By Mubarak Shuaybu Shelleng
The teachings of Islam revolve around the five pillars of Islam, the Qur’an, and the hadiths of our noble prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. The interpretation of the Holy Qur’an and Hadith also varies among different schools of thought and sectarian beliefs.
Islamic scholars have historically played an essential role in teaching us the doctrines of Islam, guided by their affiliations with various schools of thought and sectarian beliefs. This tradition has remained consistent since the time of the Sahabah (companions) of our noble prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.
I vividly recall the words of Sheikh Ahmed Bamba, known as Dr Ahmad BUK, may his soul rest in peace. He stated that scholars often present diverse views on many Islamic topics, supported by particular quotes that highlight specific ideas. The purpose of this is for believers to gain a clearer understanding of different situations and to decide what is best for themselves.
Scholars who adhere to the Malikiyyah, Shafi’yya Hambaliyya, or Hanafiyya schools of thought guide their followers to choose paths based on the valid reasons they present. Similarly, in the study of Hadith, various scholars classify certain hadiths as Da’if (weak) or valid based on the credibility of the narrators and the logical agreement surrounding them.
Individuals need to seek religious knowledge that enables them to accept or challenge the perspectives a scholar presents. Engaging in derogatory statements about a specific sect or attacking a scholar’s character is not productive. Scholars possess knowledge and likely have valid reasons for their viewpoints; we should consider this before forming judgments.
Our Islamic scholars should not be so fixated on their own perspectives, as these viewpoints exist within literature that is also subject to scrutiny. Many scholars disrespect those who hold contrary opinions, often labelling or demonizing individual clerics, a practice that reflects a lack of understanding. Intellectual arguments should be based on references from literature that have undergone scholarly examination and are widely accepted.
Sectarian ideologies have historically created divisions within the Muslim Ummah, and no amount of attacks or insults will change an individual’s beliefs on particular religious issues. Thus, we must ask ourselves: what is the purpose of such arguments?
Regardless of differing religious ideologies or sectarian beliefs, our Islamic scholars deserve utmost respect for their untiring commitment to spreading Islamic knowledge and preparing us to practice our faith, as revealed to our noble prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.
