BENEFIT 117: Being an imām in a masjid where one is forced to partake in innovations

Questioner: Esteemed Sheikh, may Allah grant you success. A questioner from outside this country says: "In our country, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs orders us to perform innovations after the five daily prayers, and the imams are instructed to do so. If the imam does not perform these innovations, he is dismissed from his position. Some imams from Ahlus-Sunnah perform these innovations while believing them to be invalid. Sheikh Fawzān: This is not permissible. He should resign from the position of imam if performing innovation is unavoidable. It is not obligatory. It is not permissible for him to lead the prayer and perform innovation while saying, 'I did not intend it' or 'I dislike it.' No, don't do it in the first place! There is no obedience to the creation in disobedience to the Creator. Yes. And the salary you receive for this role, in which they require you to perform innovations, is unlawful. Questioner: Additionally, they say, 'May Allah protect you. We imams perform these innovations only to continue calling people to the creed of Tawheed and to the Sunnah. Sheikh Fawzan: They are invited without assuming the role of imam, and without the salary of imam. They are invited, and no one can rebuke you for calling to Allah.' Yes.