Overview of Mainstream Islamic Scholarly Refutations of Ahmadi Doctrines
The Ahmadi doctrines, particularly those espoused by movements like the "Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light" (ARPL), represent a significant departure from mainstream Islamic beliefs. This overview examines the primary areas of critique against Ahmadi doctrines, focusing on theological, scriptural, and historical bases for these refutations.
A. Finality of Prophethood
The Doctrine of Khatam an-Nabiyyin (Seal of the Prophets)
The Quranic verse in Surah Al-Ahzab (33:40) explicitly states that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the "Seal of the Prophets," signifying the end of prophethood and the closure of any further divine revelation:
مُحَمًدًا مَا كَانَ أَبَائِكُمُ مُنِ رَجُلاً وَلَكَنَ رَسُولًا لَكُمُ وَخِاتَّمًا النُبُيَنُ
“Muhammad is not the father of any one of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets.”
📔 Surah Al-Ahzab (33:40)B. Completeness and Sufficiency of the Quran
The Quran as the Final Revelation
Islamic doctrine holds that the Quran is the final and complete revelation, providing all the guidance necessary for humankind until the end of time. Scholars argue that the Qurans comprehensiveness negates any need for further revelations or supplementary guidance.
C. The Role of the Mahdi and Jesus (Isa) in Islamic Eschatology
The Mahdi as a Reformative, Not Prophetic, Figure
The Mahdi is expected to restore justice and guide Muslims in times of moral decay, but mainstream scholars agree that the Mahdis role is strictly reformative and lacks prophetic status.
D. Consensus (Ijma) and the Role of Scholars in Refuting Deviations
The Importance of Scholarly Consensus in Islamic Doctrine
Islamic scholars across the Sunni and Shia traditions agree that consensus (ijma) is an essential source of Islamic jurisprudence and theology. The collective agreement among scholars on core doctrines provides stability to Islamic beliefs and protects against innovations.
E. Conclusion: Upholding Mainstream Islam Against Ahmadi Doctrines
Through the finality of prophethood, the completeness of the Quran, and the traditional roles of eschatological figures, Islamic scholars protect the integrity of the faith from unorthodox movements. The doctrines promoted by ARPL conflict with the theological foundations of Islam.