❖ The Reality and Differences Between Madkhalism and Ikhwanism ❖
✍ Fatwa by: Fadhilat al-‘Ālim Ḥāfiẓ Khidr Ḥayāt ḥafiẓahullāh
And which side should we be with?
Al-Ikhwān gathered people from diverse creeds and sects—including both Salafis and innovators—under the banner of Islamic revival and Caliphate.
✔ Contradictory Approach:
The movement is criticized for simultaneously showing harshness and leniency—sometimes adopting strictness, and at other times, displaying tolerance toward innovations and theological deviations.
✔ Focus on Political Reform:
Their primary concern is political Islam, particularly the re-establishment of the Caliphate, while other theological or jurisprudential issues are often treated as secondary.
✔ Criticism of Ikhwanism:
Opponents accuse the movement of compromise and leniency, especially in matters of Tawḥīd and Sunnah.
The term Ikhwānī is often used for those who oppose tyrannical rulers or adopt militant or revolutionary ideologies.
Those who align with his views are labeled “Madkhalī” or “Madākhilah.”
Known for rigid commitment to Tawḥīd and Sunnah, and for rejecting any innovation in religion.
✔ Rejection of Innovation (Bid‘ah):
They adopt a firm stance against all forms of Bid‘ah.
✔ Loyalty to Rulers:
Madkhalīs believe rebellion against Muslim rulers is impermissible. They emphasize sincere loyalty to authorities.
✔ Harshness in Criticism:
They are known for labeling opponents as innovators or sinners, often with little tolerance for differing views.
✔ Anti-Organizational Stance:
Generally opposed to modern Islamic movements or political groups, regardless of their methodologies.
◈ The Situation in Pakistan and the Subcontinent
It is essential to evaluate any movement or group based on its beliefs, actions, and methodology, rather than blindly supporting or rejecting it.
✔ Guidance for Ahl al-Ḥadīth:
Before adopting the views of Ikhwanis or Madkhalis, one must return to core Islamic teachings based on Qur’an, Sunnah, and the understanding of the Salaf.
⚖ True balance lies in following the authentic teachings of Islam without extremism in either direction—adhering to Tawḥīd, Sunnah, and the methodology of the Salaf, while also recognizing the importance of wisdom, justice, and unity.
✍ Fatwa by: Fadhilat al-‘Ālim Ḥāfiẓ Khidr Ḥayāt ḥafiẓahullāh
◈ Question
What are Madkhalism and Ikhwanism? Are they both Salafi?And which side should we be with?
◈ Definition of Ikhwanism
Linguistic and Historical Context:
The term “Ikhwānī” is used in the Arab world to refer to someone affiliated with the Islamic movement “al-Ikhwān al-Muslimūn”.About al-Ikhwān al-Muslimūn:
- A well-known Islamic movement whose primary goal is the establishment of Dīn and the re-establishment of the Caliphate.
- The Jamaat-e-Islami in South Asia is considered its Urdu counterpart
◈ Characteristics of Ikhwanism
✔ Inclusivity & Pluralism:Al-Ikhwān gathered people from diverse creeds and sects—including both Salafis and innovators—under the banner of Islamic revival and Caliphate.
✔ Contradictory Approach:
The movement is criticized for simultaneously showing harshness and leniency—sometimes adopting strictness, and at other times, displaying tolerance toward innovations and theological deviations.
✔ Focus on Political Reform:
Their primary concern is political Islam, particularly the re-establishment of the Caliphate, while other theological or jurisprudential issues are often treated as secondary.
✔ Criticism of Ikhwanism:
Opponents accuse the movement of compromise and leniency, especially in matters of Tawḥīd and Sunnah.
The term Ikhwānī is often used for those who oppose tyrannical rulers or adopt militant or revolutionary ideologies.
◈ Definition of Madkhalism
Linguistic and Historical Context:
The term Madkhalī refers to followers of Shaykh Rabīʿ ibn Hādī al-Madkhalī, a scholar from Saudi Arabia.Those who align with his views are labeled “Madkhalī” or “Madākhilah.”
◈ Characteristics of Madkhalism
✔ Strict Adherence to Sunnah:Known for rigid commitment to Tawḥīd and Sunnah, and for rejecting any innovation in religion.
✔ Rejection of Innovation (Bid‘ah):
They adopt a firm stance against all forms of Bid‘ah.
✔ Loyalty to Rulers:
Madkhalīs believe rebellion against Muslim rulers is impermissible. They emphasize sincere loyalty to authorities.
✔ Harshness in Criticism:
They are known for labeling opponents as innovators or sinners, often with little tolerance for differing views.
✔ Anti-Organizational Stance:
Generally opposed to modern Islamic movements or political groups, regardless of their methodologies.
◈ Key Differences Between Madkhalism and Ikhwanism
| Aspect | Ikhwanism | Madkhalism |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Establishment of the Caliphate and Islamic rule | Upholding Tawḥīd and Sunnah; refuting Bid‘ah |
| View of Rulers | Often opposes and rebels against tyrants | Emphasizes obedience and loyalty to Muslim rulers |
| Approach to Differences | Tolerant and inclusive | Harsh and exclusionary |
| Methodology | Political activism, unity across sects | Rigid refutation, limited interaction with others |
◈ The Situation in Pakistan and the Subcontinent
- Within Ahl al-Ḥadīth circles, both Ikhwanī and Madkhalī trends are present.
- Some are influenced by Ikhwanism's political vision and activism.
- Others align with Madkhalism’s rigid stance on theology and rejection of activism.
◈ What Should Be Done?
✔ Need for Balance:It is essential to evaluate any movement or group based on its beliefs, actions, and methodology, rather than blindly supporting or rejecting it.
✔ Guidance for Ahl al-Ḥadīth:
Before adopting the views of Ikhwanis or Madkhalis, one must return to core Islamic teachings based on Qur’an, Sunnah, and the understanding of the Salaf.
◈ Conclusion
- Ikhwanism focuses on political revival, often at the cost of creed and purity of Sunnah.
- Madkhalism emphasizes rigid theological purity but is often criticized for excessive harshness and blind loyalty to rulers.
⚖ True balance lies in following the authentic teachings of Islam without extremism in either direction—adhering to Tawḥīd, Sunnah, and the methodology of the Salaf, while also recognizing the importance of wisdom, justice, and unity.
