“The faculties of seeing (tudriku) cannot grasp Him, and He grasp all–seeing (yudriku), He is the All-Subtle and All-Aware.” (Qur’an 6:103)
Dear Muslim Ummah. This is a collection of articles on the issue of Seeing Allah (swt) in the hereafter. May Allah (swt) guide you to the path and way of the Muslims. May Allah (swt) guide you to the doctrine of transcendence. The way of the Qur’an and the Sunnah. For this is the safest and securest road.
This section will go to top of Prima-Qur’an under ‘Sound Theology’. Any article related to this matter will be placed here for ease of navigation.
On Seeing Allah: The following article breaks down a video from a brother upon the Ashʿarī theology
Seeing Allah: What Every Christian Should Ask Every Muslim. Christians believe that God took upon himself a form or a shape. The Salafi sect also believes that Allah took upon a form or a shape.
“He gives wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly been given much good. And none will remember except those of understanding.” (Qur’an 2:269)
Bismillah ir rahman ir raheem,
As the above verse clearly states: “Allah gives knowledge to whomever he wills.”
Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “The word of wisdom is the lost property of the believer. Wherever he finds it, he is most deserving of it.”
Source: (Sunan al-Tirmidhī 2687)
Allah (swt) gives inspiration even to the insects.
“And your Lord inspired the bees: “Make ˹your˺ homes in the mountains, the trees, and in what people construct.” (Qur’an 16:68)
Some where some one was paying close attention to a drop of water, perhaps the morning dew upon the grass when they noticed something extraordinary. The drop of water seemed to magnify or enhance the texture of the blade of grass. Thus, making what maybe challenging to see more clear to see.
Allah (swt) has blessed our Sunni and Shi’i brothers with giants in their fields. So when we find them say something that does not go against the clear truth of the Qur’an and the Sunnah and indeed is in alignment with it than why should the believers not take from other believers?
“Today those who disbelieve have lost all hope of (damaging) your faith. So, do not fear them, and fear Me. Today, I have perfected your religion for you, and have completed My blessing upon you, and chosen Islam as Dīn (religion and a way of life) for you.” (Qur’an 5:3)
“It is He who has sent His Messenger with guidance the true world view to manifest over all other world views, although the those who associate others with Allah detest it.” (Qur’an 9:33)
All praise be to Allah (swt) more and more people in the Muslim community are having their eyes opened by Allah (swt).
The Muslims, are the people of truth and righteousness in Russia and Kazakhstan, and I choose among them the preachers, the first of whom is the political analyst Kirill, and the second is our companion Vladimir, and with him is Murad who is the owner of a school in Kazakhstan, and the preacher is Ashir, and they are Ibadhis for a long time and are promising new followers of the truth there. Ibadism Ahul Alistiqamh in Russia and Khazakhstan. More and more people following Istiqamah in Russia, Khazakhstan, and other parts of central Asia.
The Muslims, are the people of truth and integrity in Ghana and Mali. There is a video of them on their YouTube channel and You can find a link on the account page. The Istiqamah community is growing rapidly there. They are under the leadership of the noble Shaykh Umar.
Algeria
The Ibadites are the people of truth and righteousness in Algeria. We would like to mention that the Berbers (the people of North Africa) were the first to accept the Ibadi sect in North Africa, and they formed a sprawling Ibadi state called the Rustumiya State. They are Ibadis in the Maghreb, men and scholars. There is growth and revival among the school in Algeria. The Algerian people respect them in general as people who are upright in religion and steadfast upon the deen.
Zanzibar & Tanzania. Ibadis are the people of truth and integrity in Tanzania Zanzibar, we are limited to mentioning the most famous institute in Tanzania, which is the Institute of Integrity in Tango, and as you know Ibadites spread in all parts of Zanzibar and various regions of Tanzania. The school is growing once again. Those who are entering the school from other schools are those from the Shafi’i madhab and those who proclaimed Salafi Manhaj. Not to mention those who are from the Non Muslims who come to Islam upon this way.
We would be remiss if we did not mention the honorable and noble teacher, Caller to the Truth, Shaykh Khamis Kwaheri. He was beloved by the people and tireless in the effort of dawah. Allah (swt) called him home. A beautiful Nasheed in his honour!
Bangladesh Ibadis are the people of truth and righteousness in Bangladesh, (and they are guided by Shaykh Saif al-Islam) In the picture below, there is a video attached to his school in a next tweet…
Sudan. The Ibadis are the people of truth and integrity from Sudan, I will only mention the shaykhs, including Shaykh Al-Balqiah, who is a preacher and influenced by Shaykh Ja’id Al-Kharousi, may Allah have mercy on him. . May Allah protect them and bless them both!
France.
The Ibadites are the people of truth and righteousness in France, and Shaykh Kahlan Al-Kharusi has visits to France. You can find them on YouTube. We mention the deceased preacher Shaykh Muhammad Qaras (raheemullah) sitting next to the left Shaykh Kahlan. The Istiqamah community is growing in France. Interestingly communities that may have not interacted in Algeria, Libya, Tunisia and Morocco interact more freely in France. This has generated lots of interest in the school. There is an abundance of literature in French and Arabic.
Libya.
Nafusa and Zuwara region is where you find most of the Muslims, the People of the The Truth and Steadfastness. They have a long history in Libya. You should also know that the Ibadi school is working with the Amazigh people to thwart the attempts by outsiders to foment ethnic strife and tension between Arabs, Amazigh and others. The French tried their colonization methods and now they are trying a different more subversive approach. We will be there to stop them.
Kenya
The Ibadis, the people of truth and righteousness in Kenya. Islam spread throughout the countries of East Africa with the people of truth and righteousness, until the call withered with the arrival of foreign sectarian currents backed by money and men, to lead them where they desired and forget the truth, and only a few Omani and African tribes remained that cling to the truth. That is changing today. As the call has been revived and more material and information is available in Swahili and Arabic the Istiqamah school is once again growing. Al hamdulillah!
Thailand. A very touching audio clip explaining the story behind the first Istiqamah school in Thailand. Interesting that the former Mufti suggested to the young Shaykh how to navigate the chaos currently going in the Muslim world.
Uganda
Ibadis are the people of truth and righteousness in Uganda, the mother of the great Nile River, including Dr. Ashraf, who is the director of the Abu Ubaidah Muslim bin Abi Karima School (the second imam), and dozens of seasoned preachers and memorizers of the Noble Qur’an graduate annually on his hands, then spread in villages and neighboring countries in order to invite the people to the truth. Dr. Ashraf is a very beautiful soul who gives of himself tirelessly, both as a medical professional and in the director of his school. He has personally suffered under the hands of militant Christians and those who have tried to shut down the school.
The Ibadis are the people of truth and integrity in Tunisia. Djerba is one of the authentic lands that embraced and stuck to the Ibadi school over time, and among them is mentioned Shaykh Farhat Al-Jaberi, may Allah protect him and keep him, and he has many books, and this is a brief photo of them. Farhat al-Jaberi appears to the left of Shaykh Ahmed al-Siyabi.
Nigeria
The Ibadites are the people of truth and righteousness in Nigeria, and one of their elders was Shaykh Al-Bruni – may Allah have mercy on him – who learned in Zanzibar, and the virtuous professor Othman Al-Qoni has an active hand in the call, and our companion, the translator of the shaykhs’ lectures from Arabic into English Ahmed was studying in Saudi Arabia, and Shaykh Dr. Takoh informed us of what was happening. Al hamduillah.
United States and the United Kingdom, where our brothers are coming to the path of Ahl Al Haqq Wal Istiqamah. In the United Kingdom there is an Masjid established there. May Allah (swt) continue to open the eyes and the hearts to the truth!
There are many hundreds more every day that Allah (swt) is opening their eyes and their hearts to the truth. Brothers and sisters from Germany, Burkina Faso, Palestine, South Korea, Canada, Trinidad, Brazil, Croatia, Bosnia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Holland and not to mention the revival that is happening among the Freemen (Amazigh)
The Muslims, The People of the Truth and Steadfastness you will not find us among the conflicts among the Muslims today. You will not find us among the sectarian strife today. We are not invested in what happened among the companions 1400 years ago. Nor are we beholden to them. We are not an apocalyptical school hanging on the future musings of salvific figures who may never come. We are people of the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Islam is not found in the books it is found in communities.
“There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” (Qur’an 42:11)
Let us get something out of the way from the very beginning. There is not a single narration from the Blessed Messenger (saw) where when he speaks of Allah’s “hands” that he (saw), says, “In a way that befits his majesty” or “unlike his creation.”
I challenge any of those people who make such a disclaimer statement after mentioning “hands”, “foot”, “eyes”, “shin” “leg” “foot” or “side” to show this!
Another point that we need to clarify from the very beginning is that what is put in the minds of the common people is that the early generation of Muslims often called, ‘The Salaf’ did not apply ta’wil (figurative) interpretation of “Allah’s attributes”.
This premise that they managed to fool the masses on has no basis. It is an unproven premise based on many assumptions (as we shall see).
Assumption 1. That the early community even understood these as ‘attributes’ to begin with.
Assumption 2. That the early community didn’t understand “face”, “hands”, “foot”, “shin” as metaphors, idiom, or allegory to begin with.
For example: Let us say that the Qur’an said: “Oh believers do not rattle my cage.” The assumption of the postmodern “Salafi” or ‘Athari’ is that the companions had a literal or apparent understanding of that idiom, to begin with. The assumption is that they did not understand that in accordance with the Arabic language that as simply “do not anger me.”
Assumption 3. All the companions had the exact same level of understanding and thinking about the sacred sources. This is simply not true. Just like there are people today who speak the English language and not all of them have the same mastery of the language; likewise there were Arabs who were more adept at their language than others.
“Then We gave the Scripture as inheritance unto those whom We elected of Our servants. But of them are some who wrong themselves and of them are some who are lukewarm, and of them are some who outstrip (others) through good deeds, by Allah’s leave. That is the great favour!” (Qur’an 35:32)
In fact, this should be a wake-up call. Simply ask yourselves how many of the companions are known for their tafsir of the Qur’an? How many?
It is very important to not misrepresent the position or views of other Muslims. I do not believe that those who claim that Allah (swt) has “hands”, “face” “two right hands” or “two eyes” believe that Allah (swt) is composed of parts.
However, those who hold the apparent meaning of the words make many bold claims that are simply not true.
One of the most obvious indicators of the inconsistency of those who call themselves “Athari” or those who claim to uphold the way of the Salaaf is the fact that the Qur’an refers to Allah (swt) using the masculine pronoun ‘huwa’ or ‘he is’. Because the word “Allah” is grammatically masculine, not because Allah is naturally masculine.
“Say: He is Allah, the One!”(Qur’an 112:1)
However, do these people claim that Allah (swt) is masculine? That Allah (swt) is a male? Of course not. Even though that is the apparent meaning of the text. You will never hear them say, We affirm Allah is a He (in a way that befits his majesty).
“It is He who sent down the Book to you from Him: verses that are absolutely clear — they are the foundation of the Book — and others which are open to interpretation. As for those whose hearts are given to swerving, they follow that of it which is open to interpretation, seeking discord and seeking its interpretation. And none know its (tawil) interpretation save Allah and those firmly rooted in knowledge. They say, “We believe in it; all is from our Lord.” And none remember, save those who possess intellect.” (Qur’an 3:7)
Now it is generally understood that the absolutely clear, the mubeen are those verses in relation to the law. Where as those which are mutashabih, are those in which metaphor, allegory is used.
“Whenever they bring you an argument, We come to you with the right refutation and the best explanation-tafsiran.” (Qur’an 25:33)
The verses about hands, face, and shin were so absolutely clear to the Blessed Messenger (saw) that we do not find this innovated religious terminology of Him (saw) saying, “hands” that he (saw), says, “In a way that befits his majesty” or “unlike his creation.”
“There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” (Qur’an 42:11)
When someone says, we say ‘Hand but not like other hands‘ It is still comparing the Creator to the Creation. For example, I have a hand but it’s not like other human hands. Even identical twins have different hands with different patterns. Many animals have hands and those hands are not like the hands of other animals. This is actually Tashbih.
However, what is the apparent meaning of hand but hand? They know this that is why they are quick to add this innovated religious terminology that we do not see the Blessed Messenger (saw) say, when they w quickly add (but unlike other hands). Did the text say “unlike other hands”?
For example:
“And the Jews say, “The hand of Allah is chained.” Chained are their hands, and cursed are they for what they say. Rather, both His hands are extended.” (Qur’an 5:64)
Did this text say:
“Rather, both His hands (which are unlike other hands) are extended?” No! The text doesn’t say that. So on what basis do they deny that the hands are like other hands? They claim on the basis of this text.
“There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” (Qur’an 42:11)
Yet they turn around deny that because they do not allow the usage of the Arabic language to take effect.
Our real difference with them is the following:
We allow interpret the Qur’an in light of how the Qur’an uses these words or expressions in other places.
The fact that the Blessed Messenger (saw), never used the innovated terminology “unlike other hands” or “in a way that befits his majesty.”
So what are the principles when dealing with statements in the Qur’an about hands, face, shin, and so forth?
The first and most obvious point is that the Qur’an was sent down in Arabic.
“Indeed, We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’an that you might understand.” (Qur’an 12:2)
“And thus We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’an and have diversified therein the warnings that perhaps they will avoid sin or it would cause them remembrance. “ (Qur’an 20:113)
“And that behold, it will be for Us to explain it.” (by-ya-nahu) (Qur’an 75:19)
As the Qur’an came down n the Arabic language it would employ the understanding that the Arabs would have of its grammar, syntax, metaphors, and so forth.
“Thus Allah makes plain to you His revelations, that perhaps you may reflect”. (Qur’an 2:219)
If something in the Qur’an is not made plain to us it falls under the category of open to interpretation or unclear.
Also, those Muslims who claim that Allah (swt) has hands, face, and shin (but unlike his Creation) have admitted that they have no model of comparison and thus ultimately they don’t really know what it means. At this point to insist that we accept hands, face, and shin for Allah (swt) while admitting that they ultimately do not know what it means is committing a very heavy sin.
Proof that the so called “Salafi” have a guilty conscious.
If the “Salafi” or the “Athari” were consistent they would simply say, Allah (swt) has a hands, shin and face…full stop! Why do they need to add “in a way that befits his majesty?” , “but unlike his creation?”
Every single Muslim knows that Allah (swt) is majestic why do they need to add the caveat “in a way that befits his majesty?”
Because they have a guilty conscious. This is why they use innovated religious terminology that the Blessed Messenger (saw) did not use.
A sin of speculation about the Creator that Allah (swt) warned us about.
Say, “My Lord has only forbidden immoralities – what is apparent of them and what is concealed – and sin, and oppression without right, and that you associate with Allah that for which He has not sent down authority, and that you say about Allah that which you do not know.” (Qur’an 7:33)
Thankfully Allah (swt) has given us the Arabic language, with its rules of grammar and language pertaining to what is figurative interpretation, literal, metaphorical, and so forth.
Also, as we will see that those who are grounded In knowledge have shown that these are indeed figurative and metaphorical devices that are used by Allah (swt) about himself.
The Qur’an abounds with figurative language in regards to Allah (swt) that if taken by their apparent meaning will lead to some very problematic conclusions concerning our Sovereign Lord.
“Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him many times over? And it is Allah who withholds and grants abundance, and to Him, you will be returned.” (Qur’an 2:245)
It should go without saying that Allah (swt) is not in need of a loan. There are three other places with such wording: Qur’an 57:11, 57:18, and 64:17.
“O you who believe! Be helpers of Allah, just as Jesus son of Mary said to the apostles, “Who are my helpers unto Allah?” The apostles replied, “We are helpers unto Allah.” Then a group from the Children of Israel believed and a group disbelieved. So We strengthened those who believed against their enemies, and they came to prevail.” (Qur’an 61:14)
It should go without saying that Allah (swt) does not need any help. A similar statement is found in Qur’an 3:52.
“They desire to deceive Allah and those who believe, and they deceive only themselves and they do not perceive.” (Qur’an 2:9)
It should go without saying that Allah (swt) cannot be deceived.
“The hypocrite men and hypocrite women are of one another. They enjoin what is wrong and forbid what is right and close their hands. They have forgotten Allah, so He has forgotten them accordingly. Indeed, the hypocrites it is they who are defiantly disobedient.” (Qur’an 9:67)
It should go without saying that Allah (swt) does not forget. A similar verse is in Qur’an 59:19
“Those who hurt Allah and His Messenger — they Allah has cursed in the present world and the world to come, and has prepared for them a humbling chastisement.” (Qur’an 33:57)
Are we really to believe that Allah (swt) can be hurt?
“And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, “My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up when I was small.” (Qur’an 17:24)
An apparent reading of this text is that human beings have at least two wings one of which is the ‘wing of humility’ that we should lower to our parents from time to time.
“Lo! those on whom you call besides Allah are slaves like unto you. Call on them now, and let them answer you if you are truthful!” (Qur’an 7:194)
Are we really to believe from this that Allah (swt) is giving permission for a momentary practice of shirk to prove a point?
“And whoever is blind in this life will be blind in the Hereafter and more astray in way.” (Qur’an 17:72)
Are we really to believe from this that Shaky Abdul Aziz bin Baz (who was blind in this life) will be raised up blind in the next life?
THE “FACE” OF ALLAH?
“And whoever submits his face to Allah while he is a doer of good – then he has grasped the most trustworthy handhold. And to Allah will be the outcome of all matters.” (Qur’an 31:22)
“Nay, whosoever submits his face to Allah, while being virtuous, shall have his reward with his Lord. No fear shall come upon them; nor shall they grieve. “ (Qur’an 2:112)
“So direct your face toward the religion, inclining to truth. Adhere to the fitrah of Allah upon which He has created all people. No change should there be in the creation of Allah. That is the correct religion, but most people do not know.” (Qur’an 30:30)
Anyone care to explain how I ‘direct my face towards the religion’?
Or what does it mean to ‘submit my face to Allah’? If I take it at the apparent meaning does this mean I don’t have to submit my heart to Allah?
So let me tell you something about the Salaaf and these expressions in the Qur’an. Either one of two situations is possible.
Either you were told by people themselves who are not informed that these people (the early Muslims) did not employ the usage of the Arabic language to make sense of these expressions.
You were deliberately lied to.
We have already written an article in which we have shown that Ibn Taymiyya himself applied Ta’wil or figurative interpretation (based upon the tafsir of the Qur’an by the Qur’an and the usage of the Arabic language). In turn, he got this information from people like none other than Jafar As Sadiq (r.a).
“Cast him into the chest and cast it into the river, and the river will throw it onto the bank; there will take him an enemy to Me and an enemy to him.’ And I bestowed upon you love from Me that you would be brought up under My eye.” (Qur’an 20:39)
“Build the Ark under Our eyes and Our direction. And do not supplicate Me concerning those who have engaged in wrong-doing. They are doomed to be drowned.” (Qur’an 11:37)
“Sailing, before Our eyes, a reward for him who was denied.” (Qur’an 54:14)
Now for a people who claim not to liken Allah (swt) to the creation, they sure did drop the ball on this one! They claim that Allah (swt) has two eyes of which they have absolutely 0 proof.
Abu Bakr Ibn Khuzaymah, stated:
“We say: Our Lord, the Creator, has two eyes and He sees with them what is beneath the soil, and what is beneath the seventh and lowest earth, and what is in the highest heavens, and whatever is between them, whether small or great…”
Source: (Kitāb At-Tawheed p. 52, Dār Al-Kitāb Al-Ilmiyyah)
Ibn ‘Uthaimeen stated:
“We believe that Allah, The Most High, has two real eyes. And this is the saying of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamā’ah. Abul-Hasan Al-Ash’aree said: The saying of Ahlus-Sunnah and the As-hāb Al-Hadeeth is that Allah has two eyes, without saying ‘how’ just as Allah has said, “[It was] sailing under Our Eyes.” (54:14).”
Source: (See Izālatus-Sitār ‘an Al-Jawāb Al-Mukhtār li-Hidāyatil-Muhtār of Ibn ‘Uthaymeen, p. 22; also Al-Maqālāt Al-Islāmiyyeen 1/345)
What they do is rely upon the following hadith:
Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, (saw) said, “No prophet was sent but that he warned his nation of the one-eyed liar. Verily, he is blind in one eye and your Lord is not. Verily, between his two eyes is written the word of unbelief.
Source: (al-Bukhārī 6712)
Through the above hadith, they rely upon reason and speculation!! The very thing they accuse others of doing.
This should be a dead give away to the discerning reader whom Allah (swt) has guided as to the reality of their beliefs!
First point. Notice that they are contrasting two very real eyes for Allah (swt) with the creation (Dajjal)? If that Is not telling I don’t know what is. They have to one-up the Dajjal by attributing to Allah (swt) two eyes!
Second point. If they are going to take that route why not say Allah (swt) has ‘three very real eyes’? After all a careful reading of the dajjal hadith says, “between his two eyes‘.
Third point. As they have relied upon the hadith about the Dajjal and one eye, it is proof enough that they don’t feel the Qur’an informs them as to the actual “number of eyes” Allah (swt) really has. So from that perspective, Allah (swt) could have hundreds of thousands of eyes.
Fourth point. As their Shaykh Uthaymeen has said that Allah (swt) has “two real eyes” and Ibn Khuzaymah who said, “he sees with them,” this is unlike Satan who apparently doesn’t need the use of eyes to see us!
“O children of Adam, let not Satan tempt you as he removed your parents from Paradise, stripping them of their clothing to show them their private parts. Indeed, he sees you, he and his tribe, from where you do not see them. Indeed, We have made the devils as allies to those who do not believe.” (Qur’an 7:27)
Ibn Hazm who is more consistent than those who proclaim themselves “Salafi” or “Athari”.
Ibn Hazim said in regards to the the subject of Allah (swt) having “two eyes” the following:
Saying: He has two eyes is null and void and part of the belief of anthropomorphist. Allah said ‘ayn(eye) and ayunan (eyes) and it is not permissible for anyone to describe Him as possessing “two eyes”, because no text has reached us to that effect.” Source: (Ibn Hazm, al-Fasl fi al-milal 2:166)
So concerning the Blessed Prophet Muhammed (saw) and the Companions, you will find no record of them affirming “two eyes” for Allah (swt).
Those who claim this are either
1) Jahil (ignorant) merely repeating what others said without any verification.
2) They are spreading lies about the Blessed Messenger (saw) and the companions.
3) Attributing to Allah (swt) lies and falsehood without proofs and evidences. Merely relying upon assumption and speculation.
“SALAFI” and “ATHARI” publishers slowly back away from apparent reading of certain text.
Thankfully these people seem to be slowly backing away from this position as we have seen more sensible translations (within the parameters of the Arabic language) coming out of Saudi Arabia.
Examples:
“And construct the ship under Our observation and Our inspiration and do not address Me concerning those who have wronged; indeed, they are [to be] drowned.” (Qur’an 11:37 Sahih International)
“Sailing under Our observation as a reward for he who had been denied.” (Qur’an 54:14 Sahih International)
“She floats under our eyes (and care): a recompense to one who had been rejected (with scorn)!” (Qur’an 54:14 Yusuf Ali Original 1938 and Saudi Revised 1985)
That the Sahih International doesn’t opt for a literal translation is a softening of their approach. The fact that even the Yusuf Ali Saudi Revised 1985 edition which has in brackets (and care) shows that this is exactly what ‘under our eyes’ means. Both are good signs for the Muslim ummah.
THE “LAUGHTER” OR “CHUCKLING” OF ALLAH
Now to be honest this is very bizarre indeed. Only in the minds of the people who liken Allah (swt) to the Creation is it necessary to affirm as a point of creed (I am looking at you Aqidah Al Wasatiyyah) that Allah (swt) laughs.
Imagine being ex-communicated from religion for refusing to believe in a God that laughs? Now they affirm laughter for Allah (swt) with the caveat “in a way that befits his majesty.”
Abu Razin reported: The Messenger of Allah, (saw), said, “Allah laughs at the despair of his servant, for he will soon relieve him.” I said, “O Messenger of Allah, does the Lord laugh?” The Prophet said, “Yes.” I said, “We will never be deprived of goodness by a Lord who laughs!” Source: (Source: Sunan Ibn Mājah 181)
“It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said: Allah chuckles at the two men both of whom will enter Paradise (though) one of them kills the other. They said: Messenger of Allah, how is it? He said: One of them fights in the way of Allah, the Almighty, and Exalted. and dies a martyr. Then Allah turns in mercy to the murderer who embraces Islam, fights in the way of Allah, the Almighty, and Exalted, and dies a martyr.” Source:(Muslim Kitab Al-Iman hadith number 4658)
Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, (saw), said, “Allah laughs at two men, one of them killed the other, yet they both entered Paradise. This one fought in the way of Allah and was killed, then his killer repented and was also martyred.” Source: (al-Bukhari 2671, Muslim 1890)
Apparently, Imam al-Bayhaqi reports (without a chain) that Imam al-Bukhari said concerning the hadith: “Allah laughs at two men, one of them kills the other, and both of them enter Paradise,” that laughing means, “mercy.” That is, ‘Allah shows mercy to both of them.”
Source: (Al-Asma wa al-Sifat: page 298 and 470 Imam al-Bayhaqi)
My comments:
I notice the inconsistency in the translation here. If “Allah Chuckling“ is to be equated with his mercy than the above hadith should have translated the word used for ‘chuckling‘ or ‘mercy‘ twice.
All of these hadiths seem to be confused and mixed up and I have a huge doubt that any of them were passed down impeccably. The fact that the ahadith seem to mix things up should be apparent to anyone reading them. They seem to belong to the same pedigree or genre. So I would like to have good thoughts that indeed we are talking about the mercy of Allah (swt).
If not this presents a very dark picture of the Creator laughing and chuckling at people who are in despair. People who are contemplating suicide, the plight of the Palestinians, or even the Blessed Prophet (saw) being distraught over conveying Islam.
“You would only, perchance, worry yourself to death, following after them, in grief, if they believe not in this Message.” (Quran 18:6)
I believe another point of consideration is that if Allah (swt) chuckles and laughs is there sound? Is this part of his speech? If so does this mean that the chuckling and laughter of Allah (swt) is an eternal sifat? Are we to imagine our Creator laughing/chuckling for all eternity?
Take heed seekers after truth! This is the kind of creed that many among the Muslims are calling you too, unfortunately!
THE “TWO HANDS” OF ALLAH?
Let us get something out of the way from the very beginning. There is not a single narration from the Blessed Messenger (saw) where when he speaks of Allah’s “hands” that he (saw), says, “In a way that befits his majesty” or “unlike his creation.”
I challenge any of those people who make such a disclaimer statement after mentioning “hands”, “foot”, “eyes”, “shin” “leg” “foot” or “side” to show this!
The fact that such people have to put a disclaimer after such a statement is an innovation!
“They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal, while the earth entirely will be within His grip on the Day of Resurrection, and the heavens will be folded in His right hand. Exalted is He and high above what they associate with Him.”(Qur’an 39:67)
This verse also demolishes the claim that Allah (swt) is above the throne in a literal sense. When Allah (swt) folds up the heavens there goes the throne as well!
“Allah said, “O Iblis, what prevented you from prostrating to that which I created with My hands? Were you arrogant then, or were you already among the haughty?” (Qur’an 38:75)
Some of these people have tried to argue that this word translated as “hands” must be understood as “hands” as something special in relation to the creation of Adam. However, this is refuted by the following text of the Qur’an:
“Do they not see that We have created for them from what Our hands have made, grazing livestock, and then they are their owners?”(Qur’an 36:71)
Are we to say that cattle have an advantage or distinction over other animals because they were created by the “hands” of Allah?
“And the sky we built it with hands.” (Qur’an 51:47)
Look at how all three of these Saudi English translations of the Qur’an translate the above text!!
“And the heaven We constructed with strength, and indeed, We are its expander.”(Qu’ran 51:47 Sahih International)
“With power did we Construct heaven. Verily, We are able to extend the vastness of space thereof.” (Qur’an 51:47 Muhsin Khan & Muhammed Al Hilali)
“With power and skill did We construct the Firmament: for it is We Who create the vastness of pace.” (Qur’an 51:47 Yusuf Ali Saudi 1985)
The hands of Allah (swt) tied up?
“And the Jews say, ‘The hand of Allah is tied up.’ Chained are their hands, and cursed are they for what they say. Rather, both His Hands are extended, HE spends however He Wills.” (Qur’an 5:64)
It is obvious, to begin with, that this very verse is allegorical. The Jews are not literally saying that Allah’s hand is “tied up”. Rather they are claiming that Allah (swt) is not bestowing upon them what they feel he should bestow. What this verse means is that both the power and generosity of Allah (swt) is on full display.
“He wrote the Tawrāt for you with His Own Hand.”
Source: (Bukhāri, no. 6614, Muslim, no. 80)
TWO RIGHT HANDS OF ALLAH? MORE GUILTY CONSCIOUS.
“The Prophet [saw] said: “Those who are just and fair will be with Allah, Most High, on thrones of light, at the right hand of the Most Merciful, those who are just in their rulings and in their dealings with their families and those of whom they are in charge.” Muhammed (one of the sub narrators) said in his Hadith: “And both of His hands are right hands.” Source: (Sunan an-Nasa’i 5379 Book 49, Hadith 1 English reference: Vol 6, Book 49, Hadith 5381)
This cannot be said to be attributed to the Blessed Messenger (saw). This is the statement of the sub-narrator. These people in their guilty conscious did not want people to think Allah (swt) has a left hand. Which also shows they are involved in dhan (speculation) about Allah (swt). They did not just let the words pass they had to make bold assertions without proof!
Other uses of the word hand in the Qur’an.
“Indeed, those who pledge allegiance to you, they are actually pledging allegiance to Allah. The hand of Allah is over their hands. So he who breaks his word only breaks it to the detriment of himself. And he who fulfills that which he has promised Allah – He will give him a great reward.” (Qur’an 48:10)
This is a metaphorical usage of the word hand that is allowed within the context of the Qur’an itself. Will it be said that people who have no hands or people who are amputees could never make such a pledge?
“And whatever strikes you of disaster – it is for what your hands have earned, but He pardons much.”(Qur’an 42:30)
Are we to understand from the above verse that as long as we do evil with our tongues, eyes, feet that disaster will not befall us? As far as those who do not have physical hands does this verse still apply to them?
“And also prohibited to you are all married women except those your right hands possess.” (Qur’an 4:24)
Are we to understand by this verse that a person who has no right hand or a person who was an amputee would not be permitted to marry women as he has no “right hand” to possess them? Certainly not.
“Oh Prophet, say to whoever is in your hands of the captives, “If Allah knows any good in your hearts, He will give you something better than what was taken from you, and He will forgive you, and Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Qur’an 8:70)
Are we supposed to imagine that the Blessed Prophet (saw) was a giant with little tiny people in his hands!?!
“And remember Our servants Ibrahim and Ishaq and Yaqoub, men who possessed hands and vision.” (Qur’an 38:45)
Here the word hands literally do mean power. Look how virtually everyone under the sun translates this!
“Or he in whose hand is the knot of marriage remits.” (Qur’an 2:237)
AFFIRMING THE “SHIN” FOR ALLAH
“The Day the shin will be uncovered and they are invited to prostration but the disbelievers will not be able.” (Qur’an 68:42)
The Shin. Why the shin?
Just ask that question of those who say that it is a matter of creed to accept this on its apparent meaning. Without going into linguistics this alone should expose to everyone under the sun their anthropomorphic creed.
If this is not a metaphor and we are to understand that an attribute of Allah (swt) called, “The Shin” ‘ (but a Shin, unlike the creation, is shown) o.k fair enough, but….. umm. WHY THE SHIN?
Why not the hands, face, foot, leg, or side? Think about it. Take all the time that you need.
What did the Salaaf say about the shin? What did those early Muslims say about the “Shin”?
Ibn Abbas (r.a) understood this to mean “severity”. That is, “The day that severity will be laid bare.” Explaining this verse, Imam al-Tabari said:
A group of the Prophet’s companions and their disciples, and the people of figurative interpretation have said: “He will uncover a severe matter.” And among those who interpreted the shin to mean “severity” from the Imams of Quranic exegesis are Mujahid, Sa’id bin Jubayr, Qatada, and others, Allah (swt), said,: “And the sky, we built it with hands, And it is We who give expanse.” (Quran 51:47). Ibn Abbas said concerning it: “with strength”.
Source: (Tafsir al-Tabari 27/57)
AFFIRMING THE “LEG” OR “FOOT” FOR ALLAH
And his saying, (saw) Hell will continue to be filled and will say: Are there any more? Until the Lord of honor places His leg (and in another narration: His foot) over it and some of its parts retreat from each other and it says: Enough! Enough!’ All of its parts will be filled together and Allah will not wrong any of His creatures. As for Paradise, Allah will create a new creation with which to fill it.” Source: (Al-Bukhari 4569 and Sahih Muslim 2847)
Abu Sulayman al-Khattabi a Shafi’i hadith master said concerning this:
“The meaning of the qadam here is possibly a reference to those whom Allah has created of old or “sent forth” for the Fire in order to complete the number of its inhabitants. Everything that is “sent forth” is a qadam, in the same way, that the verbal noun of demolishing (hadama) is a hadm or ruin, and that of seizing (qabada) is qabd or a seizure. Likewise, Allah said:
“They have a sure foundation (qadam sidq) with their Lord.” (Qur’an 10:2). With reference to the good works which they have sent forth. This explanation has been transmitted to us from Al-Hasan al-Basri”
This is the nature of our brothers who understand the usage of the Arabic language and apply those rules accordingly. Otherwise, we will end up believing disgraceful things concerning our Creator.
For us, the Muslims, Ahl Al Haqq Wal Istiqama (Ibadi School) there are a few points we might make as regards this hadith. As mentioned by al-Khattabi there is scope for a figurative interpretation based upon the rules of the Arabic language. Otherwise, that hadith will clash with these two verses from the Qur’an:
“Allah said, “O fire, be coolness and safety upon Abraham.” (Qu’ran 21:69)
Upon the command of Allah (swt) the fire became cool why would Allah (swt) need to stamp it out with his foot or leg? He can just make the command.
“Had they really been gods they would not have entered it: They will all abide in it forever.” (Qur’an 21:99)
We know that Allah (swt) is really God. So on the basis of this verse hell is for that which is evil, vile and false and Allah (swt) is Haqq, not falsehood.
AFFIRMING THE “COMING” OF ALLAH
“Do they await but that Allah should come to them in covers of clouds and the angels as well and the matter is then decided? And to Allah, all matters are returned.” (Qur’an 2:210)
“And thy Lord shall come with angels, rank on rank.” (Qur’an 89:22)
‘Are they waiting for the angels to come, or for your Lord to come, or for some of the signs of your Lord?’ (6:158)
This is Imam Ahmad’s ta’wil of the “coming”
Ibn Kathir reports in al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya that Imam Ahmad said about Allah’s saying: “And Your Lord comes”, “That is, His reward comes.” Imam al-Bayhaqi said, “This is a chain with no dust on it.”
“Wait they aught save that your Lord’s command (amr) should come to pass?” (Qur’an 16:32)
Imam Ahmad’s nephew Hanbal said that he heard Imam Ahmad say:
They argued against me on the day of the (great) debate [munazara], and they say: ‘Sura al-Baqara will come on the Day of Resurrection.” He [Imam Ahmed] said: “So I said to them: “That is merely the reward of Sura al-Baqara that will come.”
Source: (Imam al-Razi’s Asas al Taqdis p 108 and Dhahabi’s Siyar Alam Al-Nubala: 5/11)
Also telling from this group is their treatment of the following hadith:
“Allah says…..And whoever comes to Me walking, I come to him running.”
Source: (al-Bukhari 7405 Book 97, Hadith 34/English Volume 9, Book 93, Hadith 502)
Concerning the above hadith they have been reported to have said::
In Fatawa al-Aqida by Muhammad b. Salih b. Uthaimin, page 112, he says: Quote:
وأي مانع يمنع من أن نؤمن بأن الله تعالى يأتي هرولة
“What could forbid us from believing that Allah performs jogging/trotting [harwala]?” [!!!]
Quote:
“If My slave comes to Me walking, I go to him running”. Source: (Al-Bukhari, vol. 9, Book 93, Number 627) Ibn Baz cites the hadith in his Fatawa and adds:
“Interpreting such hadith metaphorically and avoiding relying upon their literal meanings is the practice of the heretic Jahmiyyah and Mu’taziliyyah”.
Source: (Fatawa Ibn Baz, vol. 5, p. 374)
Al-Albani is very explicit on the point: “Running is an attribute of Allah that we lack a base for denying”. Source: (Fatawa Al-Albani, p. 506)
Again, Ibn Baz adds:
Question: Is running an attribute of Allah?
Answer: Yes, as it has been shown in the holy divine hadith…..” and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running.’ narrated Bukhari and Muslim.
Ibn Baz, The Everlasting Garden for Scientific Research and Legal Opinions Vol.3 Page 196. The heading of the subject where this fatwa was issued is called “Sifat al-harwala” , the attribute (Sifa) of running.
Source: (The fatwa issued here is number 6932 Book title: Fatawa al-Janna al-Da’ima Lilbuhuth al’ilmiyah wa al’ifta)
“Standing firm on justice” (Qur’an 3:18)
You may also ask these people if they believe that Allah (swt) is “sitting” on the throne or do they believe that Allah (swt) is “standing” as this verse says. Perhaps some of them believe it is both and will simply add “without asking how.”
AFFIRMING THE “SIDE” OF ALLAH
“Lest anyone should say, Alas for me, having neglected the side(janbi) of Allah, and having been one of those who scoffed!” (Qur’an 39:56)
Thankfully this one escaped the Aqida Al Wasatiyyah! I haven’t heard yet these people asking Muslims to affirm the “side” of Allah (swt) as an attribute. Praise be to Allah (swt) that common sense and usage of the Arabic language prevailed here!
In fact all three of the usual suspects, all three Saudi Arabian English translations have translated Arabic as such:
“Lest the soul should (then) say: ‘Ah! Woe is me!- In that, I neglected (my duty) towards Allah, and was but among those who mocked!’- (Qur’an 39:56 Yusuf Ali Saudi Version 1985)
“Lest a person should say: “Alas, my grief that I was undutiful to Allah (i.e. I have not done what Allah has ordered me to do), and I was indeed among those who mocked (at the truth! i.e. La ilaha ill-Allah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah), the Quran, and Muhammad SAW and at the faithful believers, etc.)” (Qur’an 39:56 Muhsin Khan & Muhammed Al Hilali)
“Lest a soul should say, “Oh [how great is] my regret over what I neglected in regard to Allah and that I was among the mockers.” (Qur’an 39:56 Sahih International)
In fact, this is a rare occasion of total consensus in the English language in which all translations have translated at the word as other than “side”.
In the end, ultimately this type of concept concerning Allah (swt) falls flat. If these people will refer back to the Salaaf and bring us a single statement where the Blessed Messenger (saw) said, “hand in a way that befits his majesty” or “foot in a way that befits his majesty”. If they are unable or unwilling to understand metaphor, figurative speech and/or rhetorical devices than perhaps they will listen to this Imam of the Hanbali school, none other than Ibn Jawzi.
“Regarding Abu Ya’la ibn al-Farra, the scholars have been particularly harsh. Ibn al-Athir relates that Abu Muhammed al-Tamimi said of him that he had stained the Hanbalis with such distortion and disgrace that the waters of the sea will never wash them clean.” Source: (Ibn al-Athir, al-Kamil 10:52)
Furthermore, Ibn Jawzi relates:
“Al-Qadi Abu Bakr ibn al-Arabi says: “One of my shaykhs whom I consider trustworthy has related to me that Abu Ya’la used to say in relation to the meanings of Allah’s attributes: “No matter what justifications you give to me, I consider it necessary for Him to possess everything in the way of attributes, except a beard and genitals.” Source: (Abu Bakr Ibn al-Arabi al-Awasim 2:283)
What an evil thing to muse about Allah (swt). May Allah (swt) guide these peope
“So We did not send any messenger except [speaking] in the language of his people to articulate for them, and Allah sends astray [thereby] whom He wills and guides whom He wills. And He is the Exalted in Might, the Wise.” (Qur’an 14:4)
Shaykh Juma Mazrui (hafidullah) began his topic about the use of Majaz in the sunnah by giving us a recap of the previous lesson.
He mentioned some more examples from the Qur’an which I will now proceed to quote here:
“So do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.” (Qur’an 17:29 Sahih international translation)
“And do not set up your hand shackled to your neck, (i.e., Do not be niggardly) nor outspread it widespread altogether, (Literally: outspread it all outspreading, i.e., do not be a spendthrift) for then you will sit blamed and regretfully rejected.” (Qur’an 17:29 Dr. Ghali translation)
This is another beautiful example of majaz, of metaphor in the Qur’an. In fact if one was to take the literal interpretation of this verse, where exactly would this half-way point between tying one’s hand to one’s neck and extending it fully? Would that look like?
So what the verse is saying, it using hand as a metaphor for that which gives, or distributes. That one should not be stingy, nor should one be a spendthrift. That we should be balanced in our approach to spending.
“Of them some seem to give heed to you; will you, then, make the deaf hear even though they understand nothing? And of them some look towards you; will you, then, guide the blind, even though they can see nothing?” (Qur’an 10:41-42)
Obviously it means those who are spiritually blind. The eyes are used as a metaphor for the ability to perceive, understand and be open to something.
“Indeed, the worst of living creatures in the sight of Allah are the deaf and dumb who do not use reason.” (Qur’an 8:22)
Yet Allah (swt) who created people in such a condition and than blames them for this? So it cannot mean what the apparent text says.
“They will say, “Indeed, you used to come at us from the right hand.” (Qur’an 37:28)
Look at how various translators have tried to deal with the above text!
Here the right hand is used as a metaphor, majaz which means to approach, admonish strongly.
So than moving to the ahadith, contrary to what people today tell us that the Salaaf, the Blessed Messenger (saw) and his companions took everything from their outward meaning on the contrary they understood the use of majaz in their language.
On the authority of Abu Hurayrah, who said that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said:
“Allah (mighty and sublime be He) said: Pride is my cloak (upper garment) and greatness My robe (waist wrapper), and he who competes with Me in respect of either of them I shall cast into Hell-fire. It was related by Abu Dawud (also by Ibn Majah and Ahmad) with sound chains of authority. This Hadith also appears in Muslim in another version.”
Source: (Hadith 19, 40 Hadith Qudsi)
Are we to believe that Allah (swt) has an upper garment and a waist wrapper?
On the authority of Abu Hurayrah, who said that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said:
“Allah (mighty and sublime be He) said: Whoever shows enmity to someone devoted to Me, I shall be at war with him. My servant draws not near to Me with anything more loved by Me than the religious duties I have enjoined upon him, and My servant continues to draw near to Me with supererogatory works so that I shall love him. When I love him I am his ears with which he hears, his eyes with which he sees, his hand with which he strikes and his foot with which he walks. Were he to ask [something] of Me, I would surely give it to him, and were he to ask Me for refuge, I would surely grant him it. I do not hesitate about anything as much as I hesitate about [seizing] the soul of My faithful servant: he hates death and I hate hurting him.”
Source: (Hadith 25, 40 Hadith Qudsi)
Are we to believe that Allah (swt) becomes the ear of the person? The eyes of the person? The hand and the foot of the person?
On the authority of Abu Hurayrah, who said that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said:
Allah (swt) will say on the Day of Resurrection: O son of Adam, I fell ill and you visited Me not. He will say: O Lord, and how should I visit You when You are the Lord of the worlds? He will say: Did you not know that My servant So-and-so had fallen ill and you visited him not? Did you not know that had you visited him you would have found Me with him? O son of Adam, I asked you for food and you fed Me not. He will say: O Lord, and how should I feed You when You are the Lord of the worlds? He will say: Did you not know that My servant So-and-so asked you for food and you fed him not? Did you not know that had you fed him you would surely have found that (the reward for doing so) with Me? O son of Adam, I asked you to give Me to drink and you gave Me not to drink. He will say: O Lord, how should I give You to drink when You are the Lord of the worlds? He will say: My servant So-and-so asked you to give him to drink and you gave him not to drink. Had you given him to drink you would have surely found that with Me.”
Source: (Hadith 18, 40 Hadith Qudsi)
It is clear that Allah (swt) ascribes acts to himself which he does not actually do, such as falling ill, and asking for that which is apparent that he does not need such as food and drink.
On the authority of Abdullah ibn Umar reported:
The Messenger of Allah, (saw), said, “The upper hand is better than the lower hand. The upper hand is one that gives and the lower hand is one that takes.
Source: (Sahih al-Bukhārī 1429, Sahih Muslim 1033)
The hadith itself while using hand as a metaphor explains the meaning. Thus the word hand is not used as an apparent real attribute of a person.
On the authority of Abu Hurayrah, who said that the Prophet (saw) said:
“Allah the Almighty said: I am as My servant thinks I am. I am with him when he makes mention of Me. If he makes mention of Me to himself, I make mention of him to Myself; and if he makes mention of Me in an assembly, I make mention of him in an assembly better than it. And if he draws near to Me an arm’s length, I draw near to him a cubit, and if he draws near to Me a cubit, I draw near to him a fathom. And if he comes to Me walking, I go to him trotting.”
Source: ( Hadith 15, 40 Hadith Qudsi)
Our Shaykh Juma Mazrui reminded us that unfortunately there are among those who take such statements upon their literal important and thus their teacher, Shaykh Al Uthaymeen has advocated for the ‘jogging of Allah’ as a real action and quality that Allah (swt) does. ‘Jogging but unlike our jogging’.
This hadith also poses other problems if taken upon face value.
If a person draws to Allah (swt) be an arms length, than Allah (swt) draws to that person by a cubit.
If that person draws near by a cubit than Allah (swt) will draw near to them by a fathom.
It gives the impression that the opposite can be true in that a person can eventually go so far away from Allah (swt), that Allah (swt) would be out of reach, so to speak.
“When My slaves ask you ˹O Prophet˺ about Me: I am truly near. I respond to one’s prayer when they call upon Me. So let them respond ˹with obedience˺ to Me and believe in Me, perhaps they will be guided ˹to the Right Way˺. (Qur’an 2:186)
Insh’Allah, the third lesson will be this week. Hopefully what has passed from our respected teacher is more than sufficient to dispel the myth that the Blessed Messenger (saw), his companions, the Salaaf did not understand the Arabic language nor did they employ the use of majaz.
“Our Lord, do not take us to task in case we forget or we make mistakes.” (Qur’an 2:286)
APOLOGY TO FELLOW MUSLIMS AND TRUTH SEEKERS.
May Allah (swt) forgive me. I used to rely upon a particular translation of the Qur’an 4:31 until upon closer examination I realized the game that was being played upon the unaware.
I’m thankful to Shaykh Hafidh Hamed Al Sawafi for pointing this out to me!
Most people are usually familiar with this translation:
“If you avoid major sins that you are prohibited, We will absolve YOU YOUR MINOR SINS and cause you to enter a generous gate.” (Qur’an 4:31)
Any translation that comes remotely close to that is a FALSE
Take a look at the different translations into English here:
Those people who are either translating this text as such are doing so according to their i’tiqad or without giving much thought about it -according to the i’tiqad of others.
The most correct translation is: the one from Yusuf Ali (1985) which states:
“IF (but) eschew the evilest of the things which you are forbidden to do, We shall expel out of (Saiyiatikum) YOU ALL THE EVIL IN YOU, and admit you to a gate of great honor.” -(Qur’an 4:31)
May Allah (swt) forgive me for being a useful tool in the hands of those who mislead the people.
They translate it the way that they do because of their theology. Which is that the small sins get wiped out and the big sins get purified in the hell-which one latter is released from.
Imposing their theological suppositions upon the Qur’an Al-Kareem!
As one Muslim brother pointed out:
“Saiyiatikum” is “all evil in you”.
To interpret it as “minor sins” or the likes is but an interpretation.
The literal meaning takes precedence over an interpretation unless there’s a hujjah to support the interpretation.
Insh’Allah in time I will begin to replace the translation with the appropriate translation free from i’tiqad -may Allah (swt) help me.
Kindly take note. My humble and sincere apologies.
“And protect them from the evil consequences [of their deeds]. And he whom You protect from evil consequences that Day – You will have given him mercy. And that is the great attainment.” (Qur’an 40:9)
“And We have also sent down unto you (Muhammed) the Reminder and the Advice (the Qur’an), that you may explain clearly to men what is sent down to them.” (Qur’an 16:44)
In our first lesson Shaykh Juma Mazrui (hafidullah) went over some of the disputes the scholars have had in regards to majaz in the Qur’an. Among those who dispute majaz are those who liken Allah (swt) to his creation by stating that he has two right hands, two eyes, and so forth.
Then, Shaykh Juma Mazrui has shown us clearly many examples of Majaz in the Qur’an.
“Allah is the Guardian of those who believe, He brings them out of every darkness into light. And those who disbelieve, their guardians are the evil ones; they bring them out of light into all kinds of darkness. These are destined for the Fire, and there shall they abide.” (Qur’an 2:257)
This is an example of metaphor or Majaz. There is no real darkness that we are being brought of and into a real light. No has been able to demonstrably prove this by the apparent meaning.
“Ignominy shall be their portion wherever they are found save (where they grasp) a rope from Allah and a rope from men. They have incurred anger from their Lord, and wretchedness is laid upon them. That is because they used to disbelieve the revelations of Allah, and slew the prophets wrongfully. That is because they were rebellious and used to transgress.” (Qur’an 3:112)
This is another example of metaphor or Majaz. There is no real rope from Allah and a rope from men that people are grasping onto.
Again we find:
“And hold firmly to the rope of Allah and do not be divided. Remember Allah’s favour upon you when you were enemies, then He united your hearts, so you—by His grace—became brothers. And you were at the brink of a fiery pit and He saved you from it. This is how Allah makes His revelations clear to you, so that you may be ˹rightly˺ guided.” (Qur’an 3:103)
There no real, physical or apparent rope from Allah (swt) that any of us are grasping on to for every moment of our life. This is a clear example of metaphor or Majaz. The rope that is referred to that we are to grasp or adhere to is the religion of Islam.
“Moreover, will say to those who were oppressed to those who were arrogant, “Nay, (it was) a plot (by) night and a plot (by) day when you were ordering us that we disbelieve in Allah and we set up for Him equals.” But they will conceal the regret when they see the punishment. And We will put shackles on (the) necks (of) those who disbelieved. Will they be recompensed except (for) what they used to do?” (Qur’an 34:33)
This is the majaz of hadhfi or the metaphor of omission. Can it be said that the night plots and the day plots? This is a clear example of metaphor and the overwhelming majority of translators have not translated nor interpreted it by its apparent meaning.
“To Him belong the keys to the heavens and the earth. As for those who have rejected the verses of Allah, it is they who are the losers.” (Qur’an 39:3)
If you translate this literally, or take it apparently it is to mean that Allah (swt) has two material keys. This would be a case of tashbih to liken one thing to another. Like people have keys that they use to start their car or to unlock their homes.
That Allah (swt) would need two sets of keys to lock/unlock the heavens and the earth merits pensive reflection from those who beleive in the apparent meaning of the text.
17 times a day a Muslim says, “guide is to the right way.” That is from the opening chapter of the Qur’an.
Well, where is this ‘straight path, this straight way’? If you to take it from the apparent, from the literal meaning.
“Be patient over what they say, and remember Our servant, David, the possessor of many hands; he was one who repeatedly turned back [to Us].” (Qur’an 38:17)
Plural in Arabic begins with three. So at the very least David had three hands. However, notice something from the following site:
It is unanimous that they all translate ‘many hands’ as strength! Even the Salafi/Saudi translations do! Even the translation that gives us the most literal word for word meaning possible was too shy to translate David having many hands.
Be patient over what they say and remember Our servant, David, the possessor of strength; indeed, he was one who repeatedly turned back [to Allah ] (Sahih International)
Be patient (O Muhammad SAW) of what they say, and remember Our slave Dawood (David), endued with power. Verily, he was ever oft-returning in all matters and in repentance (toward Allah) (Muhsin Khan & Muhammed Al Hilal)
So we can say to those who believe in literal translations: Why don’t you take these verses on the apparent meaning? If Allah (swt) says that David has many hands then say that David had many hands!
You are shy to ascribe many hands to David but not to Allah (swt)?!
“He is the One who has made the earth subjugated for you, so walk on its shoulders, and eat out of His provision, and to Him is the Resurrection.” (Qur’an 67:15)
The earth has shoulders? As I have?
“And He (is) the One Who sends the winds (of glad news between the two hands of his Mercy, until, when they have carried clouds ” (Qur’an 7:57)
Allah sends winds like herald of glad news, between the two hands of his Mercy.
Now his Mercy has two hands?
So those who believe in literal translations tell us that Allah (swt) has two right hands, and he has an attribute of Mercy and this attribute has two hands. Are they also right hands?
Look how virtually everyone else translates the text!
“Moreover, it is He who sends the winds as good news before His mercy until, when they have carried heavy rain clouds, We drive them to a dead land and We send down rain in that respect and bring forth thereby [some] of all the fruits. Thus will We bring forth the dead; perhaps you will be reminded.” (Sahih International)
“And it is He Who sends the winds as heralds of glad tidings, going before His Mercy (rain). Till when they have carried a heavy-laden cloud, We drive it to a land that is dead, then We cause water (rain) to descend immediately. Then We produce every fruit besides that. Similarly, We shall raise the dead, so that you may remember or take heed.” (Muhsin Khan and Muhammed Al Hilali)
No one wants to take the literal, or apparent meaning of the text and ascribe to Allah’s mercy two hands! Why is that?
“Also, He (is) the One Who sends the winds (as) glad news (from) between (hands) His Mercy, and We send down from the sky water pure.” (Qur’an 25:48)
Even look at those at Corpus Qur’an. They are literally confused about how to translate the Arabic text:
“So, out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say: “My Lord! bestow on them your Mercy even as they cherished me in childhood.” (Qur’an 17:24)
Does humility have wings?
“And lower your wing to those who follow you of the believers.” (Qu’ran 26:215 -Sahih International)
For some reason in this case Sahih International decides to go with the literal, apparent text. But the question needs to be asked does the Blessed Messenger (saw) have a wing?
Allah (swt) said he did. So why can’t what Allah (swt) says be good enough for us?
“So when we accepted your covenant and lifted the mountain of Sinai over you, saying, receive the law which we have given you, with a resolution to perform it, and hear; they said, we have heard, and have rebelled: And they were made to drink down the calf into their hearts for their unbelief. Say, a grievous thing has your faith commanded you, if you indeed be true believers.” (Qur’an 2:93)
Does anyone think they were drinking calf? It means that their hearts were filled with worshipping the calf.
“And a faction of the People of the Scripture say [to each other], “Believe in that which was revealed to the believers at the face of the day and reject it at its end that perhaps they will abandon their religion.” (Qur’an 3:72)
wajha-face. Are we really to believe that the day has a face?
“Give good news, glad news, to the believers upon the foot of the truth.”(Qur’an 10:2)
“Have the people been amazed that We revealed [revelation] to a man from among them, [saying], “Warn mankind and give good news to those who believe that they will have a [firm] precedence of honor with their Lord”? [But] the disbelievers say, “Indeed, this is an obvious magician.” (Sahih International)
Muhsin Khan and Muhammed Al Hilali really went wild with this translation:
“Is it wonder for mankind that We have sent Our Inspiration to a man from among themselves (i.e. Prophet Muhammad SAW) (saying): “Warn mankind (of the coming torment in Hell), and give good news to those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah and in His Prophet Muhammad SAW) that they shall have with their Lord the rewards of their good deeds?” (But) the disbelievers say: “This is indeed an evident sorcerer (i.e. Prophet Muhammad SAW and the Quran)” (Muhsin Khan & Muhammed Al Hilali)
The principle of rejecting the Mujaaz usually comes from those who say that Allah (swt) has two limbs, and two right hands, two eyes etc. Shaykh Juma Mazrui had other examples that I did not have the chance to pin down but insh’Allah I will enquire about the missed examples and plug them into this article..
Shaykh Juma Mazrui will be going over with us in the coming weeks the following lessons: Insh’Allah.
In the traditions of the Prophet (saw) did he use Majaaz when he talks to the companions?
Majaz in the Arabic language.
Tawil in the Arabic language.
“See how Allah does make His revelations clear to them; yet see in what ways they are deluded away from the truth!” (Qur’an 5:75)
“And among those We created is a community which guides by truth and thereby establishes justice.” (Qur’an 7:181)
The next time someone says that we Ibadi are Khawarij and that we do not take our deen from them perhaps gently remind those people to stop using harakat when teaching your children how to read the Qur’an properly!
There is scarcely a grammar book that talks about the essence of ilmu al-nahw except that the name: Al-Khalili ibn Ahmad al-Farahidi is mentioned.
The “Shining Star” of the Basran school of Arabic grammar, a polymath and scholar, he was a man of genuinely original thought. Al-Farahidi was the first scholar to subject the prosody of Classical Arabic poetry to a detailed phonological analysis.
He was born in Oman circa 718 and died in Basra, Iraq circa 791. He was an Arab philologist and the first to compile an Arabic dictionary. He was the teacher of Sībawayh, whom latter compiled al-Kitāb fī an-naḥw (“The Book on Grammar”).
The lie that Al-Khalili ibn Ahmad al-Farahidi al-Ibadi left the school of Ahl Haqq Wal Istiqamah to join Ahl Sunnah Wal Jammah is a whopper of a lie!
“This is where history records the role of Khalil bin Ahmad al-Farahidy al-Ibadi. He then determined the form of fathah with the lowercase alif letter lying on top of the letter, kasrah with a small ya’ letter below it and dhammah with a small waw letter above it. Meanwhile, tanwin is formed by duplicating the writing of each of these signs, in addition there are several other signs.” https://www.muslimcreed.com/2022/03/the-history-of-giving-dots-and-harakat.html
“In Khalili’s time, the Qur’anic manuscripts were equipped with various points with various functions and purposes. In the disciplines of the Qur’an, it is known as naqthi’rab, or simply the point of harakat, and naqthi’jam which are nothing but dots on each other. The two types of dots are written differently by using red for vowel points and black for letter points.”
“The number of dots scattered on each page of the Qur’anic manuscripts which then gave birth to problems, both for readers and writers. For readers, reading errors are not impossible to avoid because sometimes they cannot distinguish one from another. As for writers, it is considered a hassle because they always have to change colours at one time in the writing process.”
Every time your children use the system of harakat to read the Qur’an, rather it is in reciting the Qur’an in Ramadan during tarweeh prayers, or in one’s private reading of the Qur’an during prayers, or in any type of gathering all of that hasanat, all that blessing is being accredited to Al-Khalili ibn Ahmad al-Farahidi al-Ibadi!! May Allah (swt) cover him in mercy!
Bismillah ir rahman ir raheem, With the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, The Most Merciful.
“Oh my Lord advance me in knowledge.” (Qur’an 20:114)
As salamu ‘alikum warahmutallahi wabarakuth (May the Peace, Mercy of Allah and Blessings descend upon you in tranquility).
Going forward we will be posting this every Friday. These classes are on various topics by various authors. I will make it easy for you to find as I will be posting this at the top of Prima Qur’an for ease of navigation.
Good Word – Friday Lessons in English*
(Free *Online* Islamic Lessons for *Everyone
The Topic: Sincere Repentance*
Speaker: *Ahmed Al Mahrooqi*
Ramadan 2, 1444 24/3/2023
Friday *9:30am-10:30am* Oman Time
To join the session click the link below just before 09.30am and use the provided meeting password. If you don’t have the application installed, the link will guide you to download it first. You’ll be put in a waiting room before the host grants you access.
“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is [rightly] guided.” (Qur’an 16:125)
Al hamdulliah, our brother and esteemed orator Dr. Zakir Naik will be spending his opening days of Ramadan in the Sultanate of Oman.
He will be doing a series of two public talks.
Dr. Zakir Naik has had the good fortunate to have met the Mufti of Oman, Shaykh Ahmed Al Khalili (hafidullah).
May Allah (swt) bless Dr. Zakir Naik and his tour in Oman. It is hoped that people will benefit by his talks and that Allah (swt) will open the hearts for many to come into Islam.
Probably one of the key differences between Ibadi and Sunni is that we truly do believe that Muhammed (saw) is the last and final prophet and the last and final messenger.
The Sunni say this but they have a belief in non sequential messengers. There is a sort of glib or tongue in cheek statement about the Prophet Muhammed (saw) being the last of the Prophets and Messengers and than there is the belief that his body is in Madinah and Jesus (as) is alive in heaven.
For the Ibadi school Jesus (as) is dead. He is not coming back. The Blessed Messenger (saw) is: Th mercy to the worlds. It is not quite clear what Sunni’s believe that Jesus 2.0 is going to clear up that the Qur’an hasn’t already made clear.
The diagram above the first two circles represent the view of the Ibadi school. Jesus (as) has come and died. Muhammed (saw) is the last of the prophets and he is the last of the messengers.
The diagram above the second set of three circles represents the Sunni view. (Though there are a few dissenting voices). So this is what we call non sequential prophets. But even than I myself am not quite sure how that works. How the Blessed Messenger (saw) , the Prophet Muhammed (saw) is the last and final prophet and messenger (whom has a body in Madinah) and Jesus (as) is alive in heaven and he is coming back.
Ramadan 2, 1444 24/3/2023 
Friday *9:30am-10:30am* Oman Time
Prima Quran 