BENEFIT 178: Masjid Ḍhirār

Question: Ahlus-Sunnah established Friday prayer in their masjid, while there is another masjid in the village belonging to the Ikhwanis. As a result, the Ikhwanis spread the notion that the Sunni masjid is a "Masjid Ḍhirār" and that the Friday prayers held there are invalid. What are the criteria for a "Masjid Ḍhirār"? Sheikh Yahya Al-Hajuri, may Allah preserve him, responded: If the villagers allow Ahlus-Sunnah to deliver sermons, perform prayers, and benefit the people correctly without causing harm or engaging in disputes, we advise the villagers to remain in their original masjid given the benefit it provides. However, if the Ikhwanis insist on causing disturbances, soliciting donations without knowledge or benefit, and continue to create confusion among the people, this is not proper. So, Ahlus-Sunnah should establish their own masjid where they can practice the Sunnah and offer beneficial lessons for the benefit of the people, and this does not constitute a "Masjid Ḍhirār". A "Masjid Ḍhirār" is one that harms people and leads them away from the truth, as indicated by Allah's statement (interpreted meaning): "And [there are] those who took for themselves a masjid for causing harm and disbelief and division among the believers and as a station for whoever had warred against Allah and His Messenger before. And they will surely swear, 'We intended only the best.' And Allah testifies that indeed they are liars. Do not stand [for prayer] within it – ever. A masjid founded on righteousness from the first day is more worthy for you to stand in. Within it are men who love to purify themselves; and Allah loves those who purify themselves." (Quran 9:107-108) Thus, any masjid established with the intention of causing harm, leading people away from the truth and the Sunnah, regardless of how little or great the harm is, is considered a "Masjid Ḍhirār". Conversely, a masjid intended for the benefit of the people, calling them to goodness with gentleness, wisdom, and guidance, is not a "Masjid Ḍhirār," regardless of its location. This understanding is supported by evidence from the Qur'an and other relevant proofs. @almanhajussalafi