovation Is Misguidance:

Just as directed by the Salafi Monopoly game rule, if you land on evil Sunnah Hadith, you must not try to understand it instead go straight to Hadith of every innovation is misguidance Hadith. We skip evil Sunnah Hadith and come to following: “The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing is an innovation and every innovation is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] Please note Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) is maker of all rules and we must obey. First step we will focus on usage of every in this Hadith. Position of Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) in this regard is; every/qullu is inclusive of all and exclusive of none. Muslim understanding is qullu/every is not always used in its Haqiqi (i.e. actual/real) meaning. It is in most cases restricted by context of environment, personality, region, etc. If one says: Ali drank all the water. Even though the statement is general but all/qullu is restricted to either context of glass, or a water of jug, or bottle, but it will never be understood to mean Ali drank all the water of sea and rivers. In a verse of Quran it is stated: “Allah has power over all/qulli things.” [Ref: 2:148] Even in this verse qulli/every is not used in its Haqiqi meaning. It is still limited and restricted by certain context. Can Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) create a uncreated Creator? The question and its answer makes it evident all in the verse is not literally all/qulli but qulli which is according to majesty of Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala). So there is no reason to assume every/qullu in the quoted Hadith is without Takhsees. No sane Muslim would argue it is unrestricted and applies to every innovation because Bukhari and Muslim are innovations. If every/qullu was without restriction; then good-bye to Sahih of Imam Bukhari (rahimullah alayhi ta’ala). It is established qullu/every is not absolutely every and Hadith therefore cannot be absolutely every innovation is misguidance. And every innovation not being misguidance is also established from statement of Umar (radiallah ta’ala anhu😞 “Then on another night I went again in his company and the people were praying behind their reciter. On that Umar remarked: What an excellent innovation this is but the prayer which they do not perform, but sleep at its time is better than the one they are offering.'” [Ref: Bukhari, B32, H227]

3.3 - Shaykh’s (hafidha-ullah); Every Innovation And His Game Of Linguistic Innovation:

Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) made claim that Hadith of; introducing evil Sunnah in Islam, is referring to Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance. It was explained to him; Hadith of every innovation is restricted by Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) to every evil/erroneous innovation. After I had disengaged him in discussion he disregarded the explanation and continued to emphasise literalism of Hadith. If we take the Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance, absolutely literally then nothing is excluded from it: Not Bukhari, not Muslim, not a mobile phone, not Shaykh’s (hafidha-ullah) favourite; Pizaa, not even the delicious Donner Kebab with hot chilli sauce because all these are innovation hence inclusive in; every/qullu innovation is misguidance. Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) would say they are not part of Deen they are linguistic innovations therefore these are not intended. Note even though Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) made Takhsees (i.e. specification) generality of; every innovation is misguidance, via Ahadith of evil/erroneous innovation/practice, Shaykh disregarded it. I want to do unto Shaykh’s (hafidha-ullah) understanding what Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) did to Islamic understanding even though our understanding is justified and his Taweel has no basis. Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) said: “The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing is an innovation and every innovation is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) says the mentioned items are innovations but in Lughvi (i.e. linguistic) sense because they are not part of Deen. Therefore the Hadith doesn’t refer to them. Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) if there is no Takhsees generality of evil innovation in Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance; then Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) where is there Takhsees of Lughvi in this Hadith? Where did you get this Takhsees of Lughvi innovation because according to the literalism of Hadith nothing is excluded, not even Lughvi innovations. And secondly where is your evidence for Takhsees of Lughvi Innovation? You do know even; for any kind of Takhsees (i.e. specification) of Mutliq (i.e. general) evidence is required, don’t you? Note Takhsees of Islamic position is based on prophetic words and evidence of it was submitted. Secondly dear Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) even though you claim there is no Takhsees in Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance and your saying; these (i.e. Kebabs, Bukhari, Muslim, Pizza) are all linguistic innovation and therefore Hadith does not refer to them. Means you are in reality making Takhsees of every/qullu to a context, Deen/Shariah, which proves our point that there is Takhsees in this Hadith and it is not unlimited/unrestricted but restricted and limited. Our understanding is that it referrs to evil Sunnahs/Biddahs because Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) indicated evil Biddahs/Sunnahs in other Ahadith. And we interpret Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance; in light of those Ahadith.

3.4 - Every Innovation Misguidance Restricted By Prophetic Teaching:

Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) is reported to have said: “Whoever introduces an innovation with which Allah and his Messenger are not pleased, he will have a (burden of) sin equivalent to that of those among the people who act upon it, without that detracting from their sins in the slightest.'" [Ref: Ibn Majah, B1, H210]“And whoever introduces an erroneous innovation which Allah is not pleased with, nor His Messenger, then he shall receive sins similar to whoever acts upon it, without that diminishing anything from the sins of the people.'" [Ref: Tirmadhi, B39, H2677] The second Hadith establishes evil innovation concept. And evil innovation is something which neither Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) nor Messenger (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) will be pleased. Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) pointed toward evil innovation in following Hadith: “And he who introduced some evil practice in Islam which had been followed subsequently (by others), he would be required to bear the burden like that of one who followed this (evil practice) without their's being diminished in any respect." [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] The bearing of burden of sin is regarding an evil Sunnah which has not been declared evil Sunnah in Islam by Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) and not by Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam). Therefore it is referring to innovated evil Sunnah which was not part of Islam. And this Hadith is also proof of Takhsees of generality of every innovation is misguidance Hadith because it establishes innovated evil Sunnahs are sinful. Therefore prophetic saying; every innovation is misguidance is in context of erroneous innovation and innovated evil Sunnah. Following depicts the Takhsees of generality and restriction of every to context of evil innovation and innovated evil Sunnah:“The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing is an (erroneous) innovation (and evil Sunnah) and every (erroneous) innovation (and evil Sunnah) is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579]

3.5 - Understanding Every Innovation Is Misguidance In Context Of Prophetic Teaching:

Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) stated: “Narrated Aisha: Allah's Messenger said: "Whoever introduces into our matter that which is not a part of it, will have it rejected.”[2] [Ref: Bukhari, B49, H861] Hadith states introducing innovations into matter (i.e. religion) of Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) and RasoolAllah (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) which is not already part of it will be rejected. There are two forms of Islam Bunyadi (i.e. fundamental) and Ijtihadi (i.e. strived/struggled for). This Hadith is about Bunyadi (i.e. fundamental) Islam. In other words if someone was to introduce an innovation and says it is prophetic Sunnah, or as explicit teaching of Quran, then that will be rejected. And in this context innovations which are made part of fundamental teaching of Islam Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) as stated: “The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing (in fundamental Islam) is an innovation and every innovation (in fundamental Islam) is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] In another Hadith it is reported Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) stated: “… he (Qasim bin Muhammad) said: All of them could be combined in one house; and then said: 'A'isha informed me that Allah's Messenger said: He who does an action which is not from us that is to be rejected.[3]” [Ref: Muslim, B18, H4267] Meaning; if a Muslim does an action which is not teaching of Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) or teaching from prophetic Sunnah then that innovated action would be rejected because it is not part of Islam. Suppose I wish to worship Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) by performing a pose performed in Yoga it will be rejected because its not part of what Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) taught as means of worship. And in this context the following words can be interpreted: “The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing (i.e. action) is an innovation and every innovation (of action) is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] Note H861 of Bukhari uses the word Amr (i.e. matter). And this Amr was explaind in H4267 by Amal (i.e. action). Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) employed Amal to remove the possible ambiguity which maybe resulted through Amr.

3.6 - Every Innovation Made Part Of Fundamental Islam Is Evil Innovation:

It is established innovation into fundamental Islam [introduced as instruction of Allah or Sunnah of RasoolAllah] would be rejected. Why it will be rejected? For that we need to read following Hadith: “And whoever introduces an erroneous innovation which Allah is not pleased with, nor His Messenger, then he shall receive sins similar to whoever acts upon it, without that diminishing anything from the sins of the people.'" [Ref: Tirmadhi, B39, H2677] Alhasil innovation into fundamental Islam is evil/erroenous innovation and it does not please Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) and His Messenger (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) therefore it will be rejected. Hence the following Hadith is in fact referring to evil/erroneous innovations which are made part of fundamental Islam: “The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented (such as evil Sunnah) is an innovation and every (evil/erroneous) innovation is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] Please note I have presented many interpretation of these Ahadith all of them are valid and all parts/interpretations can be assembled to make a comprehensive understanding of Ahadith employed to derive it:“The worst of things are those (Sunnahs) that are newly invented (and introduced into fundamental Islam); every newly-invented thing (Sunnah in fundamental Islam) is an (erroneous/evil) innovation and every innovation (in fundamental Islam) is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.” [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579]

4.0 - Prophet Has Been Given Ability Of Few Words Expressing Comprehensive Meanings:

Hadith records: “I heard Allah's Messenger saying: "I have been sent with Jawami al-Kalim and I was made victorious with awe (caste into the hearts of the enemy), and while I was sleeping, the keys of the treasures of the earth were brought to me and were put in my hand." Muhammad: said, Jawami'-al-Kalim means; Allah expresses in one or two statements or thereabouts the numerous matters that used to be written in the books revealed before (the coming of) the Prophet.” [Ref: Bukhari, B87, H141] Therefore the numerous interpretations should not be considered contradictions as idiots would tell you. Instead understand that Sharh of Hadith is according to the evidence which it is employed to interpret it. One (1) by itself means one. If it is coupled with for purpose of addition with two (2) then out come is three (3). If one (1) is coupled with seven (7) out come would be eight (8). Meaning the out come changes depending on with what one (1) is coupled with. In similar fashion the interpretation of Hadith changes depending on with which Hadith the XHadith is coupled with.

5.0 - Good Sunnah In Islam Part Of Hadith And Misguided Brother:

As stated earlier initially Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) said good Sunnah in Islam part of Hadith referrs to context. He specificly stated it referrs to Sadaqah. It was pointed out to him that Sadaqah is prophetic Sunnah and it was already part of Islam. But the words of Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) indicate the reward being told is for a good Sunnah in Islam not already part of Islam. Therefore following prophetic statement referrs to innovated good Sunnahs and reward is for innovated good Sunnahs: “He who introduced some good Sunnah (i.e. practice, way, tradition, precedent) in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it, without their rewards being diminished in any respect.” [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] Fact is that the companions acted on prophetic Sunnah of giving Sadaqah. You claim the good Sunnah part of Hadith referrs to companions reviving/practicing Sadaqah. Yet the prophetic statement of good Sunnah in Islam is indicating reward he told was for something not already part of Islam. Therefore the statement doesn’t fit into context. It was followed; if companions giving Sadaqah resulted the good Sunnah in Islam statement. Then what was the evil Sunnah in Islam acted on by companions which resulted following statement: “And he who introduced some evil Sunnah in Islam which had been followed subsequently (by others), he would be required to bear the burden like that of one who followed this (evil practice) without their's being diminished in any respect." [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] He rightly said this statement of Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) is not conntected with the context. And wrongly said it says: ting! ting! go to Hadith of every innovation is misguidance. It was said him; if the second statement does not fit into context because companions acted on no evil Sunnah. We have already established; good Sunnah statement referrs to an innovated Sunnah which is not part of Islam and Sadaqah was already part of Islam. Therefore it doesn’t referr to context either just like the evil Sunnah in Islam statement: “And he who introduced some evil Sunnah in Islam which had been followed subsequently (by others) ..." [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] As a Muslim it was made clear to him that both statements have no absolute relevance to the context but these statements were made in context of the event but are unrelated to it. And after being hemmed to produce a response. A squeek of response was heard; companion introduced a new Sunnah in Islam by giving Sadaqah with [silver] coins. He also gave example of manz (lol!) giving notes to needy to further explain his point that he would be starting good Sunnah in Islam of giving Sadaqah with notes.

5.1 - Burden Of Coins Is Too Heavy To Establish:

Our educated Shaykh (hadfidha-ullah) made the claim companion was first one to start the Sunnah of giving coins in Sadaqah and rest of companions followed him. People should fear Allah(subhanahu wa ta’ala) when they invent things which have no basis to defend their theological positions. Our Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) claimed this and he is under the Shar’ri burden to prove it: “’On the authority of Ibn Abbas; the Messenger of Allah said: Were people to be given everything that they claimed, men would (unjustly) claim the wealth and lives of (other) people. But, the onus of proof is upon the claimant, and the taking of an oath is upon him who denies.’A hasan hadeeth narrated by al-Baihaqee and others in this form, and part of it is in the two Saheehs.” [Ref: Forty Ahadith – Nawavi, Hadith 33] If he fails and I know he can never do it. Then he should repent for spreading misguidance regarding which he knew too well this is not true. Untrue statement issued in ignorance will be excused through mercy of Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) but one who deliberately invents facts which have no factual existance is sinful and is his actions ar inexcuable sin. Due to being under peer pressure our Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) started to distort the words so it referrs to strictly to Sadaqah and companion who gave coins of silver. May Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) grants all of us sincerity for our Deen and make us strive for our hereafter and not for prestiege of this world and make our discussions for sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala).

5.2 - Coins BackFire And Shaykh Deprives Companions Of Their Reward:

Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) said prophetic statement of good Sunnah is regarding companion who gave Sadaqah with coins cause he started Sunnah of giving Sadaqah with coins. If that is the case then statement was regarding him and those who followed giving Sadaqah with coins. What about those who gave Sadaqah to poor Muslims but not in form of coins as it is established from following part of Hadith: “Some donated a dinar, others a dirham, still others clothes, some donated a sa' of wheat, some a sa' of dates; till he (the Holy Prophet) said: (Bring) even if it is half a date. Then a person from among the Ansar came there with a money bag which his hands could scarcely lift; in fact, they could not (lift). Then the people followed continuously, till I saw two heaps of eatables and clothes, and I saw the face of the Messenger glistening, like gold (on account of joy).” [Ref: Muslim, B5, H2219] If Shaykh is truthful in his claim then does it not imply those who did not give Sadaqah with coins will get no reward and only those who gave with coins will get it? The Prophet of mercy (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) deprives his companions of their reward if Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) is truthful.

5.3 - Companion Started The Good Sunnah In Islam Of Giving Coins:

After being hemmed in from all directions his massive comeback which made him chuckle and smile was that good Sunnah in Islam was that companion a new Sunnah of giving Sadaqah with coins. When he made this point I had disengaged from discussion and did not deem it worthy to engage him again. This does mean Shaykh’s (hafidha-ullah) earlier position that good Sunnah in Islam part of Hadith referrs to Sadaqah was incorrect. Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) told: "Narrated Abdullah: The Prophet said, "None is killed unjustly, but the first son of Adam will have a part of its burden." Sufyan said: "..a part of its blood because he was the first to establish the Sunnah of murdering" [Ref: Bukhari, B92, H423] Note the word Sunnah is used yet the description indicates son of Prophet Adam (alayhis salam) started the innovation of killing human beings. And he will be held responsible for every murder that takes place on earth. Hence the word Sunnah does and can give meaning of innovation due to context. Anyway lets go to words of Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) before coins are adressed: “He who introduced some good Sunnah (i.e. practice, way, tradition, precedent) in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it, without their rewards being diminished in any respect.” [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] Islamic position is; prophetic Sunnah is already part of Islam. Reward being told in this Hadith is for what is not yet part of Islam but can be made part of Islam. Therefore the reward is for good innovation and to be precise innovated good Sunnahs. Our Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) said the companion who came to give bag of coins containing silver introduced a new way of giving Sadaqah by giving Sadaqah with coins. Our response is that Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) this does not support your position and refute our. In fact this establishes Islamic position because if a companion introduced new method of giving Sadaqah by using coins then a new innovation of good Sunnah was introduced in Islam. And Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) would said the following in context of new innovation/Sunnah of giving Sadaqah with coins: “He who introduced some good Sunnah (i.e. practice, way, tradition, precedent) in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it ...” [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] This good innovated good Sunnah of giving Sadaqah with coins doesn’t refute the Islamic understanding instead it proves Islamic position. Islamic argument was the prophetic statement referrs to new innovated good Sunnah which already was not prophetic Sunnah. By saying coins was good Sunnah which no one ever acted before Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) unknowingly has refuted himself and proven Islamic position.

5.4 - Prophetic Words Were Regarding Good Sunnah Of Coins:

My objective is education and therefore every feeble and impossiblity will also scrutinized so Shaykh (hadfidha-ullah) and others have best chance of guidance. For the sake of argument lets agree with Shaykh (hafidha-ullah); Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) made the statement regarding the coins because the companion was first person to use silver coins to give Sadaqah. What you should note is Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) if he wanted to make it specific to only coins he then would have said so in following words or similar: “The man who gave Sadaqah with silver coins has started good Sunnah of in Islam ...” Or he could have said: “The companion who introduced good Sunnah of giving Sadaqah with silver coins in Islam …” But Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) decided to make a general statement not limited to context. He said: “He who introduced some good Sunnah in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it ...” [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] Surely if Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) was capable make a specific statement if he wanted to but he didn’t. Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) would not even dare to say; because he couldn’t, he didn’t know the words so none else should dare. The reason is simple the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) wanted to convey vast meanings because he has been sent with gift of Jawami al-Kalim: “... Allah's Messenger said: "I have been sent with short expression widest possible meaning (i.e. jawami al-kalim), and have been made victorious with awe (cast in my enemy's hearts), and while I was sleeping, I saw that the keys of the treasures of the world were placed in my hand.”  [Ref: Bukhari, B92, H378] Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) was perfectly cabaple of using words which would limit and restrict understanding of his utterance in context of; silver coins, or dates, or clothes, and other edible items. And he was perfectly able to restrict implications of his utterance to the historical event but he didn’t. Even if we allow the lie of Shaykh (hafidha-ullah); Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) made the statement about coins. Then Islamic belief would be established that the statement is about innovating good Sunnahs into Islam. This means companion and Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) did not believe every innovation is misguidance like Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) believes. And it also means the statement tells others that there is reward for innovating good Sunnahs into Islam.

5.5 - Matter Of Principle Regarding Generality And Interpretation:

Even if we interpret the statement in context it cannot be limited and restricted due to the interpretation. In other words the contextual interpretation cannot limit/restrict the generality of prophetic words. The Haqiqi (i.e. real/true) meaning of; introducing some good Sunnah in Islam will always remain intact. And this is of innovation of good Sunnah in Islam will earn reward for one who introduces and those who follow and equal burden of sin for who innovates an evil Sunnah and those who follow. Any sort of interpretation contextual or thematic or linguistical cannot and will not alter the natural meaning of prophetic statement of good/evil Sunnah nor limit/restrict them. Only an idiot devoid of science of Tafsir would attempt to restrict generality of Prophet’s (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) words to context because of contextual interpretation. The prophetic statement of good/evil Sunnah is not only proof of reward for innovating good Sunnahs into Islam but it is also instruction proof for permissibility of Ijtihad and earning reward for it. And we already established Ijtihad regarding what is not prophetic teaching is innovation and valid Ijtihad is good innovation.

6.0 - Shar’ri Innovation And Its Types:

Shar’i innovations are of three types: (i) good innovation, (ii) evil innovation. Hadith of good and evil Sunnah is proof of this because it tells of reward for innovating good Sunnah in Islam and tells of equal sin for innovating evil Sunnah in Islam. What is in Islam is part of Shari’ah and to make good/evil Sunnahs part of Islam is to make them part of Shari’ah. (iii) Linguistical innovation is which by its very nature is not good or bad  from perspective of Shari’ah but it becomes part of Shari’ah due to Haram (i.e. prohibited) and Halal (i.e. permissible).

6.1 - Islamic Understanding Of Hadith Of Good And Evil Sunnah:

Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) said: “He who introduced some good Sunnah (i.e. practice, way, tradition, precedent) in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it ...” [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] And we Muslims say this Hadith is referring to innovation of good Sunnahs into Islam. Our reasoning is; prophetic Sunnah is already part of Islam. Hence by reviving a prophetic Sunnah we introduce nothing Sunnah into Islam which was not already part of Islam. Therefore the prophetic statement cannot be referring to prophetic Sunnah of giving Sadaqah and it must be referring to innovations introduced as good Sunnahs. Coming to evil Sunnah part of Hadith - it is stated: “And he who introduced some evil Sunnah in Islam which had been followed subsequently (by others), he would be required to bear the burden like that of one who followed this ..." [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] Evil is what Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) and what Messenger (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) decalred as evil/sinful. This part of Hadith is referring to evil innovations because words of Hadith indicating prophetic statement is regarding a Sunnah which is not already declared evil by Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) and not by Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam). Therefore evil Sunnah part of Hadith must be referring to an evil Sunnah not already declared haram, or Shirk, or Kufr in Quran or Hadith.

6.2 - Evil Sunnah Statement In Perspective Of Ahadith Of Innovation:

Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) is reported to have said: "Whoever introduces an innovation with which Allah and his Messenger are not pleased, he will have a (burden of) sin equivalent to that of those among the people who act upon it, without that detracting from their sins in the slightest.'" [Ref: Ibn Majah, B1, H210] “And whoever introduces an erroneous innovation which Allah is not pleased with, nor His Messenger, then he shall receive sins similar to whoever acts upon it, without that diminishing anything from the sins of the people.'" [Ref: Tirmadhi, B39, H2677] Note both these Ahadith mean exactly the same as evil Sunnah Hadith. If evil Sunnah can mean evil innovation then there is no good and justifiable reason to say good Sunnah Ahadith do not referr to good innovation. Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’salam) said: “And he who introduced some evil Sunnah in Islam which had been followed subsequently (by others), he would be required to bear the burden like that of one who followed this ..." [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] Our Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) applied the evil Sunnah part of Hadith to Hadith of every innovation is misguidance. Why selectively apply one part to innovation and not the other to innovation? If evil Sunnah is referring to innovation then good Sunnah is referring to good innovation and Ahadith in which companions deemed certain practices as good innovations will be quoted ahead.

6.3 - Companions Support Understanding Of Innovating Good Sunnah:

Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam)  is reported to have said: "Whoever starts a سُنَّةَ خَيْرٍ (i.e. good Sunnah) which is followed, then for him is a reward and the likes of their rewards of whoever follows him, there being nothing diminished from their rewards." [Ref: Tirmadhi, B39, H2675] “The servant does not introduce سُنَّةً صَالِحَةً (i.e. righteous Sunnah) which is followed after him. The rest of the hadith is the same." [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6468] "The servant does not introduce سُنَّةً صَالِحَةً (i.e. good Sunnah) which is followed after him. The rest of the hadith is the same." [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6468] “He who introduces a فِي الإِسْلاَمِ سُنَّةً حَسَنَةً (i.e. good Sunnah in Islam), there is a reward for him for this and reward of that also who acted according to it subsequently, without any deduction from their rewards …” [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] These Ahadith differ in wording but all come togather to overwhelmingly establish Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) had told his companions there is reward for innovating good Sunnahs into Islam. And companions did innovate good Sunnahs into Islam: “Ibn Ulayyah narrated to us, Jarir narrated, al-Hakim bin A'raj narrated; I asked Muhammad about Salat ad-Duha, while he was sitting near the house of Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam). He said: It is an innovation and what a fine innovation it is!" [Ref: Musannaf Ibn Abi Shaybah, Kitab Of Prayer – Salat ad-Duha, H3] "Narrated Muamar, narrated al-Zuhri, narrated [by Ibn Umar’s son] Sa'lim, [that his father] Ibn Umar said: At the time Uthman was killed no-one considered it desirable and the people did not innovate anything that is dearer to me than that prayer." [Ref: Musannaf Abd ar-Razzaq, Book Of Salat (No.2), Chapter al-Duha, H4868] “On that, 'Umar remarked نِعْمَتِ الْبِدْعَةُ هَذِهِ  (i.e. what an excellent innovation this is) but the prayer which they do not perform, but sleep at its time is better than the one they are offering.” [Ref: Bukhari, B32, H227] Please note that reward is for engaging in what is part of Islam i.e. Shari’ah. Hence these statements were made in context of Shari’ah and to be specific in context of Hadith of following words: He who introduced some good Sunnah (i.e. practice, way, tradition, precedent) in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it ...” [Ref: Muslim, B34, H6466] Alhasil: The companions said their innovations are good because they understood there is reward for them and Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa aalihi was’sallam) has told there is reward for innovated good Sunnahs.

Conclusion:

Hadith of; every innovation is misguidance; is restricted to a specific type of innovation. It is restricted to evil innovation and every evil innovation is misguidance and means of taking to fire of hell. Ahadith of good Sunnah and evil Sunnah in Islam indicate good and evil innovations introduced as good/evil Sunnahs into Islam. And the reward/sin for following these innovations is same for the innovator and for the one who follows such innovated good/evil Sunnahs. Shaykh (hafidha-ullah) refuted himself with coins/notes response because it still does mean an innovative good Sunnah was introduced into Islam.

Wama alayna ilal balalghul mubeen.
Muhammed Ali Razavi.

FootNotes:

- [1] “It was narrated that Jabir bin 'Abdullah said: "In his Khutbah the Messenger of Allah used to praise Allah as He deserves to be praised, then he would say: 'Whomsoever Allah (SWT) guides, none can lead him astray, and whomsoever Allah sends astray, none can guide. The truest of word is the Book of Allah and best of guidance is the guidance of Muhammad. The worst of things are those that are newly invented; every newly-invented thing is an innovation and every innovation is going astray, and every going astray is in the Fire.' Then he said: 'The Hour and I have been sent like these two.' Whenever he mentioned the Hour, his cheeks would turn red, and he would raise his voice and become angry, as if he were warning of an approaching army and saying: 'An army is coming to attack you in the morning, or in the evening!' (Then he said): 'Whoever leaves behind wealth, it is for his family, and whoever leaves behind a debt or dependents, then these are my responsibility, and I am the most entitled to take care of the believers.'" [Ref: Nisai, B19, H1579] “Jabir bin Abdullah said: When Allah's Messenger (may peace he upon him) delivered the sermon, his eyes became red, his voice rose, and his anger increased so that he was like one giving a warning against the enemy and saying: "The enemy has made a morning attack on you and in the evening too." He would also say: "The Last Hour and I have been sent like these two." And he would join his forefinger and middle finger; and would further say: "The best of the speech is embodied in the Book of Allah, and the best of the guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad. And the most evil affairs are their innovations; and every innovation is error." He would further say:, I am more dear to a Muslim even than his self; and he who left behind property that is for his family; and he who dies under debt or leaves children (in helplessness), the responsibility (of paying his debt and bringing up his children) lies on me." [Ref: Muslim, B4, H1885]

- [2] “Narrated Aisha: Allah's Messenger said: "If somebody innovates something which is not in harmony with the principles of our religion that thing is rejected." [Ref: Bukhari, B49, H861] This translation is widely available over internet but the one being quoted in main article is literal.

- [3]“I asked Qasim b. Muhammad about a person who had three dwelling houses and he willed away the third part of every one of these houses; he (Qasim b. Muhammad) said: All of them could be combined in one house; and then said: 'A'isha informed me that Allah's Messenger said: He who did any act for which there is no sanction from our behalf, that is to be rejected. [Ref: Muslim, B18, H4267]

Edited 16 مئی 2023 by MuhammedAli

[MuhammedAli]

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