slideshare (lesson # 2a)tauheed-course-(batch-january-2014)-29-january-2014

Using curriculum he has developed especially for English-speakingUsing curriculum he has developed especially for English-speakingMuslim converts and young English-speaking Adult Muslims. Muslim converts and young English-speaking Adult Muslims.

““To seek knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim (male & female)”To seek knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim (male & female)”

IT CAN ALSO BE A IT CAN ALSO BE A REFRESHER COURSE REFRESHER COURSE

FOR MUSLIM FOR MUSLIM PARENTS, EDUCATORS, PARENTS, EDUCATORS,

IN CONTEMPORARY IN CONTEMPORARY SINGAPORE. SINGAPORE. OPEN TO ALLOPEN TO ALL

IN THE NAME OF ALLAHIN THE NAME OF ALLAHMOST COMPASIONATEMOST COMPASIONATEMOST MERCIFULMOST MERCIFUL # 2 a# 2 a

For further information and registration contact EFor further information and registration contact E-mail : -mail : [email protected] +65 81234669 / +65 96838279or +65 81234669 / +65 96838279

All Rights Reserved ©Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail.2014

LESSON

““INTRODUCTION TO STUDY OF INTRODUCTION TO STUDY OF TAUTAUHHEED – (AQA’ID) EED – (AQA’ID) ””

Intermediate Level Islamic course in English for AdultsIntermediate Level Islamic course in English for Adultsconducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismailconducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail

Updated 29 January 2014Updated 29 January 2014

BATCH -

[JANUARY-MAY 2014]

18 weekly class started on : 18 weekly class started on : 15th JANUARY 2014 15th JANUARY 2014

Every Wadnesday night @ 8pm – 10pmEvery Wadnesday night @ 8pm – 10pm

Wisma Indah, 450 Changi Road, #02-00 next to Masjid KassimWisma Indah, 450 Changi Road, #02-00 next to Masjid Kassim

mailto:[email protected]

REMEMBER THE ….PREVIOUS LESSON


REMEMBER ….

PREVIOUS LESSON


REMEMBER THAT….PREVIOUS LESSON


REMEMBER THE ….PREVIOUS LESSON


PREVIOUS LESSON


Amongst the definitions:Amongst the definitions:

““....... Knowledge is the arrival (....... Knowledge is the arrival (huhussulul- )- )** of the meaning of the meaning

((ma’nama’na- ) of a thing or object of knowledge in the soul - ) of a thing or object of knowledge in the soul

of the subject; and simultaneously,..... Knowledge is the soul’s of the subject; and simultaneously,..... Knowledge is the soul’s

arrival (arrival (wuwussulul- ) at the meaning of that thing or the - ) at the meaning of that thing or the

object of knowledge.”object of knowledge.”

By “meaning” (By “meaning” (ma’nama’na- ) is: “- ) is: “the recognition of the proper the recognition of the proper

place of anything in a systemplace of anything in a system ...” ...”

: Prof. Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas: Prof. Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas

** “ “attainment; acquirement” is a better translationattainment; acquirement” is a better translation ..

EPISTEMOLOGY

PREVIOUS LESSON


Thus, perspective of Education in Islam can be defined:

““... Recognition and acknowledgement, progressively instilled ... Recognition and acknowledgement, progressively instilled

into man, of the proper places of things in the order of into man, of the proper places of things in the order of

creation, such that it leads to the recognition and creation, such that it leads to the recognition and

acknowledgement of the proper place of God in the order of acknowledgement of the proper place of God in the order of

being and existence.”being and existence.”

EPISTEMOLOGY

PREVIOUS LESSON

Quoted from: “The Educational Philosophy and Quoted from: “The Educational Philosophy and Practice of Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas” by Practice of Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas” by

Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud (ISTAC publication).Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud (ISTAC publication).


EPISTEMOLOGY

PREVIOUS LESSON


A REMINDER TO MUSLIMS FROM LESSONS ON ISLAMIC “ADAB”

12

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, MOST GRACIOUS, MOST MERCIFUL

All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)

Especially requiredEspecially required

since most participants in since most participants in

this class are Muslims this class are Muslims

who may require this who may require this

important reminder.important reminder.**

ADDENDUMADDENDUM

** Hope those non- Hope those non-Muslim or participants Muslim or participants new to Islam in this class new to Islam in this class can understand and can understand and appreciate the reason for appreciate the reason for this preludethis prelude

LESSONS FROM BEGINNERS’ COURSE

PREVIOUS LESSON

SINCERE ADVICE TO MUSLIM ‘ INTELLECTUALS ’

PREVIOUS LESSON


TO CONTINUE ….. Lesson # 2

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE COURSE & METHOD OF APPROACH A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE COURSE & METHOD OF APPROACH

USING OF REASON (USING OF REASON (AQLIYYAHAQLIYYAH) ) AS ONE OF THE MEANS OF AS ONE OF THE MEANS OF DEVELOPING DEVELOPING IIMANIIMAN (FAITH) (FAITH)


““AND ON EARTH AND ON EARTH there are signs there are signs [of Allah’s [of Allah’s

existence, visible] existence, visible] to all who are endowed with inner to all who are endowed with inner

certaintycertainty, just as [there are signs thereof] within , just as [there are signs thereof] within

your own selves: can you not, then, see?”your own selves: can you not, then, see?”

((Qur’an: Dzaariyat: 51: 20-21Qur’an: Dzaariyat: 51: 20-21))


““[All this have We expounded in this] blessed divine writ [All this have We expounded in this] blessed divine writ

which We have revealed unto thee, [O Muhammad,] so which We have revealed unto thee, [O Muhammad,] so

that men may ponder over its mes sages, and that men may ponder over its mes sages, and that those that those

who are endowed with insight who are endowed with insight may take them to may take them to

heart.”heart.”

((Qur’an: Swad: 38: 29Qur’an: Swad: 38: 29))All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)

““And We have certainly And We have certainly created for Hell many created for Hell many

of the jinn and mankindof the jinn and mankind. They have hearts . They have hearts

with with which they do not understandwhich they do not understand, they have , they have

eyes with eyes with which they do not seewhich they do not see, and they , and they

have ears with have ears with which they do not hearwhich they do not hear. Those . Those

are like livestock; rather, are like livestock; rather, they are more they are more

astrayastray. It is they who are the heedless.”. It is they who are the heedless.”

((Qur’an: 7: 179Qur’an: 7: 179))


The Holy Qur'an calls upon people to think and to draw conclusions The Holy Qur'an calls upon people to think and to draw conclusions

through thought process. through thought process.

It even regards thinking as part of worship, and does not recognise It even regards thinking as part of worship, and does not recognise

the belief in its doctrinal tenets if it is not the outcome of correct the belief in its doctrinal tenets if it is not the outcome of correct

thinking. thinking.

Islam in this connection has paid attention to a basic point, that Islam in this connection has paid attention to a basic point, that

although people are capable of thinking, still they can end up with although people are capable of thinking, still they can end up with

erroneous conclusion - if they neglect to use, or inappropriately erroneous conclusion - if they neglect to use, or inappropriately

allow certain factors to influence their thought process. allow certain factors to influence their thought process.


Thus, in Islam, we are provided basic guidelines - basic lessons on Thus, in Islam, we are provided basic guidelines - basic lessons on

how to think correctly. how to think correctly.

Firstly, in the Qur'an, it has pointed out Firstly, in the Qur'an, it has pointed out the major causes which lead the major causes which lead

to wrong thinking and has explained what to do to avoid to wrong thinking and has explained what to do to avoid error and error and

deviation. deviation.


““Now if thou pay Now if thou pay heed (follow) unto the majority of those heed (follow) unto the majority of those

[who live] on earth[who live] on earth, they will but lead thee astray from , they will but lead thee astray from

the path of Allah: they follow but [other people's] the path of Allah: they follow but [other people's]

conjecturesconjectures, and they themselves do nothing but , and they themselves do nothing but guessguess **. .

Verily, thy Sustainer knows best as to who strays from Verily, thy Sustainer knows best as to who strays from

His path, and best knows He as to who are the right-His path, and best knows He as to who are the right-

guided.”guided.”

((Qur’an: An-’am: 6: 116-117Qur’an: An-’am: 6: 116-117))


1. Reliance on conjecture instead of sure knowledge1. Reliance on conjecture instead of sure knowledge

The phrase: The phrase: ** “nothing but guess (conjecture)”“nothing but guess (conjecture)”

* * i.e. They only guess regarding the true nature of human life and

its ultimate destiny, the problem of revelation, the relationship

between God and man, the meaning of good and evil etc. –

metaphysical questions.



Apart from leading man astray from spiritual truths, such

guesswork gives rise to arbitrary rules of conduct and self

imposed inhibitions.


"And "And do not follow (pursue) anything of which thou hast no do not follow (pursue) anything of which thou hast no

knowledgeknowledge: verily (thy) hearing and sight and heart - all of : verily (thy) hearing and sight and heart - all of

them - will be called to account for it (on Judgement Day)." them - will be called to account for it (on Judgement Day)."

((Qur’an: Bani Israil : 17 :36Qur’an: Bani Israil : 17 :36))



Muslims are to be taught that there is distinction between Muslims are to be taught that there is distinction between

knowledge (knowledge (‘ILM‘ILM) and conjecture or guesswork () and conjecture or guesswork (DZONNDZONN); between ); between

absolute and relative; between what are reliable and unreliable absolute and relative; between what are reliable and unreliable

reports, and how to distinguish between them; etc. It exposes the reports, and how to distinguish between them; etc. It exposes the

fallacy of merely following the majority without concern for fallacy of merely following the majority without concern for

substantiation of truth, which seems to be the common approach, substantiation of truth, which seems to be the common approach,

albeit erroneously adopted by people, in matters of religion.albeit erroneously adopted by people, in matters of religion.


If man wants to judge rightly, he should fully maintain his If man wants to judge rightly, he should fully maintain his

impartiality. In other words, he should seek Truth only, and accept impartiality. In other words, he should seek Truth only, and accept

without hesitation what evidence proves. He should behave exactly without hesitation what evidence proves. He should behave exactly

like a judge in a court of justice, who while studying a case ought to like a judge in a court of justice, who while studying a case ought to

be neutral to the claims of both parties. If he is biased towards one be neutral to the claims of both parties. If he is biased towards one

party, the arguments in favour of that party will unconsciously attract party, the arguments in favour of that party will unconsciously attract

his attention and the arguments against it will automatically be his attention and the arguments against it will automatically be

missed by him. That is what will mislead the judge.missed by him. That is what will mislead the judge.

2. Bias and inclination towards base desires 2. Bias and inclination towards base desires



If man is not neutral and his thinking is lop-sided, the pointer of

his thinking will unconsciously be inclined towards his personal

liking and personal desire. That is why the Holy Qur'an regards the

base desires as much a source of error as reliance on guess and

conjecture. Allah says :



If man is not neutral and his thinking is lop-sided, the pointer of

his thinking will unconsciously be inclined towards his personal

liking and personal desire. That is why the Holy Qur'an regards the

base desires as much a source of error as reliance on guess and

conjecture. Allah says :

"They follow nothing but conjecture and "They follow nothing but conjecture and that which they desire. “that which they desire. “

((Qur’an : Najm 53: 23Qur’an : Najm 53: 23))



The concept of justice (AL-‘ADL ) are to be applied in analysis, putting

things in their appropriate place, requiring impartial appraisal of all

relevant views available to be considered and not suppressed or

overlooked.

Often, this would be difficult when one inclines to own desires

(HAWA) or self-interest, therefore we are to be extra cautious of our

own failings.



““O YOU who have attained to faith! Be ever steadfast in O YOU who have attained to faith! Be ever steadfast in

your devotion to Allah, bearing witness to the truth in your devotion to Allah, bearing witness to the truth in

all equity; and never let hatred of any-one lead you into all equity; and never let hatred of any-one lead you into

the sin of deviating from justice. Be just: this is closest the sin of deviating from justice. Be just: this is closest

to being God-conscious. And remain conscious of Allah: to being God-conscious. And remain conscious of Allah:

verily, Allah is aware of all that you do.”verily, Allah is aware of all that you do.”

((Qur’an: Maa-idah: 5: 8Qur’an: Maa-idah: 5: 8))


3. Haste 3. Haste

To be able to express an opinion about a question, one should have

adequate evidence before him.

Unless there is enough evidence, any hasty expression of an opinion

is likely to lead to error. In the Holy Qur'an, Allah repeatedly refers to

the insufficiency of human knowledge for pronouncing an opinion in

respect of many important questions.

For example:


"And they ask you about the soul. Say: The soul is one of "And they ask you about the soul. Say: The soul is one of

the commands of my Lord, and you have been given but the commands of my Lord, and you have been given but

little knowledge.“little knowledge.“

((Qur’an : Bani Israil 17 :85Qur’an : Bani Israil 17 :85))


In this verse, the question posed was to seek something which In this verse, the question posed was to seek something which

man's knowledge is inadequate to appreciate any form of detailed man's knowledge is inadequate to appreciate any form of detailed

answer, thus only a general response suffices. answer, thus only a general response suffices.

It does not provide fully what was being asked, but responded in It does not provide fully what was being asked, but responded in

accordance with the preparedness of the questioner, but it accordance with the preparedness of the questioner, but it

cautioned him that, although our knowledge about the soul may be cautioned him that, although our knowledge about the soul may be

little, this general response may suffice. little, this general response may suffice.

3. Haste 3. Haste


So we should not deny its existence just because we cannot fully So we should not deny its existence just because we cannot fully

satisfy our curiosity regarding it. satisfy our curiosity regarding it.

It teaches us that we should not be hasty in addressing any issue, It teaches us that we should not be hasty in addressing any issue,

but to consider carefully what is offered based on available but to consider carefully what is offered based on available

knowledge. knowledge.

The key point here is, knowledge. To The key point here is, knowledge. To accept is with knowledgeaccept is with knowledge, and , and

to deny it also must be based upon knowledgeto deny it also must be based upon knowledge. .

3. Haste 3. Haste


Do not reject something by simply basing it upon our ignorance of Do not reject something by simply basing it upon our ignorance of

that thing - e.g. some people categorically deny something with the that thing - e.g. some people categorically deny something with the

irrelevant excuse e.g. "irrelevant excuse e.g. "because I have not come across itbecause I have not come across it." ."

This statement is simply an admission of his ignorance of that thing, This statement is simply an admission of his ignorance of that thing,

not a proof (knowledge)not a proof (knowledge) that that thing does not exist! that that thing does not exist!

3. Haste 3. Haste


From the above, we are taught, nay, warned against being hasty in 2

things :

(1) That we must not believe a thing unless we have sure knowledge

about it. (Warning against hasty believing something without

knowledge).

(2) That we must not deny a thing unless we have sure knowledge

about it. (Warning against hasty denial without knowledge).

3. Haste 3. Haste


“As it is, man [often] prays for things that are bad as if he were

praying for something that is good: for man is prone to be hasty

[in his judgments].”

(Qur’an: Isra’: 17: 11)


““FIGHTING is ordained for you, even though it be hateful to you; FIGHTING is ordained for you, even though it be hateful to you;

but it may well be that you hate a thing the while it is good for but it may well be that you hate a thing the while it is good for

you, and it may well be that you love a thing the while it is bad for you, and it may well be that you love a thing the while it is bad for

you: and Allah knows, whereas you do not know.”you: and Allah knows, whereas you do not know.”

((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 216Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 216))


““IS MAN, then, not aware that it is We who create him out of IS MAN, then, not aware that it is We who create him out of

a [mere] drop of sperm - whereupon, lo! he shows himself a [mere] drop of sperm - whereupon, lo! he shows himself

endowed with the power to think and to argue? endowed with the power to think and to argue?

And And [now] he [argues about Us[now] he [argues about Us, and] thinks of Us in terms of , and] thinks of Us in terms of

comparison, comparison, and is oblivious of how he himself was created! and is oblivious of how he himself was created!

[And so] he says, “Who could give life to bones that have [And so] he says, “Who could give life to bones that have

crumbled to dust?”crumbled to dust?”

((Qur’an: Ya Seen: 77: 78)Qur’an: Ya Seen: 77: 78)


““Why do not the believing men and women, whenever such Why do not the believing men and women, whenever such

[a rumour] is heard, think the best of one another and say, [a rumour] is heard, think the best of one another and say,

“This is an obvious falsehood”?“This is an obvious falsehood”?

why do they not [demand of the accusers that they] bring why do they not [demand of the accusers that they] bring

[prove of] their allegation? for, if they do not produce four [prove of] their allegation? for, if they do not produce four

such witnesses, it is those [accusers] who, in the sight of such witnesses, it is those [accusers] who, in the sight of

Allah, are liars indeed!”Allah, are liars indeed!”

((Qur’an: Nur : 24: 12-13)Qur’an: Nur : 24: 12-13)


Man has a tendency to readily accept an idea or a belief that was

accepted by past generations, without giving it any further thought.

Allah s.w.t. in the Holy Qur'an, reminds people that they should

have independent thinking and should not accept anything without

judging it carefully, simply because it was accepted by others in the

past.

Thus:

4. Traditional thinking and looking to the past


"But when they are told, "Follow what Allah has "But when they are told, "Follow what Allah has

revealed" some answers, "Nay, we shall follow (only) that revealed" some answers, "Nay, we shall follow (only) that

which we found our forefathers believe in and did." which we found our forefathers believe in and did."

What! What! even though their forefathers did not understand even though their forefathers did not understand

anything and had no guidanceanything and had no guidance?“?“

((Qur’an : Baqarah 2 :170Qur’an : Baqarah 2 :170) )


4. Traditional thinking and looking to the past

In spite of advancement in education, yet when it concerns

religious beliefs and practices, many people tend to blindly imitate

or follow whatever their forefathers may have passed on for them.

When new and verifiable evidence are offered, they refuse to even

consider them but rely only on this blind fanaticism.


ADDITIONAL CLARIFICATION

This does not therefore mean we reject “TRADITIONS”, like the

group advocating post-modernism and ‘liberal ’ tendencies are

promoting. They wish to present a truncated version of ‘truth’ by

ignoring the past.

By denying the validity of truth as embedded within the continuous

and valid historical legacy of true scholars, they hope to usurp and

hijack the Islamic discourse replacing it only with their ‘newly ’

enlightened liberal ideas - by simplistically branding all earlier

scholars’ views as ‘backward’, hiding all the valid arguments already

established.All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)


“ “(Honour) My successors, may Allah s.w.t. be Merciful towards them!.” He was (Honour) My successors, may Allah s.w.t. be Merciful towards them!.” He was

asked: “Who are your successors O Messenger of Allah?” And he said: “They asked: “Who are your successors O Messenger of Allah?” And he said: “They

are those are those who revive my Sunnah and teaches them who revive my Sunnah and teaches them to the servants of Allah.”to the servants of Allah.”

((Hadith of the Prophet s.a.wHadith of the Prophet s.a.w.).)



““He is He is not from my Ummah not from my Ummah (community),(community),

One who do not respect our elders, orOne who do not respect our elders, or

One who is not merciful (kind) to our young, and One who is not merciful (kind) to our young, and

one who do not know (and respect the rights of) one who do not know (and respect the rights of)

our our ‘Ulama’ ‘Ulama’ (Islamic scholars).”(Islamic scholars).”

((Hadith of our Prophet s.a.w. Reported by TabranyHadith of our Prophet s.a.w. Reported by Tabrany))


5. Cult of personality

In this last era, another cause of wrong thinking is the cult of

personality.

Because of the great respect in which certain people are held, some

of the celebrated historical and contemporary personalities

influence the thinking and the will of others. Some famous /

infamous personalities have been known to control the thinking of

others such that these people think and have the same opinion as

they.


5. Cult of personality

Other people do not dare differ from the (so-called) great people

and so lose their independence of thought and will.

Allah s.w.t. calls upon people to think independently and not to

follow their elders and other influential personalities blindly. They,

the misguided and heedless people will regret them on Judgement

Day:


"And they will say (in the Hereafter) : “O our Lord! Behold! We

(obeyed) paid heed unto our leaders and great men, and it is

they who have led us astray from the right path!”

(Qur’an: Ahzab: 33: 67)


5. What is meant by “Cult of personality”? – ADDITIONAL CLARIFICATION

‘‘Cult of personality’ - It is when a person is being followed, obeyed Cult of personality’ - It is when a person is being followed, obeyed

or imitated unconditionally, i.e. without him needing to provide or imitated unconditionally, i.e. without him needing to provide

any authoritative basis or verifiable knowledge; – relying only upon any authoritative basis or verifiable knowledge; – relying only upon

his charisma, power, charm, popularity or whatever factor he his charisma, power, charm, popularity or whatever factor he

possesses, which held people to be in awe or captivated by him – possesses, which held people to be in awe or captivated by him –

but devoid of any rationale proof, true knowledge or in accordance but devoid of any rationale proof, true knowledge or in accordance

with certain reasonable criteriawith certain reasonable criteria..



Prophets (a.s.) and all Islamic scholars who are true heirs of the Prophets (a.s.) and all Islamic scholars who are true heirs of the

prophets (prophets (WARATHATUL-ANBIYAWARATHATUL-ANBIYA), such as those proven scholars of ), such as those proven scholars of

Islam (e.g. Islam (e.g. A-immah mujtahidunA-immah mujtahidun, , Hujjatul Islam Abu Hamid al-Hujjatul Islam Abu Hamid al-

Ghazali, Imam An-Nawaawi Ghazali, Imam An-Nawaawi and and Qutb al-Irshad Habib ‘Abdillah Al-Qutb al-Irshad Habib ‘Abdillah Al-

HaddadHaddad, and our , and our ‘Ulama‘Ulama in the Nusantara that follow them in the Nusantara that follow them

faithfully – may Allah bless their souls and elevate their ranks), do faithfully – may Allah bless their souls and elevate their ranks), do

not fall into this category of cult.not fall into this category of cult.



Their works have been Their works have been continuously studied, checked, discussed continuously studied, checked, discussed

and disseminated through generations of Islamic scholars up till the and disseminated through generations of Islamic scholars up till the

present;present; and the classical original texts are still available to be and the classical original texts are still available to be

referred to.referred to.

This This cross-referencing and scrutiny cross-referencing and scrutiny by fellow scholars, ensures the by fellow scholars, ensures the

faithful transmission, and the learning process would inevitably faithful transmission, and the learning process would inevitably

trained Muslims to verify whatever they are taught.trained Muslims to verify whatever they are taught.



Yet, in the present age, we need to be cautious of pseudo-scholars who Yet, in the present age, we need to be cautious of pseudo-scholars who

may use religion to start a cult-following. Devoid of knowledge (may use religion to start a cult-following. Devoid of knowledge ( JAHIL JAHIL ), ),

they would attract followings only through a display of outward ‘they would attract followings only through a display of outward ‘pietypiety’ ’

or ‘or ‘holinessholiness’ as though these are sufficient and valid credentials to ’ as though these are sufficient and valid credentials to

prove that they are learned and thus by this method, they manipulate prove that they are learned and thus by this method, they manipulate

obedience of their followers. Unfortunately, many followers of cult are obedience of their followers. Unfortunately, many followers of cult are

themselves ignorant, devoid of criterion, attracted only to charms and themselves ignorant, devoid of criterion, attracted only to charms and

charisma. It is only those truly learned, that can detect the ignorance.charisma. It is only those truly learned, that can detect the ignorance.



One tell-tale sign of cult is that the ‘teacher’ would strictly forbid One tell-tale sign of cult is that the ‘teacher’ would strictly forbid

their students/followers from asking him questions (which he fear their students/followers from asking him questions (which he fear

would expose his own ignorance); or forbid them from learning or would expose his own ignorance); or forbid them from learning or

consulting with other Islamic scholars and teachers of the consulting with other Islamic scholars and teachers of the DeenDeen. .

Traditionally, Islamic scholars requires an ‘Traditionally, Islamic scholars requires an ‘ijazahijazah’ (permission) from ’ (permission) from

his teacher or established Islamic scholars before he can teach (not his teacher or established Islamic scholars before he can teach (not

mere self-reading or paper qualifications certificates). mere self-reading or paper qualifications certificates).



As in most profession, he must have the permission of qualified Islamic As in most profession, he must have the permission of qualified Islamic

scholar or scholars of standing ( scholar or scholars of standing ( from the community of practitioners from the community of practitioners ). ).

And whatever his teachings, it can and be open to being scrutinised.And whatever his teachings, it can and be open to being scrutinised.

Therefore, to know who his past (and perhaps, present) teachers, is very Therefore, to know who his past (and perhaps, present) teachers, is very

important – not merely knowing which school, university or faceless important – not merely knowing which school, university or faceless

organization he claims to be from. With this, even his character, moral organization he claims to be from. With this, even his character, moral

standings and competency can be cross-referenced with other known standings and competency can be cross-referenced with other known

scholars who may be his colleagues under the same teacher.scholars who may be his colleagues under the same teacher.



And learning in Islam must be “And learning in Islam must be “TALAQQITALAQQI” (face-to-face), student-” (face-to-face), student-

teacher in sessions (class or teacher in sessions (class or halaqahhalaqah), and preferably being under ), and preferably being under

mentoring, for a duration under a living teacher – from which the mentoring, for a duration under a living teacher – from which the

Islamic teacher’s Islamic teacher’s ““ijazahijazah” ” is then given. This ensures “is then given. This ensures “Sanad Sanad ” ”

(chain of transmission) and of the blessings of knowledge is kept.(chain of transmission) and of the blessings of knowledge is kept.

From traditional Islamic perspective, viewing videos, mere reading From traditional Islamic perspective, viewing videos, mere reading

from books, or watching on ‘YouTube’, does not yet qualify one to from books, or watching on ‘YouTube’, does not yet qualify one to

be regarded as the student of the particular scholar.be regarded as the student of the particular scholar.



““An immoral man of learning is a great evil, An immoral man of learning is a great evil,

yet greater evil is an ignoramus (yet greater evil is an ignoramus (jaahilunjaahilun) leading ) leading

a ‘godly pious’ life (a ‘godly pious’ life (mutanassikmutanassik). ).

Both are a great trial everywhere, Both are a great trial everywhere,

to whomsoever (wishing to) cling to his to whomsoever (wishing to) cling to his

religion (by having to follow people like them).”religion (by having to follow people like them).”



Most important today is that, those who are not Muslims, cannot be Most important today is that, those who are not Muslims, cannot be

regarded as our regarded as our ‘Ulama ‘Ulama (Islamic scholars), no matter how much he (Islamic scholars), no matter how much he

may have learnt or have ‘taught’ Islamic studies. may have learnt or have ‘taught’ Islamic studies.

Although we may benefit from some of their research and learning, Although we may benefit from some of their research and learning,

yet we have to be very discerning and careful in deriving any Islamic yet we have to be very discerning and careful in deriving any Islamic

knowledge or information from them. We need to rely upon our knowledge or information from them. We need to rely upon our

Islamic Islamic ‘Ulama , ‘Ulama , and constantly check whatever input they may and constantly check whatever input they may

disseminate.disseminate.



““O ye who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger O ye who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger

and (and (ULIL-’AMRI MINKUMULIL-’AMRI MINKUM) those charged with authority ) those charged with authority

among youamong you. If ye differ in anything among yourselves, . If ye differ in anything among yourselves,

refer it to Allah and His Messenger if ye do believe in refer it to Allah and His Messenger if ye do believe in

Allah and the Last Day: that is best, and most suitable Allah and the Last Day: that is best, and most suitable

for final determination.”for final determination.”

((Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 59Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 59))



“ “Nor should the Nor should the BelieversBelievers all go forth together: if a all go forth together: if a

contingent from every expedition remained behind, contingent from every expedition remained behind,

they could devote themselves to studies in religion they could devote themselves to studies in religion

((FAQ-QIH FID-DEENFAQ-QIH FID-DEEN) and admonish the people when ) and admonish the people when

they return to them ― that thus they (may learn) to they return to them ― that thus they (may learn) to

guard themselves (against evil).”guard themselves (against evil).”

((Qur’an: Taubah: 9: 122Qur’an: Taubah: 9: 122))



““O ye who believe! O ye who believe! Take not Take not into your intimacy (into your intimacy (bibitwtwaa-nahaa-nah**) )

those outside your ranksthose outside your ranks; they will not fail to corrupt you. ; they will not fail to corrupt you.

They only desire your ruin: rank hatred has already appeared They only desire your ruin: rank hatred has already appeared

from their mouths; what their hearts conceal is far worse. We from their mouths; what their hearts conceal is far worse. We

have made plain to you the Signs, if ye have wisdom. have made plain to you the Signs, if ye have wisdom.

((Qur’an : Aali’Imran: 3:118Qur’an : Aali’Imran: 3:118))

*bitwaa-nah : advisors, consultants, protectors, intimate friends, helpers ...



““For, never will the Jews be pleased with thee. nor yet the For, never will the Jews be pleased with thee. nor yet the

Christians, unless thou follow their own creeds (Faiths).”Christians, unless thou follow their own creeds (Faiths).”

((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 120Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 120) )



““If anyone contends with the Messenger even after If anyone contends with the Messenger even after

guidance has been plainly conveyed to him, and guidance has been plainly conveyed to him, and follows follows

a path other than that becoming to men to Faitha path other than that becoming to men to Faith, We , We

shall leave him in the path he has chosen, and land him shall leave him in the path he has chosen, and land him

in Hell, what an evil refuge.” in Hell, what an evil refuge.”

((Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 115)Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 115)



Imam Imam Muhammad ibnu Sirrin Muhammad ibnu Sirrin (rh.a) advices and warns us Muslims:(rh.a) advices and warns us Muslims:

””Verily this is knowledge (contains the rules) of the DEEN (Religion), Verily this is knowledge (contains the rules) of the DEEN (Religion),

so look thoroughly into the person from whom so look thoroughly into the person from whom

you acquire (the knowledge of) your DEEN Religion.”you acquire (the knowledge of) your DEEN Religion.”


EXCERPTS FROM “Introduction to the Approach to Study FIQH”EXCERPTS FROM “Introduction to the Approach to Study FIQH”



TEACHER : AN IMPORTANT QUALIFICATIONTEACHER : AN IMPORTANT QUALIFICATION

When we speak of learning and education in Islam, the role of the When we speak of learning and education in Islam, the role of the

learned scholar – learned scholar – MU’ALLIMMU’ALLIM, the , the USTAZUSTAZ (teacher) whose capacity is also (teacher) whose capacity is also

as a as a MU-ADDIB MU-ADDIB (Educator) who provides (Educator) who provides IRSHADAHIRSHADAH (spiritual guidance) (spiritual guidance)

etc., cannot be overlooked. etc., cannot be overlooked.

Remember, the Remember, the ‘ULAMA ‘ULAMA is an ‘institution’ within the persons or the is an ‘institution’ within the persons or the

personalities - and cannot be ‘hijacked’ by the corporate people as personalities - and cannot be ‘hijacked’ by the corporate people as

though to refer to organizations, bodies, schools etc.though to refer to organizations, bodies, schools etc.

RELEVANT




The proper development of Islamic teachers : with the correct belief, The proper development of Islamic teachers : with the correct belief,

worldview, passion and committed to worldview, passion and committed to DA’WAHDA’WAH, who understand the , who understand the

AMANAHAMANAH (Trust) which they are supposed to be shouldering, constantly (Trust) which they are supposed to be shouldering, constantly

vigilant regarding the challenges to the vigilant regarding the challenges to the UMMAHUMMAH etc. - is the most vital etc. - is the most vital

consideration.consideration.

Without this factor – the teachers, their training and their development Without this factor – the teachers, their training and their development

- it is rather useless to speak of any curriculum.- it is rather useless to speak of any curriculum.

RELEVANT




Unfortunately today, certain people’s obsession with only producing Unfortunately today, certain people’s obsession with only producing

texts, experimenting with educational aids and latest in information texts, experimenting with educational aids and latest in information

technology , overawed by other system of learning, that they technology , overawed by other system of learning, that they

inadvertently ignored the difference in the Islamic educational inadvertently ignored the difference in the Islamic educational

philosophy, the aims, approach and objective etc. until Muslims are philosophy, the aims, approach and objective etc. until Muslims are

learning ‘Islam’ merely as subjects, rather than subjecting themselves learning ‘Islam’ merely as subjects, rather than subjecting themselves

to ‘Islam’.to ‘Islam’.

RELEVANT




Thus, the tendency towards teaching Thus, the tendency towards teaching FIQHFIQH as subjects to be taught as subjects to be taught

according to whatever text / books popularly chosen may be according to whatever text / books popularly chosen may be

predominant. And given that most of these books were written as predominant. And given that most of these books were written as

reference manual on reference manual on FIQHFIQH, the class should rather focus on students , the class should rather focus on students

understanding, inculcating the appreciation of how relevant these understanding, inculcating the appreciation of how relevant these

rulings are to Muslims in life. rulings are to Muslims in life.

Therefore this depends much upon who is teaching Therefore this depends much upon who is teaching FIQHFIQH..

RELEVANT


EXCERPTS FROM “Introduction to the Approach to Study FIQH”EXCERPTS FROM “Introduction to the Approach to Study FIQH”RELEVANT

CHALLENGES AND DEVELOPMENTCHALLENGES AND DEVELOPMENT

It must be noted that today, with the availability of easy access to It must be noted that today, with the availability of easy access to

books and information on the internet; with greater reliance to self-books and information on the internet; with greater reliance to self-

study rather than undergoing right tutelage under the guidance of study rather than undergoing right tutelage under the guidance of

competent teachers; with the proliferations of ideologies of groups competent teachers; with the proliferations of ideologies of groups

promoting unknown agendas in the name of Islam; - Muslims being promoting unknown agendas in the name of Islam; - Muslims being

deprived of a competent teacher’s guidance in deprived of a competent teacher’s guidance in FIQHFIQH should be a very should be a very

grave concern - indeed.grave concern - indeed.




Indeed it is alarming, with people entering discourses and meddling in Indeed it is alarming, with people entering discourses and meddling in

Islam beyond their competency (by Muslims and even non-Muslims), Islam beyond their competency (by Muslims and even non-Muslims),

and compounded by the relative ignorance of general Muslims and compounded by the relative ignorance of general Muslims

regarding their own basics knowledge of their regarding their own basics knowledge of their DEENDEEN. .

Especially when this involves specialized fields and subjects, for which Especially when this involves specialized fields and subjects, for which

they do not have any authority to be giving their opinion to the public.they do not have any authority to be giving their opinion to the public.




Can any one claim the right to be involved in giving or engaging in Can any one claim the right to be involved in giving or engaging in

serious discourse in other specialised fields like medicine or serious discourse in other specialised fields like medicine or

engineering without adequate knowledge? engineering without adequate knowledge?

Or even if one knows something about draughtsmanship or have Or even if one knows something about draughtsmanship or have

read medical journals, without the proper training and approval of read medical journals, without the proper training and approval of

the true practitioners in their respective fields, messing in these the true practitioners in their respective fields, messing in these

would be deemed a crime – wouldn’t it?would be deemed a crime – wouldn’t it?




TA’RUF – RELEVANT INFORMATION REGARDING MYSELF ….


““The best ones amongst you is the person who makes The best ones amongst you is the person who makes

you remember Allah when you look upon him; you remember Allah when you look upon him;

and whenever he speaks it increases you your and whenever he speaks it increases you your

knowledge (of the Deen), and with his deeds it knowledge (of the Deen), and with his deeds it

inspires (motivates) you to strive for your Hereafter.”inspires (motivates) you to strive for your Hereafter.”

((Hadith reported by Hakim from Ibnu ‘Umar r.aHadith reported by Hakim from Ibnu ‘Umar r.a.).)

KUTTABKAK IJUM (NEK HAJI)- @ MINTO ROAD, JALAN SULTANSHEIKH ABU BAKAR BAHASWAN (QUR’AN)

ADAB - FARDHU ‘AIN – RATIB AL-HADDAD – AKHLAQ (FAMILY-BASED)

ADULT – FARDHU ‘AIN (PERDAUS) @ MADRASAH ALSAGOFFUSTAZ OSMAN JANTANUSTAZ HAFI HAKIM

FIQH AS-SUNNAH – (USTAZ WAN SALLEH – YA’COOB ELIAS)

TAUHEED – (USTAZ MAKTOOM – BUYA MALIK AHMAD)

DA’WAH-SIYAASAH – (USTAZ ISMAIL BAHRUM – DR. BURHANUDDIN AL-HELMY)

HALAQAH (MOSQUE)USTAZ MUHAMMAD B. ABDULLAH B. SALIM BIN DIAB (FIQH)KIYAI HAJI SHUKUR (TASAWWUF)HABIB SALIM AL-ATTAS (MASJID BA-’ALAWIE)

MENTORED (HOME)USTAZ SA’ID BIN MUHAMMAD BIN MUHD SA’IDUSTAZ GHAFUR*USTAZ MUHAMMAD BIN MUHAMMAD SA’ID BIN ARSHAD SEMARANG – ( *SON OF FOUNDER OF MADRASAH AS-SIBYAN)USTAZ HAJI DAWOOD BIN HAJI NASIR

USRAH

AL-MANAR (AFGHANI –ABDUH – RASHID REDHA)IKHWANUL MUSLIMUN (HASSAN AL-BANNA – SAYYID SABIQ – ALGHAZZALI)PERSATUAN ISLAM – MUHAMMADIYYAH – AL-IRSHAD – NAHDATUL ‘ULAMATABLIGH – PERIPENSIS - HIMPUNAN BELIA ISLAM – JAM’IYYAH – DARUL ARQAM

MOREMORE


(1982) when the main resource teacher (Ustaz) for Muslim converts

then, Allahyarham Cikgu Hj Zaini Hj Ahmad became indisposed due

to ill-health, I was interviewed by the then Singapore second Mufti

Syed Esa bin Semait and Allahyarham Ustaz Syed ‘Abdillah bin

Ahmad al-Jufri, was granted permission and appointed by them to

be the Ustaz to replace his role. I was also appointed as one of the

Registrar for conversion of new Muslims.


WHILE SERVING IN DARUL ARQAM (1991-1997)

MOULAVI BABU SAHIBSHEIKH AHMAD DEEDATDR. JAMAL BADAWIDR.GARY MILLERAHMED VON DENFERMOULANA IMRAN HOESEIINDR. BILAL PHILLIPSDR. MAURICE BUCCAILLEDR. AHMAD SAKRHJ. A. KARIM GERALD D’CRUZKIYAI DRS. MUCHTAR ADAMUSTAZ HUSSEIN SHAHAB

... AND MANY OTHER VISITING SCHOLARS.

WHILE SERVING IN PERGAS (1997-2004)

USTAZ HJ. ABU BAKAR HASHIMUSTAZ SYED ‘ABDILLAH AL-JUFRI

USTAZ AHMAD SONHADJI MUHAMMADUSTAZ SALLIM JASMAN

USTAZ SYED HASSAN AL-BAHAR... AND MANY OTHER ASAATIZAH.

ISTAC-PERGAS SEMINAR (2000)

PROF. SYED MUHAMMAD NAQUIB AL-ATTAS PROF. WAN MOHD NOR WAN DAUDPROF. ALA-EDDIN KHAROUFAPROF, MALIK BADRIPROF. ABDUL RAHIM MUDDATHIRPROF. AMIR ROUBA-’IEPROF. FERID MUHICPROF. AHMAD MUSAVI KAZEMIPROF. CEMIL AKDOĞANPROF. HASSAN EL-NAGARDR. MUHAMMAD ZAINIY UTHMANDR. BURHANUDDIN AHMADDR. WAN AZHARDR. UGI SUHARTODR. ADI SETIADR. FARID SAHRAN

OTHERSUNABLE TO LIST MANY MORE ISLAMIC SCHOLARS, TEACHERS, ACADEMICIANS, ELDERS, ETC. WHICH I HAD PERSONALLY MET, LEARNT AND BENEFITTED ROM THEIR WISDOM AND ADVICES

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2013)) Summary of teachers

5. What is meant by “Cult of personality”? – SO LET US MAKE DU’A TO ALLAH S.W.T.SO LET US MAKE DU’A TO ALLAH S.W.T.

"ALLAA-HUM-MA ARINAL-HAQ-QA - HAQ-QA , "ALLAA-HUM-MA ARINAL-HAQ-QA - HAQ-QA ,

WAR-ZUQ-NAT –TIBAA - ’A-WAR-ZUQ-NAT –TIBAA - ’A-

WA-ARINAL – BAA-WA-ARINAL – BAA-TWTWI-LA BAA-I-LA BAA-TWTWILA , ILA ,

WAR-ZUQ-NAJ- TI-NAA-BA”WAR-ZUQ-NAJ- TI-NAA-BA”


5. What is meant by “Cult of personality”? – SO LET US MAKE DU’A TO ALLAH S.W.T.SO LET US MAKE DU’A TO ALLAH S.W.T.

““O Allah! Make us to see truth as true O Allah! Make us to see truth as true

and grant us the ability to follow it;and grant us the ability to follow it;

And make us to see falsehood as false And make us to see falsehood as false

and make us able to reject it.”and make us able to reject it.”TO BE CONTINUED ... INSHA-ALLAH

TO BE CONTINUED ... INSHA-ALLAH


http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/

http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/

http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/

http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/

http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/ http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/

http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/

http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/ http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/

http ://muqaddam-nurul.blogspot.com/http ://muqaddam-nurul.blogspot.com/

All welcome to visit my web-blog:All welcome to visit my web-blog:

96All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2014)

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