Is the Tablighi Jamaat's Method in Line with the Way of the Sahabah?

❖ Does the Tablighi Jamaat Follow the Methodology of the Companions?​

Source: Fatāwā ʿUlamāʾ-e-Ḥadīth, Kitāb al-Ṣalāh, Volume 1

✿ Question:​

Is the preaching method of the Tablighi Jamaat aligned with the methodology of the noble Companions (رضي الله عنهم)?

✿ Answer by Shaykh Ibn Bāz (raḥimahullāh):​

Anyone who calls to the religion of Allah is considered a muballigh (preacher), based on the statement of the Prophet ﷺ:
"بَلِّغُوا عَنِّي وَلَوْ آيَةً"
"Convey from me, even if it is one verse."
(Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: 3202)

✿ Methodology of the Tablighi Jamaat​

According to Shaykh Ibn Bāz (raḥimahullāh), the Tablighi Jamaat, as it is known in the Indian subcontinent, contains many innovations and superstitions. Hence:

✔ It is not permissible for the average person to join and do daʿwah with them.
✔ Their method is not in accordance with the way of the Salaf, particularly the Companions (رضي الله عنهم).

◈ Guidelines for Those with Knowledge and Insight​

If a person of knowledge and insight accompanies them with the intention of correcting their beliefs and guiding them toward the methodology of the righteous predecessors (Salaf al-Ṣāliḥīn), then this is permissible.

But if one joins only to follow and imitate them, without discernment, then it is not permissible, due to the presence of multiple deviations and innovations in their practices.

✿ Responsibility of the Scholars​

It is the duty of qualified scholars and people of insight to join such groups only to educate, correct, and reform them. Their purpose must be to lead them away from flawed beliefs and toward the authentic creed and practice of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jamāʿah.

In such a scenario, there is no harm in accompanying them temporarily for instruction and guidance.

✿ Important Note:​

This fatwa was issued by Shaykh Ibn Bāz (raḥimahullāh) approximately two years before his death, affirming its relevance and finality in his scholarly stance.

Conclusion:​

The Tablighi Jamaat's approach is not aligned with the methodology of the Sahabah. While general participation is discouraged, knowledgeable individuals may engage only for the purpose of correction and reform, not for mere affiliation.