Question:
I wanted to ask about perennial Muslims and their position in our dīn (religion). There are people out there that feel that not just Sunni Muslims are the path towards salvation, but Shīʿite Muslims and other sects and ideologies are as well. Almost to the point that I have seen people that have adopted this sort of doctrine to pray behind them and at their worship centers, and at the same time, claiming they are still Sunni. Can you please enlighten me more about this particular stance and whether or not this is a permissible view to take and also elaborate more on what you know perennialists to be all about? It seems to be a growing fad among the youth due to the growing sectarianism currently taking place.
Answer:
In the Name of God, Most Merciful, Most Compassionate
Jazāk Allāh Khayr/ Thank you for your question.
Leaving all the labels aside, kindly note that it is a must in Islam for a Muslim to firmly believe in all the main tenants and articles of faith found in both the Qurʾān and authentic Ḥadīth, without any form of a doubt or dilution.
It is also a must to believe in every aspect of other religions or creeds that confirm with Islamic teachings, such as the ‘sleepers of the cave’ that is referenced in the Christian religion.
As far as matters that are in absolute conflict and contrast with Islam, one must reject and disbelieve, in order to be considered a Muslim following the Qurʾān.
For matters the religion of Islam is silent on, the believer must stay neutral.
The correct position is that every religion or ideology cannot be the truth. To regard all religions and ideologies as correct, is illogical. In fact, this is impossible because there are matters in the religions that conflict with one another so how can they all be correct? Some examples are below:
- Islam believes Solomon was a prophet while Jews believe he was only a king, not a prophet.
- Qadiyānis believe there was a prophet and a messiah to complete the prophet-hood after Muḥammad (peace and blessings upon him) whereas the Qurʾān declares that Muḥammad is the last prophet.
- The Ithnā ʿAshariayah Shīʾa sect believe the 12 imams after Muḥammad (peace and blessing upon him) are divinely chosen, equal in status to the prophets, sinless and infallible whereas Sunni Muslims believe there is no one after the Prophet Muḥammad (peace and blessings upon him) that is sinless and infallible.
- Sunnis respect, accept and honour all Ṣaḥābah (Companions of the Prophet Muḥammad) and regard them as great disciples as well as role models whereas most Shīʾa sects disregard and do not accept or honour all the Ṣaḥābah. In fact they declare their animosity against some key Companions.
- Islam believes in God being the One and only as a whole, the Supreme Being with no parts or partners. This is totally opposite to the Catholic view where God is made up of 3 parts, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
After noting the above, it is vital to understand that even if a Muslim has his or her beliefs in place, all religions and creeds must be respected. Interfaith activities can take place and one can also be present in the services to observe. A Muslim cannot participate in any act of reverence or worship to idols or deities other than the one true God Himself.
The Prophet Muḥammad (peace and blessings upon him) summoned the believer, “Say I affirm my faith in [the one and only] God and then remain steadfast on it.” (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim)
And Allāh Knows Best