General Advice

The task of applying the principles of Jarh wa Ta'deel to pass judgements on individuals lies with those who are qualified—those who have a thorough understanding of the reasons for criticism and the appropriate methods to justify them. If someone is unqualified, they should avoid engaging in this matter. This much is clear to everyone, right? However, what we aim to understand is whether students of knowledge have any role to play in this matter. I will summarise the scholars' advice in the following points: 1. The student's role is not to issue rulings. 2. Their role is simply to convey the rulings issued by those qualified to do so. 3. They must ensure the person they are quoting from is actually qualified to issue such rulings. 4. They must relay the information accurately: - Try to quote the exact words expressed by the scholar, without attempting to explain the intended meaning. - If the scholar’s refutation is general, do not specify individuals when relaying it. 5. If the ruling was issued or discussed in a private setting, seek permission before publicising it. 6. If you believe that your relaying of the speech may cause more harm than benefit, reconsider! 7. Jarh wa Ta'deel is an essential science of the religion. It is not gheebah, nameemah, fault finding, etc.!!! Many advise students to seek knowledge and avoid involving themselves in this topic altogether, as if knowledge is one thing and Jarh wa Ta'deel is another. On the contrary, these two matters go hand in hand!! Without Jarh wa Ta'deel, how would you know who to seek knowledge from?? ولكن ساعة وساعة 8. Your focus should be solely on pleasing Allāh and supporting the religion. It should not be about favouring one individual over another or supporting one group against another. 9. Do not seek to defend yourself; instead, prioritise the victory of Islam and the establishment of the Sunnah above all else. We ask Allāh for safety and well-being.