Author: Shukran Ahmadi
The Biography of Hazrat Ali “May Allah be Pleased with Him” (The 35th and Final Part)
Summary of the Discussion
The essence of the matter is that the silence and restraint adopted by the majority of Islamic scholars regarding the disputes and conflicts among the companions of the Prophet (PBUH) is not due to blind devotion or imitation, but rather a reflection of sound intellect, justice, and fairness. Scholars believe that discussing these matters poses a danger to one’s faith.
Those who have reignited discussions in modern times and written books on the disputes among the companions should, if their true aim is to defend against the objections and doubts raised by atheists and Orientalists, follow the method of Hasan al-Basri. They should make these critics aware that the great figures of the Islamic world, whose actions and character have been praised by both friends and foes, cannot be discredited by the weak and insignificant arguments presented by these critics. Unverified and unauthenticated historical reports are not sufficient to accuse or condemn even the lowest of individuals, let alone prominent personalities, unless they reach the level of being widely and consistently reported.
They must also be made to understand that we believe in Allah and His Messenger (PBUH). The personalities that Allah and His Messenger have confirmed with their approval cannot be discredited by any report that contradicts the clear texts of the Quran and Sunnah; such reports will be rejected as false or, at the very least, considered weak and unreliable.
«قل هذه سبيلى ادعوا الی اللّه علی بصيرة أنا ومن اتبعنى»
Beyond these two approaches, there is no third method to defend against the attacks of atheists and Orientalists. If, Allah forbid, the intention behind such discussions is not defense but merely to satisfy a desire for research or present oneself as a scholar, then this approach is neither praiseworthy nor beneficial to Muslims.
The consensus among Ahl al-Sunnah is that it is obligatory to remain silent regarding the fitnah (discord) that occurred among the companions (may Allah be pleased with them) after the martyrdom of Usman (RA). We should pray for them and acknowledge their virtues and merits. May Allah be pleased with them and grant them His satisfaction.
Ameen, Ya Rab al Alameen.
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