Teachers holding a different viewpoint from their students
QUESTION:
How do we keep the respect the we have for our teachers who have different views from us? This is specifically regarding Muslim teachers, and especially if it is about matters that are quite serious. For example, if we understand that interfaith is dangerous and can lead to Kufr, while they define it in the misinterpreted meaning of interfaith as peacefully living with non-Muslims and being able to give Da’wah. Or, if they indirectly make statements that refer to our senior Ulama that have a lot of insight, in a negative way. Or, if they bring down certain issues to a mere difference of opinion. How do we keep a balance between having respect for them due to them being our teachers, and differing from them in many issues, without having them forcing their beliefs, ideas etc. onto us?
ANSWER:
There is scope for difference of opinion in matters of Deen with the proviso that the difference relates to interpreting and explaining the Quraan and Sunnah. The difference must exist with Ikhlaas and Taqwa, and not to show one’s superiority or to humiliate others. Also, the one holding a contradictory view in the matter must be an expert in explaining the Quraan and Hadith. Lastly, the Mas’ala must be Mukhtalaf Fee for which there is no definite ruling. [Ikhtilaaf Rahmat he Firqa Bandi Haraam he Pg.13]
Difference of opinion is not applicable to fundamental beliefs. Differences in fundamental beliefs will break and destroy the Ummah, hence we are required to hold onto the way of the Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah in these matters. Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam states, “Hold onto my Sunnah and the Sunnah of my rightly guided Khulafa after me, hold firmly onto their way.”
Interfaith is a matter relating to fundamental beliefs. Those that engage in interfaith dialogues consider all Abrahamic religions as equal. This is in direct conflict with the Quraan Sharif as the Quraan Sharif states, “The only way of life acceptable by Allah is Islam.” [Surah Aale Imraan, Verse 19] Whoever seeks a Deen besides Islam, it shall never be accepted from him, and he will be among the losers in the Aakhirah. [Surah Aale Imraan, Verse 85] In Surah Kaafiroon Allah Ta’ala states, “For you is your religion and for me is mine.” Therefore, their interpretations in this regard will not be accepted, hence they are not worthy of being followed. However, this in no way means that you disrespect them, rather you stick to your viewpoint and move on.
Regarding their differences with the seniors of the country, that is their personal matter. You shouldn’t get involved in their personal matters. You do not have to follow their views in such matters but always maintain respect.
ALLAH TA’ALA ALONE IN HIS INFINITE KNOWLEDGE KNOWS BEST!
ANSWERED BY:
Mufti Mohammed Desai
Date: 16 Rajab 1445 / 28 January 2024