Turkish English Fikhi Ekber Lesson 1

Al-Fiqh Al-Akbar – Lesson 1

Dear and most valuable listeners,

We remember the âlims (Islamic scholars) who enlightened this world with their wisdom. Their wisdom light shines through, surpassing the stars of the infinite skies. May Allah bestow his infinite Rahmat (blessing) and forgiveness upon those âlims of ours who work for the sake of humanity. Their endeavor is peace and justice (supremacy of law), love and brotherhood. They shed their tears, and they desired for, the social state and social justice to have power over the universe. Being the crown of all Awliya (Islamic saints), Prophet Muhammad (alaihis-salâm) is their leader. Prophet Muhammad is the imam of all prophets. He (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) was sent to this realm as a grace, a manifestation of Allah’s mercy, he is the glorious Prophet, Muhammad. May Allah, most merciful, always grants His blessing on the greatest jurisprudents and discoverers of the world, and howsoever many Islamic âlims (scholars), and people who exerted themselves for this goal.

Eûzubillahimineşşeytânîrracîm Bismillahirrahmanirrahim Elhamdulillahi Rabb’il âlemin. Vessâletü vessalâmû âlâ Rasulûna Muhammedin ve âlâ âlihi ve sâhbihî ecmaîn. Sûbhaneke lâ îlme lenâ illamâ âllemtena inneke ente’l âliymûl hakîm. Rabbiş rahli sadri ve yessîrli emrî vâhlül ukdeten min lisani yefkâhû kâvli, Rabbî zidnî ılmen ve fehmen ve el hıknî bissalihîn. Bi rahmetikê ya erhamer Rahimîn. Allâhümmâ âllimni mâ yen fağnî vel fağnî bimâ allemtenî ve zidnî ilmâ. Rabbi kâd âteyteni minel münki mâ allemtenî minte’vilil ehâdis. Yâ muâllime Muhammed Mustafa sâllâllahu teâlâ aleyhi ve selleme âlimni. Yâ müffehhime Muhammed Mustafa sâllâllahu teâlâ aleyhi ve selleme fehhimni. Yâ muallime İbrahim Âleyhisselâmâ âlimnî. Yâ müfehhime Süleymanâ Âleyhisselâm fehhimni. Tâkâbbel minnî Yâ Rabbi! Yâ Rabbi! Yâ Rabbi!

Dear and most valuable listeners,

We remember the âlims (Islamic scholars) who enlightened this world with their wisdom. Their wisdom light shines through, surpassing the stars of the infinite skies. May Allah bestow his infinite Rahmat (blessing) and forgiveness upon those âlims of ours who work for the sake of humanity. Their endeavor is peace and justice (supremacy of law), love and brotherhood. They shed their tears, and they desired for, the social state and social justice to have power over the universe. Being the crown of all Awliya (Islamic saints), Prophet Muhammad (alaihis-salâm) is their leader. Prophet Muhammad is the imam of all prophets. He (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) was sent to this realm as a grace, a manifestation of Allah’s mercy, he is the glorious Prophet, Muhammad. May Allah, most merciful, always grants His blessing on the greatest jurisprudents and discoverers of the world, and howsoever many Islamic âlims (scholars), and people who exerted themselves for this goal.

 

As you know, Ashab-i Gûzin (the companions of Muhammad) have studied in the ecole (school) of Muhammad (sall-Allâhu alaihi wa sallam). Later, they have become the brightest stars in the sky. Also, after them, those belonged to the Tabi’un, studied in their ecoles (schools). They illuminated the world in the times of pitch darkness. So, the Tabi’un period too gained bright stars like those in the skies. After the Tabi’un period, Tabi ‘al-Tabi’un period was swarming with âlims (scholars) of Islam. Also, among them one pioneering imam was amongst the most prominent, he is, Al-Imam Al-aʿzam (rahmatullah alayh, alayhim ajmain). May Allah’s (c.c.) Rahmat (blessing) be always upon him. And for our other âlims, martyrs, veterans and mujahideen (who performs jihad) not to mention the Ummah of Muhammad (sall-Allâhu alaihi wa sallam) and the folks uttering that they’re the servants of Allah (c.c.), and those Muslims who are embracing the divine values with all their entity, and for the believers who are embracing Islam we say: May Allah bestow His Rahmat (blessing) upon them until He truly consents.

 

Our dear friends;

We will now give some discovery notes and warning from Al-Fiqh Al-Akbar which is one of the greatest works of Al-Imam Al-Azam. Al-Fiqh Al-Akbar reveals the imân (belief, faith) of Islam with substantial evidence. For an imân (faith) to be true imân (faith), one must believe in accordance with solid proofs of Islam. Also, to preserve that imân (faith) forever, our âlims (Islamic scholars) have composed great books to shield the imân from kufr (curse), shirk (giving companions to Allah), nifak (dissension), tekzip (lie) and similar dangers. Al-Fiqh Al-Akbar of Al-Imam Al-Azam is a reliable and fundamental source. The world has to fully comprehend it, and develop devotion with true imân (faith); they have to shield that imân (faith) from all dangers eternally. Also, they have to enter heaven with that imân (faith). There is no entrance into heaven without imân (faith). Achieving imân is easy. Though shielding it from the dangers of kufr (curse), shirk (giving companions to Allah), nifak (dissension) is not; this is the major endeavor. For that, many topics are requiring our attention. We will try to mention them throughout the lesson.

 

Valuable friends!

 

“Allah’s rahmat rains upon those schools (or communities) that mention pious people,” they have said. That was the words of the elders of Islam. As you know, Al-Imam Al-Azam is amongst the elders of Islam, and pious people; he is also amongst our eminent âlims (scholars), and he is one of our most prominent ones. That is why our beloved Prophet (sall-Allâhu alaihi wa sallam) said: “The most benevolent of generations are those of my generation,” then he added “and those who will come after them (the next generation).” Behold, our prophet said that as a reference to his period. The period in which he lived with his sahabah (companions). He said: “The most benevolent of generations are those of my generation,” and added, “and those who come after them (the next generation).”  That is a fact. We have to achieve our imân (belief) through the evidence Prophet Muhammad (sall-Allâhu alaihi wa sallam) have shown, conveyed and appreciated. After that, we have to fulfill the requirements of religion and do good deeds. That is our struggle, contributing to the good of humanity. Glorious Islam was sent for the salvation of humanity. That can only be possible through learning Islam through its scholarly evidence. As you know, muhajireen have earned the first rank in Islam (They are the first people who stood beside Muhammad on his journey from Mecca to Madinah.).

 

(Dakika: 9:50)

 

Looking at the 100th Ayah (verse) of at-Tawbah Surah, one can see Allah Almighty praising the muhajireen. Because they, for the first time; spoke the word of Tawhid (unity of Allah) and endured the brutalities of kufr (curse), shirk, batil (superstition) and every tyrant and villains of the world to spread Islam to the universe. They protected the truth and suffered horrible things like oppression and torture. They are the true and most eminent heroes of the world before anyone else. They were close to Muhammad (sall-Allâhu alaihi wa sallam); they were his neighbors. Moreover, the Ansar (the helpers) comes after them. The people who helped the Muhajirs are called the Ansar (the helpers).

 

“Aren’t those who helped them with good will,” “Are not there people, who helped the Muhajirs and the Ansar (helper) with good will?” Allah bestowed his grace to them. And, the Muhajirs sent their thanks to Him.

 

So venerable listeners,

 

The matter is, of Allah’s (c.c.) consent to His servants; his servants should be loyal and obedient to Him. How can a servant be faithful and obedient to Allah (c.c.)? He can be loyal and obedient to Him by lovingly embracing Islam as a whole. You can acknowledge and spread the word of Islam. You can fulfill the requirements of it and do good deeds. You can’t object to any of Allah’s order. You cannot. When you try to please Allah (c.c.) with faith and open-heartedness; and when He blesses you, that means you have won everything, forever. And if you fail, that means you have lost everything. That endeavor starts with imân (faith). That is the reason Al-Imam Al-Azam composed Al-Fiqh Al-Akbar which is one of the most valuable books in the world. He wrote it according to evidence. It is a primary sourcebook. We will now try to give you some discovery notes from it. We will, of course, share some of our sourcebooks we based our knowledge on with you. Ibn Hajar al-Haytami is a precious Islamic âlim (scholar). He is one of the most eminent âlims (scholars) of the Shafi’i Ecole (school). He is amongst the admirers of Al-Imam Al-Azam. Now, our lesson will continue by conveying the ideas and expressions of eminent âlims like him. May Allah Almighty bestow us a place among the community of His servants, who acknowledge and listened to Him honestly; they lack ulterior motives, and they only seek Allah’s (c.c.) consent. Limitless praises and thanks are upon Allah Almighty (c.c.). And we greet our Prophet with salaam. May Allah (c.c.) bestow his endless rahmat to these âlims (Islamic scholars) eternally. The âlims (Islamic scholars) have the reign of the kings, under their feet. The Âlims are the people seeking Allah’s (c.c.) consent through science. They have no desire for position, power or control. Though they placed the world into his pocket; he, refused earthly endeavors, never even bear the thought of accepting gifts from the caliphate. When he was threatened to, he took and protected the gifts. Then on his last will, he requested the return of the gifts to its owner. Thus, he didn’t sacrifice his principles.

 

Valuable friends,

 

Âlims (Islamic scholars) are similar to the star transmitting its splendorous lights to the planets, in other words, they’re like the sun. Because the humankind receives the rays of knowledge from âlims. After you forsake them, what’s left? Do you know what some groups in the Israelites did in history? They murdered prophets and âlims (Islamic scholars). Then, they were caught by Allah’s (c.c.) wrath. Today, the people of Islam must review themselves. What would be left if you devalued âlims and knowledge? Bashibazouks (irregulars). Everyone would be talking all at once. As a matter of fact, they are talking all at once. And that is the situation, as you’re seeing. Many things are being done to confuse people’s minds. May Allah (c.c.) shield us from their evil. One must acknowledge there’s no other divinity other than Allah (c.c.). And he must become a servant to the one and only Allah (c.c.). Primarily, he must grasp the knowledge He bestowed and achieve imân accordingly. We must shape our imân (faith) according to howsoever Allah (c.c.) wishes, howsoever he introduces Himself to us. We will recognize him through Qur’an and Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam.). We will shape our imân (faith) accordingly. The author of Al-Fiqh Al-Akbar, Al-Imam Al-Azam exerted himself for this goal. He resembles the stars, which raises over the sun. We accept the sun as a big star, but some stars surpass the sun’s magnitude. From where did those stars obtain their light? They received it from Muhammad’s (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam.) infinite rays of wisdom whose light reflects through the universe. Allah’s (c.c.) appeared to him through rahmat (blessing) and knowledge. Do you know what was manifested to the humankind for its better good? That is the manifestation of Allah’s (c.c.) rahmat that surrounding humanity forever. This may only commence via imân (faith) and akaid (Islamic studies). That’s why shahada (declaring belief in the unity of Allah) conveys the person to the fullness of knowledge.

 

Valuable friends,

 

One must achieve the imân (faith) of tawhid (unity) – the unity of Allah (c.c.) –through declaring belief in the unity of Allah (shahada). And he also must reach the fullness of knowledge. Islam was bestowed to you to make you reach that summit, that rank. Come, venerable fellows! Let us endeavor together upon finding the right path via Allah’s guidance, aid, and assistance. Let’s ask for Allah’s help as we work. Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) is the true Messenger of Allah. Who is the true spiritual guide of âlims (Islamic scholars) who are there for the societies’ zâhiri (exoteric) and bâtini (esoteric) needs? Prophet Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam). Why? Allah Almighty placed his own divine knowledge, his Al-Qur´an Al-Karim into Muhammad’s (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) heart. Knowledge, Islam, and Qur´an shone through Muhammad’s (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) heart. In the end, the divine wisdom was placed into his heart.

 

(Dakika: 20:00)

 

One can’t imagine a world without Prophet Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam). A society lacking Al-Qur´an Al-Karim and Islam are strictly out of the question. The world would be ashamed. The earth, the skies, and the world are belongings of Allah (c.c.). Allah (c.c.) granted his rahmat (blessing) and Islam to his property. Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam.) is the Prophet of Allah’s rahmat (blessing), bestowed upon the universe. Valuable friends, as we send our good wished and prayers to Muhammad, we send good wishes and prayers to his acquaintances, relatives, wives, and followers.

 

Most valuable and venerable friends,

 

As you know, Al-Imam Al-Azam lived in The Tabi’un Period. So, he had the chance to meet with Ashab-i Gûzin (the chosen friends, the companions of Muhammad). He had also met with almost every eminent âlim (Islamic scholar) of The Tabi’un Period. Then he studied supernatural sciences in the school of Islam, and he became the greatest faqih (fiqh âlim ‘scholar’) person of the world. So, what is fiqh, you may ask. Fiqh is the act of having the mastery of knowing every divine verdict of the glorious Islam with their proofs and knowing all commands even whether they’re to our advantage (praying, fasting, etc.) or not (sinful things). Al-Imam Al-Azam Abu Hanifa’s school had become the ecole (school) that educated the world. From then on, many mujtahids and âlims (Islamic scholars) were raised in the world. But they all had learned from those graduated from Al-Imam Al-Azam ecole (school). Eminent âlims (Islamic scholars) admitted this one after another. Yes, the number of those subjected to Al-Imam Al-Azam’s ecole (school) and those followed Hanafi School had always predominated the world. Two-thirds of Muslims of earth had always admired Abu Hanifa’s understanding of Islam. Our other âlims (Islamic scholars) are also precious.

 

Now, let’s have a look: Many eminent âlims (Islamic scholars) were raised by this school. There’s an Al-Hadith Al-Shareef (Prophet Muhammad’s saying), in which this matter is said to be reported: “Ebû Hanîfete hüve sıracû ümmeti” – “Abu Hanifa is the kandil (oil-lamp) of my Ummah. If you accept this hadith as a disputed issue; you should have a look at the last thirteen or fourteen centuries of history. Then you will see how Al-Imam Al-Azam’s wisdom enlightened the world. Before facing the authenticity of that Al-Hadith Al-Shareef. Abu Hanifa’s perfection, virtue was well-known; and his well-known Taqwa (piety) and devotion were known by the worlds âlims (scholars). Only the followers of Bid’ah (deviant innovations) and heretics deny that. Ignorant and bigoted people oppose that. Otherwise, no one speaks ill of people such as Al-Imam Al-Azam and other eminent mujtahids; and those explorers and faqih (expert in fiqh) personalities, in other words, the Ulama (the learned ones). Let’s hear from Imam Al-Shafi’i (Rahmatullah alayh ve alayhim ajmain). He is also amongst the world’s most precious and eminent âlims (Islamic scholars); his ecole (school) is equally valuable. See what Imam Al-Shafi’i said: “All people are family of Abu Hanifa on the subject of fiqh,” he meant, students and children. Then, Imam Al Shafi-i asked Imam Al-Malik: “How fine was Abu Hanifa when you last met him?” Behold, because Imam Al-Malik is amongst the most eminent stars of the world; he is a star of wisdom. Let’s hear what Imam Al-Malik said: “I’ve met with such a person that if he said ‘that pole is made of gold’ he would have put its evidence forward.” He also admired Al-Imam Al-Azam. He respected him…

 

One day, Imam Al-Shafi’i visited Baghdad. He was performing namâz (prayer) near Al-Imam Al-Azam’s grave he didn’t do the Qunut (a type of prayer). The people asked him why didn’t he make Qunut, so he said: “I’ve left the Qunut due to my manners and respect for the owner of that grave, the Imam.” That was because he knew about the evidence which Al-Imam Al-Azam revealed regarding the matter of Qunut. He knows his own evidence too. Hence, he also admired Al-Imam Al-Azam’s wisdom. Because they all benefited from his ecole (school). They benefited from him as regards to understanding Al-Qur´an Al-Karim, Sunnah, Ijma (consensus) and Qiyas (comparison); in other words, evidence. See what Al-Fudayl ibn Iyad said; do you know who Al-Fudayl ibn Iyad is? He is an important âlim (Islamic scholar) and Awliya (Islamic saints). He said: “Abu Hanifa’s was well-known with his fiqh knowledge and famous with his Taqwa (piety).” There; you heard the words of an Awliya (Islamic saints) and âlim (Islamic scholar). “Abu Hanifa was well-known with his fiqh knowledge and famous with his Taqwa (piety).” Now, Al-Fudayl ibn Iyad is amongst the famous âlims (Islamic scholars) of the Hejaz province. He is one of the elders of Awliya (Islamic saints); he is also amongst Tasawwuf (Sufism) Âlims (scholars).

 

How much of their own history and âlims (Islamic savants) do today’s Muslims know? Everyone must question themselves. How well do you know them, brother? It saddens me to say this, but those who can’t even utter Basmala are defaming âlims (Islamic scholars). Someone spat a piece of germy chewing gum into their mouths, and they’re chewing it. The enemy spat into their mouths. They’re chewing it as if it is chewing gum. That is the state of those slandering the âlims (scholars) of Islam. The path of Ahl as-sunnah wa-jamaat (the people of sunnah and the community) has strong pillars reaching to the sky. There’re four primary schools in practice, but two of them are pioneering. These aren’t the only ones. They are the most prominent ones. This is the path of ahl as-sunnah wa-jamaat (the people of sunnah and the community) and their pioneers. This is also the ecole (school) of those who genuinely understood mighty Islam.

 

(Dakika: 29:55)

 

Be careful about this, too. When you see ignorant people praising someone, do not glorify them. But if âlims (Islamic scholars) are praising someone, then that person has some merit. The greatest âlims (Islamic scholars) of the universe are praising Al-Imam Al-Azam. Look, Abdullah ibn Mubarak said so: “Due to his Taqwa (piety), he (Abu Hanifa) waited for a long time for deliberation and consultation when he wanted to buy a slave girl.” Beware! Abu Hanifa, through the course of his life, did not want to do deeds that would not disobey Allah’s consent; he was careful even when buying a slave girl. Nadr bin Şumeyl says so: “It was as if people were asleep in regards to fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence). Abu Hanifa Al-Imam Al-Azam awakened them from their sleep.” Do you know who Nadr ibn Şumeyl is? You see, one must learn such âlims (Islamic scholars) quite well. Nadr ibn Şumeyl is from Horasan, and he is an invaluable Islamic âlim (scholar). He is also amongst the Horasan saints.

 

 

Valuable friends,

 

Look, Isa ibn Musa said: “That individual is the sole scholarly person of today’s world.” Isa ibn Musa expressed these words to give praise to Al-Imam Al-Azam. He is, at the same time, the brother of Abbasid Caliph Abu Ja’far Al-Mansur. He is also a well-known person by his Taqwa (piety) and knowledge. Look, one day, Abbasid Caliph Abu Ja’far Al-Mansur said so to Al-Imam Al-Azam: “O, Numan! O, Abu Hanifa! From whom did you acquire this wisdom?” Al-Imam Al-Azam always spoke accurately through the course of his life, and he never praised someone excessively. The Imam had always been a man of integrity and an honorable âlim. May Allah bestow his rahmat (blessing) upon him. Do you know what the Imam said? Al-Imam Al-Azam said to the Caliph: “I acquired my wisdom from Umar, via his companions who learned from him. And from Ali, via his companions who learned from him. And from Ibn Mesud, via his companions who learned from him.” He uttered the truth by saying so. Caliph al-Mansur said: “You did well, you have a strong foundation.”

 

Those who acquired their knowledge directly from Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) are Ashab-i Gûzin (the companions of Muhammad). And among Ashab-i Gûzin, there are eminent âlims who were pioneers. Al-Imam Al-Azam said, “I’ve acquired my knowledge from them, via those who learned from them.”

 

 

Now, unfortunately, that caliph tormented the Imam, even though he appreciated his wisdom that much. The Caliph desired to assign the Imam to the position of chief judge (qadi). He said to Al-Imam Al-Azam: “You will be the chief judge (qadi).” And Al-Imam Al-Azam refused that offer. For that reason, they sentenced him to a hundred lashes. How can one torture such an âlim (Islamic scholar)? That is wrong, no matter who commanded it. After that, the Caliph imprisoned the Imam. Al-Imam Al-Azam reached Allah’s mercy and blessing [passed away] in that prison. There are reports which narrate he was sentenced to an extra twenty lashes because he refused the position of the chief of treasury. They wanted to hand, even the treasures, to Al-Imam Al-Azam. But he refused. Because, Al-Imam Al-Azam knew that the moment he accepted that duty, some people will stand in the way of justice. He owned such a Taqwa (piety) that couldn’t tolerate even the slightest injustice. Abu Hanifa used to say: “If a hadith (saying) directly from the Messenger of Allah regarding any matter is revealed, we accept it with all our hearts. If there’re sayings of Ashab-i Kiram (sahabah, the companions), we prefer the ones correspond to sunnah. But we can’t imitate the Tabi’un if we can’t find any hadith or the saying of sahâba (the companions). Because we’re also obliged to utilize ijtihad (independent reasoning, opposite of imitation). In other words, he said, “we will utilize ijtihad” if that is the only solution. So, the question is, when should one utilize ijtihad? Ijtihad (independent reasoning) may be used where there’s no authentic evidence, such as Ayah (versicle) or hadith. The mujtahid âlims (Islamic scholars who issue fatwa) knew that well. No one else, except for mujtahids who can issue a fatwa, has no right to utter a word regarding that matter.

 

So, valuable friends,

 

Abu Hanifa used to devote the nights to worship, and his days were booked for knowledge and enlightenment. A person among the elders said: “We have seen no one more patient and hardworking than Abu Hanifa.” Many revered people used to say similar things. For example, Abu Yusuf and Muhammad al-Shaybani, they are among the greatest mujtahids in the world. They are the two of the master students of Al-Imam Al-Azam (rahmatullah alayh, alayhim ajmain). Züfer ibn Hüzeyl, Abdullah ibn Mubarak, Al-Layth ibn Sa’d, Malik ibn Anas, and Mis’ar bin Kıdâm are also students of Al-Imam Al-Azam. They are among the greatest âlims (Islamic scholars) of the world. When people mentioned Al-Imam Al-Azam, near Ibn Mubarak, he used to say: “Are you talking about the well-being of the person who refused worldly endeavors, even though they offered him the entire wealth of the world?” They offered the world’s wealth and possessions to Al-Imam Al-Azam, yet he rigorously refused it all. And he devoted himself to Allah, the truth and the afterlife. He devoted himself to Allah, knowledge and serving to humanity. He is one of the most eminent âlims (Islamic scholars) of the world regarding the matter of fiqh knowledge (jurisprudence). Abu Hanifa was such a person that even though he was requested many times and even though his life was threatened, he never meddled with cruelty.

 

(Dakika: 40:00)

 

He stayed away from wherever cruelty was; he even tried to stop cruelties as far as possible; he attempted to dissuade cruel people from their wickedness. The Imam would not have accepted anything from the caliphs. But once, Caliph Al-Mansur sent Abu Hanifa ten thousand dirhams with one of his man named Hasan ibn Kahtaba. The Imam couldn’t reject that. The Imam, in his last testament, requested his son to return those ten thousand dirhams that he was given, to the person named Hasan who brought it. In other words, he wanted the money to be returned following his death. The Imam’s son Hammad fulfilled this testament of his father. Look what the Caliph’s official Hasan said: “May Allah bestow his rahmat (blessing) upon him. Your father shielded his religion from people like us.” Thus, he revealed his admiration. Behold, so long as the caliphs of Islam do not govern with justice; there will be cruelty for them too. They are also cruel. You will govern with justice. Only then you can be a true caliph, monarch, and statesperson. You will govern with justice! You will be like Umar, Abu Bakr, Uthman, Ali, and Abdul-Aziz. You will govern with justice, like the Islamic monarchs who once ruled the world, who founded world-class states. You will exalt knowledge and âlims (Islamic scholars). Those nations that didn’t exalt knowledge and scholars became the slaves to cruel and ignorant people. As a matter of fact, that is the condition of the world! If there had been justice, mercy, peace, conciliation, and brotherhood, could terror be spreading like that? They’re murdering people in masses; without discriminating women, men or children. There’s no conscience left in people’s hearts. Where’s the age of civilization? Where’re human rights? Where? Human rights are for some but not for everyone; aren’t they? These tyrannical systems are even crueler systems than the justice concept in the realm of the hyena. You must ensure the sovereignty of peace and justice for all humanity, for the entire world. Al-Imam Al-Azam is the leader and guider of that goal. He had taken this lesson from Ashab (the companions), therefore, from Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam). His basis is the supernatural university, in other words, the Islamic âlims (scholars). Al-Imam Al-Azam (r.a.) is an important Islamic âlim (scholar). He is one of the Muhammad’s (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) valuable Ummah. He said: “This is my view. That is the path I follow.” Look, he used to lean on scholarly evidence by all his means and speak the quote above. It is reported that Abu Hanifa wouldn’t sit even near a house if he loaned money to its owner. He would not sit near the home of someone he lent money to. Why? Because he was afraid of ‘benefiting from a loan.’ Besides, what you loaned is only loaned for Allah. If you loaned money or goods, then you gave them to Allah. When you loaned them for Allah, you will receive so much more Thawabs (reward) directly from Allah. You should not impute an offense to someone, saying you loaned them money. Al-Imam Al-Azam is amongst the ‘Ahlul Taqwa (piety)’ who assumed the leading role on this matter. When the people he employed meddled with a deal which contrasted the sharia law, he immediately distributed the entire profit of that deal to the poor. In other words, he would never add the profits of such deal to his capital. He would rigorously refuse to add the profits of such deal to his capital, of safe, if it contrasted the sharia law. The moment he was in doubt, he would take the profits and distribute them to the poor without hesitation. And when doing trade, he was only after halal (lawful) earnings, earned by the sweat of one’s brow. The ‘earning’ for him was for donating; not for holding. The purpose of ‘trade’ for him was to give, not to take. He was using all the profits that exceeded his capital to invest in the Ulama (Islamic scholars), the poor, his students and the mujahideen. He was always devoted to Allah’s consent. He exerted himself to exalt the might of Islam. It is clearly seen that he had no other purpose.

 

So, valuable friends,

 

Each and every one of Islam’s âlims (scholars) are invaluable. As for, Al-Imam Al-Azam, he is one of the most valuable and respected personalities. The things we commemorated about Al-Imam Al-Azam’s fame are only as much as a drop of water in an endless sea. So far, these things we mentioned about Al-Imam Al-Azam are barely as big as a drop of water. Al-Imam Al-Azam’s knowledge is superabundant, he is like a sea of wisdom. The Imam one day said: “I pray to Allah Ta’ala using all his names. I believe my prayers bring me His blessing.” Do you know why did he say that? He was awake through the day and the night. This endeavor is beyond human capacity, it is unbearable. He always worshipped Allah through the nights. And he was a devotee and a mujahideen at daytime. He was even teaching Ilm (knowledge) to his students.

On top of that, he was worshipping at nights, standing in Qiyam position in the presence of Allah. They were asking, “how can you be strong enough?” To that, he replied: “The power and strength is not mine, it comes from Allah.”

 

So, valuable friends,

 

Al-Imam Al-Azam is Allah’s manifestation to humanity via knowledge. Al-Imam Al-Azam is the manifestation of Allah’s knowledge, Allah’s rahmat (blessing) and grace. Because, Islam religion, with its Islamic âlims, will continue to be until Qiyamah (the day of judgment). Islam is an impeccable religion. Islam has no flaw or imperfections. Flaws and imperfections belong to humanity and those ignorant of Islam. See, so far, there had always been âlims (Islamic scholars) who will introduce Islam to the world correctly, and they will continue to be.

 

However, when you reject the root, branches will become useless. Those branches will die and become useless. Today, some people put themselves forward, and they recognize neither Al-Imam Al-Azam nor Malik ibn Anas, nor Al-Shafi‘i, nor Ahmad ibn Hanbal. They had not seen anything except their own ego when they looked at a mirror. In fact, they’re even trying to abolish their own history. They’re ignorant vagrant people.

 

(Dakika: 50:00)

 

Do not ever cherish such people. Some of them are trying to back themselves with Al-Imam Al-Azam, they’re hiding behind him. Be careful about them too. And be cautious about insincere people also.

 

Valuable friends,

 

Ali al-Qari is one of the authors who wrote a book of commentary on Al-Imam Al-Azam’s Al-Fiqh Al-Akbar. Plus, Taftazani and many other of our valuable âlims (Islamic scholars) conveyed wonderful information in this regard. We’ll try to express some discovery notes from Al-Imam Al-Azam’s book Al-Fiqh Al-Akbar and we will be relying on authentic and dependable sourcebooks. Insha’Allah Ta’ala. Al-Bayhaqi transferred an Al-Hadith Al-Shareef according to which our beloved Prophet (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) said: “Mehmâ ütîtün min kitâbillahî fel amelübihi felâ ûzve lî ehâdin fî terkihî feillem yekûn fi kitâbillâhi fe sünnetûn mâğdiyetün minni feillemtekûn sünnetûn minni femâ gâle eshâbî. İnne eshâbî bî menziletûn vücübî fis semâ-î fe eyyûmâ ehâztüm ihtedeytüm vâhtilâfû esâbî leküm Rahmetûn (Sadaka Rasûlullah ev kemâ gâl).” See, Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam), the realms’ blessed Prophet, commanded: “If a command is given to you by the book of Allah,” – meaning, if Al-Qur´an Al-Karim brings any judgment for you – “you must do it,” “apology is unacceptable after deserting it.” Why should you accept the apology of the person who committed an unacceptable thing? Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) continued: “If you can’t find the judgment you’re searching for in Allah’s book, then follow my sunnah (the teachings, deeds, and sayings). If you can’t find anything about to that judgment also in my sunnah, then consult to the word of my Ashab (companions). Embrace their words. For, my Ashab (companions) are like the stars in the sky. You will find guidance to true path after obtaining the words of someone from my Ashab’s (companions). Disagreements of my Ashab (companions) are also a rahmat (blessing) for you.”

 

Valuable friends,

 

Our glorious Prophet (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) says the disagreements among the Ashab-i Gûzin (the chosen friends of Muhammad) are also rahmat (blessing). Al-Bayhaqi transferred this Al-Hadith Al-Shareef from Al-Suyuti’s book “Ceziyyul Mevahi, Fihtilâfil Mezâhib.” Sayyid Afifi commemorated this hadith in his book, “Hayat Al-Imam (the life of imam).” Let’s express an example from a disagreement in the consultation regarding the treatment of captives following the Battle of Badr. Abu Bakr (r.a.) said: “Let us have ransom.” Umar replied: “Let us punish them as they deserve it.” Both opinions had found followers in the presence of our Prophet (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam). With the result that our Prophet (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam), preferred Abu Bakr (r.a.)’s opinion and they acted according to it. The second opinion was found virtuous, just as the Ayah confirmed it. Nevertheless, Abu Bakr’s idea, ‘levying ransom’ was carried out. Thus, in fact, the opposition between those two opinions was authenticated by revelation. As it is clearly seen, Allah acknowledged and applied the second opinion too; even though Umar’s opinion was more favored. Thus, that opinion was also embraced, and He didn’t abolish it.

 

Valuable friends,

Including the times following the age of Islamic âlims (scholars), so many times had passed between them and us; neither Ashab (companions) nor the Tabi’un exists in today’s world. Nevertheless, âlims (scholars) who have the full grasp of fundamentals such as knowledge, enlightenment, Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma, Qiyas will always continue to be, until Qiyamah (the day of judgment). And that is the matter we must focus on. We must keep the foundations intact. We must acknowledge the source, and protect it. The mission of Muhammad’s Ummah is to deduce the ancillary judgments via authentic sources. And embracing to new generations with knowledge; we must manifest the unknown via the known. We have all the evidence. We have great, eminent âlims (Islamic scholars). The evidence is at hand. Our Prophet (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) commanded: “Don’t any of you perform the noon namâz (noon-prayer) in this place. When you reach the land of Banu Qurayza, perform it there.” They applied this differently, but our Prophet did not oppose any of them. You may find directions to true path upon following whichsoever. Behold, “Whichsoever among the Ashab-i Gûzin (the chosen friends of Muhammad) you follow, you must obtain that source solidly as better as you can,” and “then you will find directions to the true path,” said our Prophet.

 

Yes, valuable friends,

 

Random taqlid (the act of exactly imitating another’s teachings) has no place in Islam. This state of affairs must rely on scholarly documents. Nevertheless, mujtahids should be imitated due to their knowledge. Why? Because mujtahids acquire knowledge along with their evidence. No one can be imitated except for mujtahid personalities. That is the real sense of “following Al-Imam Al-Azam’s ecole (school).” Each and every Islamic alim (scholars) who followed Al-Imam Al-Azam’s ecole (school) had knowledge of Islam, Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma, Qiyas, authentic and ancillary evidence. In other words, they knew Islam with its evidence. That is the reason the followers of that ecole (school) are called ‘the devotees of Hanafi School.’ Knowledge, documents, and evidence are the foundations in this regard. Other ecoles are also like this.

 

Most valuable and venerable friends,

 

Such disagreements among the companions of our Prophet (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) are blessings for humanity. This must not be forgotten. Ibn Sa’d reported Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz said so: “The disagreements between Ashab-i Kirâm (the chosen companions) made me blissful. I couldn’t be this blissful even if all Arabian camels, which are the most valuable possessions of Arabs, were mine.” Why? The opposition will occur so that finding solutions to changing the state of affairs will become easier. Debates are blessings; but whose debate are we talking about? The discussions (of Islamic scholars) occurred in scholarly competitions are blessings. Their scholarly contests are the branches of the tree of wisdom similar to branches of a tree.

Regarding that, Al-Bayhaqi said: “Had there been no opposition among the companions there would be no ancillary judgments.” And without ancillary judgments, life would become harder. Islam introduced the easiest and happiest lifestyle there is. There’s no difficulty in Islam. Allah manifested Islam to abolish difficulty. Islam has a remedy for everything. There are no hardships. If you don’t understand Islam, or if you don’t want to, we can’t have a word against you. The man is ignorant, and he doesn’t want to know. We can’t say anything to that; we do not impose our opinions.

Nevertheless, a person became Muslim, he believed in Islam. From then on, that person will, of course, act according to wisdom and âlims (Islamic scholars). That is the duty of Muslim.

 

You will either become an âlim (Islamic scholar) or follow their wisdom. That is why we need mujtahids and ecoles (schools). Had there been no âlim (Islamic scholar) and knowledge, the ignorant people would be walking around blindfolded. And would be falling into pits (sins) they deserved. The venerable personalities who we call ‘the ecole (school) of the earth’ are the eminent leaders of wisdom, enlightening the world. Those revered personalities learned Islam with its evidence and documents. Hence, never speak badly about a mujtahid and his ecole (school) or the Four true Schools of Islam.

Those tongues of yours will either rot or be severely damaged. Don’t you deviate to that path! An âlim (Islamic scholar) does not issue a judgment without basing it on Qur’an, Sunnah, ijma, and qiyas; he can’t. See what Harun al-Rashid wanted to do with Imam al-Malik’s Muwatta. Harun al-Rashid wanted to oblige people to read only that book. See, Imam al-Malik opposed that immediately. As you see, these are the traits of a true âlim (scholarly) person. He didn’t say: “My books shall be read but others shall not,” nor “I know every hadith,” nor “I am the âlim (Islamic scholar) of Medina.” Look here, what does Imam al-Maliki meant to say? Today’s phony theologists must take the necessary lesson from that word of Imam al-Maliki. O! Those fake people! They have no proper knowledge about neither Al-Qur´an Al-Karim, nor Sunnah, nor Ijma, nor Qiyas, nor authentic and ancillary sciences. They’re trying to make people follow themselves. They’re trying to ignore the Four Schools of Islam and turn the attention towards themselves. Look what Imam al-Malik, with his mentality, said back then (r.a.) – the world is swarming with âlims (Islamic scholars) (rahmatullah alayh alayhim ajmain): “O! Commander of Muslims,” Al-Malik addressed the Caliph Harun Al-Rasheed “Please do not command that. Do not force the folk to read my book. Even the Ashab (companions) of the Prophet disputed regarding some secondary issues. Those sahabah is now spread out to different towns. On account of this, there will be opposition among mujtahids. And those disputes are blessings bestowed by Allah. They are all on the true path because, in their opinion, they all acted on concrete evidence.” Did you see it? True âlims (Islamic scholars) always speak the truth. Today, some people emerged, and they’re talking as if there had never been another âlim (Islamic scholar) in the world other than themselves. And what is more, they’re after profit. These are this age’s Belams. Belam, who opposed Moses, sided with Pharaoh and revolted against Moses; they deserved the oncoming punishment. Those profiteers; namely those people exploiting the religion who tried to manifest their egos, misgivings, and delusions as if they were knowledge. They’re amongst today’s Belams. Allah Ta’ala turned them into heavily breathing dogs, whose tongues dangle from their mouths. The âlim person is who acts with his knowledge. Randomly spitting germs and bacteria filled words to everyone around, is another thing. True âlim (Islamic scholar) is who deals with knowledge and enlightens the universe with the splendorous light of wisdom. Some people are spit fire to Muslims. And they start selling books after a few hyaenas applauded them. Or rather, they are drawing applauds from ignorant and careless, or innocent people. Because those ignorant people are unaware. Those Belams are drawing applauses from unwary people, and they’re profiting from them. And among them, there are hyenas, who applaud them. Together, they are defaming Muslims and buttering up the bread of enemies of Islam. O! Belam! Convey the word of Qur’an and Sunnah. Do not infect the humanity or the Muslims with the germ in your mouth. Even the weakest Muslim, even though he’s illiterate, has more dignity than you. Because he lacks malicious intentions and evil thoughts. He’s not after profit or exploitation.

 

(Dakika: 1:08:57)

 

So, valuable friends,

 

We’ll not allow anybody to speak ill of any Muslim. But we battle against ignorance. We manifest scholarly documents. Those are our duties to humanity. The more everyone puts effort, the more benefits they will see. Besides, those withholding authority and power are as responsible as their power’s extent. Everyone must perform their duty correctly. Everyone must be on duty. The Caliph said: “O! Father of Abdullah! May Allah help you succeed in every endeavor”. The Caliph said the quote above for Imam Al-Malik; in other words, he prayed for him. The Caliph, among many others, very much liked the saying of Al-Malik. A wide variety of words (saying – verses), hadiths and narrations reached people; many books were read. In this respect, the folk of every town should be free to choose the path they will follow. Because every folk of every town has their own âlim (Islamic scholar). That âlim (Islamic scholar) has scholarly documents. If those scholarly documents aren’t in another’s hands, then somebody else surely has it. As long as he knows Al-Qur´an Al-Karim and authentic hadiths and reaches the rank of a mujtahid; or as long as he has enough knowledge to follow the mujtahid’s path. “Every mujtahid follows their own opinion in their ijtihad. Mujtahid performs his ijtihad in compliance with Allah’s judgment.” The value of those uttering the quote above is thereby understood. There are venerable personalities who said so. Because these words are spoken by true mujtahids. That quote was reported via the imams of all four ecoles (schools) in various ways. Moreover, it was also preferred by the majority of the âlims (Islamic scholars) of Hanafi and Shafi’i ecoles (schools), and Qadi Abu Bakr al-Bakılani.

 

Now, who is this venerable person, Abu Bakr al-Bakılani? He’s a grand method scholar (an âlim who guides) and fiqh âlim (Islamic scholar). He was born in Basra. He followed the Maliki School. He died in Baghdad, he was a valuable âlim (Islamic scholar) (Rahmatullah-i alayhim ajmain). “For the mujtahid who finds the true path there’re two Thawabs (reward), and one for who fails.” The words above comply with the hadith. In other words, the quotation we conveyed a little while ago does not oppose to this hadith.

 

Valuable friends,

 

Just like Imam al-Suyuti said, “The phrase ‘who fails,’ is intended for the person who couldn’t perceive the difference between ‘suitable and ‘superior.’ Otherwise, that is not a fault.” Then what is it? There’s ‘evlâ’ (suitable), and there’s ‘etfâl’ (superior); they have different ranks. This is just like the situation regarding the captives of the Battle of Badr. Back then, what was the ‘etfâl’ (the right, the superior) thing to do regarding the captives? It was Umar’s opinion. Then why wasn’t that judgment applied, even though it was superior? Because in that instance, the other opinion was accepted by Allah Ta’ala. The situation regarding ‘evlâ’ (suitable) and ‘etfâl’ (superior) is this.

 

One must speak about mujtahids decently and with manners. And one must not exceed the limits of decency. Dear friends, Umar (r.a.) issued a legal opinion. Then he saw that legal opinion contradicted one of his previously issued legal opinions. Upon which he said: “That was our previous ijtihad. That day’s conditions required that. Our current ijtihad is this.” Ijtihads are performed according to the present day’s conditions. In fact, there are no alterations to the ijtihad itself. The conditions differ. Those authentic judgments are applied to changing circumstances. Mujtahid’s mastered that quite well.

 

So, valuable listeners,

 

‘Destined to wisdom,’ that phrase is said for someone who was bestowed knowledge by Allah. The people to whom Allah bestowed the most blessings are those who mastered fiqh knowledge. If Allah bestowed fiqh knowledge upon one that means he awarded that person with great wisdom and blessings. Allah granted the highest rank to that person. So, our faqihs (experts in fiqh) are such venerable personalities. Al-Imam Al-Azam (rahmatullah-i alayh) is one of them too. In fact, he’s among the most prominent ones. Two mujtahids, who have opposite opinions regarding an issue, are similar to two prophets, who were given two different sharia laws. Both of their words are true. For example, in the past, one prophet’s sharia is abolished and renewed by the sharia of the next prophet. And the last example was Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam), whose sharia renewed the entire history. Someone said: “For that reason, mujtahid’s ijtihads are similar to them.” Now, who said that? Imam Al-Kerbeli reported this was said by Imam Al-Shafi’i. And that is true, that was said by Imam Al-Shafi’i. In other words, Imam Al-Shafi’i didn’t say, “Al-Imam Al-Azam’s ijtihad contradicts mine,” to criticize him. Or he doesn’t say things such as, “my ijtihad contradicts another’s or someone else’s.” Why? Because they’re all researching the same root. They’re discovering many branches emerging from that root. They, or the mujtahids, are discoverer âlims (Islamic scholars). Gentlemen, if ijtihad opposes Nass (ayat – sunnah), evidence or ijma then it is faulty, and it is superstition. If an ijtihad contradicted Al-Qur´an Al-Karim, Sunnah and evidence, that means that ijtihad is superstition. And no mujtahid does that. Yes, this quote is from Qadi Iyad’s Ash-Shifa: “The right and truthful word is this: ‘every mujtahid is correct in their ijtihad.’” Qadi Iyad said so.

 

Yes, valuable listeners,

 

Who is Qadi Iyad? Qadi Iyad was born in Maghreb. So, he was present in Córdoba as the chief judge (qadi). “He was a universal âlim in the field of Islamic sciences.” The mujtahids said the previous quote as regards to him. Get a grip on yourself! Someone came forward, saying he doesn’t like al-Maturidi. And the other doesn’t like Al-Ash`ari. Another one says he doesn’t like Imam Malik. Some are defaming Shafi’i, another is defaming Hanbali, the other is defaming Al-Imam Al-Azam. You must know your place! Get a grip on yourselves. These people are venerable personalities who studied and discovered the religion of Islam with its evidence. You must beware!

 

(Dakika: 1:19:46)

 

Pray to Allah for them. The world spins on their scholarly heritage, even including those who refuse the ecoles (schools) of Islam. Through which sources these deprecators obtained this scholarly knowledge from? Through the âlims of the Four Schools of Islam, all muhaddiths, all faqih people, all mufassirs and all others. They have come to this day by protecting scholarly evidence and subjecting to the Four Schools of Islam. The âlims of that ecole (school) brought that knowledge to this day via scholarly proofs. Today, after thinking for a moment, do we know where Buhari, Muslim, Al-Tirmidhi, and others are subject to? They’re all subject to one of these four ecoles (schools). And among them are many groups like Mu‘tazila, Khawarij and many others. Are they in possession of scholarly evidence? Inside these four schools, there are thieves; there are bandits who speak ill of the Four Schools. They acquire what they need and then start slandering them. We must be reasonable. It’s not all about what’s inside your mind. Look at the sea of wisdom, look around carefully and search for evidence; then, at once, devote your life to this wisdom. The younger and mature years of Imam al-Shafi’i is not the same. Same goes for Al-Ghazali too. When you look at Al-Ghazali’s younger years, he is entirely different. What’s more, look at his mature years, you will see a completely different Al-Ghazali. Same goes for other âlims (Islamic scholars) too. Âlims and doctors, these people may have a better grasp of the truth after climbing to the summits of wisdom. Which they did. They did comprehend it better. So, there’s no hurry; do not rush. Study, and research the evidence. Then you’ll have a better understanding of Al-Imam Al-Azam, and you will admire him. “Not one, but every mujtahid is correct on their ijtihad.” That was the words of many of the imams. And there’s this saying: “When two mujtahids are performing ijtihad on the same matter, both of them are correct, but one of them has the haqq (the truth).” And this is the word of Shafi’i:  “Even though one of them is correct, and the other is faulty, the other’s fault will be forgiven.” This is, again, about the matter of ‘evlâ’ (suitable) and ‘etfâl’ (superior). These words seem to contradict in appearance, but in depth, their meaning is one. From time to time, they may seem like the opposite of each other on the surface. However, when you look for deeper meaning, you’ll see them merging in meaning. The minds of those who couldn’t comprehend that may think they’re the opposite of each other, but in reality, they are not. They are all correct and are on the true path. Behold, Allah Almighty granted this authority to the mujtahids in Al-Qur´an Al-Karim. And our Prophet granted that in his Sunnah. They are istinbat âlims (who reveals the hidden judgments and knowledge in Al-Qur´an Al-Karim or the Sunnah via qiyas). Open the Istinbat verses and see.

 

(An-Nisa – Ayah 83: And when information about the security or fear (regarding public) comes to them, they immediately spread it everywhere. But if they had conveyed it back to the Messenger or to those of authority amongst them, then the ones who can deduce accurate conclusions from it would have identified it. And if not for the favor and mercy of Allah upon you, you would have followed Satan, except for a few of you.)

 

So, valuable friends,

 

We endeavor to commemorating every âlim (Islamic scholar) according to their knowledge’s worth and remembering them with mercy and gratitude. Doing this will put you in a journey from the etfâl (superior), to even more etfâl (even more superior).

Yes, in Jesus Alaihis-salâm’s sharia, blood money was made wajib (an obligatory act). Behold; ‘Blood money was made wajib (an obligatory act).’ In Islamic sharia, the parent of the murdered victim gets the right to choose between retaliation or blood money.

 

In the previous sharia laws, when filth was smeared on your clothes, you had to cut the dirty part. But Islam brought the opportunity to wash the dirty part with water. They have to read their books with one qira’at (with one dialect, or method of reading). But our sharia law even allowed qira’at (the method of reading) up to seven letters (that refers to different dialects, you can select any of them to read Qur’an easily) for easiness. For the previous sharia laws, there were no restrictions on changing a judgment. That restriction took place in our sharia, in the healthy times of our prophet. Allah Almighty renewed Islam in itself. A fairly good example would be the replacement of the position of qibla. There’s much more easiness bestowed to the Ummah of Muhammad.

 

(Dakika: 1:26:19)

 

Since the final sharia of Islam religion is Muhammad’s sharia, many conveniences were bestowed to it. Because Muhammad-i Sharia is the final sharia law until Qiyamah (the day of judgment). It renewed the entire past. Many conveniences were brought. Allah Almighty restored Islam in person. Allah manifested the religion and the sharia. The law-maker (şâri) is Allah Himself. No one else can reveal sharia. The Prophets are not law-makers (şâri). Allah is the law-maker (şâri). Allah reveals sharia, and His Prophets apply it. They spread Islam, and established it, and implemented it. He implemented every knowledge of Islam to the world thoroughly. And Islam had finally reached perfection. There’re no flaws or imperfections in Islam. Faults and shortcomings pertain to humankind. Humanity must search for flaws and imperfections within themselves. Mighty Allah, says in the Glorious Qur’an (al-Baqarah – Ayah 185): “Yürîdullahû bi kümül yüsrave lâ yüridü bi kümül ûsra.” Meaning: “Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you any difficulty.” Do you have anything to say? That is the true Islam. “Allah wishes convenience for you, not difficulty.” “Ve mâ ceâle aleyküm fiddinî min harac,” says our Magnificent Rabb (master), Allah (c.c.): “Allah has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty.” There’s no difficulty in Islam. If someone is saying that there is, then that person either doesn’t know Islam or didn’t understand it, or he learned it wrong. “I was sent with the merciful religion of tawhid (unity of Allah).” “Bi ıstü bil hanîfetis semhâtî.” Let’s hear what our beloved Prophet (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) said in the hadith reported by al-Suyuti in his Al-Fath Al-kabir: “I was sent with the merciful religion of tawhid (unity of Allah).”

 

Valuable friends,

 

We have an announcement and advice to the world and the Islamic realm, together. O! The World of Islam! O! Ummah of Muhammad! Let’s try to learn Islam from its own source, with its own evidence. Let’s take joint action with Mujtahids and savants of Islam. When we empower the unenlightened and non-mujtahids the Ummah of the world will shatter. In fact, it has already shattered. We’re not divided only to Four Schools, the world is divided, the world is broken. The non-mujtahids and unscholarly people took the place of every leader, every front-runner, every master, Al-Qur´an Al-Karim, mujtahid, sunnah, wisdom, and enlightenment. Thus, the Ummah is divided. The world is divided into empires and kingdoms, kings and kinglets, factions and smaller groups; it is so divided that there’re even smaller groups, and the world is now shattered.

 

Now, the enemy is supporting some of those groups, they’re saying: “Attack! Assault the followers of Islam!” Behold, the Four Schools of Islam. Who is behind the instigators deceiving people into attacking Islam? Those who annihilated the unity of Islam, peace, prosperity, and serenity of the world, those evil powers are the arch enemies of humanity. They’re the enemies of peace. Islam is the world’s peace, prosperity, and brotherhood. If you annihilate that or divide that, and if you assign unscholarly people as the heads of those factions and small groups, then woe to those ignorant people! Such a shame that they’re being used for wicked purposes. Isn’t that a shame! Let’s be merciful; and let’s pity on humanity, and pity on the Ummah of Muhammad. We’re the Ummah of Muhammad! All centuries are the age of Muhammad. All humanity and all nations are the Ummah of Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam). For he is the Prophet sent for the entirety of humankind. He is the sole hope for the salvation of humanity. Behold, worldly and universal peace is Islam itself. He’s not the prophet of a specific tribe or a race. Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam) is not the prophet of Arabs, Turks nor he is the prophet of east or west. He is the Prophet of the universe. He is the prophet of all nations. Al-Qur´an Al-Karim is a universal book. Therefore, let’s not divide humanity. Allah commands unity; He commands Tawhid (unity of Allah) and wehdah (unity of people). Let us first unite people in the name of Allah; only then consolidation and peace will rule the world, and justice will prevail. Social justice and social state concepts are silent. Where are they? You will grant human rights to some, but not all, right? Allah gifted Islam for peace and prosperity of all humankind. That is only possible after embracing it; we do not impose our ideas on the unbelievers. We never insist nor be cruel to anyone. We only tell the truth. But we’ll permit no one to harm humanity as long as our strength allows us. We guard the humanity and the ecosystem alike. Because all people are servants of Allah and the ecosystem is Allah’s property. We will not allow anyone to mess with it, as long as we have adequate strength and means. Where our power is insufficient, Allah’s power is plentiful for everything.

 

„Whoever antagonizes a Wali (singular of Awliya) of Mine has challenged Me to fight.” Look, there’s a reported narration from our Prophet, in el-Camiu’s Sağir and Al-Fath Al-kabir. Âlims (Islamic scholars) are Allah’s Awliya (Islamic saints). They are Allah’s Wali. Allah Almighty said: “Whoever antagonizes a Wali (singular of Awliya) of Mine has challenged Me to fight.” That is the word of Allah. For that is a Hadith Qudsi (divine hadith). You would be challenging Allah. Allah is on Awliya’s (Islamic saints) and âlim’s (Islamic scholars) side. They are under His protection. Don’t you even think devilry about âlims and Awliya (Islamic saints); benefit from them.

 

Venerable friends,

 

The entirety of the Islamic âlims (scholars) who act on their wisdom are Wali and Awliya (Islamic saints) servants of Allah. We’re talking about those “acting on wisdom,” beware! If a person knows Islam along with its evidence, and if he acts on his scholarly knowledge, that person is most certainly an Awliya (Islamic saints). Don’t be looking at skies, searching for a flying man; the flies are also flying. Iblis, who was bestowed with wonders even though he didn’t deserve, also flyies and sings songs in the sky. Do not be deceived by them. It is evident that if an âlim deals deeds according to real evidence, and pure sciences, then he is Awliya (Islamic saints). There’s no doubt. That is the reason our elders spoke as such. That is the truth, and it is just. Because, in our previous lessons, we’ve covered everything as regards to ‘becoming an Awliya’ with discovery notes from Al-Qur´an Al-Karim. We have introduced the matter, with short but to the point notes and warnings. Besides, we have explained you the entire Al-Qur´an Al-Karim with the lessons of Hayat Veren Nur. And now, we will try to give you discovery notes and warnings from the fiqh knowledge, the boundless sea of wisdom. And we are. Our lessons will continue with Allah’s grace and favor. Every success and every support come from Him. Howsoever many strength and power were bestowed to âlims; it all comes from Him. Learn you Rabb (master) well.

 

Valuable friends,

 

“Morals, religion, and taqwa (piety) is absent in the owners of words that are consumed to gain an advantage over one another.” The man insults other âlims (Islamic scholars) to praise his own âlim. They are immoral and utterly ignorant people. He only says: “My sheik, only my sheik!” He hadn’t seen anyone else. Similar to a person who only saw one thing before he was blinded, they have no idea of other things. The world is filled with both âlims (Islamic scholars) and Awliya (Islamic saints). We admire Al-Imam Al-Azam, but just as we admire him, we admire all our âlims. We’re praying rahmat (blessing) upon all of them. Because they studied well in the school of the companions, the school of Muhammad (salla Allaahu ‘alayhi wa salaam). “Allâhümme salli ve sellim ve bârik âlâ Muhammed bi adedi ılmi” “Radiyallahu anhum ve erdahüm ecmain. Rahmetullahi aleyhim ecmâin”.

 

One must take great care and avoid speaking ill of the madhabs (schools) of Islam. These things may lead to horrible outcomes. They will fan the flames of Madhab fanaticism, which leads has serious consequences.

 

(Dakika: 1:38:56)

 

We praise Al-Imam Al-Azam, but we pray rahmat (blessing) upon others too. We’re enthused to Al-Imam Al-Azam’s wisdom, his scholarly evidence and piety, knowledge, and lifestyle. Nevertheless, all other âlims (Islamic scholars) are precious to us, just like he is. A person shielded his own madhab under an iron curtain, and started spitting fire upon the others; such people are immoral and ignorant, they’re utterly ignorant. For once, he who has the fault is only flawed to his own fault’s extent; same goes about success, too. Do you have any idea about the source of knowledge? Have you ever been there? Do you possess the strength and resolve to dive deeper into evidence and grasp the wisdom? No, you don’t. Then what are you talking for? This is utter ignorance. For once, every Muslim in the worlds must evade these ignorant people. Schools of Islam embraced the scholarly evidence. If you’re subject to a madhab (school), study the arguments of that madhab (school) and act accordingly. But for once, measure your capacity, and know yourself. Who are you? What’s your scholarly background? Then, speak accordingly. Don’t be naïve. If you have been, then repent immediately and ask for forgiveness. And immediately after that start praying rahmat (blessing) upon all the âlims, you once defamed.

 

Dearest audience,

 

The âlims (Islamic scholars) had confessed each other’s fulness and perfection throughout their lives. When you gaze back today, you can see Al-Shafi’i admiring Al-Imam Al-Azam; Al-Malik also adored him. And every other âlim (Islamic scholar) is impressed by one another. Because, they used to confess each other’s fulness and perfections through the course of their lives. For the âlims (Islamic scholars) don’t bloat their egos by praising themselves. They defend their religion and evidence rather than their nafs (self, ego). Those who protect their nafs (self, ego) are cowards, and they’re slaves of their nafs (self, ego), and they’re servants of the Iblis (Satan). Nafs (self, ego) and the Iblis (Satan) work together. A message from ibn Abbas (Radiyallahu anhüm ve erdahüm ecmain) stated these words: “Some of the reasons for the destruction of communities of the past were speaking badly about elders and involvement in violent quarrels in the matter of religion.” See? How could one speak badly about the elders of the religion who act on scholarly evidence? You must also deal with scholarly evidence. Today, Al-Imam Al-Azam became the greatest legist of the world via knowing fiqh knowledge, and every single proof of Islam. Observe those evidence. He discovered all of them. Don’t you have enough exploration spirit to dive that deep? He is a true jurisprudent; he is amongst the greatest discoverers of the world. Malik, Shafi’i and Ahmad ibn Hanbal followed the same path. Same goes for many âlims who studied at their ecoles (schools). Many great âlims studied there.

 

(Dakika: 1:43:07)

 

• The End                                                                 –