Argumentation - Hamza Yusuf

Argumentation - Sheikh Hamza Yusuf

Do not see other Muslims, whether organized groups or individuals, as competitors or antagonists. Rather, see them as brothers, and work with them or work separately with amicable relations, the least of which is giving the greetings with a smile.

Speak well of other organizations or be silent. Recognize that all of them are struggling for the same cause. If some appear to be, or actually are misguided, then pray for them. If they have deviant positions or beliefs, then request from true scholars that they clarify with clear proofs what those deviations are and why. In doing so they must not use their own opinions but those of the rightly-guided scholars of our traditions who are recognized by all of the scholars of the past.

Rare opinions of one or two scholars who might have valid opinions, but are not in agreement with the majority of scholars on the issue, must not be used at the cost of unity through diversity. If is turns out there is a difference of opinion from our scholars, then leave it for the sake of unity. But if it is wrong by consensus, then with wisdom bring it to their attention with sincerity.

Keep in mind the fact that Musa, peace be upon him, was commanded to go to Firoun and "speak to him a gentle word". Remember, you are not more righteous than Musa and your brother is not more astray than Firoun.

Ibn Abbas was sent by Imam 'Ali to the khawaarij and succeeded in guiding thousands of them through clear proofs.

Do not view your brothers as enemies no matter who they are. If they are Muslims they have the sanctity of Islam and their name is to be honored.

Do not allow Muslims to slander other Muslims by name. If they wish to point out deviations and clarify them, let them do it as the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, did by saying things such as, "What is wrong with a people who do such and such?"

Do not engage in debates that have raged for over a thousand years, such as Sunni and Shia differences. There is no benefit and only harm.

Avoid calling groups or people names, such as Salafi, Sufi, Wahhabi and others, as these engender animosity, and calling people by names is condemned in the Qur'an if the intention is contempt. If it is to elucidate a position then look to your intention and also to your level of understanding. Most of us are not capable of debating with any authority whatsoever. Imam Raghib al-Isbahaani said, "Disputation is detestable for scholars and those close to Allah, so what is to be said of the argumentation of the uneducated and fools?"

Consider the words of Allah to His Prophet, peace be upon him, "Dispute with them with that which is more excellent." Thus, He did not permit him to dispute without stipulating that it be with kindness, and this is despite that fact that He describes him, upon whom be prayers and peace, as being on a vast ethos. Moreover, He disparages argumentation in His words, "They did not say it except to argue," and in another verse, "From among humanity are those who argue about Allah without knowledge, or guidance, or an illuminating book."

Finally, heed the advice of Allah, "If you find those who ignorantly discuss Our signs, then turn away from them." As Imam Malik said, "Disputation is not from our Din." (Agenda for Changing Our Condition By Hamza Yusuf)