*Based on Imam al-Dhahabi’s Siyar A‘lam al-Nubala’
Imam al-Dhahabi (رحمه الله) discusses the life of Abu al-Hasan al-Rawandi, a highly intelligent philosopher who initially embraced rationalism and later turned toward atheism. Through a detailed account of al-Rawandi’s beliefs and downfall, Imam al-Dhahabi draws a powerful conclusion: Knowledge is essential, but if it is not accompanied by sound reason and devoid of faith, it becomes accursed in the sight of Allah. In contrast, taqwa (piety), even without brilliance or scholarship, holds an esteemed place with Allah if it leads one to recognize their Lord.
Islam never denies the importance of knowledge and intellectual reasoning, nor does it place obstacles in the path of deep reflection. However, faith that stems from simplicity and sincerity, if it brings a person closer to Allah, is considered more valuable than scholarly brilliance. Imam al-Dhahabi’s observation provides a crucial lesson: possessing knowledge alone is not enough—only the kind of knowledge that brings a person nearer to Allah is valid and accepted.
In today's world—particularly in Western societies—this issue has become profoundly sensitive. Many preachers operating in such environments face various ideologies and questions. A significant number of them have not studied Islamic sciences under qualified scholars, relying instead on personal reasoning to represent Islam. Under the influence of media, public opinion, and non-Muslim environments, they sometimes make statements that deviate from the views of the Salaf and at times reflect atheistic inclinations.
This trial is not easy to confront, but the first and most critical step is to recognize it as a fitnah. When a person loses insight and becomes self-deluded, they may fall into dangerous trends such as advocating religious pluralism (wahdat al-adyan), denying the obligation of hijab, or expressing atheistic views on issues like homosexuality.
The only solution is for preachers to remain closely connected with recognized scholars and rely on them for religious guidance. They must consistently refer to senior scholars to ensure they remain on the straight path and avoid falling into misguidance.
At this juncture, it is vital to supplicate to Allah, asking Him to protect us from this trial and keep our hearts firm on the truth. We should earnestly beg Allah to safeguard both us and our callers to Islam from becoming a source of misguidance for the people.
❖ The Mention of Abu al-Hasan al-Rawandi in Imam al-Dhahabi’s Work
Imam al-Dhahabi (رحمه الله) discusses the life of Abu al-Hasan al-Rawandi, a highly intelligent philosopher who initially embraced rationalism and later turned toward atheism. Through a detailed account of al-Rawandi’s beliefs and downfall, Imam al-Dhahabi draws a powerful conclusion: Knowledge is essential, but if it is not accompanied by sound reason and devoid of faith, it becomes accursed in the sight of Allah. In contrast, taqwa (piety), even without brilliance or scholarship, holds an esteemed place with Allah if it leads one to recognize their Lord.
❖ The Islamic View on Knowledge and Reflection
Islam never denies the importance of knowledge and intellectual reasoning, nor does it place obstacles in the path of deep reflection. However, faith that stems from simplicity and sincerity, if it brings a person closer to Allah, is considered more valuable than scholarly brilliance. Imam al-Dhahabi’s observation provides a crucial lesson: possessing knowledge alone is not enough—only the kind of knowledge that brings a person nearer to Allah is valid and accepted.
❖ Modern-Day Challenges and Issues Faced by Preachers
In today's world—particularly in Western societies—this issue has become profoundly sensitive. Many preachers operating in such environments face various ideologies and questions. A significant number of them have not studied Islamic sciences under qualified scholars, relying instead on personal reasoning to represent Islam. Under the influence of media, public opinion, and non-Muslim environments, they sometimes make statements that deviate from the views of the Salaf and at times reflect atheistic inclinations.
❖ Confronting This Trial
This trial is not easy to confront, but the first and most critical step is to recognize it as a fitnah. When a person loses insight and becomes self-deluded, they may fall into dangerous trends such as advocating religious pluralism (wahdat al-adyan), denying the obligation of hijab, or expressing atheistic views on issues like homosexuality.
The only solution is for preachers to remain closely connected with recognized scholars and rely on them for religious guidance. They must consistently refer to senior scholars to ensure they remain on the straight path and avoid falling into misguidance.
❖ Supplication and Steadfastness
At this juncture, it is vital to supplicate to Allah, asking Him to protect us from this trial and keep our hearts firm on the truth. We should earnestly beg Allah to safeguard both us and our callers to Islam from becoming a source of misguidance for the people.
