In the daily Ta`lim, the narration was read from Muntakhab Ahadith regarding Harith ibn Malik (radiyallahu ‘anhu) replying to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) that he is a true mu’min.
A brother asked in front of everyone about the authenticity of the narration after it was read. He said that the part of ‘turning oneself away from the world’ seemed doubtful (to him) because, in the more literal sense, that is not necessary in Islam.
Please (1) comment on the authenticity of the narration and (2) likewise give an explanation of the part referring to ‘turning away from the world’.
Answer
1. This narration is strong enough and may be quoted. See here for more on this.
2. The objection of the brother regarding ‘turning oneself away from the world’ actually stems from a lack of understanding of the Shari’ah. Those who are ill-equipped in Islamic knowledge should avoid making such objections, as they have no right to do so!
We are all responsible for whatever we say, even for the objections or questions we pose. Some contemporaries don’t realise this. They feel as long as they are asking the questions, the onus of answering is on those who are being questioned. That may be correct in the World, but in the Hereafter, they (the questioners) too will have to account for why they made such statements…
May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the correct understanding. Amin.
The Quran and Hadith is filled with exhortations of protecting oneself from the temptations of the world.
In fact, there are examples of other Sahabah (radiyallahu’anhum) also saying the same as Sayyiduna Harith (radiyallahu’anhu). See the link provided above.
Explanation
Whilst we all are residents of this world, we obviously cannot avoid it. However as we go through this temporary abode, we are encouraged not to attach ourselves to it. People vary in their detachment from the world like they vary in other qualities. Extremism in this matter however, is discouraged.
It is incorrect to assume that the Sahabi (radiyallahu’anhu) was so extreme in this that it contravened the bounds…
Likewise, those who wish to follow should also avoid extremism in this regard.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best,
Answered by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar