In the August 2024 issue of IV, Tahsin Ahmed’s article titled “Should a Muslim Follow a Particular Madhab?” addresses a crucial and timely topic. The piece is especially relevant as we observe the increasing fragmentation within the Muslim Ummah, which contrasts sharply with the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) emphasis on unity and solidarity.
Ahmed begins by recounting a perplexing situation faced by newly reverted Muslims in Japan, illustrating the real-world impact of sectarian confusion. He adeptly uses this scenario to clarify the path Muslims should follow, emphasizing the importance of adherence to a single Madhab to avoid the pitfalls of division and sectarianism.
The article effectively highlights the Quranic injunction against breaking into sects and the principle that our four Imams offered open-ended Fatwas only on matters not explicitly addressed in the Quran and Hadith. By advising Sunni Muslims to align with one Imam’s rulings, Ahmed advocates for reducing confusion and discouraging the selective application of Islamic teachings based on convenience.
Furthermore, Ahmed shares his personal, fact-based experiences of how sectarian disputes have caused significant discord within the community. His reflections serve as a reminder of the need for unity and the pursuit of common ground.
In today’s global context, it is essential to foster unity rather than division within the Ummah. Ahmed’s article is a valuable contribution towards reinforcing the bonds of our community and addressing the challenges of sectarianism.
Qazi Minhaj Azher
USA .
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