Islam against Democracy
Scholars cannot permit what Allah has forbidden
One of the main excuses some people use today in attempt to justify the evil act of voting for a person to make law on one’s behalf is that the majority of Muslim scholars say it is allowed to vote, and some even go further saying it is a religious duty
One of the main excuses some people use today in attempt to justify the evil act of voting for a person to make law on one’s behalf is that the majority of Muslim scholars say it is allowed to vote, and some even go further saying it is a religious duty.
This, like every other so-called argument used to justify voting for man to play the role of God and make law, is entirely flawed and can never be used as an excuse to associate partners with Allah by choosing a lawmaker besides Him. There are many places in the Qur’aan in which Allah (SWT) informs us of individuals in the past who were favoured by Him and were given knowledge, yet they abused the knowledge they were given, started to follow their own desires and misled the people.
For example, the Jews and Christians (People of the Book) were accused by Allah of worshipping their rabbis and priests by obeying and following their religious edicts which clearly went against the commands of Allah. Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’aan:
“They (Jews and Christians) took their rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allah (by obeying them in things which they made lawful or unlawful according to their own desires without being ordered by Allah).” (EMQ at-Tawbah, 9:31)
‘Uday bin Haatim used to be a Christian. When he heard the Messenger of Allah (SAW) recite the above verse he tried to deny this and responded: “We did not worship them (rabbis and priests).” The Prophet (SAW) replied: “Did they (rabbis and priests) not forbid what Allah permitted and hence you forbade it; and they permitted what Allah forbade and thus you permitted it?” ‘Uday replied “Yes.” The Prophet (SAW) said, “That is how you worshipped them.” After this incident ‘Uday (RA) embraced Islam.
So it can be argued that any Muslim who blindly follows a scholar when he permits what Allah forbids has taken him as a lord and false god besides Allah. Any matter which is clearly forbidden by Allah – such as alcohol, committing shirk (in this case, voting for man to make law), adultery, interest (ribaa), and so forth – cannot be made lawful by scholars. Moreover, one cannot claim on the Day of Judgement that they were merely following their scholars or the majority of people and therefore cannot be blamed for their actions. Allah (SWT) says:
“And those who followed (blindly) will say: “If only we had one more chance to return (to the worldly life), we would disown (declare ourselves as innocent from) them as they have disowned (declared themselves as innocent from) us.” Thus Allah will show them their deeds as regrets for them. And they will never get out of the Fire.” (EMQ al-Baqarah, 2:167)
Furthermore, it is reported in the Sunan of Ibn Maajah that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said: “Verily, what I fear most for my Ummah is misguided Imaams.” There can be no doubt that the misguided Imaams (or scholars) of today are those who allow voting for man-made law by twisting the verses of Allah and Shari’ah principles in order to achieve popularity, maintain their career and please the masses, tyrannical governments and disbelievers.
What makes someone an ‘aalim is not the level of knowledge they have, the length of their beard or their credentials. The Sahaabah, for example, did not study at a “renowned” institution and nor did they achieve any certificates, credentials, degrees, PhDs, and so forth. Despite this, they were the greatest ‘ulamaa (scholars) the Ummah has ever seen.
What makes someone an ‘aalim, besides having knowledge, is when they engage in the duties of the Anbiyaa (Prophets). Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said, “The ‘ulamaa are the inheritors of the Prophets.” Therefore, in order for one to be considered an ‘aalim, they must engage in the duties of the Prophets. The mission of the previous Prophets was to call people away from shirk (associating partners with Allah) and taaghout (false gods, such as lawmakers or MPs). They called society to Tawheed and to reject man-made laws as well as kufr (un-Islamic) ideals, ways of life and values such as freedom, democracy, liberalism and so forth.
It is for the above reasons that the previous Messengers and Prophets were attacked by the disbelievers, vilified, ridiculed, boycotted, imprisoned and some were even murdered or assassinated. This is how we recognise the people of truth: they are tested by Allah and vilified by the disbelievers. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was labelled a lunatic; Ibraaheem (or Abraham) was thrown into fire; Yoosuf (Joseph) was incarcerated for a crime he did not commit; the disbelievers plotted to crucify ‘Eesa (Jesus); Shu’aib (AS) was threatened with extradition; Nooh (Noah) was ridiculed; and the list goes on.
Allah (SWT) has destined, as part of His Almighty Traditions (Sunnatullah), that any person who desires to be with the Prophets, Messengers and their Companions in the Hereafter must struggle in this life the way they did and endure the tests they were made to endure. Allah (SWT) says:
“Or think you that you will enter Paradise without such (trials) as came to those who passed away before you? They were afflicted with severe poverty and ailments and were so shaken that even the Messenger and those who believed along with him said, “When (will come) the Help of Allah?” Yes! Certainly, the Help of Allah is near!” (EMQ al-Baqarah, 2:214)
In what way have those so-called scholars (who try to justify voting for kufr law) suffered for the sake of Allah and the Deen of Islam? Rather than calling people away from shirk and to shun taaghout (false gods), we find them calling us to commit shirk for their personal interests and benefit (maslahah) and to obey taaghout (those who rule by other than what Allah has revealed). What excuse do these sad individuals (particularly in the UK) have for not speaking out against this great evil? Unlike scholars in the Middle East, they are not being threatened with torture, imprisonment or death yet they are still afraid of upsetting the masses, gaining notoriety or being labelled an extremist.
There is a famous principle in Islam: “The haq (truth) is known by the daleel (divine evidence), not by men.” Therefore, the haq is not established by the number of people that agree with it or the number of “renowned” or celebrity-like scholars who state it. Rather, the haq is known by the daleel (Qur’aan and Sunnah, by the understanding of the Sahaabah). But if it is names you are after and not daleel, below is a brief list (in no particular order) of scholars from across the world that say democracy opposes Islam and that voting and participating in democratic elections is forbidden (haraam):
Sheikh Abu Muhammad al-Maqdisi (Jordan), Sheikh Feiz Mohammad (lived in Australia, originally Lebanon), Sheikh Anwar al-Awlaki (lived in USA, originally Yemen), Sheikh Abu Hamza al-Misri (UK, originally Egypt), Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman (USA, originally Egypt), Sheikh Abdullah el-Faisal (lived in UK, originally Jamaica), Sheikh Abdul-Qaadir bin Abdil-Azeez (Egypt), Sheikh Naasir al-Fahd (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Ahmad Fadeel an-Nazal al-Khalayleh (Jordan), Sheikh Osama bin Mohammed bin Awad bin Laden (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Ayman Muhammad Rabee’ al-Zawaahiri (Egypt), Sheikh Sayyid Qutb (Egypt), Sheikh Humood bin Uqla Ash-Shu’aibi (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Ali bin al-Khudayr (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Naasir ud-Deen al-Albaani (Saudi Arabia, originally Albania), Sheikh Muhammad Ameen al-Shanqeeti (Saudi Arabia, originally Mauritania), Sheikh Ahmad Hamood al-Khaalidi (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Yusuf al-Uyayri (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Abdullah al-Ghunaymaan (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Muhammad al-Fazaazy (Morocco), Sheikh Hani al-Siba’i (UK, originally Egypt), Sheikh Saalih al-Awfi (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Ziyaad Qattaan (UAE), Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammad (lived in UK, Lebanon), Sheikh Abu Qataadah al-Filasteeni (UK, originally Palestine).
One of the main excuses some people use today in attempt to justify the evil act of voting for a person to make law on one’s behalf is that the majority of Muslim scholars say it is allowed to vote, and some even go further saying it is a religious duty.
This, like every other so-called argument used to justify voting for man to play the role of God and make law, is entirely flawed and can never be used as an excuse to associate partners with Allah by choosing a lawmaker besides Him. There are many places in the Qur’aan in which Allah (SWT) informs us of individuals in the past who were favoured by Him and were given knowledge, yet they abused the knowledge they were given, started to follow their own desires and misled the people.
For example, the Jews and Christians (People of the Book) were accused by Allah of worshipping their rabbis and priests by obeying and following their religious edicts which clearly went against the commands of Allah. Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’aan:
“They (Jews and Christians) took their rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allah (by obeying them in things which they made lawful or unlawful according to their own desires without being ordered by Allah).” (EMQ at-Tawbah, 9:31)
‘Uday bin Haatim used to be a Christian. When he heard the Messenger of Allah (SAW) recite the above verse he tried to deny this and responded: “We did not worship them (rabbis and priests).” The Prophet (SAW) replied: “Did they (rabbis and priests) not forbid what Allah permitted and hence you forbade it; and they permitted what Allah forbade and thus you permitted it?” ‘Uday replied “Yes.” The Prophet (SAW) said, “That is how you worshipped them.” After this incident ‘Uday (RA) embraced Islam.
So it can be argued that any Muslim who blindly follows a scholar when he permits what Allah forbids has taken him as a lord and false god besides Allah. Any matter which is clearly forbidden by Allah – such as alcohol, committing shirk (in this case, voting for man to make law), adultery, interest (ribaa), and so forth – cannot be made lawful by scholars. Moreover, one cannot claim on the Day of Judgement that they were merely following their scholars or the majority of people and therefore cannot be blamed for their actions. Allah (SWT) says:
“And those who followed (blindly) will say: “If only we had one more chance to return (to the worldly life), we would disown (declare ourselves as innocent from) them as they have disowned (declared themselves as innocent from) us.” Thus Allah will show them their deeds as regrets for them. And they will never get out of the Fire.” (EMQ al-Baqarah, 2:167)
Furthermore, it is reported in the Sunan of Ibn Maajah that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said: “Verily, what I fear most for my Ummah is misguided Imaams.” There can be no doubt that the misguided Imaams (or scholars) of today are those who allow voting for man-made law by twisting the verses of Allah and Shari’ah principles in order to achieve popularity, maintain their career and please the masses, tyrannical governments and disbelievers.
What makes someone an ‘aalim?
What makes someone an ‘aalim, besides having knowledge, is when they engage in the duties of the Anbiyaa (Prophets). Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said, “The ‘ulamaa are the inheritors of the Prophets.” Therefore, in order for one to be considered an ‘aalim, they must engage in the duties of the Prophets. The mission of the previous Prophets was to call people away from shirk (associating partners with Allah) and taaghout (false gods, such as lawmakers or MPs). They called society to Tawheed and to reject man-made laws as well as kufr (un-Islamic) ideals, ways of life and values such as freedom, democracy, liberalism and so forth.
It is for the above reasons that the previous Messengers and Prophets were attacked by the disbelievers, vilified, ridiculed, boycotted, imprisoned and some were even murdered or assassinated. This is how we recognise the people of truth: they are tested by Allah and vilified by the disbelievers. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was labelled a lunatic; Ibraaheem (or Abraham) was thrown into fire; Yoosuf (Joseph) was incarcerated for a crime he did not commit; the disbelievers plotted to crucify ‘Eesa (Jesus); Shu’aib (AS) was threatened with extradition; Nooh (Noah) was ridiculed; and the list goes on.
Allah (SWT) has destined, as part of His Almighty Traditions (Sunnatullah), that any person who desires to be with the Prophets, Messengers and their Companions in the Hereafter must struggle in this life the way they did and endure the tests they were made to endure. Allah (SWT) says:
“Or think you that you will enter Paradise without such (trials) as came to those who passed away before you? They were afflicted with severe poverty and ailments and were so shaken that even the Messenger and those who believed along with him said, “When (will come) the Help of Allah?” Yes! Certainly, the Help of Allah is near!” (EMQ al-Baqarah, 2:214)
In what way have those so-called scholars (who try to justify voting for kufr law) suffered for the sake of Allah and the Deen of Islam? Rather than calling people away from shirk and to shun taaghout (false gods), we find them calling us to commit shirk for their personal interests and benefit (maslahah) and to obey taaghout (those who rule by other than what Allah has revealed). What excuse do these sad individuals (particularly in the UK) have for not speaking out against this great evil? Unlike scholars in the Middle East, they are not being threatened with torture, imprisonment or death yet they are still afraid of upsetting the masses, gaining notoriety or being labelled an extremist.
There is a famous principle in Islam: “The haq (truth) is known by the daleel (divine evidence), not by men.” Therefore, the haq is not established by the number of people that agree with it or the number of “renowned” or celebrity-like scholars who state it. Rather, the haq is known by the daleel (Qur’aan and Sunnah, by the understanding of the Sahaabah). But if it is names you are after and not daleel, below is a brief list (in no particular order) of scholars from across the world that say democracy opposes Islam and that voting and participating in democratic elections is forbidden (haraam):
Sheikh Abu Muhammad al-Maqdisi (Jordan), Sheikh Feiz Mohammad (lived in Australia, originally Lebanon), Sheikh Anwar al-Awlaki (lived in USA, originally Yemen), Sheikh Abu Hamza al-Misri (UK, originally Egypt), Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman (USA, originally Egypt), Sheikh Abdullah el-Faisal (lived in UK, originally Jamaica), Sheikh Abdul-Qaadir bin Abdil-Azeez (Egypt), Sheikh Naasir al-Fahd (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Ahmad Fadeel an-Nazal al-Khalayleh (Jordan), Sheikh Osama bin Mohammed bin Awad bin Laden (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Ayman Muhammad Rabee’ al-Zawaahiri (Egypt), Sheikh Sayyid Qutb (Egypt), Sheikh Humood bin Uqla Ash-Shu’aibi (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Ali bin al-Khudayr (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Naasir ud-Deen al-Albaani (Saudi Arabia, originally Albania), Sheikh Muhammad Ameen al-Shanqeeti (Saudi Arabia, originally Mauritania), Sheikh Ahmad Hamood al-Khaalidi (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Yusuf al-Uyayri (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Abdullah al-Ghunaymaan (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Muhammad al-Fazaazy (Morocco), Sheikh Hani al-Siba’i (UK, originally Egypt), Sheikh Saalih al-Awfi (Saudi Arabia), Sheikh Ziyaad Qattaan (UAE), Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammad (lived in UK, Lebanon), Sheikh Abu Qataadah al-Filasteeni (UK, originally Palestine).
DemoCrazy
This is a brief review which explains some of the destructive and dangerous effects resulting from plunging into the quagmire of democracy by which many people have been deceived due to putting on their hopes on it even though it is clearly against the methodology of Allah, just as what we are going to explain in this brief study, especially that there have been a lot of bitter experiences encountered by those people who have been deceived by this game and where its diversion and debauchery aspects were shown.
1. The system of Democracy makes us forgetful towards the confrontation in behavior between jahiliyah and Islam, which is the haqq and batil. Due to the fact that the existence of either one of them allows the extinction of the other, it is not ever possible for the two to mix together. Anyone who thinks that through the general election, the jahil fractions will submit all the institutions to Islam is mistaken, as this is clearly in contrast to the rationality, nash and sunan (decision of Allah) which had taken place to the earlier ummahs.
“On account of their arrogance in the land and their plotting of Evil, but the plotting of Evil will hem in only the authors thereof. Now are they but looking for the way the ancients were dealt with? But no change wilt thou find in Allah’s way (of dealing): no turning off wilt thou find in Allah’s way (of dealing)” (Surat Faathir: 43)
2. The system of democracy will cause the decay in the values of true aqeedah which was believed and practiced by Rasulullah and the noble Sahabahs. It will cause the spread of bid’ah, of not studying and teaching the true aqeedah to mankind because its teachings cause divisions amongst the party members. In fact, it could make someone to be excluded from the party that it can reduce the total number of votes and voters.
3. The system of democracy does not differentiate between the ‘alim and the jahil, between the mu’meen and the kafir, and between the male and the female, because they all have the same right to speak, without looking at the advantages from the shar’i point of view, whereas Allah says:
“…Say: “Are those equal, those who know and those who do not know? …” (Surat Az-Zumar: 9)
And:
“Is then the man who believes no better than the man who is rebellious and wicked? Not equal are they” (Surat As-Sajdah: 18)
And also:
“Shall We then treat the People of Faith like the People of Sin? What is the matter with you? How judge ye?” (Surat Al-Qalam: 35-36)
4. This system causes divisions amongst the da’wah activists and Islamic jamaah, because a section of them plunge and move within this system (whether they want it or not) that would make them support and defend as well as endeavor to make a good name and in turn they would be against anyone who is opposed by this system, while at the same time they support as well as defend anyone who is supported and defended by this system. Therefore, in the end fatwas would be twisted without any certainty between those who allow and forbid, between those who praise and criticize.
5. Under the shade of democratic system the issue of wala’ and bara’ becomes unclear and vague and because of this there are people who embrace and are involved in this system trying to justify by stating that their discords with the socialist party, ba’athist party and other secular parties are only limited to discords in the subject of program only, not a discord in the subject of manhaj and that it is not much different from the discords that happen between the four madzhabs. And they conducted the bond of agreement and confederation so as not to takfeer each other and not to betray amongst themselves, due to that they say that let there be discords but don’t let it spoil the love and affection between us!!
6. This system aims at the establishment of an illusive confederation with the secular parties, as what is happening today.
7. It’s very dominant that for the people who move in the quagmire of democracy, their intention is flawed, as every party strives and aims to defend its party as well as (abusing) making the most of all available facilities and tools to assemble and influence the masses in its surroundings, especially the tools and mediums which have the religious tones such as talks, giving of advices, ta’lim, shadaqah and others.
8. Plunging into the quandary of democracy will also result in the impairment of the noble akhlaq values such as honesty, transparency, the fulfillment of promises and the prevention of lies, pretension and the breaking of promises.
9. Therefore, democracy would also generate a haughty character while belittling others, as well as being proud of each of their own view because what turns into the concern is the defending of it (the view).
And Allah says:
“But people have cut off their affair (of unity), between them, into sects: each party rejoices in that which is with itself” (Surat Al-Mu’minun: 53)
10. If we pay a close attention and thorough analyzation, acknowledging and pledging to democracy means “stabbing” (blaspheming) the Prophets and their discourse (missions of Prophethood), because if al-haq (the truth) is to be deduced from the voice of the people’s majority there is no point for the Messengers to be sent and the books to be revealed, especially that it’s normal for the teachings brought by the Messengers to dispute the majority of the mankind who profess to the misguided aqeedah, deviate and have the jahilliyah traditions.
1. The system of Democracy makes us forgetful towards the confrontation in behavior between jahiliyah and Islam, which is the haqq and batil. Due to the fact that the existence of either one of them allows the extinction of the other, it is not ever possible for the two to mix together. Anyone who thinks that through the general election, the jahil fractions will submit all the institutions to Islam is mistaken, as this is clearly in contrast to the rationality, nash and sunan (decision of Allah) which had taken place to the earlier ummahs.
“On account of their arrogance in the land and their plotting of Evil, but the plotting of Evil will hem in only the authors thereof. Now are they but looking for the way the ancients were dealt with? But no change wilt thou find in Allah’s way (of dealing): no turning off wilt thou find in Allah’s way (of dealing)” (Surat Faathir: 43)
2. The system of democracy will cause the decay in the values of true aqeedah which was believed and practiced by Rasulullah and the noble Sahabahs. It will cause the spread of bid’ah, of not studying and teaching the true aqeedah to mankind because its teachings cause divisions amongst the party members. In fact, it could make someone to be excluded from the party that it can reduce the total number of votes and voters.
3. The system of democracy does not differentiate between the ‘alim and the jahil, between the mu’meen and the kafir, and between the male and the female, because they all have the same right to speak, without looking at the advantages from the shar’i point of view, whereas Allah says:
“…Say: “Are those equal, those who know and those who do not know? …” (Surat Az-Zumar: 9)
And:
“Is then the man who believes no better than the man who is rebellious and wicked? Not equal are they” (Surat As-Sajdah: 18)
And also:
“Shall We then treat the People of Faith like the People of Sin? What is the matter with you? How judge ye?” (Surat Al-Qalam: 35-36)
4. This system causes divisions amongst the da’wah activists and Islamic jamaah, because a section of them plunge and move within this system (whether they want it or not) that would make them support and defend as well as endeavor to make a good name and in turn they would be against anyone who is opposed by this system, while at the same time they support as well as defend anyone who is supported and defended by this system. Therefore, in the end fatwas would be twisted without any certainty between those who allow and forbid, between those who praise and criticize.
5. Under the shade of democratic system the issue of wala’ and bara’ becomes unclear and vague and because of this there are people who embrace and are involved in this system trying to justify by stating that their discords with the socialist party, ba’athist party and other secular parties are only limited to discords in the subject of program only, not a discord in the subject of manhaj and that it is not much different from the discords that happen between the four madzhabs. And they conducted the bond of agreement and confederation so as not to takfeer each other and not to betray amongst themselves, due to that they say that let there be discords but don’t let it spoil the love and affection between us!!
6. This system aims at the establishment of an illusive confederation with the secular parties, as what is happening today.
7. It’s very dominant that for the people who move in the quagmire of democracy, their intention is flawed, as every party strives and aims to defend its party as well as (abusing) making the most of all available facilities and tools to assemble and influence the masses in its surroundings, especially the tools and mediums which have the religious tones such as talks, giving of advices, ta’lim, shadaqah and others.
8. Plunging into the quandary of democracy will also result in the impairment of the noble akhlaq values such as honesty, transparency, the fulfillment of promises and the prevention of lies, pretension and the breaking of promises.
9. Therefore, democracy would also generate a haughty character while belittling others, as well as being proud of each of their own view because what turns into the concern is the defending of it (the view).
And Allah says:
“But people have cut off their affair (of unity), between them, into sects: each party rejoices in that which is with itself” (Surat Al-Mu’minun: 53)
10. If we pay a close attention and thorough analyzation, acknowledging and pledging to democracy means “stabbing” (blaspheming) the Prophets and their discourse (missions of Prophethood), because if al-haq (the truth) is to be deduced from the voice of the people’s majority there is no point for the Messengers to be sent and the books to be revealed, especially that it’s normal for the teachings brought by the Messengers to dispute the majority of the mankind who profess to the misguided aqeedah, deviate and have the jahilliyah traditions.
To Vote or not to Vote? An Islamic Perspective
With the elections around the corner, Muslims are being bombarded with “Islamic” reasons to support the elections and vote. For the sincere Muslims, who seek the pleasure of Allah Azzawajal in all things, this article will assist in clearing up some of the confusion by presenting the issue with strong evidences from the Qur’an and Sunnah insha Allah. We are available for comment, questions or naseeha.
The Purpose of Muslims
We have been created for the worship of Allah Azzawajal alone:
“And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (TMQ Adh Dhariyaat:56)
This ‘ibadah (worship) is achieved through complete submission to Allah Azzawajal (Qur’an) and His Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam (Sunnah):
“It is not for a believing man or a believing woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided a matter, that they should [thereafter] have any choice about their affair. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger has certainly strayed into clear error.” (TMQ Al Ahzab:36)
The root word of Islam is al-silm which means “submission” or “surrender.” It is understood to mean submission to Allah Azzawajal. This submission includes the ahkaam (Laws) of Allah Azzawajal – that which is declared to be halaalor haraam:
“Legislation is not but for Allah. He has commanded that you worship not except Him.”(TMQ Yusuf: 40)
“He shares not His legislation with anyone” (TMQ Al Kahf: 26)
Pre-Islam
In the period of jahiliyyah (pre-Islamic Makkah), the liberalism of the society was very similar to today. The sexual promiscuity, capitalist exploitation of the masses, power dominance of the affluent, tolerance of religions (paganism, Christianity, Judaism and fire worship) and extremely strong tribal/nationalistic bonds are all characteristics that are very much predominant in the “civilised and liberal” world today.
In was only when the message of Tawheed, (Absolute Oneness of Allah Azzawajal) was proclaimed, that the leadership of Makkah felt their power bases threatened. Various avenues (offers of wealth, prestige, women, power sharing, character assassination and murder) were then employed to silence the Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, the Message and the followers of the Message.
The reason for wanting to silence Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was because his message of Tawheed, meant a major change in the ruling system. It meant a submission to the Laws of Allah Azzawajal and not to the laws of man. It meant that the ruling elite were to be stripped of their self-assumed legislative authority.
Despite being a minority in a position of weakness and in need of all forms of assistance, when Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was offered a power share in Makkah, he refused and Allah Azzawajal revealed Surah Al Kaafirun.
The first ever Islamic State was established by Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam in Madinah and it’s constitution was the Shari’ah. During lifetime of Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, the Shari’ah was being formulated via Qur’anic revelation under his guidance (Sunnah). Upon the death of Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, the Shari’ah was defined either in clear text or in principle:
“This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion” (TMQ Al Ma’idah:3).
This Islamic Legal System was closely implemented by the Khulafah (Caliphs) thereafter, as the Shari’ah firmly became system of governance for Muslims. This system continued, albeit with a few hiccups over time, at state level until the abolishment of the Uthmaani (Ottoman) Khilafah in 1924 by the Jew-Turk, Kemal Ataturk.
Subsequently, the Muslim Khilafah was carved into nation states by the imperial west and today we have more than fifty deeply divided states with a majority Muslim population in addition to many Muslims who are currently resident in the West.
Foremost in our activities, the guiding mission should be to fulfil the obligation of the restoration of Allah Azzawajal’s Law on the earth by all means insha Allah.
The Muslim Situation Today
All of these 50+ nation states are governed by despots, tyrants, imperialists and/or slaves of the west. None of these secular states implement the Shari’ah except for a sprinkling of a few Islamic practices to fool the Muslims, upon whom they’ve enforced their dictatorial rule. Due to our weakness, every man-made system has appealed to us over the years and all attempts to govern ourselves by these Divinely-opposed systems (communism, socialism, arab socialism, liberalism and the system of today: democracy) has compounded our misery.
But a new beast has reared its head: Muslims living in the West aren’t just being asked to support the un-Islamic system of democracy but are being given Islamic reasons to do so!
Naturally this is confusing the sincere Muslims, who in trying to please Allah Azzawajal, are influenced by one of the following:
1) Those who strongly encourage voting/democracy saying that it is an Islamic duty;
2) Those who neither encourage or discourage voting/democracy; or
3) Those who strongly discourage Muslims from participation in any man-made system of governance.
It is absolutely crucial that we examine and measure the evidences that each of these bring forth for their claims against the established texts of Qur’an and authenticated Ahadeeth. In the presence of clear established texts, other principles and opinions should take a back seat:
“If you differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger, if you believe in Allah and the Last Day” (TMQ Surah an Nisaa: 59)
Attachments to certain celebrity figures or organisations among the Muslims is not and should not be the basis of our individual decisions. This article strongly argues that option three is the safest for the Muslims as the arguments presented by option one are not valid . Option two is invalidated by Allah Azzawajal’s Command to enjoin the good and forbid the evil.
A Brief Description of Democracy
Democracy is a term of Greek origin meaning the ‘rule of the people’. In such a system, the population is given the chance over four or five years to choose which political party, they feel is best to govern them in a process known as voting. Those who obtain the majority of votes are then ushered in as the ruling party of the country (in this case, South Africa). These elected people gain seats in the Parliament, where new laws are discussed, accepted, removed or amended (legislation).
Therefore, those who voted for these politicians are ultimately accountable for the final decisions made by their elected candidates. If these ministers formulate and accept, by their majority opinion, that any Divinely-forbidden acts (abortion, sodomite and lesbian marriages, gambling, prostitution etc) are deemed ‘beneficial’ for the people, then through majority voting, these would be accepted and implemented as law, such that the people will have to live and judge by them. Those who oppose/disobey these laws are regarded as intolerant and opposed to the Constitution.
Are Islam and Democracy Compatible?
Based on the evidences presented earlier, it is clearly established that legislation is reserved solely for the Creator Azzawajal. One of His Attributes is Al Haakim (The Legislator). Within a democracy, legislation takes place according to the whims and desires of the creation. This man-made authority of istihlaal (determining halaal and haraam) is in total opposition to the Shari’ah and thus renders democracy a system of shirk (association of partners with Allah Azzawajal). Support for such a system ranges from being sinful (best case scenario) to being a mushrik (worst case scenario), depending on the extent/degree of one’s belief in the system.
Glaring examples of the intolerance of democracy for Islam (and thus incompatibility) were evident in Algeria in the 90’s and currently in Palestine. The F.I.S. and Hamas both won their respective elections overwhelmingly according to the democratic process but at the mere mention of Shari’ah they were forced out of power.
A Reminder to Those who will choose to vote despite the evidences presented
The call for voting is a call for further subjugation of the will and identity of Muslims. It is a call to integrate into Muslims the values of secularism and the ‘equality’ of Tawheed (Islam) and shirk (all other religions). The drive towards secularising the Muslims has already led to many Muslims suffering the consequences of ‘freedom’, clearly apparent in the lifestyles and values of the disbelieving society around them that many Muslims have proudly adopted. Hayaa (modesty) is disappearing at a rapid rate. Our youth (our future) have become submerged into thekufr (disbelief) culture around them. Rampant illicit sex, drug abuse, HIV and even sodomy have found their way into the Muslim community. Our once-treasured Muslim elders are disrespected with some even being dumped off at ‘old age homes’.
Do we as an Ummah really want to continue down this road?
There are many options available if we want to make a difference. The majority of the people of the land are crying out for the honour and justice that Islam provides. Can we rise to the challenge and honourably invite to Islam? Or will we fool ourselves into believing that an ‘X’ on a piece of paper will bring about the required changes?
Allah Azzawajal and His Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam have shown us the path.
Will we choose another?
The Purpose of Muslims
We have been created for the worship of Allah Azzawajal alone:
“And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (TMQ Adh Dhariyaat:56)
This ‘ibadah (worship) is achieved through complete submission to Allah Azzawajal (Qur’an) and His Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam (Sunnah):
“It is not for a believing man or a believing woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided a matter, that they should [thereafter] have any choice about their affair. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger has certainly strayed into clear error.” (TMQ Al Ahzab:36)
The root word of Islam is al-silm which means “submission” or “surrender.” It is understood to mean submission to Allah Azzawajal. This submission includes the ahkaam (Laws) of Allah Azzawajal – that which is declared to be halaalor haraam:
“Legislation is not but for Allah. He has commanded that you worship not except Him.”(TMQ Yusuf: 40)
“He shares not His legislation with anyone” (TMQ Al Kahf: 26)
Pre-Islam
In the period of jahiliyyah (pre-Islamic Makkah), the liberalism of the society was very similar to today. The sexual promiscuity, capitalist exploitation of the masses, power dominance of the affluent, tolerance of religions (paganism, Christianity, Judaism and fire worship) and extremely strong tribal/nationalistic bonds are all characteristics that are very much predominant in the “civilised and liberal” world today.
In was only when the message of Tawheed, (Absolute Oneness of Allah Azzawajal) was proclaimed, that the leadership of Makkah felt their power bases threatened. Various avenues (offers of wealth, prestige, women, power sharing, character assassination and murder) were then employed to silence the Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, the Message and the followers of the Message.
The reason for wanting to silence Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was because his message of Tawheed, meant a major change in the ruling system. It meant a submission to the Laws of Allah Azzawajal and not to the laws of man. It meant that the ruling elite were to be stripped of their self-assumed legislative authority.
Despite being a minority in a position of weakness and in need of all forms of assistance, when Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was offered a power share in Makkah, he refused and Allah Azzawajal revealed Surah Al Kaafirun.
The first ever Islamic State was established by Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam in Madinah and it’s constitution was the Shari’ah. During lifetime of Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, the Shari’ah was being formulated via Qur’anic revelation under his guidance (Sunnah). Upon the death of Rasulullah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, the Shari’ah was defined either in clear text or in principle:
“This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion” (TMQ Al Ma’idah:3).
This Islamic Legal System was closely implemented by the Khulafah (Caliphs) thereafter, as the Shari’ah firmly became system of governance for Muslims. This system continued, albeit with a few hiccups over time, at state level until the abolishment of the Uthmaani (Ottoman) Khilafah in 1924 by the Jew-Turk, Kemal Ataturk.
Subsequently, the Muslim Khilafah was carved into nation states by the imperial west and today we have more than fifty deeply divided states with a majority Muslim population in addition to many Muslims who are currently resident in the West.
Foremost in our activities, the guiding mission should be to fulfil the obligation of the restoration of Allah Azzawajal’s Law on the earth by all means insha Allah.
The Muslim Situation Today
All of these 50+ nation states are governed by despots, tyrants, imperialists and/or slaves of the west. None of these secular states implement the Shari’ah except for a sprinkling of a few Islamic practices to fool the Muslims, upon whom they’ve enforced their dictatorial rule. Due to our weakness, every man-made system has appealed to us over the years and all attempts to govern ourselves by these Divinely-opposed systems (communism, socialism, arab socialism, liberalism and the system of today: democracy) has compounded our misery.
But a new beast has reared its head: Muslims living in the West aren’t just being asked to support the un-Islamic system of democracy but are being given Islamic reasons to do so!
Naturally this is confusing the sincere Muslims, who in trying to please Allah Azzawajal, are influenced by one of the following:
1) Those who strongly encourage voting/democracy saying that it is an Islamic duty;
2) Those who neither encourage or discourage voting/democracy; or
3) Those who strongly discourage Muslims from participation in any man-made system of governance.
It is absolutely crucial that we examine and measure the evidences that each of these bring forth for their claims against the established texts of Qur’an and authenticated Ahadeeth. In the presence of clear established texts, other principles and opinions should take a back seat:
“If you differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger, if you believe in Allah and the Last Day” (TMQ Surah an Nisaa: 59)
Attachments to certain celebrity figures or organisations among the Muslims is not and should not be the basis of our individual decisions. This article strongly argues that option three is the safest for the Muslims as the arguments presented by option one are not valid . Option two is invalidated by Allah Azzawajal’s Command to enjoin the good and forbid the evil.
A Brief Description of Democracy
Democracy is a term of Greek origin meaning the ‘rule of the people’. In such a system, the population is given the chance over four or five years to choose which political party, they feel is best to govern them in a process known as voting. Those who obtain the majority of votes are then ushered in as the ruling party of the country (in this case, South Africa). These elected people gain seats in the Parliament, where new laws are discussed, accepted, removed or amended (legislation).
Therefore, those who voted for these politicians are ultimately accountable for the final decisions made by their elected candidates. If these ministers formulate and accept, by their majority opinion, that any Divinely-forbidden acts (abortion, sodomite and lesbian marriages, gambling, prostitution etc) are deemed ‘beneficial’ for the people, then through majority voting, these would be accepted and implemented as law, such that the people will have to live and judge by them. Those who oppose/disobey these laws are regarded as intolerant and opposed to the Constitution.
Are Islam and Democracy Compatible?
Based on the evidences presented earlier, it is clearly established that legislation is reserved solely for the Creator Azzawajal. One of His Attributes is Al Haakim (The Legislator). Within a democracy, legislation takes place according to the whims and desires of the creation. This man-made authority of istihlaal (determining halaal and haraam) is in total opposition to the Shari’ah and thus renders democracy a system of shirk (association of partners with Allah Azzawajal). Support for such a system ranges from being sinful (best case scenario) to being a mushrik (worst case scenario), depending on the extent/degree of one’s belief in the system.
Glaring examples of the intolerance of democracy for Islam (and thus incompatibility) were evident in Algeria in the 90’s and currently in Palestine. The F.I.S. and Hamas both won their respective elections overwhelmingly according to the democratic process but at the mere mention of Shari’ah they were forced out of power.
A Reminder to Those who will choose to vote despite the evidences presented
The call for voting is a call for further subjugation of the will and identity of Muslims. It is a call to integrate into Muslims the values of secularism and the ‘equality’ of Tawheed (Islam) and shirk (all other religions). The drive towards secularising the Muslims has already led to many Muslims suffering the consequences of ‘freedom’, clearly apparent in the lifestyles and values of the disbelieving society around them that many Muslims have proudly adopted. Hayaa (modesty) is disappearing at a rapid rate. Our youth (our future) have become submerged into thekufr (disbelief) culture around them. Rampant illicit sex, drug abuse, HIV and even sodomy have found their way into the Muslim community. Our once-treasured Muslim elders are disrespected with some even being dumped off at ‘old age homes’.
Do we as an Ummah really want to continue down this road?
There are many options available if we want to make a difference. The majority of the people of the land are crying out for the honour and justice that Islam provides. Can we rise to the challenge and honourably invite to Islam? Or will we fool ourselves into believing that an ‘X’ on a piece of paper will bring about the required changes?
Allah Azzawajal and His Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam have shown us the path.
Will we choose another?
The Right Of Legislation Is For None But Allah (swt)
Glory to Allah (swt)! Glory be to Allah (swt), the One who guided us from the darkness of ignorance (jahiliyah) into the light of Islam.
We must reflect on the importance of guidance, so that we may be grateful. It is the most important blessing that we have received from Allah (swt). Allah (swt) has revealed:
“Ta Sin! These are the verses of the Quran and the Book that makes (things) clear. A guidance and good news for the believers” [TMQ 27:1-2]
Humankind is in desperate need of the light of the Message that came to Rasool-Allah (saw). We need this guidance for two reasons. Firstly, since worship is a part of our nature (Fitra), it is natural for us to sanctify the Creator. If this worship is not regulated by the Creator, it will lead to disorder, such as worshipping other than Allah (swt) or not worshipping Him (swt) in the proper manner. Since man does not know the essence of Allah (swt), what pleases Allah (swt), what displeases Allah (swt), and because Allah (swt) is not under man’s senses– it is only Allah (swt) that can establish the way to worship Him (swt).
Secondly, human beings have biological needs, such as the need for food, sleep, drink and the like. Humans also have an instinct of survival manifested by love for position, fear, selfishness, and so on.
Prophet Muhammad (saw) said, “If the son of Adam were given a valley full of gold he would always want another.” [Bukhari]
As a result, we need the Shari’ah from Allah (swt); a comprehensive guidance for life to regulate our biological needs and instincts. Only Allah (swt) can provide such a criterion, as He (swt) knows our exact needs, the extent of each need, the proper way of satisfaction for each need, and the exact balance in the way of satisfying all of them. Thus, we are in desperate need of the light of Islam that was revealed to Rasool-Allah (saw).
The annals of history are full of man’s oppression towards his fellow man. Greed, selfishness, killing, monopoly, and crime are manifestations of man fulfilling his survival instinct. Without a criterion for action the striving for satisfaction of man’s needs will lead him to constant conflict with others. For example, in the US almost 13% of its population has issues obtaining the food they need
– even though it is the wealthiest nation on the planet. Since man has limited understanding of reality, and is unable to see into the future, whenever he makes and passes laws, we can be certain that disaster will soon follow.
Man is inherently unable to legislate. This is due to the fact that man is:
Prone to disparity: Different people will come to different conclusions on how to deal with a problem. For example in the U.S., the crime of murder will have different penalties depending on the state that the crime was committed in. In some states, a murderer will receive the death penalty; while in other states the murderer will receive a lengthy jail sentence – even though it is the same crime.
Limited in his capacity to think: For example, China limited the number of children each household could have to one. This resulted in female infanticide (i.e. families wanted to have a son; not daughters) and now there is a shortage of females in China, making it difficult for males to find a wife.
Influenced by the environment: For example, NAFTA was drafted by the government to reflect the interests of the corporate elite and not the workers. The legislators come from privileged backgrounds and therefore are prone to draft legislation that is affected by their environment.
Subject to change over time: For example, in Canada, homosexuality was considered a crime and considered an illness. However, today it is considered a legally acceptable relationship.
Due to these inherent limitations of the mind, man is unable to identify the proper solutions to humanity’s problems in a comprehensive manner. Examine the secular approach to the lending process of purchasing homes. The creditors are aware that the secular thought process (ie: they understand the way the system works) leads a person to greed, so they are afraid that the debtor will try to take the loan without repaying. As a result they charge amounts of interest, which effectively doubles or triples the amount borrowed. Furthermore, when a family has trouble paying for their mortgage, they are forced out of their home and their house is sold off to the highest bidder. Some families tend to break-up over such financial crises. This in turn leads to the single mothers taking care of the kids by themselves. In turn, the children see their mothers struggling to make ends meet and want to help. However, minimum wage jobs do not provide much money to fill the gap. As a result, they turn to criminal activities, usually dealing in drugs. Each of these issues – the loss of homes, break-up of families, and youth crime – are significant issues that need to be addressed. However, tackling the symptoms of these problems will not resolve them in a comprehensive manner. The underlying root cause of these problems is man-made legislation. Man must rely on Allah (swt) for making the laws that govern society. In contrast to man-made legislation, the laws of Allah (swt) are derived only from Him (swt) who has no limits, is free of bias, and has complete knowledge of all matters. Allah (swt) has declared Islam to be the final message and therefore it is not subject to changes.
Making Laws: Issue of Iman & Ibadat
In the following hadith, it becomes clear that the issue of legislation is also an issue of worship
(ibadat).
The Prophet Muhammad (saw) recited this ayah: “They (Jews and Christians) took their rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allah and (they also took as their Lord) Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary), while they were commanded to worship none but One Ilâh (God – Allah) Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). Praise and glory be to Him, (far above is He) from having the partners they associate (with Him).”
Adi bin Hatim replied: “They did not worship them.”
Upon which the Prophet (saw) said: “Yes they did. They (the rabbis and priests) prohibited the permissible for them (i.e. the Jews & Christians) and allowed the prohibited, and they obeyed them. This is how they worshiped them.” [Ahmed & Tirmidhi]
True submission to Allah (swt) means that He (swt) has sovereignty over all of our affairs and that we willingly submit to Him (swt). Since He (swt) is the Sovereign and we are His (swt) humble slaves, this means that we must refer to His (swt) guidance in all that we do. The issue of drafting laws to repeal or replace what Allah (swt) has revealed in the Quran, and through the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (saw), is to actually worship that entity – be it a scholar, a government, or another individual or institution. Just as we are forbidden from worshipping idols, we are also forbidden from granting anyone besides Allah (swt) the right to rule. This affirms the idea that we recognize that we need guidance from Allah (swt). That is, guidance is not restricted to the ritual
acts of worship but extends to every single action. Allah (swt) has revealed:
“We have revealed the Book to you explaining clearly everything, and a guidance and mercy and good news for those who submit.” [TMQ 16:89] and
“Nothing We have omitted from the Book.” [TMQ: 6:38]
Also, Allah (swt) has made it a part of belief (iman) that we must submit to the law (hukm) of Allah
(swt). Allah (swt) has revealed:
“But no, by your Rabb, they can have no Iman (faith), until they make you the judge in all disputes between them and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions and accept (them) with full submission”
[TMQ 4:65]
Regarding the first part of the ayah, (But no, by your Lord, they can have no faith, until they make you judge in all disputes between them,) Ibn Kahtir comments in his tafsir: “The first part of the ayah Allah swears by His Glorious, Most Honorable Self, that no one shall attain faith until he
refers to the Messenger for judgment in all matters. Thereafter, whatever the Messenger commands, is the plain truth that must be submitted to inwardly and outwardly.” Regarding the second part of the ayah (and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission.) ibn Kathir comments: “they adhere to your judgment, and thus do not feel any hesitation over your decision, and they submit to it inwardly and outwardly. They submit to the Prophet’s decision with total submission without any rejection, denial or dispute.”
Importance of judging man-made rule according to the Quran and Sunnah
We must not blindly accept ideas held by the society around us simply because that is “what everyone else is doing”. Instead we must analyze the ideas from the light of the Quran and Sunnah and then arrive at a firm conclusion.
Firstly, the idea that people do what they want without limits is something that every Prophet (as) is familiar with. The key issue the elite (mal’a) had with the Prophets (as) is that the elite wanted to do as they pleased – they did not want to submit to the laws of Allah (swt) brought by the Prophets (as) that were sent to them. For example, when Prophet Shu`ayb (as) was sent to the people of Midyan who were ordered to worship none but Allah (swt) and to be just in their economic dealings, they replied to him:
“O Shu`ayb! Does your (way of) Salah command you that we give up what our fathers used to worship, or that we give up doing what we like with our property.”
[TMQ 11:87]
In Islam, sovereignty (i.e. the right to legislate) is for the rule of Allah (Shar’a) and not for the Ummah. Allah (swt) is the only Legislator; the Ummah, the whole of it, does not possess the right to legislate not even one single rule. If all the Muslims met and agreed to permit the haram (e.g. interest (Riba), alcohol, adultery, etc) and forbid the fard (e.g. zakat, fasting, implementation of Islam, etc) – it would have no value in front of Allah (swt). It is not allowed for us, the Ummah, to do any action which contradicts the rules of Islam, just as it is not allowed for us to legislate even a single rule. Therefore, Allah (swt) is the only Legislator. He (swt) said:
“The rule (Hukm) is for none but Allah, He has commanded that you worship none but Him, that is the straight Deen, but most men know not” [TMQ 12:40] and
“Have you seen those (hypocrites) who claim that they believe in that which has been sent down to you, and that which has been sent down before you, and they wish to go for judgment (in their disputes) to the Taghut (false judges) while they have been ordered to reject them?” [TMQ: 4: 60]
Referring for judgment to the Taghut constitutes referring for judgment to other than what Allah
(swt) has revealed, i.e. it is referring to the rules made by man. He (swt) said:
“Do they then seek the judgement of (the Days of) Ignorance (Jahiliyyah)? And who is better in judgment than Allah for a people who have firm belief?” [TMQ 5:50]
Ibn Kathir in the tafsir of this ayah states: “Allah criticizes those who ignore Allah’s commandments, which include every type of righteous good thing and prohibit every type of evil, but they refer instead to opinions, desires and customs that people themselves invented, all of which have no basis in Allah’s religion. During the time of Jahiliyyah, the people used to abide by the misguidance and ignorance that they invented by sheer opinion and lusts. The Tatar (Mongols) abided by the law that they inherited from their king Genghis Khan who wrote Al-Yasiq, for them. This book contains some rulings that were derived from various religions, such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Many of these rulings were derived from his own opinion and desires. Later on, these rulings became the followed law among his children, preferring them to the Law of the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger.”
Allah (swt) also condemns the idea that people should have the ability to act without limits, as Allah
(swt) has revealed:
“Or shall man have what he wishes? No! For Allah is the hereafter and the former (life).” [TMQ
53:25-26] and
“Have you (O Muhammad) seen him who has taken as his ilah (god) his own desire (Hawah)? Would you then be a Wakil (disposer of his affairs) over him? Or do you think that most of them hear or understand? They are only like cattle; nay, they are even farther astray from the Path.” [TMQ: 25:43]
In the following ayat, Allah (swt) makes it clear that when He (swt) gives us an order, we have no choice – we must submit to Allah (swt) without reservations:
“It is not fitting for a believing man or a believing woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided an affair (for them), that they should (after that) have any option in their decision; and whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, he has indeed strayed in plain error”. [TMQ 33:36]
Such was the practice of the sahabah (ra): when they understood an ayat – they did not have any hesitation in implementing it. For example, when the law requiring the women to wear head coverings (khimar) and outer-garments (jilbab) was revealed, the Muslimahs grabbed whatever they could that was around them to cover themselves up in order to comply with the verse. When the
ayat was announced that the qibla had changed from Al-Quds to Makkah – the sahabah (ra) changed direction from which they were praying – right in the middle of the salat! When the ayat we
revealed about banning the consumption of alcohol, the sahabah (ra) immediately stopped drinking, spat out what was in their mouths, and some went as so far as to induce vomit. None of the sahabah (ra) appealed to the Prophet (saw) to allow a gradual implementation of the prohibition or even ask if they could sell their alcohol to non-Muslims. Instead, the people acted immediately to dump what
ever alcohol they had to the point that the streets of Madinah were flowing with alcohol. May Allah (swt) help us to follow the truth and refer solely to what He (swt) has revealed.
We must reflect on the importance of guidance, so that we may be grateful. It is the most important blessing that we have received from Allah (swt). Allah (swt) has revealed:
“Ta Sin! These are the verses of the Quran and the Book that makes (things) clear. A guidance and good news for the believers” [TMQ 27:1-2]
Humankind is in desperate need of the light of the Message that came to Rasool-Allah (saw). We need this guidance for two reasons. Firstly, since worship is a part of our nature (Fitra), it is natural for us to sanctify the Creator. If this worship is not regulated by the Creator, it will lead to disorder, such as worshipping other than Allah (swt) or not worshipping Him (swt) in the proper manner. Since man does not know the essence of Allah (swt), what pleases Allah (swt), what displeases Allah (swt), and because Allah (swt) is not under man’s senses– it is only Allah (swt) that can establish the way to worship Him (swt).
Secondly, human beings have biological needs, such as the need for food, sleep, drink and the like. Humans also have an instinct of survival manifested by love for position, fear, selfishness, and so on.
Prophet Muhammad (saw) said, “If the son of Adam were given a valley full of gold he would always want another.” [Bukhari]
As a result, we need the Shari’ah from Allah (swt); a comprehensive guidance for life to regulate our biological needs and instincts. Only Allah (swt) can provide such a criterion, as He (swt) knows our exact needs, the extent of each need, the proper way of satisfaction for each need, and the exact balance in the way of satisfying all of them. Thus, we are in desperate need of the light of Islam that was revealed to Rasool-Allah (saw).
The annals of history are full of man’s oppression towards his fellow man. Greed, selfishness, killing, monopoly, and crime are manifestations of man fulfilling his survival instinct. Without a criterion for action the striving for satisfaction of man’s needs will lead him to constant conflict with others. For example, in the US almost 13% of its population has issues obtaining the food they need
– even though it is the wealthiest nation on the planet. Since man has limited understanding of reality, and is unable to see into the future, whenever he makes and passes laws, we can be certain that disaster will soon follow.
Man is inherently unable to legislate. This is due to the fact that man is:
Prone to disparity: Different people will come to different conclusions on how to deal with a problem. For example in the U.S., the crime of murder will have different penalties depending on the state that the crime was committed in. In some states, a murderer will receive the death penalty; while in other states the murderer will receive a lengthy jail sentence – even though it is the same crime.
Limited in his capacity to think: For example, China limited the number of children each household could have to one. This resulted in female infanticide (i.e. families wanted to have a son; not daughters) and now there is a shortage of females in China, making it difficult for males to find a wife.
Influenced by the environment: For example, NAFTA was drafted by the government to reflect the interests of the corporate elite and not the workers. The legislators come from privileged backgrounds and therefore are prone to draft legislation that is affected by their environment.
Subject to change over time: For example, in Canada, homosexuality was considered a crime and considered an illness. However, today it is considered a legally acceptable relationship.
Due to these inherent limitations of the mind, man is unable to identify the proper solutions to humanity’s problems in a comprehensive manner. Examine the secular approach to the lending process of purchasing homes. The creditors are aware that the secular thought process (ie: they understand the way the system works) leads a person to greed, so they are afraid that the debtor will try to take the loan without repaying. As a result they charge amounts of interest, which effectively doubles or triples the amount borrowed. Furthermore, when a family has trouble paying for their mortgage, they are forced out of their home and their house is sold off to the highest bidder. Some families tend to break-up over such financial crises. This in turn leads to the single mothers taking care of the kids by themselves. In turn, the children see their mothers struggling to make ends meet and want to help. However, minimum wage jobs do not provide much money to fill the gap. As a result, they turn to criminal activities, usually dealing in drugs. Each of these issues – the loss of homes, break-up of families, and youth crime – are significant issues that need to be addressed. However, tackling the symptoms of these problems will not resolve them in a comprehensive manner. The underlying root cause of these problems is man-made legislation. Man must rely on Allah (swt) for making the laws that govern society. In contrast to man-made legislation, the laws of Allah (swt) are derived only from Him (swt) who has no limits, is free of bias, and has complete knowledge of all matters. Allah (swt) has declared Islam to be the final message and therefore it is not subject to changes.
Making Laws: Issue of Iman & Ibadat
In the following hadith, it becomes clear that the issue of legislation is also an issue of worship
(ibadat).
The Prophet Muhammad (saw) recited this ayah: “They (Jews and Christians) took their rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allah and (they also took as their Lord) Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary), while they were commanded to worship none but One Ilâh (God – Allah) Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). Praise and glory be to Him, (far above is He) from having the partners they associate (with Him).”
Adi bin Hatim replied: “They did not worship them.”
Upon which the Prophet (saw) said: “Yes they did. They (the rabbis and priests) prohibited the permissible for them (i.e. the Jews & Christians) and allowed the prohibited, and they obeyed them. This is how they worshiped them.” [Ahmed & Tirmidhi]
True submission to Allah (swt) means that He (swt) has sovereignty over all of our affairs and that we willingly submit to Him (swt). Since He (swt) is the Sovereign and we are His (swt) humble slaves, this means that we must refer to His (swt) guidance in all that we do. The issue of drafting laws to repeal or replace what Allah (swt) has revealed in the Quran, and through the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (saw), is to actually worship that entity – be it a scholar, a government, or another individual or institution. Just as we are forbidden from worshipping idols, we are also forbidden from granting anyone besides Allah (swt) the right to rule. This affirms the idea that we recognize that we need guidance from Allah (swt). That is, guidance is not restricted to the ritual
acts of worship but extends to every single action. Allah (swt) has revealed:
“We have revealed the Book to you explaining clearly everything, and a guidance and mercy and good news for those who submit.” [TMQ 16:89] and
“Nothing We have omitted from the Book.” [TMQ: 6:38]
Also, Allah (swt) has made it a part of belief (iman) that we must submit to the law (hukm) of Allah
(swt). Allah (swt) has revealed:
“But no, by your Rabb, they can have no Iman (faith), until they make you the judge in all disputes between them and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions and accept (them) with full submission”
[TMQ 4:65]
Regarding the first part of the ayah, (But no, by your Lord, they can have no faith, until they make you judge in all disputes between them,) Ibn Kahtir comments in his tafsir: “The first part of the ayah Allah swears by His Glorious, Most Honorable Self, that no one shall attain faith until he
refers to the Messenger for judgment in all matters. Thereafter, whatever the Messenger commands, is the plain truth that must be submitted to inwardly and outwardly.” Regarding the second part of the ayah (and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission.) ibn Kathir comments: “they adhere to your judgment, and thus do not feel any hesitation over your decision, and they submit to it inwardly and outwardly. They submit to the Prophet’s decision with total submission without any rejection, denial or dispute.”
Importance of judging man-made rule according to the Quran and Sunnah
We must not blindly accept ideas held by the society around us simply because that is “what everyone else is doing”. Instead we must analyze the ideas from the light of the Quran and Sunnah and then arrive at a firm conclusion.
Firstly, the idea that people do what they want without limits is something that every Prophet (as) is familiar with. The key issue the elite (mal’a) had with the Prophets (as) is that the elite wanted to do as they pleased – they did not want to submit to the laws of Allah (swt) brought by the Prophets (as) that were sent to them. For example, when Prophet Shu`ayb (as) was sent to the people of Midyan who were ordered to worship none but Allah (swt) and to be just in their economic dealings, they replied to him:
“O Shu`ayb! Does your (way of) Salah command you that we give up what our fathers used to worship, or that we give up doing what we like with our property.”
[TMQ 11:87]
In Islam, sovereignty (i.e. the right to legislate) is for the rule of Allah (Shar’a) and not for the Ummah. Allah (swt) is the only Legislator; the Ummah, the whole of it, does not possess the right to legislate not even one single rule. If all the Muslims met and agreed to permit the haram (e.g. interest (Riba), alcohol, adultery, etc) and forbid the fard (e.g. zakat, fasting, implementation of Islam, etc) – it would have no value in front of Allah (swt). It is not allowed for us, the Ummah, to do any action which contradicts the rules of Islam, just as it is not allowed for us to legislate even a single rule. Therefore, Allah (swt) is the only Legislator. He (swt) said:
“The rule (Hukm) is for none but Allah, He has commanded that you worship none but Him, that is the straight Deen, but most men know not” [TMQ 12:40] and
“Have you seen those (hypocrites) who claim that they believe in that which has been sent down to you, and that which has been sent down before you, and they wish to go for judgment (in their disputes) to the Taghut (false judges) while they have been ordered to reject them?” [TMQ: 4: 60]
Referring for judgment to the Taghut constitutes referring for judgment to other than what Allah
(swt) has revealed, i.e. it is referring to the rules made by man. He (swt) said:
“Do they then seek the judgement of (the Days of) Ignorance (Jahiliyyah)? And who is better in judgment than Allah for a people who have firm belief?” [TMQ 5:50]
Ibn Kathir in the tafsir of this ayah states: “Allah criticizes those who ignore Allah’s commandments, which include every type of righteous good thing and prohibit every type of evil, but they refer instead to opinions, desires and customs that people themselves invented, all of which have no basis in Allah’s religion. During the time of Jahiliyyah, the people used to abide by the misguidance and ignorance that they invented by sheer opinion and lusts. The Tatar (Mongols) abided by the law that they inherited from their king Genghis Khan who wrote Al-Yasiq, for them. This book contains some rulings that were derived from various religions, such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Many of these rulings were derived from his own opinion and desires. Later on, these rulings became the followed law among his children, preferring them to the Law of the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger.”
Allah (swt) also condemns the idea that people should have the ability to act without limits, as Allah
(swt) has revealed:
“Or shall man have what he wishes? No! For Allah is the hereafter and the former (life).” [TMQ
53:25-26] and
“Have you (O Muhammad) seen him who has taken as his ilah (god) his own desire (Hawah)? Would you then be a Wakil (disposer of his affairs) over him? Or do you think that most of them hear or understand? They are only like cattle; nay, they are even farther astray from the Path.” [TMQ: 25:43]
In the following ayat, Allah (swt) makes it clear that when He (swt) gives us an order, we have no choice – we must submit to Allah (swt) without reservations:
“It is not fitting for a believing man or a believing woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided an affair (for them), that they should (after that) have any option in their decision; and whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, he has indeed strayed in plain error”. [TMQ 33:36]
Such was the practice of the sahabah (ra): when they understood an ayat – they did not have any hesitation in implementing it. For example, when the law requiring the women to wear head coverings (khimar) and outer-garments (jilbab) was revealed, the Muslimahs grabbed whatever they could that was around them to cover themselves up in order to comply with the verse. When the
ayat was announced that the qibla had changed from Al-Quds to Makkah – the sahabah (ra) changed direction from which they were praying – right in the middle of the salat! When the ayat we
revealed about banning the consumption of alcohol, the sahabah (ra) immediately stopped drinking, spat out what was in their mouths, and some went as so far as to induce vomit. None of the sahabah (ra) appealed to the Prophet (saw) to allow a gradual implementation of the prohibition or even ask if they could sell their alcohol to non-Muslims. Instead, the people acted immediately to dump what
ever alcohol they had to the point that the streets of Madinah were flowing with alcohol. May Allah (swt) help us to follow the truth and refer solely to what He (swt) has revealed.
DEMOCRACY (FALSE RELIGION)
Allah (swt) says,
Abdullah ibn Abbas said “The above ayah means to worship Allah (swt) singularly and alone (i.e. Li yu wahidoun).”
Democracy And Voting In Democratic Elections
The Definition of Democracy
§ Democracy is not an Arabic term (democrathia – broken Arabic) has no root verb
§ No linguistic meaning
§ No Shariah term
§ Term never used in the time of the Sahabah (ra)
§ Term never used politically by the Arabs
Democracy is from the Greeks
§ Demos meaning people
§ Cracy meaning judgment, legislation
Literal meaning of democracy is ‘the peoples rule’
Hence the slogan: Rule of the people, by the people, for the people. Their source of legislation (hakimiyah – right to make law) is man (insan). So Man decides what is good and what is bad.
§ Rule of the people = ? power of legislation for man (those MP’s elected)
§ By the people = ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? rule by what they legislate (MP’s)
§ For the people = ? ? ? ? ? ? ? they will be ruled (citizens) by what is legislated
Democracy (definition in the dictionary)
1. Government by the people exercised either directly or through elected representatives.
2. The common people, considered as the primary source of political power.
3. Majority rule.
Western Democratic Society upholds principles such as freedom, liberalism and secularism. Hence they will accept god as creator but NOT the commander
Yet Allah (swt) says,
Democratic Society will have the following:
§ Legislative authority = powers to make law and amend them, cabinet and mps
§ Executive authority = execute them, i.e. foreign office, home office, education etc
§ Judicial authority = judge cases and pass verdict according to the legislation
Parliament (Legislative Body)
Parliament emanates from the notion that rule is for the people. But as all can’t be involved in this process they choose delegates call MP’s to do this.
The Legislative Parliament
1. Legislation and passing law
2. To give government the vote of confidence or no confidence
Parliament today in any country legislates kufr man-made law, thereby competing in Allah (swt) Rububiyah; Which is committing SHIRK AKBAR. Allah (swt) says:,
Aiesha narrated the Messenger (saw) said:
(Kullu amali laisa alaihi amruna fahuwa radd)
“Whoever does an act not from this matter of ours (Islam) will have it rejected.” [Bukhari] [Muslim]
If Parliament is haram, so is to become candidates for it, and so is to vote to bring in a candidate.
Some Important Points
Rule (sovereignty) is for none but Allah (swt)
None can have a say once a decision is made
Following the majority is not the haq
So fear Allah much and love Allah much, O men of understanding in order that you may be successful. [Surah Al Maidah 5:100]
Allah (swt) has decreed for the Muslims ‘Islam’ as their only deen/way
Allah (swt) condemns those who choose another way
Muslim has no choice but to obey Allah (swt)
Every person accountable
The delegate and delegated share in the sin
Delegating to kufr, will lead to being punished for kufr.
Refuting Misconceptions
Yusuf (as) worked for the Aziz of Egypt :
§ Did not work in legislative department, rather executive
§ He said “the rule is for Allah (swt)” this was even whilst in Prison
§ He said in the Shariah of Ibrahim the one who steals becomes a slave ie regarding his brother Benjamin
The Negus implemented kufr:
§ Embraced Islam before his death
§ Plus the Shariah was not complete
The treaty of Hudaibiyah:
§ The Messenger (saw) did not compromise with kufr regimes, rather as the leader of the Islamic state he negotiated for a cease-fire. No comparison with party political elections
The Alliance of Fudhoul:
§ The kuffar made a treaty to stop fighting during hajj and look after the hujjaj, the Messenger (saw) expressed he liked the idea, but never partook in it, as it happened in the past
The lesser of two evils:
§ Islam allows the lesser of two harms but not evil?
§ Which is worse, killing a baby, rape or drinking alcohol
§ Alcohol is the mother of all evils
§ Hadith whosoever sees evil
Fulfil your agreement:
§ Only if it doesn’t contradict the Shariah
Public Interest:
§ Only if it doesn’t contradict the Shariah
Obeying the law of the land:
§ Yet Allah (swt) says,
﴿ وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالْإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُونِ ﴾
And I (Allah) created not the Jinns and humans except they should worship Me (Alone) [Surah Ad Dhariyaat 51:56]Abdullah ibn Abbas said “The above ayah means to worship Allah (swt) singularly and alone (i.e. Li yu wahidoun).”
﴿ وَلَقَدْ بَعَثْنَا فِي كُلِّ أُمَّةٍ رَّسُولاً أَنِ اعْبُدُواْ اللّهَ وَاجْتَنِبُواْ الطَّاغُوتَ ﴾
And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): “Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taghut [Surah An Nahl 16:36 ]﴿ فَمَنْ يَكْفُرْ بِالطَّاغُوتِ وَيُؤْمِن بِاللّهِ فَقَدِ اسْتَمْسَكَ بِالْعُرْوَةِ الْوُثْقَىَ لاَ انفِصَامَ لَهَا وَاللّهُ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ ﴾
Whoever disbelieves in Taghut and believes in Allah, then he has grasped the most trustworthy handhold that will never break. And Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower. [EMQ 2:256]Democracy And Voting In Democratic Elections
The Definition of Democracy
§ Democracy is not an Arabic term (democrathia – broken Arabic) has no root verb
§ No linguistic meaning
§ No Shariah term
§ Term never used in the time of the Sahabah (ra)
§ Term never used politically by the Arabs
Democracy is from the Greeks
§ Demos meaning people
§ Cracy meaning judgment, legislation
Literal meaning of democracy is ‘the peoples rule’
Hence the slogan: Rule of the people, by the people, for the people. Their source of legislation (hakimiyah – right to make law) is man (insan). So Man decides what is good and what is bad.
§ Rule of the people = ? power of legislation for man (those MP’s elected)
§ By the people = ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? rule by what they legislate (MP’s)
§ For the people = ? ? ? ? ? ? ? they will be ruled (citizens) by what is legislated
Democracy (definition in the dictionary)
1. Government by the people exercised either directly or through elected representatives.
2. The common people, considered as the primary source of political power.
3. Majority rule.
Western Democratic Society upholds principles such as freedom, liberalism and secularism. Hence they will accept god as creator but NOT the commander
Yet Allah (swt) says,
﴿ أَلاَ لَهُ الْخَلْقُ وَالأَمْرُ? تَبَارَكَ اللّهُ رَبُّ الْعَالَمِينَ ﴾
Surely, His is the Creation and Commandment. Blessed be Allah, the Lord of the Alamin [Surah Al A'raf 7:54 ]Democratic Society will have the following:
§ Legislative authority = powers to make law and amend them, cabinet and mps
§ Executive authority = execute them, i.e. foreign office, home office, education etc
§ Judicial authority = judge cases and pass verdict according to the legislation
Parliament (Legislative Body)
Parliament emanates from the notion that rule is for the people. But as all can’t be involved in this process they choose delegates call MP’s to do this.
The Legislative Parliament
1. Legislation and passing law
2. To give government the vote of confidence or no confidence
Parliament today in any country legislates kufr man-made law, thereby competing in Allah (swt) Rububiyah; Which is committing SHIRK AKBAR. Allah (swt) says:,
﴿ إِنَّ اللّهَ لاَ يَغْفِرُ أَن يُشْرَكَ بِهِ وَيَغْفِرُ مَا دُونَ ذَلِكَ لِمَن يَشَاء وَمَن يُشْرِكْ بِاللّهِ فَقَدِ افْتَرَى إِثْمًا عَظِيمًا ﴾
Verily, Allah forgives not that partners should be set up with him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He pleases, And whoever sets up partners with Allah in worship, he has indeed invented a tremendous sin. [Surah An Nisa 4:48]﴿ اتَّخَذُواْ أَحْبَـرَهُمْ وَرُهْبَـنَهُمْ أَرْبَاباً مِّن دُونِ اللَّهِ وَالْمَسِيحَ ابْنَ مَرْيَمَ وَمَآ أُمِرُواْ إِلاَّ لِيَعْبُدُواْ إِلَـهاً وَحِداً لاَّ إِلَـهَ إِلاَّ هُوَ سُبْحَـنَهُ عَمَّا يُشْرِكُونَ ﴾
They (Jews and Christians) took their rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allah, and (they also took as their Lord) the Messiah, son of Maryam, while they were commanded to worship none but One God, none has the right to be worshipped but He. Praise and hallowed be He above what they associate (with Him).” [Surah At Taubah 9:31]﴿ وَمَن يُشَاقِقِ الرَّسُولَ مِن بَعْدِ مَا تَبَيَّنَ لَهُ الْهُدَى وَيَتَّبِعْ غَيْرَ سَبِيلِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ نُوَلِّهِ مَا تَوَلَّى وَنُصْلِهِ جَهَنَّمَ وَسَاءتْ مَصِيرًا ﴾
And whoever contradicts and opposes the Messenger (Muhammad SAW) after the right path has been shown clearly to him, and follows other than the believers’ way. We shall keep him in the path he has chosen, and burn him in Hell – what an evil destination. [Surah An Nisa 4:115]Aiesha narrated the Messenger (saw) said:
(Kullu amali laisa alaihi amruna fahuwa radd)
“Whoever does an act not from this matter of ours (Islam) will have it rejected.” [Bukhari] [Muslim]
If Parliament is haram, so is to become candidates for it, and so is to vote to bring in a candidate.
﴿ وَتَعَاوَنُواْ عَلَى الْبرِّ وَالتَّقْوَى وَلاَ تَعَاوَنُواْ عَلَى الإِثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ وَاتَّقُواْ اللّهَ إِنَّ اللّهَ شَدِيدُ الْعِقَابِ ﴾
Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa (virtue, righteousness and piety); but do not help one another in sin and transgression. And fear Allah. Verily, Allah is Severe in punishment [Surah Al Maidah 5:2]Some Important Points
Rule (sovereignty) is for none but Allah (swt)
﴿ إِنِ الْحُكْمُ إِلاَّ لِلّهِ أَمَرَ أَلاَّ تَعْبُدُواْ إِلاَّ إِيَّاهُ ذَلِكَ الدِّينُ الْقَيِّمُ وَلَـكِنَّ أَكْثَرَ النَّاسِ لاَ يَعْلَمُونَ ﴾
The command (or the judgement) is for none but Allah. He has commanded that you worship none but Him (i.e. His Monotheism), that is the (true) straight religion, but most men know not. [Surah Yusuf 12:40]None can have a say once a decision is made
﴿ وَاللّهُ يَحْكُمُ لاَ مُعَقِّبَ لِحُكْمِهِ وَهُوَ سَرِيعُ الْحِسَابِ ﴾
And Allah judges, there is none to put back His Judgement and He is Swift at reckoning.[Surah Ar Ra'd 13:41 ]﴿وَمَا كَانَ لِمُؤْمِنٍ وَلاَ مُؤْمِنَةٍ إِذَا قَضَى اللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُ أَمْراً أَن يَكُونَ لَهُمُ الْخِيَرَةُ مِنْ أَمْرِهِمْ وَمَن يَعْصِ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ فَقَدْ ضَلَّ ضَلَـلاً مُّبِيناً﴾
It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, he has indeed strayed into a plain error. [Surah Al Ahzab 33:36]Following the majority is not the haq
﴿ قُل لاَّ يَسْتَوِي الْخَبِيثُ وَالطَّيِّبُ وَلَوْ أَعْجَبَكَ كَثْرَةُ الْخَبِيثِ فَاتَّقُواْ اللّهَ يَا أُوْلِي الأَلْبَابِ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ ﴾
Say, “Not equal are Al-Khabith (evil) and At-Taiyib (good), even though the abundance of Al-Khabith (evil) may please you.”?So fear Allah much and love Allah much, O men of understanding in order that you may be successful. [Surah Al Maidah 5:100]
﴿ وَمَا أَكْثَرُ النَّاسِ وَلَوْ حَرَصْتَ بِمُؤْمِنِينَ ﴾
And most of mankind will not believe even if you desire it eagerly. [Surah Yusuf 12:103]Allah (swt) has decreed for the Muslims ‘Islam’ as their only deen/way
﴿ إِنَّ الدِّينَ عِندَ اللّهِ الإِسْلاَمُ ﴾
Truly, the religion with Allah is Islam. [Surah Al Imran 3:19]Allah (swt) condemns those who choose another way
﴿ وَمَن يَبْتَغِ غَيْرَ الإِسْلاَمِ دِينًا فَلَن يُقْبَلَ مِنْهُ وَهُوَ فِي الآخِرَةِ مِنَ الْخَاسِرِينَ ﴾
And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers. [Surah Al Imran 3:85]﴿ أَمْ لَهُمْ شُرَكَاء شَرَعُوا لَهُم مِّنَ الدِّينِ ﴾
Or have they partners with Allah (false gods), who have instituted for them a religion, which Allah has not allowed. [Surah Ash Shura 42:21]﴿ أَلَمْ تَرَ إِلَى الَّذِينَ يَزْعُمُونَ أَنَّهُمْ آمَنُواْ بِمَا أُنزِلَ إِلَيْكَ وَمَا أُنزِلَ مِن قَبْلِكَ يُرِيدُونَ أَن يَتَحَاكَمُواْ إِلَى الطَّاغُوتِ وَقَدْ أُمِرُواْ أَن يَكْفُرُواْ بِهِ وَيُرِيدُ الشَّيْطَانُ أَن يُضِلَّهُمْ ضَلاَلاً بَعِيدًا ﴾
Have you seen those (hypocrites) who claim that they believe in that which has been sent down to you, and that which was sent down before you, and they wish to go for judgement (in their disputes) to the Taghut (false judges, etc.) while they have been ordered to reject them. But Shaytan (Satan) wishes to lead them far astray. [Surah An Nisa 4:60]Muslim has no choice but to obey Allah (swt)
﴿ يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ أَطِيعُواْ اللّهَ وَأَطِيعُواْ الرَّسُولَ وَأُوْلِي الأَمْرِ مِنكُمْ فَإِن تَنَازَعْتُمْ فِي شَيْءٍ فَرُدُّوهُ إِلَى اللّهِ وَالرَّسُولِ ﴾
O you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger, and those of you (Muslims) who are in authority. (And) if you differ in anything amongst yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger [Surah An Nisa 4:59 ]Every person accountable
﴿ فَوَرَبِّكَ لَنَسْأَلَنَّهُمْ أَجْمَعِيْنَ – عَمَّا كَانُوا يَعْمَلُونَ ﴾
So, by your Lord (O Muhammad SAW), We shall certainly call all of them to account. For all that they used to do [Surah Al Hijr 15:92-93]The delegate and delegated share in the sin
﴿ وَمَن لَّمْ يَحْكُم بِمَا أَنزَلَ اللّهُ فَأُوْلَـئِكَ هُمُ الْكَافِرُونَ ﴾
And whosoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed, such are the Kafiroun [Surah Al Maidah 5:44]Delegating to kufr, will lead to being punished for kufr.
Refuting Misconceptions
Yusuf (as) worked for the Aziz of Egypt :
§ Did not work in legislative department, rather executive
§ He said “the rule is for Allah (swt)” this was even whilst in Prison
§ He said in the Shariah of Ibrahim the one who steals becomes a slave ie regarding his brother Benjamin
The Negus implemented kufr:
§ Embraced Islam before his death
§ Plus the Shariah was not complete
The treaty of Hudaibiyah:
§ The Messenger (saw) did not compromise with kufr regimes, rather as the leader of the Islamic state he negotiated for a cease-fire. No comparison with party political elections
The Alliance of Fudhoul:
§ The kuffar made a treaty to stop fighting during hajj and look after the hujjaj, the Messenger (saw) expressed he liked the idea, but never partook in it, as it happened in the past
The lesser of two evils:
§ Islam allows the lesser of two harms but not evil?
§ Which is worse, killing a baby, rape or drinking alcohol
§ Alcohol is the mother of all evils
§ Hadith whosoever sees evil
Fulfil your agreement:
§ Only if it doesn’t contradict the Shariah
Public Interest:
§ Only if it doesn’t contradict the Shariah
Obeying the law of the land:
§ Yet Allah (swt) says,
﴿ يَا أَيُّهَا النَّبِيُّ اتَّقِ اللَّهَ وَلَا تُطِعِ الْكَافِرِينَ وَالْمُنَافِقِينَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ عَلِيمًا حَكِيمًا ﴾
O Prophet! Fear Allah, and obey not the disbelievers and the hypocrites. Verily! Allah is Ever All Knower, All Wise. [Surah Al Ahzab 33:1]﴿ وَلَن يَجْعَلَ اللّهُ لِلْكَافِرِينَ عَلَى الْمُؤْمِنِينَ سَبِيلاً ﴾
And never will Allah grant to the disbelievers a way (to triumph) over the believers [Surah An Nisa 4:141]TO VOTE OR NOT TO VOTE
Britain is set for another general election and the controversy surrounding the ‘Muslim vote’ is as contentious as ever. There are many motives and incentives to tempt a Muslim to vote and many in the community feel that it is a civil duty. MPs promote voting to Muslims as ‘a means to an end’: whether to protest against the war, keep the BNP at bay, or just to hope that the least evil government reaches power. But is this really what democracy is all about?
Whether you are a secular democrat, a concerned Muslim or just an apathetic citizen, all of these strategic schemes and political posturing cloud the reality of what voting really is. What are MPs really asking us to do by voting for them?
The truth is, MPs are not asking us to protest against the occupation of Afghanistan, they are not asking us to join hands in support of Palestine, they are not asking us to send a message to Labour or to help keep the BNP out of government and they are not calling us to make Shura (consultation).
Whatever we might personally think about it, the Houses of Parliament describes itself on its website as a place of legislation and supreme sovereignty. “Parliament is where new laws are debated and agreed.” It also says,
“Parliamentary
sovereignty is a principle of the UK constitution. It makes Parliament the supreme legal authority
in the UK, which can create or end any law.” And that “
A Member of Parliament (MP) is elected by a particular area or constituency in Britain to represent them in the House of Commons.” [www.parliament.uk]
There is no doubt that MPs are campaigning so vigorously in the community for one thing and one thing only. They are asking you to select them to be the ones who will legislate on your behalf.
So the question for Muslims is: what is the Islamic ruling on making laws and what is the ruling on asking others to legislate on your behalf? It is also important to discuss the ruling on doing these things with the intention of benefitting the community.
Legislation (Al-Tashree’)
It is a basic belief of all Muslims that the Shari’ah of Islam is the revealed law of Allah and that it abrogates all other laws and guidance, including those revealed before the Qur’an such as the Torah, Psalms and the Gospel. Seeking guidance from any other law or constitution is condemned to failure.
Allah (SWT) says,
“With Allah rests all power of decision, from before and after all else.” [EMQ 30:4]
And the Prophet (SAW) said to Umar (RA) when he found him reading only a page from the Torah,
“Are you in doubt O Ibn al Khattab? Have I not brought you something shining and
pure? If my brother Musa were alive, he would have no choice but to follow me.” [Musnad Imam Ahmed and Sunan Al Darimi]
Indeed it is agreed among all sects and schools of thought in Islam that the Shari’ah of Islam has been completed and is perfect; nothing has been forgotten and nothing can be surpassed, Allah (SWT) says,
“Today, I have perfected your Deen (way of life) and completed My favour upon you all and I have chosen Al-Islam to be
your Deen.” [EMQ 5:3]
The Shari’ah of Allah is perfect and better than any alternative, including democracy. Moreover, the right to legislate and decide what is lawful and unlawful is exclusive to Allah, Who says,
“The right of legislation is for none but Allah.” [EMQ 12:40]
And He (SWT) also says, “He does not share His right of legislation with anybody.” [EMQ 18:26]
There are many other verses like these. It is also agreed upon and known by necessity that people are obliged to seek the judgement of Islam in all matters and forbidden from seeking judgement from any other legislator. Allah (SWT) says,
“On whatever you may differ; theHukm (decision and law) is for Allah.” [EMQ 42:10]
“No by your Lord! They are not believers until they seek your judgement (O Muhammad) in all of their disputes without feeling any hardship in your decision and until they submit to it completely.” [EMQ 4:65]
“
[Say:] ‘Am I, then, to look to anyone but Allah for judgment [as to what is lawful and unlawful], when it is He who has revealed to you this Book, clearly clarifying the truth?’” [EMQ 6:114]
“Are you seeking the law of Jahiliyyah (i.e. man made law)? And who is better than Allah in legislation for people of certainty [the believers]?” [EMQ 5:50]
In fact, ruling, legislating and debating what is lawful or not according to our own opinions and wishes, as is what happens in Parliament, is described as lying about and abandoning the Revelation, Allah (SWT) says, “And rule and judge between them according to what Allah has
revealed and do not follow their desires. And beware of them lest they turn you away from even a part of what Allah has revealed to you.” [EMQ 5:49] “And do not say for any lie your tongue may utter, ‘this is lawful and this is unlawful’ so as to attribute a lie to Allah. For those who attribute lies to Allah will never succeed.” [EMQ 6:116]
Representation (Al-Wikaalah) So there is no doubt that the job of an MP as a
legislator is prohibited in Islam and is a form of associating partners with Allah (major shirk). But what about the one who votes and delegates the job of legislation to someone else, such as an MP? In Islam, the responsibility and sin arising from representation (Al-Wikaalah) is shared by the agent and the one on whose behalf he is acting upon. In other words, whether you ask someone to buy, sell or pour alcohol for you; or if you pay someone to commit murder, order someone to steal for you or delegate an MP to legislate law on your behalf, you will share the sin and punishment with your representative. For example, the Prophet (SAW) said,
“Truly, Allah
has cursed Khamr (alcoholic beverages) and has cursed the one who produces it, the one for whom it is produced, the one who drinks it, the one who serves it, the one who carries it, the one for whom it is carried, the one who sells it, the one who earns from the sale of it, the one who buys it, and the one for whom it is bought.” [Reported by At-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah)
Regarding legislation specifically, particularly when it contradicts Islamic laws, Allah (SWT) has described this type of representation as taking and worshipping others as lords and partners with Allah (i.e. al-shirk),
“Or do they
have partners that legislate for them in the way of life what they had no permission from Allah?” [EMQ 42:21]
And, “They took their rabbis and priests as lords besides Allah.” [EMQ 9:31]
Uday bin Haatim (RA) was passing by while the Messenger (SAW) recited the above verse and said,
“We did not worship them (rabbis and priests).” The Prophet (SAW) replied: “Did they (rabbis and priests) not forbid what Allah permitted and hence you forbade it; and they permitted what Allah forbade and thus you permitted it?” “Yes,” replied ‘Uday. The Prophet (SAW) said, “That is how you worshipped them.” Public Interest and Benefit (Al-Maslahah)
Despite the clear prohibition of voting for a legislator besides Allah, there is still much talk
about the benefit to the community that could be lost by abstaining from the ballot boxes. Shaykh ul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah said:
“Verily, the Shirk and to attribute to Allah
without knowledge and all forms of unlawful sexual acts, sayings and transactions, whether hidden or apparent, and oppression cannot contain any form of interest or benefit. Whatever is forbidden upon every person in every situation, such as Shirk, Kufr, oppression, unlawful sexual acts or to attribute Ahkam (laws) to Allah that He never legislated, nothing is permissible from it under the pretexts of interest and benefit. That is because Allah (SWT) says, “Verily, Allah forbade the unlawful sexual transactions, whatever was hidden or apparent, and any form of rebellion without Haq and to associate with Allah that which He never revealed, or to attribute to Allah what you do not have knowledge, all of this is forbidden.” [EMQ 7: 33] All these are forbidden amongst all people, in all religions and all Anbiyaa (prophets) have been sent with its prohibition. Nothing is permissible from it ever, whether before Islam or after Islam, and none of these can be taken by permit for any interest or benefit for the Deen or for the Dunyaa.” [Majmoo’ al Fattawaa v18 p476]
Whether you are a secular democrat, a concerned Muslim or just an apathetic citizen, all of these strategic schemes and political posturing cloud the reality of what voting really is. What are MPs really asking us to do by voting for them?
The truth is, MPs are not asking us to protest against the occupation of Afghanistan, they are not asking us to join hands in support of Palestine, they are not asking us to send a message to Labour or to help keep the BNP out of government and they are not calling us to make Shura (consultation).
Whatever we might personally think about it, the Houses of Parliament describes itself on its website as a place of legislation and supreme sovereignty. “Parliament is where new laws are debated and agreed.” It also says,
“Parliamentary
sovereignty is a principle of the UK constitution. It makes Parliament the supreme legal authority
in the UK, which can create or end any law.” And that “
A Member of Parliament (MP) is elected by a particular area or constituency in Britain to represent them in the House of Commons.” [www.parliament.uk]
There is no doubt that MPs are campaigning so vigorously in the community for one thing and one thing only. They are asking you to select them to be the ones who will legislate on your behalf.
So the question for Muslims is: what is the Islamic ruling on making laws and what is the ruling on asking others to legislate on your behalf? It is also important to discuss the ruling on doing these things with the intention of benefitting the community.
Legislation (Al-Tashree’)
It is a basic belief of all Muslims that the Shari’ah of Islam is the revealed law of Allah and that it abrogates all other laws and guidance, including those revealed before the Qur’an such as the Torah, Psalms and the Gospel. Seeking guidance from any other law or constitution is condemned to failure.
Allah (SWT) says,
“With Allah rests all power of decision, from before and after all else.” [EMQ 30:4]
And the Prophet (SAW) said to Umar (RA) when he found him reading only a page from the Torah,
“Are you in doubt O Ibn al Khattab? Have I not brought you something shining and
pure? If my brother Musa were alive, he would have no choice but to follow me.” [Musnad Imam Ahmed and Sunan Al Darimi]
Indeed it is agreed among all sects and schools of thought in Islam that the Shari’ah of Islam has been completed and is perfect; nothing has been forgotten and nothing can be surpassed, Allah (SWT) says,
“Today, I have perfected your Deen (way of life) and completed My favour upon you all and I have chosen Al-Islam to be
your Deen.” [EMQ 5:3]
The Shari’ah of Allah is perfect and better than any alternative, including democracy. Moreover, the right to legislate and decide what is lawful and unlawful is exclusive to Allah, Who says,
“The right of legislation is for none but Allah.” [EMQ 12:40]
And He (SWT) also says, “He does not share His right of legislation with anybody.” [EMQ 18:26]
There are many other verses like these. It is also agreed upon and known by necessity that people are obliged to seek the judgement of Islam in all matters and forbidden from seeking judgement from any other legislator. Allah (SWT) says,
“On whatever you may differ; theHukm (decision and law) is for Allah.” [EMQ 42:10]
“No by your Lord! They are not believers until they seek your judgement (O Muhammad) in all of their disputes without feeling any hardship in your decision and until they submit to it completely.” [EMQ 4:65]
“
[Say:] ‘Am I, then, to look to anyone but Allah for judgment [as to what is lawful and unlawful], when it is He who has revealed to you this Book, clearly clarifying the truth?’” [EMQ 6:114]
“Are you seeking the law of Jahiliyyah (i.e. man made law)? And who is better than Allah in legislation for people of certainty [the believers]?” [EMQ 5:50]
In fact, ruling, legislating and debating what is lawful or not according to our own opinions and wishes, as is what happens in Parliament, is described as lying about and abandoning the Revelation, Allah (SWT) says, “And rule and judge between them according to what Allah has
revealed and do not follow their desires. And beware of them lest they turn you away from even a part of what Allah has revealed to you.” [EMQ 5:49] “And do not say for any lie your tongue may utter, ‘this is lawful and this is unlawful’ so as to attribute a lie to Allah. For those who attribute lies to Allah will never succeed.” [EMQ 6:116]
Representation (Al-Wikaalah) So there is no doubt that the job of an MP as a
legislator is prohibited in Islam and is a form of associating partners with Allah (major shirk). But what about the one who votes and delegates the job of legislation to someone else, such as an MP? In Islam, the responsibility and sin arising from representation (Al-Wikaalah) is shared by the agent and the one on whose behalf he is acting upon. In other words, whether you ask someone to buy, sell or pour alcohol for you; or if you pay someone to commit murder, order someone to steal for you or delegate an MP to legislate law on your behalf, you will share the sin and punishment with your representative. For example, the Prophet (SAW) said,
“Truly, Allah
has cursed Khamr (alcoholic beverages) and has cursed the one who produces it, the one for whom it is produced, the one who drinks it, the one who serves it, the one who carries it, the one for whom it is carried, the one who sells it, the one who earns from the sale of it, the one who buys it, and the one for whom it is bought.” [Reported by At-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah)
Regarding legislation specifically, particularly when it contradicts Islamic laws, Allah (SWT) has described this type of representation as taking and worshipping others as lords and partners with Allah (i.e. al-shirk),
“Or do they
have partners that legislate for them in the way of life what they had no permission from Allah?” [EMQ 42:21]
And, “They took their rabbis and priests as lords besides Allah.” [EMQ 9:31]
Uday bin Haatim (RA) was passing by while the Messenger (SAW) recited the above verse and said,
“We did not worship them (rabbis and priests).” The Prophet (SAW) replied: “Did they (rabbis and priests) not forbid what Allah permitted and hence you forbade it; and they permitted what Allah forbade and thus you permitted it?” “Yes,” replied ‘Uday. The Prophet (SAW) said, “That is how you worshipped them.” Public Interest and Benefit (Al-Maslahah)
Despite the clear prohibition of voting for a legislator besides Allah, there is still much talk
about the benefit to the community that could be lost by abstaining from the ballot boxes. Shaykh ul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah said:
“Verily, the Shirk and to attribute to Allah
without knowledge and all forms of unlawful sexual acts, sayings and transactions, whether hidden or apparent, and oppression cannot contain any form of interest or benefit. Whatever is forbidden upon every person in every situation, such as Shirk, Kufr, oppression, unlawful sexual acts or to attribute Ahkam (laws) to Allah that He never legislated, nothing is permissible from it under the pretexts of interest and benefit. That is because Allah (SWT) says, “Verily, Allah forbade the unlawful sexual transactions, whatever was hidden or apparent, and any form of rebellion without Haq and to associate with Allah that which He never revealed, or to attribute to Allah what you do not have knowledge, all of this is forbidden.” [EMQ 7: 33] All these are forbidden amongst all people, in all religions and all Anbiyaa (prophets) have been sent with its prohibition. Nothing is permissible from it ever, whether before Islam or after Islam, and none of these can be taken by permit for any interest or benefit for the Deen or for the Dunyaa.” [Majmoo’ al Fattawaa v18 p476]
Evil Elections
Indeed Satan is an open enemy to you. [EMQ 7:22]
The original scriptures of the Jews, Christians and the authentic texts of the Muslims all have the same viewpoint when it comes to Satan that he will try his utmost to take you to hellfire forever (by deception). Here are some facts about Satan:
Tawheed Ar-Ruboobiyyah - This means to single out God alone exclusively with the actions of creating absolutely everything, remember human beings can make and manufacture but they cannot create from nothing. Satan knew God was the creator of everything in the heavens and the earth. (Satan) said “I am better than him (man). You created me from fire and You created him (man) from clay.” [EMQ 38:76]
Tawheed Al-Asma was Sifaat - This means to single out God alone uniquely with what he has named Himself with or attributed Himself with. No one else can be described by these names and attributes. A person can be mighty but he or she is not the All Mighty, this title is the right of God only. Satan had complete conviction that God is Al-Izzah (the All Mighty) (Satan) said “By Your Might, then I will surely mislead them all” [EMQ 38:82]
Tawheed Al-Ebaadah - This means to single out God alone exclusively for all acts of worship, therefore you do not have any intermediaries between you and God when you want to carry out a task (religious or political). Satan directed his supplication exclusively to God and did not ask help from any of the other creation (s).
(Satan) said “Oh my Lord! Give me then respite till the Day they (the dead) will be resurrected.” [EMQ 15:36]
At this stage you may be wondering how Satan became a polytheist even though he prayed to God, accepted the essence of God, swore in the name of God, feared God and had dialogue with God. Well the answer lies in the area of being obedient and subservient to God who is the only law maker.
Tawheed Al-Hakimiyyah - This means to single out God alone as being the sole commander and legislator, so when God tells you to do something one must do it, whether you feel it is good for you or bad for you because God is Al- Hakeem (the All Wise)
And (remember) when We said to the angels: “Prostrate yourselves before Adam.” And they prostrated except Satan, he refused and was proud and was one of the disbelievers (disobedient to Allâh). [EMQ 2:34]
So contemplate on the seriousness of going against the commandments of God i.e. if serious enough they can invalidate your Emaan (belief, sayings and actions). Reflect upon the consequences of someone other than God making laws for themselves or others i.e. MP’s. This is more dangerous than disobedience to God because you are now competing with God by saying I can carry out the function which is only allowed for God. Now consider this can we vote for someone with the knowledge they will be legislating in the houses of parliament? Definitely Not! This action is equivalent to putting yourself on par with God and negates ones Emaan by electing for manmade laws to be in governance.
All the Apostles of God (Adam, Noah, Lot, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, David, Jesus and Muhammad) had a coherent pattern of calling to the oneness of God in all spheres of your life i.e. Gods laws should be implemented everywhere
And We did not send any Messenger before you (Oh Muhammad) but We revealed to him (saying) None has the right to be worshipped truthfully but I (God), so worship (follow, submit, obey) Me (Alone and none else). [EMQ 21:25]
Today we see society in an absolute mess (adultery, alcohol, binge drinking, crime, fraud, homelessness, paedophilia, porn, poverty, suicides, wars etc.) and people are searching for a real intellectual alternative and that original choice is to have divine solutions for manmade problems. It is not to switch from one end of the political spectrum to the other (left to right or right to left) like a pendulum. Islam which means to submit is a unique divine way of life that was implemented for 1302 years successfully (including Spain, Portugal, Sicily, Rhodes, Crete etc.) and that is what we all should be calling for.
Tawheed Al-Ithiba – This means to single out the specific Messenger in following his teachings, in the era of Moses it was his rulings, 2000 years ago it was Jesus and today it is the guidance of the last and final Messenger Muhammad (saw). Satan has vowed to make sure people will not follow these teachings
(Satan said) I shall indeed adorn the path of error for them (mankind) on the earth, and I shall mislead them all. [EMQ 15:39]
Some people have fallen into the trap that it is in the interest for Muslims to vote, we remind them that nothing is beneficial in committing Shirk (i.e. polytheism the complete opposite to Tawheed) and
(Satan said) Verily, I will mislead them and surely I will arouse in them false desires. [EMQ 4:119]
Satan has conned people into thinking it is good to vote for Labour, Liberals, Respect, Tories etc
. Satan made fair-seeming to them that which they used to do. [EMQ 6:43]
We warn those who advocate participating in the manmade system (democracy) that you are inviting people to go to hellfire, embrace Islam and be liberated and those Muslims who do vote in the general election Allah informs them
Verily, those who have apostatised after the guidance has been manifested to them – Satan has beautified (the apostasy) for them (by tempting them to vote for man to be sovereign) [EMQ 47:25]
EMQ – Explanatory Meaning of the (Miraculous) Quran
The original scriptures of the Jews, Christians and the authentic texts of the Muslims all have the same viewpoint when it comes to Satan that he will try his utmost to take you to hellfire forever (by deception). Here are some facts about Satan:
Tawheed Ar-Ruboobiyyah - This means to single out God alone exclusively with the actions of creating absolutely everything, remember human beings can make and manufacture but they cannot create from nothing. Satan knew God was the creator of everything in the heavens and the earth. (Satan) said “I am better than him (man). You created me from fire and You created him (man) from clay.” [EMQ 38:76]
Tawheed Al-Asma was Sifaat - This means to single out God alone uniquely with what he has named Himself with or attributed Himself with. No one else can be described by these names and attributes. A person can be mighty but he or she is not the All Mighty, this title is the right of God only. Satan had complete conviction that God is Al-Izzah (the All Mighty) (Satan) said “By Your Might, then I will surely mislead them all” [EMQ 38:82]
Tawheed Al-Ebaadah - This means to single out God alone exclusively for all acts of worship, therefore you do not have any intermediaries between you and God when you want to carry out a task (religious or political). Satan directed his supplication exclusively to God and did not ask help from any of the other creation (s).
(Satan) said “Oh my Lord! Give me then respite till the Day they (the dead) will be resurrected.” [EMQ 15:36]
At this stage you may be wondering how Satan became a polytheist even though he prayed to God, accepted the essence of God, swore in the name of God, feared God and had dialogue with God. Well the answer lies in the area of being obedient and subservient to God who is the only law maker.
Tawheed Al-Hakimiyyah - This means to single out God alone as being the sole commander and legislator, so when God tells you to do something one must do it, whether you feel it is good for you or bad for you because God is Al- Hakeem (the All Wise)
And (remember) when We said to the angels: “Prostrate yourselves before Adam.” And they prostrated except Satan, he refused and was proud and was one of the disbelievers (disobedient to Allâh). [EMQ 2:34]
So contemplate on the seriousness of going against the commandments of God i.e. if serious enough they can invalidate your Emaan (belief, sayings and actions). Reflect upon the consequences of someone other than God making laws for themselves or others i.e. MP’s. This is more dangerous than disobedience to God because you are now competing with God by saying I can carry out the function which is only allowed for God. Now consider this can we vote for someone with the knowledge they will be legislating in the houses of parliament? Definitely Not! This action is equivalent to putting yourself on par with God and negates ones Emaan by electing for manmade laws to be in governance.
All the Apostles of God (Adam, Noah, Lot, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, David, Jesus and Muhammad) had a coherent pattern of calling to the oneness of God in all spheres of your life i.e. Gods laws should be implemented everywhere
And We did not send any Messenger before you (Oh Muhammad) but We revealed to him (saying) None has the right to be worshipped truthfully but I (God), so worship (follow, submit, obey) Me (Alone and none else). [EMQ 21:25]
Today we see society in an absolute mess (adultery, alcohol, binge drinking, crime, fraud, homelessness, paedophilia, porn, poverty, suicides, wars etc.) and people are searching for a real intellectual alternative and that original choice is to have divine solutions for manmade problems. It is not to switch from one end of the political spectrum to the other (left to right or right to left) like a pendulum. Islam which means to submit is a unique divine way of life that was implemented for 1302 years successfully (including Spain, Portugal, Sicily, Rhodes, Crete etc.) and that is what we all should be calling for.
Tawheed Al-Ithiba – This means to single out the specific Messenger in following his teachings, in the era of Moses it was his rulings, 2000 years ago it was Jesus and today it is the guidance of the last and final Messenger Muhammad (saw). Satan has vowed to make sure people will not follow these teachings
(Satan said) I shall indeed adorn the path of error for them (mankind) on the earth, and I shall mislead them all. [EMQ 15:39]
Some people have fallen into the trap that it is in the interest for Muslims to vote, we remind them that nothing is beneficial in committing Shirk (i.e. polytheism the complete opposite to Tawheed) and
(Satan said) Verily, I will mislead them and surely I will arouse in them false desires. [EMQ 4:119]
Satan has conned people into thinking it is good to vote for Labour, Liberals, Respect, Tories etc
. Satan made fair-seeming to them that which they used to do. [EMQ 6:43]
We warn those who advocate participating in the manmade system (democracy) that you are inviting people to go to hellfire, embrace Islam and be liberated and those Muslims who do vote in the general election Allah informs them
Verily, those who have apostatised after the guidance has been manifested to them – Satan has beautified (the apostasy) for them (by tempting them to vote for man to be sovereign) [EMQ 47:25]
EMQ – Explanatory Meaning of the (Miraculous) Quran
Exposing the Munaafiqeen (hypocrites) of Britain and those who call Muslims to participate in Elections
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