Perspective from Islamic Scholars on Preserving Original Islamic Teachings
The preservation of Islam's original teachings has been a central mission for Islamic scholars throughout history. Islamic scholarship is grounded in a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Quran and Sunnah, along with the consensus (ijma) of early scholars. This scholarly commitment serves as a defense against any interpretations or innovations (bid'ah) that diverge from the teachings established by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This section explores the perspectives of key Islamic scholars on the importance of preserving these teachings and examines the "Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light" (ARPL) claims in this context.
A. The Role of Islamic Scholars as Guardians of Faith
Islamic scholars are entrusted with upholding the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah as the ultimate sources of guidance for the Muslim Ummah. Their role includes interpreting these texts in ways that align with the intent of Allah and the practices of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Scholars emphasize that Islam, as a complete and final religion, does not require additions or alterations. Allah states in the Quran:
هذا اليوم أكملت لكم دينكم وأتممل نعمكمل مشلكم فبيكم للأسلمك إسلامكمُ
“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion.”
📔 Quran 5:3B. Key Scholarly Perspectives on Safeguarding Islam from Innovations
Renowned Islamic scholar Ibn Taymiyyah stressed the importance of following the Quran and Sunnah without deviation or addition. He argued that any teachings not rooted in these sources pose a threat to the purity of Islam. Ibn Taymiyyah warned that introducing new practices or beliefs under the guise of religious reform only weakens the foundation of Islam.
من أحدث في أمرنا هذا ما ليس منه فهو رد.
“Whoever introduces into this matter of ours (Islam) something that is not part of it, it will be rejected.”
📔 Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 2697C. The Importance of Adherence to the Sunnah and Avoiding Bid'ah
Imam Malik, a foundational figure in Islamic jurisprudence, famously stated:
لا يصلح أمر هذا الكون بما أسلفنا من إصلاحاته الحقامات الثقاليه
“The latter part of this Ummah will not be reformed except by that which reformed its earliest part.”
📔 Imam Malik's SayingD. ARPL's Claims in Light of Scholarly Perspectives on Preservation
ARPL's claims about Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem as the Mahdi include new interpretations that lack grounding in the Quran, Sunnah, and scholarly consensus. In traditional Islamic scholarship, innovations in faith are generally viewed with caution or outright rejection, particularly when they alter core beliefs.
واتمسكريكيتمينومكرتاينين
“And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.”
📔 Quran 3:103E. Conclusion: Upholding Traditional Standards for Preserving Islam's Teachings
Islamic scholars throughout history have consistently emphasized the importance of preserving the original teachings of Islam. They regard the Quran, Sunnah, and scholarly consensus as essential safeguards, protecting the Ummah from innovations that could compromise the purity of the faith.