BENEFIT 349: How some scholars categorise "charity organisations"

Question: May Allāh reward you with goodness. This is a frequently asked question: What is the ruling on establishing associations in non-Muslim countries for the purpose of da'wah and managing the affairs of Muslims? Sheikh Sulaymān Ar-Ruhaili وفقه الله: What appears to me, and Allāh knows best, is the following: Firstly, associations are of two types: The first type consists of charitable organisations established for the benefit of people. These organisations are permissible, provided they comply with the regulations of the country(1). For example, establishing an association to care for orphans, support the poor, or assist students of knowledge is allowed and poses no issue. The second type includes da’wah (Islamic propagation) associations in their various forms. The default ruling on these associations is that they are impermissible because they lead to division among believers, causing discord within their ranks. They shift the concept of loyalty and disassociation (Al-walā' wal barā') from being for the sake of Allāh to being for the sake of these associations. As a result, those who belong to such associations are regarded as allies and beloved, even if they are sinful, while those who do not belong to them are viewed with hostility, even if they are righteous. Additionally, such associations may lead to obedience being dictated by the association rather than by the Qur'ān and Sunnah. It is often said, "Submit yourself to this association as the deceased submits to the one who washes his body." While this may not happen immediately, it inevitably occurs over time, as experience has shown📌. However, if there is a genuine need(2) for such associations, whether in Muslim or non-Muslim lands—such as when a country does not permit da'wah activities except under an official framework or does not allow the receipt of funds for da'wah except through a formally recognised association—then establishing associations in such cases is not prohibited nor condemned, whether in Muslim or non-Muslim lands. However, certain conditions must be met: 1) These associations should not become the basis for walā' wal barā', 2) They should not lead to Hizbiyyah among believers, and 3) One must be cautious that they do not foster detestable sectarianism(3) This is what appears to me to be the correct stance on the issue of establishing associations of both types. And Allāh knows best. ____ (1) If the Sheikh is referring to official charity organisations, then differentiating between the two types mentioned is questionable, as both share similar prohibitions. (3) i.e. Necessity (ضرورة); as he states here https://t.me/almanhajussalafi/1381 ▪️Is it truly a necessity though? Have all alternative options been completely exhausted? https://t.me/almanhajussalafi/1383 (3) These conditions are unattainable, as reality demonstrates. https://t.me/almanhajussalafi/1391 ▪️In another Fatwa the Sheikh affirms that he doesn't know of any Salafi related charity organisations https://t.me/almanhajussalafi/1381