Dr Fiaz Maqbool Fazili
Do’s and do not’ s In Islamic practices must be evidence based.Islam is evidence-based religion, and taught modern medicine concept of EBM to medical fraternity and I always try to go deep into primary sources of the religions whenever I quote or refer anything In Islam.
Why is ILM important in Islam? In the Islamic context, ILM “typically refers to religious knowledge. In the Quran, the term “ilm” signifies ALLah’s own knowledge, which encompasses both the manifest and hidden aspects of existence. The Quran emphasizes that all human knowledge is derived from Allah.
How often did you quote a true narration on Prophet Muhammad saw, OR other prophets like Prophet Musa AS or Sufi Saints like Syed Abdul Qadir Jilani ra ,especially on social media like facebook, whatsapp, Instagram, and other Muslims asked from you the authentic reference, called me and you copy paste e and accused you an inciter of mis/disinformation liar as there was none from authentic source.In faith Islam, spreading false information or recommending forbidding any act or ritual without knowledge of its authentic source is indeed considered sinful.? This principle is rooted in the concept of respecting knowledge and avoiding spreading falsehood, which is emphasized in Islamic teachings.
The phrase “Half of faith is knowledge” is often cited in Islamic teachings to underscore the importance of seeking knowledge. It highlights that understanding and knowledge are integral to faith. Without proper knowledge, one may unintentionally propagate misinformation or misunderstand religious practices. Spreading incorrect information without proper references or authentic sources contradicts the principles of truthfulness, integrity, and responsibility emphasized in Islam. Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge from reliable sources and to verify the accuracy of information before sharing it with others. This principle is derived from the Quranic injunctions to speak the truth (Quran 33:70) and to avoid spreading false rumours (Quran 49:6).
In Islamic ethics, spreading wrong information can lead to harmful consequences such as misinformation, confusion, and mistrust. It can also tarnish one’s reputation as a trustworthy and knowledgeable individual. Therefore, it is incumbent upon Muslims to exercise caution and diligence in verifying information before disseminating it, particularly when it concerns matters of faith, morality, or societal importance.
Expressing a concern discomfort with people giving recommendations or prohibitions (do’s and don’ts) regarding rituals, deeds, or sharing stories without proper knowledge or when information is shared without proper verification or understanding of its origins or authentic sources, especially in the context of Islamic teachings .This concern reflects a desire for accuracy and fidelity to the teachings of Islam. It’s indeed commendable to emphasize the importance of authenticity when it comes to matters. In Islam, authenticity is highly valued, especially concerning religious texts, teachings, and practices. The Quran and authentic Hadith collections, such as Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, serve as primary sources of guidance for Muslims worldwide. don’t forward or recommend anything unless you have actually read from authentic Islamic sources. If you encounter situations where information is being shared without proper verification or from dubious sources, it’s important to encourage critical thinking and respectful dialogue. You can gently remind others of the importance of seeking knowledge from reliable and authentic sources before making recommendations or passing on information. This entails consulting reputable Islamic sources, scholars, or texts to ensure accuracy and authenticity. Furthermore, Islam emphasizes the importance of accountability for one’s words and actions. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) cautioned against spreading rumours and falsehood, highlighting the negative impact they can have on individuals and communities. Therefore, it is imperative for Muslims to uphold ethical standards in communication and to refrain from spreading wrong information without proper evidence or references. “Do not falsely declare with your tongues, “This is lawful, and that is unlawful,” only fabricating lies against Allah. Indeed, those who fabricate lies against Allah will never succeed.”In many belief systems, including Islam, authenticity and accuracy are highly valued when it comes to teachings, rituals, and stories. This is because misinformation or misinterpretation can lead to misunderstandings and potentially harmful actions.Additionally, one might consider educating yourself and others about reputable Islamic sources and resources where one can find authentic teachings and guidance. This can help promote a more informed and responsible approach to sharing knowledge within your community.
Islam encourages Muslims to seek knowledge throughout their lives. This includes knowledge of the Quran, Hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad), Fiqh (jurisprudence), and other relevant fields. Seeking knowledge is considered a form of worship in Islam.Islamic teachings should be derived from authentic sources such as the Quran, Hadith collections (like Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, etc.), and the consensus of scholars (Ijma) or their reasoned interpretation (Ijtihad). Avoiding Speculation: Muslims are cautioned against speculating or forming opinions without sufficient knowledge or evidence. This applies to all aspects of life, including religious practices, moral conduct, and social interactions. Verifying Information: Before sharing information or giving advice, it is essential to verify its authenticity. This involves consulting reliable sources and ensuring that the information aligns with Islamic teachings. Islamic scholars who possess knowledge and expertise in religious matters should be respected and consulted. Their interpretations and rulings are based on extensive study of the Quran, Hadith, and scholarly tradition.
Avoiding Falsehood: Spreading false information or attributing baseless claims to Islam is strictly prohibited. Muslims are urged to speak the truth and avoid spreading rumors or misinformation.Each individual is responsible for their own actions and beliefs. It is incumbent upon Muslims to educate themselves and make informed decisions based on evidence and sound reasoning. Indeed, saying “I don’t know” when unsure about a matter is a commendable approach, reflects a strong sense of faith and a sincere desire to adhere to the principles of Islam with integrity and sincerity especially within Islamic teachings. This practice reflects humility, honesty, and a recognition of one’s limitations in knowledge. In Islam, it’s considered virtuous to refrain from making unfounded claims or giving incorrect information.
Islam emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practices and knowledge derived from authentic sources. Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge, verify information, and avoid spreading falsehood. By adhering to these principles, individuals can ensure that their actions and beliefs are in accordance with Islamic teachings.
In essence, exercising caution and diligence in sharing information aligns with Islamic values of truthfulness, integrity, and respect for knowledge. It helps prevent the spread of misinformation and upholds the integrity of Islamic teachings. admitting ignorance can be seen as an act of piety, as it demonstrates a commitment to seeking knowledge earnestly and responsibly. It encourages individuals to pursue genuine understanding through proper study, reflection, and consultation with knowledgeable sources.
Indeed, saying “I don’t know” when uncertain about a matter is a commendable approach, especially within Islamic teachings. This practice reflects humility, honesty, and a recognition of one’s limitations in knowledge. In Islam, it’s considered virtuous to refrain from making unfounded claims or giving incorrect information. By acknowledging uncertainty and refraining from speculation, a person can avoid inadvertently spreading misinformation or misguidance. This approach not only safeguards one’s own faith but also upholds the integrity of Islamic teachings and fosters an environment of sincerity and trust within the community.
Dr Fiaz Maqbool Fazili, is a Consultant Surgeon, has a Diploma in Islamic studies from Islamic Online University. His work has been published in local and international Journals.
