Topic: ELECTIONS & VOTING: What do the Scholars say?


MasjidulBayaanNJ    -- 26-02-2007 @ 3:44 AM
 


Presently, a number of limited uncomprehensive [and surprisingly opportunistic] fatawaa regarding the affair of parliamentary elections (being elected or electing) have been distributed amongst the masses. Surprisingly, these fatawaa have been very short in length as the questions that lead to them were also very general and limited. This has lead many of our brothers to accept an affair that has been discussed in abundance amongst the scholars of Ahlus Sunnah, past and present. Yet still, those individuals who have opened the discussion of this affair have failed in sufficiently translating the abundance of speech that is available.

For this reason, we would like to present to the respected readership the speech of numerous well-known salafi scholars that is needed to fully understand the issue at hand.

Abu Hafsah Kashiff Khan
Masjidul Bayaan


The Advice and Warnings of Ash Shaykh Ubayd
Al Jaabiree

Translation and Notes: Abul Hasan Maalik Al Akhdar


[Q]: ?Is it permissible for the Muslims in the lands of disbelief to enter into elections and request from the Muslims to support them in this from the aspect [of being] from the lesser of the two evils or to repel the greater evil??

[A]: I say: Elections are not from the Sunnah (the way of the Prophet) that is known by the Muslims and that which the Salaf traversed upon from the time of the Companions and the Imaams of the Taabi?een, and those who came after them. Rather, it is a newly invented matter in Islaam, so it is a bid?ah (innovation), and if it is a bid?ah (innovation) then it is muharram (unlawful).

However, if the Muslims in the West or other than it are compelled to enter into elections then there are a number of circumstances [to be present]. From them: That they will not receive any of their rights that are legislated in their country except by way of a representative to speak on their behalf. So if they are forced to do this and they have no choice, they either elect a man who is Muslim or lose their rights and have no one to hear their concerns. In this situation they elect a righteous man who is wise that will benefit the Muslims and look after their rights.

But if the Muslims were patient upon the hardships and loss of their rights in the way of abandoning this innovated matter it is better for them and more desirable. And Allah knows best.



TRANSLATOR'S NOTE: It should be noted here that the Muslims in the U.S. and U.K receive the same rights as other non-Muslim citizens. They build mosques, schools, and open centers of propagation without hindrance or opposition. Muslims openly call to Islam in publications, radio broadcasts, the internet, and in public forums whether on university campuses or in correctional facilities, in fact Islam is still the fastest growing religion in the West.

Muslim women can be seen on the streets of many cities in full hijab and Muslim men in Islamic garb and full beards, all of this with no obstruction from the authorities.  All of these rights are afforded them without need of entering elections or voting.


mustafaG.    -- 26-02-2007 @ 6:57 PM
  Sheikh Yahya Al Hajoree on voting and elections

No. 48. If someone asks you: What is the ruling on voting and elections?

Then say:

They are from the democratic laws that seek to destroy Allah's true legislation.  They are also considered imitation of the disbelievers, and imitating them is not permissible. There is much harm present in them, and there is niether benefit nor gain for the Muslims (in them).  

From their most significant harms are:

- (They promote) equality between truth and falsehood, and between the truthful people and those upon falsehood, according to and based on the majority (of votes)

- Elimination of (the foundations and beliefs of) loyalty and disloyalty

- Rupture the unity of the Muslims

They bring about:

- Hatred
- Enmity
- Factionism
- Fanaticism between the Muslims

They also cause:

- Deception
- Trickery
- Fraud
- Falsehood

They waste time, money, remove the modesty from the female, along with disrupting a Muslim's trust in Islamic knowledge and its people (the scholars)


Source: Al Mabadee Al Mufeedah fit Tawheed wal Fiqh wal Aqeedah - Basic Priniciples regarding Tawheed, Islamic Jurisprudence, and Belief- new Arabic print pg. 29 #48

Note: The full translated version of this work can be found on several salafi websites


Mustafa George
Ruwais, United Arab Emirates


mustafaG.    -- 27-02-2007 @ 4:03 PM
  Sheikh Ahmed bin Yahya An Najmee on Voting and Elections

Today the Sheikh was asked the following question:

Questioner: Oh beloved Sheikh, what is the ruling on Muslims in America taking part in voting and elections, if they feel this will  somehow benefit Islam and the Muslims?

Sheikh:  The system of elections is an innovation and it is not permissible for the Muslims to participate in them alongside the disbelievers.

Questioner:  The reason for their participation, is that if they support and vote for an individual running for a particular position; even if this person is a disbeliever, this person will in turn give the Muslims land for building schools and masjids.

Sheikh:  Oh my brother, is it permissible for the Muslims to enter into innovations and join and work with the disbelievers to obtain something that may take place, or may not! This is not correct in my opinion.

Date of call: February 27, 2007


Mustafa George
Ruwais, United Arab Emirates


spubs.com    -- 01-03-2007 @ 10:51 AM
 


"Democracy in Light of the Qur'an and Sunnah"
SALAFI AUDIO LECTURE MP3

Shaikh Abdul-'Azeez Bur'ee

(Yemen)
Arabic & English

Shaikh Abdul-'Azeez Bur'ee is from the prominent shaikhs of Yemen and from students of the Imaam of Yemen and its muhaddith, Muqbil Ibn Haadee al-Waadi'ee.

An excellent lecture explaining the theory of democratic elections and its effects upon society and the Muslims.

CLICK HERE:

"Democracy in Light of the Qur'an and Sunnah" by Shaykh Abdul Azeez Bur'ee


__________________________________________________________
[url=http://www.salaf.com/][/url]


spubs.com    -- 09-03-2007 @ 3:16 PM
 


SHAYKH SAALIH AL-FAWZAAN ON VOTING

Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan said:

quote:
... And as for the elections [that are] well-known [and implemented] today in the various nations, then they are not from the Islamic order. Chaos, personal aspirations enter into them, as do greed and favouritism (bias).

Tribulations and the shedding of blood result from them and the desired goal is not attained by them. Rather, they are just a ground for bids (i.e. campaigns), buying and selling and false claims.


The Ruling on Elections and Demonstrations Al-Jareedat ul-Jazeerah, Issue 11358, Ramadaan 1424 (3rd September 2003).

May Allaah reward the Shaykh for making this issue crystal clear over three and a half years ago. Its a shame to see that instead of clear cut and decisive fataawaa like these being distributed, we see instead the propagation of contextually restricted fataawaa that are for unique and specific circumstances and in which personal ijtihaad is made by some scholars. What more can be intended by the distribution of these fataawaa to thousands of Muslims except giving the message that it is permissible for them in their own localities to engage in elections.

People historically who have resorted to actions similar to these are the likes of Salman al-Awdah who used Shaykh al-Albaani's permission for the Algerians to enter into elections as a means of justifying that act in front of the populace in general.



__________________________________________________________



MasjidulBayaanNJ    -- 25-03-2007 @ 3:59 AM
 

Elections and Voting: Cause of Corruption

With the permission of Allaah, the speech of of many of our scholars has been presented to the readership regarding the reality of elections [voting or running in parliamentary/congressional elections]. The speech of scholars such as Ash Shaykh Naasirud Deen Al Albaani, Ash Shaykh Badee'ud deen, Ash Shaykh Muqbil bin Hadee, Ash Shaykh Ubayd Al Jaabiree, Ash Shaykh Ahmad An Najmi has been translated on the evils and corruption that is the end result of democracy.

Presented is an example of some corruptive conditions the West forces upon Muslims if they desire to partake in their democratic system, in turn proving that there is more than meets the eye in issues from the "Nawaazil" such as this one. These examples prove that when the scholars are questioned regarding the permissability of such acts [as the lesser of two evils, or other wise], it is not sufficient to ask a general limited question. Specifics must be mentioned, without which the question becomes extremely lacking!

Muslim Face Veil Banned in Quebec Vote
By PHIL COUVRETTE, Associated Press Writer
Friday, March 23, 2007
(03-23) 19:29 PDT MONTREAL, Canada (AP) --

Muslim women will have to remove their face coverings if they want to vote in upcoming elections in Quebec, a government official said Friday, reversing his earlier decision to allow the veils.
Marcel Blanchet, the French-speaking province's election chief, had been criticized by Quebec's three main political leaders for allowing voters to wear the niqab, which covers the entire face except for the eyes, if they signed a sworn statement and showed identification when they vote.
But Blanchet reversed his earlier decision Friday, saying it was necessary to avoid disruptions when residents go to the polls.
"Relevant articles to electoral laws were modified to add the following: any person showing up at a polling station must be uncovered to exercise the right to vote," he said.


Quebec bars veil at election booth


QUEBEC -- Muslim women will have to remove their face coverings if they want to vote in Monday's Quebec election.
Quebec's chief returning officer has reversed an earlier decision and is now telling Muslim women who wear a niqab to show their faces when they vote.
Facing threats from other citizens that they would show up at polling stations wearing masks, Marcel Blanchet said in Quebec City that voting day must proceed without incident.
Blanchet had to get two bodyguards as a result of his initial decision and Elections Quebec had received threatening phone calls and e-mails.
Quebec's three main political leaders had asked Blanchet to reverse the decision.
Blanchet says he's using special powers under electoral law to make the change.
Action Democratique du Quebec Leader Mario Dumont says the law must be evenly applied to all citizens on voting day.


sajid_chauhan_81    -- 19-05-2009 @ 12:19 AM
  Al Allaamah Shaykh Rabee (hafidhahullah) said with regard to elections and voting:

How many violations of the religion are commited by way of elections like showing alliances with atheist parties, communist and innovated parties and (also) what it necessitates in terms of demolishing the principle of allegiance and opposition (for the sake of Allah)? How much money is spent (on elections) and stolen from the Muslims in the the name of Islam? And the Muslims spend it bribing those who will vote for them by lying and falling into sin. How much money is wasted, lives lost, blood shed and ethics lost? All of this and other than this is ignored by Abul Hassan as he puts it [these violations] to waste in the cause of ikhwaan al-muslimoon [the deviated sect that spends the majority of their time in politics].

See his refutation against Abu al Hasan regarding elections footnote No. 16.

The following questions were asked to our Shaikh Al Allaamah Yahya ibn Ali Al Hajooree (hafidhahullah) regarding the issue of elections:

Question: We hear in our land that a law has been passed (ordering the people) not to delve into the issue of elections and not to explain it to the people. What is your advice to us (regarding this)?

Answer: Forbidding the evil is obligatory. It is obligatory to repent from whatever law that is in opposition (to that which is correct). And elections are as impermissible as other major sins that are obligatory (for us) to forbid. And it is not permissible for us to be silent about them to the best of our ability because of what is there in elections from blind following of the disbelievers, splitting of the muslims, igniting enmity and hatred between them and other than this like (causing) harm to ones religion and worldly life. The messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaiyhi wa sallam) said, "Whosoever amongst you sees an evil, then let him change it with his hand; if ha cannot then with his tong and if he cannot (do even that) then with his heart and that is the weakest of eeman [faith]" - reported by Muslim from the hadeeth of Abi Sa'eed Al-Khudari

And the means used for elections are prohibited (as well). Whether (a person) gives them [the people who promote elections] a ride on his car or helps them get a voter's card and registration or other than that - whatever leads to prohibited actions is prohibited (as well). And having said this, there is no problem is forbidding these evils to the best of ones ability by advising the rulers, may Allah grant them success. People should be encouraged to forbid it because the spreading of evil ruins peoples' lives, and ruins their religion and their worldly matters. No one who is upright, has common sense and loves goodness for himself and the muslims would be pleased with it [elections]. And with Allah lies all success.

From the tape: Questions from Inner Hadramout - the city of Tareem

Question: What is the ruling on one who promotes election campaigns, then proclaims repentance and then returns to it?

Answer: It is obligatory to be warned about and warn from elections because:

It is a blind imitation of the disbelievers
It is from the disbeliever's system of democracy
It causes division between the muslims
It compromises certain matters of the religion
And it has perils which is obligatory for the one knowing its condition to be wary of it and warn against it.

And Allah says: {And whosoever does not repent, then such are indeed Zılimın (wrong-doers, etc.)}. (Al-Hujurat 49:11)

From the tape: Questions from the people of Radfan dated 9 Rajab, 1422H

Question: What is the ruling on women going out and getting voter cards with the knowledge that some of the campaigner's assistants come to houses. They ask the women to apply for a voter's card and if any one from Ahlus Sunnah was to forbid them they say :"This is not against you because there is no free mixing involved here as women approach women to give the cards to women. There is no free mixing." And with the likes of this they cast doubts upon the people. What is your advice - may Allah protect you?

Answer: Democracy came to the muslims with trials and from these trials are elections. And it (elections) are not permissible neither for a man nor a woman nor; neither for a Jinn nor a human. And it has perils and evils that none know except Allah. And Ahlus Sunnah have exhausted themselves in warning against this trial acting upon the statement of Allah: {so that those who were to be destroyed (for their rejecting the Faith) might be destroyed after a clear evidence, and those who were to live (i.e. believers) might live after a clear evidence. And surely, Allıh is All-Hearer, All-Knower}. (Al-Anfal 8:42)

and His statement: {And ask them about the town that was by the sea, when they transgressed in the matter of the Sabbath (i.e. Saturday): when their fish came to them openly on the Sabbath day, and did not come to them on the day they had no Sabbath. Thus We made a trial of them for they used to rebel. And when a community among them said: "Why do you preach to a people whom Allıh is about to destroy or to punish with a severe torment?" (The preachers) said: "In order to be free from guilt before your Lord (Allıh), and perhaps they may fear Allıh." So when they forgot the remindings that had been given to them, We rescued those who forbade evil.} (Al-A'raf 7:163-165)

And some of the needy people from amongst the men and women get deluded by (a small) amount of money. Or they get deceived that if they dont elect then they will not have a position amongst the people [in the community]. And this is a lie. For the Prophet (sal Allahu alaiyhi wa sallam) said, "If you rely upon Allah with a true reliance, he would give you sustenance like he gives the birds sustenance. They leave in the morning empty stomached and return at night full". And he would honour you with a great amount of goodness. Allah says: {And whosoever fears Allıh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his trust in Allıh, then He will suffice him.} (At-Talaq 65:2-3)

And he says: {And if the people of the towns had believed and had the Taqwı (piety), certainly, We should have opened for them blessings from the heaven and the earth} (Al-Araf:96)

And the most elevated One says: {And if only the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) had believed and warded off evil (sin, ascribing partners to Allıh) and had become Al*Muttaqın (the pious) We would indeed have blotted out their sins and admitted them to Gardens of pleasure (in Paradise). And if only they had acted according to the Taurıt (Torah), the Injeel (Gospel), and what has (now) been sent down to them from their Lord (the Qur'ın), they would surely have gotten provision from above them and from underneath their feet.} (Al-Ma'idah 5:65-66)

And the Exalted one says: {but if they had done what they were told, it would have been better for them, and would have strengthened their (Faith);} (An-Nisa 4:66)

So O you Muslims! (This is) a beneficial, valuable advice. Accept it before you feel remorse (at a time when) remorse will not benefit you whether in this world or the next. As Allah says: {Say: "Short is the enjoyment of this world."} (An-Nisa 4:77)

Elections are prohibited. It is blind following of the disbelievers and from the branches of democracy. And democracy is prohibited. It is the ruling of the people by themselves without a Book or a Sunnah. And democracy is disbelief. And partisanship (hizbiyyah) is prohibited except for the party of Allah, glorified and exalted is He.

From the tape: Questions from Ibb, As-Sayyani district, Wadi Khair village and those around it - recorded on 8th Dhul Hijjah, 1423H

excerpts from an email from Abu Fajr Abdul Fataah al Kanadi.


yasin3683    -- 22-05-2009 @ 3:24 AM
 
Bismillaah Al-Hamdulillaah wa salatu wa salaamu 'ala rasulullaah
Amma Ba'd

Scholars: Elections (Voting) haram, bid'ah, imitation of Kufaar; Democracy is disbelief (kufr)!  

All Praise and thanks are due to Allaah, the Lord of Creation. To Him belongs praise and grace for guiding us to Islaam and the Sunnah, a praise that would suffice His favors to us outwardly and inwardly, as is required for the nobility of His Face and might of His Magnificence. Abundant Peace and Blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam), and upon his family, companions, his wives - the mothers of the believers - and all those who follow them in good until the Day of Judgement.

Dear Muslims,

Beware - may Allaah show you His Mercy and protect you - that the American elections and Voting process offered to you in America are an innovation in the Islamic religion, imitation of the kufaar, and can lead to kufr (disbelief) since they are part of the democratic system. Additionally, the American candidates are disbelievers and, of course, have no intention of ruling by the book of Allaah and the Sunnah - the complete and perfect legislation that the Lord of all that exists sent down to His final Messenger Muhammad (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) so that the pious amongst mankind and jinn may be guided.  

Shaykh Abu Nasr Muhammad ibn 'Abdullaah ar-Raymee al-Imaam (hafidhahullaah) stated,
quote:
"[url=http://www.salafitalk.net/st/uploads/Muqbil_Elections.pdf]Elections[/url] enter into association of partners with Allaah and that is Shirk of obedience, since elections are from the democratic system. And this system was established by the enemies of Islaam for the purpose of turning the Muslims away from their Religion. So whoever accepts it, being pleased with it, propagating it, believing it to be correct, surely he has obeyed the opponents of Islaam in opposition to the command of Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic. And this is the very essence of associating partners with Allaah with regard to obedience. Allaah has said:

"Or have they partners with Allaah (false gods), who have instituted for them a religion which Allaah has not allowed. And had it not been for a decisive Word (gone forth already), the matter would have been judged between them. And verily, for the Dhalimun (polytheists and wrong-doers), there is a painful torment. You will see (on the Day of Resurrection), the Dhalimun (polytheists and wrong-doers, etc.) fearful of that which they have earned, and it (Allaah's Torment) will surely befall them.." (Ash-Shura, ayat 21-22)


So if they say: "They [elections] are from the legislation of Allaah,"
quote:
then that is insolence and a lie upon Allaah..."
[1]  

Regarding voting and [url=http://www.salafitalk.net/st/uploads/Muqbil_Elections.pdf]Elections[/url], Shaykh Muqbil (rahimahullaah) said,
quote:
"And I say: Are elections not, except the path of democracy? ...Democracy is disbelief (kufr) because it means that the populace rules itself by itself. It means there is no Book [Qur`an] and no Sunnah and no Islaam, and the allowing of fornication and homosexuality."
[2]  

When Shaykh 'Ubaid Al-Jabiree (hafidhahullaah) was asked if it was permissible for the Muslims in the lands of disbelief [such as America] to enter into elections from the aspect of being "the lesser of the two evils", the shaykh responded:

"Elections are not from the Sunnah (the way of the Prophet, salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) that is known by the Muslims and that which the Salaf (the first three generations after the revelation of the Qur`an) traversed upon from the time of the Companions and the Imaams of the Taabi'een, and those who came after them. Rather, it is a newly invented matter in Islaam, so it is a bid'ah (innovation), and if it is a bid'ah (innovation) then it is muharram (unlawful)."

Shaykh Al-Jabiree added that the only exception to this is if the Muslims were forced - meaning if they don't vote, they would not receive any rights [of course, this is not the case in America]. In that case, they could select a pious, knowledgeable and wise man amongst them to speak on their behalf and look after their rights. Then he concluded by advising us of that which is better, saying, "But if the Muslims were patient upon the hardships and loss of their rights in the way of abandoning this innovated matter, it is better for them and more desirable. And Allaah knows best."

When asked via phone two years ago about voting in America, Shaykh Ahmad An-Najmee (rahimahullaah) said, "Oh my brother, is it permissible for the Muslims to enter into innovations and join and work with the disbelievers to obtain something that may take place, or may not?! This is not correct in my opinion."

Shaykh Salih al-Fawzaan (hafidhahullaah) said, "... And as for the elections [that are] well known [and implemented] today in the various nations, then they are not from the Islamic order. Chaos, personal aspirations enter into them, as do greed and favoritism (bias). Tribulations and the shedding of blood result from them, and the desired goal is not attained by them. Rather, they are just a ground for bids (i.e. campaigns), buying and selling and false claims." [3]  

The personal aspirations Shaykh Fawzaan mentioned is the candidates' desire and putting themselves forward for leadership and authority - an act the Prophet (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) prohibited. Abu Musa (radiallaahu 'anhu) narrated: Two of my cousins and I entered the apartment of the Prophet (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam). One of them said: Messenger of Allaah, appoint us rulers of some lands that the Almighty and Glorious Allaah has entrusted to your care. The other also said something similar. He (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) said, "We do not appoint to this position one who asks for it nor anyone who is covetous for the same." [4]*  

Abdur-Rahman ibn Samwah (radiallaahu 'anhu) narrated: Allaah's Messenger (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) said to me, "'O 'Abdur-Rahman! Do not ask for leadership, since if you are given it - having requested it - then you will be all alone to discharge it. But if you are given it without requesting it, you will be helped (by Allaah) in it." [5]  

Shaykh Rabee' bin Hadee al-Madkhalee (hafidhahullaah) said:
quote:
"Rather the ones to be chosen are those who are suitable in [Islamic] knowledge, don't have a desire for such a position, and are pious. Then, we must also benefit from this Prophetic methodology in our education and training. So we should not bring up the youth to have love for leadership, authority and position. If we bring them up upon love of these things, then we have acted contrary to the way and guidance of Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam)... Then what success can we expect in this world or the Hereafter if we act contrary to the methodology of Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam)?" [6]
  

Either maliciously or ignorantly, some falsely accuse the Messenger and his companions of holding elections. Of course, this is a lie - and a lie on the Prophet (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) is disastrous to one's hereafter. The Messenger (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) would sometimes consult companions, setting in motion some of the battles and raids, and other times he would not. Either way, he never held elections. And as for 'Umar (radiallaahu 'anhu), while dying, he appointed a shura to decide the third calipha. Furthermore, this shura was made of six companions [and a seventh - Abdullaah ibn 'Umar - to decide the matter in case it was yet unresolved]. And as you can see - may Allaah show you Mercy - the decision was left to the knowledgeable and pious and those who didn't seek leadership.

This is in contrast to the evil, corrupt, and fraudulent elections in America, where the vote of the ignorant and disbelieving carries more weight than that of the knowledgeable and pious, since each is given a vote and, of course, the knowledgeable and muttaqun are unquestionably the minority. And, likewise, [url=http://www.salafitalk.net/st/uploads/Book_of_Shaykh_Muhammad_al_Imaam.pdf]democracy[/url] is the rule of the majority, whereas Allaah has revealed (what means): And if you obey most of those on earth, they will mislead you far away from Allaah's Path. They follow nothing but conjectures, and they do nothing but lie. (Al-An'aam, ayah 116)

Shaykh Muhammad ibn 'Abdullaah ar-Raymee al-Imaam was asked regarding the statement of some: "Democracy and voting are equivalent to the Islamic Shura (Counsel)." The shaykh responded, "By Allaah, if we did not fear that the ignorant would be influenced by the likes of these words, then it would be obligatory to avoid even responding to this (statement). At any rate, [url=http://www.salafitalk.net/st/uploads/Book_of_Shaykh_Muhammad_al_Imaam.pdf]democracy[/url] and voting is not combined with the Islamic Shura that Allaah has legislated, not in the fundamentals of the religion nor its subsidiary branches, neither in totality nor in part, not in meaning or in foundation." And then the shaykh - may Allaah preserve him for the benefit of the Ummah - brought eight detailed evidences in refutation of this statement, at the head of them being that Allaah legislated the Islamic Shura, whereas the people of disbelief, crimes and ignorance legislated democracy. [7]

The Shaykh also said that a shura is to consult with one another mutually in cooperation upon the understanding of truth, devoid of fabricated rulings from other than the Divine Legislation.

quote:
And know - may Allaah guide you - that [url=http://www.salafitalk.net/st/uploads/Book_of_Shaykh_Muhammad_al_Imaam.pdf]democracy[/url], which is to govern oneself by man's laws (instead of what Allaah revealed), is disbelief (kufr), rejecting Allaah's Laws and accusing it of deficiency.
  

Allaah says (what means): Verily, this Qur`an guides to that which is most just and right and gives glad tidings to the believers (in the Oneness of Allaah and His Messenger, Muhammad, etc.). who work deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a great reward (Paradise). (Al-Isra', ayah 9) Shaykh 'Abdul-Azeez Bur'aee (hafidhahullaah) points out the above aya shows that the Qur`an has in it all that is good - for all places and all times and all issues, such as mannerisms, economics, da'wah, or other than that.

Shaykh Bur'aee said:
quote:
"[url=http://www.salafitalk.net/st/uploads/Book_of_Shaykh_Muhammad_al_Imaam.pdf]Democracy[/url] opposes Islaam in the equality between people, making equal the kufaar to the Muslims, whereas Allaah says (what means): Shall We then treat the (submitting) Muslims like the Mujrimun (criminals, polytheists and disbelievers, etc.)? What is the matter with you? How judge you? (Al-Qalam 68:35-36) In democracy, the righteous scholar is equal to the homosexual or the one who passes corruption upon the Earth - and this is a great injustice."
  

Shaykh Muhammad ibn Salih al-'Uthaimeen (rahimahullaah) said, "Because anything which opposed the judgment of Allaah, the Most High, and that of His Messenger (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) is tughyan (wrong-doing, injustice, oppression, tyranny) and transgression against the judgment of Him to Whom judgment belongs and to Whom all matters return (for final judgment) and that is Allaah. He, the Most High, says (what means): Indeed your Lord is Allaah, Who created the heavens and the earth in Six Days, and then He Istawa (rose over) the Throne (really in a manner that suits His Majesty). He brings the night as a cover over the day, seeking it rapidly, and (He created) the sun, the moon, the stars subjected to His Command. Surely, His is the Creation and Commandment. Blessed be Allaah, the Lord of the 'Alameen (mankind, jinns and all that exists)! (Al-A'raf, ayah 54)." [8]

Read - may Allaah guide you - the following three verses and their subsequent tafseer.

Allaah says (what means): And whosoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed, such are the Kaafirun. (Al-Ma`idah, ayah 44) And whosoever does not judge by that which Allaah has revealed then they are wrong doers. (Al-Ma`idah, ayah 45) And whosoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed then they are the sinful. (Al-Ma`idah, ayah 47)

The companions understood these ayat to mean: believing - upon knowledge - that a law other than Allaah's is superior or equal to Allaah's Sharee'ah, or is permissible to rule by, is kufr (disbelief). Of course, if the person does so out of ignorance, then he's not a kafir. He is taught and advised. Furthermore, Ibn 'Abbaas (radiallaahu 'anhuma) said: "Whoever rejects what Allaah has revealed, will have committed Kufr, and whoever accepts what Allaah has revealed, but did not rule by it, is a Dhalim (unjust) and a Fasiq (rebellious) and a sinner.' Ath-Thawri narrated that Ibn Jurayj said that 'Ata' said, "There is Kufr and Kufr dunee (less than) Kufr, dhulm and dhulm less than dhulm, Fisq and Fisq less than Fisq.'' [9]*  

It is exclusively Allaah's right to prohibit something or make something lawful, as we learn from the following hadeeth.

Imaam Ahmad, At-Tirmidhi and Ibn Jarir At-Tabari recorded a hadeeth via several chains of narration from 'Adi bin Hatim (radiallaahu 'anhu) who became Christian during the time of Jahiliyyah. When the call of the Messenger of Allaah (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) reached his area, 'Adi ran away to Ash-Sham, and his sister and several of his people were captured. The Messenger of Allaah (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) freed his sister and gave her gifts. So she went to her brother and encouraged him to become Muslim and to go to the Messenger of Allaah (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam). 'Adi, who was one of the chiefs of his people (the tribe of Tai') and whose father Hatim At-Ta'i was known for his generosity, went to Al-Madinah. When the people announced his arrival, 'Adi went to the Messenger of Allaah (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) wearing a silver cross around his neck. The Messenger of Allaah (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) recited this Ayah - They took their rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allaah (At-Tawbah, ayah 31). 'Adi commented, "I said, 'They did not worship them.'' The Prophet (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) said, "Yes they did. They (rabbis and monks) prohibited the allowed for them (Christians and Jews) and allowed the prohibited, and they (Christians and Jews) obeyed them [in that]. This is how they worshipped them."

Prior to that, 'Adi had thought of worship as only bowing and prostrating, and hadn't thought of obedience as an act of worship.  

Shaykh Fawzaan said about this aya and hadeeth that explains it:
quote:
"Following scholars or anyone else in changing the rulings of Islamic Law is an act of Shirk ul-akbar (Major Polytheism)." Again, the Shaykh stressed that it is Major Polytheism only "if the follower knows that these enacted laws differ from those of Allaah."
  

Allaah also revealed: [Yusuf said to his companions of the prison:] The command (or the judgment) is for none but Allaah. He has commanded that you worship none but Him (i.e. His Monotheism), that is the (true) straight religion, but most men know not. (Yusuf, ayah 40) Legislation is for none but Allaah; it is His right alone, so this rules out a "mixture" of Sharee'ah and democracy. Ibn Katheer (rahimahullaah) said, "He then affirmed that the judgment, decision, will and kingdom are all for Allaah alone, and He has commanded all of His servants to worship none but Him." [10]

Additionally, Allaah revealed: And when it is said to them: "Come to what Allaah has sent down and to the Messenger (Muhammad)," you (Muhammad) see the hypocrites turn away from you (Muhammad) with aversion. (An-Nisa, ayah 61) This is proof that the one who is called to ruling by the Qur`an and Sunnah and he refuses, then he is from the hypocrites - and this hypocrisy is the more serious hypocrisy in i'tiqad (belief).

The only saying of the faithful believers, when they are called to Allaah (His Words, the Qur`an) and His Messenger, to judge between them, is that they say: "We hear and we obey." And such are the prosperous ones (who will live forever in Paradise). (An-Nur, ayah 51) The Muslim should say, "We hear and obey."

May Allaah show you Mercy. Do you not see that ruling by the sharee'ah of other than Allaah leads to mischief and corruption in the land, whereas ruling by what Allaah revealed is a cause of correcting the affairs of the creation? Look at Arabia - where the law of the land is Allaah's Sharee'ah - and the peace found therein, maa shaa` Allaah.

Shaykh Fawzaan, a resident of Arabia, said, "As for our country - walHamdulillaah - then it differs from the other countries on account of what Allaah has granted it of goodness, such as calling to Tawheed, putting an end to shirk, establishing an Islamic Government which judges by the sharee'ah. We do not say the country is perfect from every single aspect; however it has - walHamdulillaah - never ceased to be established upon goodness. Enjoining the good and forbidding the evil is to be found in it, likewise the establishment of the hudood punishments, and also ruling by what Allaah has revealed..." [11]  

And if we as Muslims in America sufficed ourselves with what Allaah has revealed, we would in sha` Allaah see without obstruction - may Allaah bless you - that we have absolutely no need for these kufaar candidates, as we in America are not prohibited from going to the masaajid to learn 'aqidah and offer our obligatory salat except by our own laziness, and the women are not prohibited from wearing hijab except by their refusal to obey Allaah in that matter.

And if we sufficed ourselves with the Qur`an and authentic Sunnah, then the ignorance of those who invite eloquent politicians to the masaajid to lure Muslims into bid'ah will become apparent and shunned instead of applauded and followed.

As Imam Malik (rahimahullaah) said:
quote:
Is it that every time a man comes who is more eloquent in arguing than another man we leave that which Jibreel 'alayhi salaam brought to the Messenger sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam?
    

My brothers and sisters in Islaam, the only One we need and should rely on is Allaah, The Mighty and Majestic, who says (what means): Allaah! Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), and in Allaah (Alone), therefore, let the believers put their trust. (At-Taghabun, ayah 13) Tawfeeq (success) comes from Allaah, and we are commanded to use only legislative means. My dear fellow Muslims, if we correct our 'aqidah, and enjoin Tawheed and the Sunnah while forbidding shirk and bid'ah, Allaah will make us the successors upon the earth, as He promised in Surat An-Nur:

Allaah has promised those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practice their religion, that which He has chosen for them (i.e. Islaam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear (provided) they (believers) worship Me and do not associate anything (in worship) with Me. But whoever disbelieved after this, they are the Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allaah). (An-Nur, ayah 55)

Know - may Allaah bless you - that Allaah created all of mankind and jinn to single Him out with all worship (making du'aa to Allaah alone, seeking refuge in Allaah alone, sacrificing for Allaah alone, seeking deliverance from Allaah alone). And Allaah will judge us on the Day of Judgement based on our submission to His commands and the commands of His Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam), about whom Allaah said (what means): Nor does he speak of (his own) desire. It is only an Inspiration that is inspired. (An-Najm, ayat 3-4)

Submission to Allaah's revelation leads to rectification in this wordly life, and Allaah's pleasure and Paradise in the hereafter. Denying/disbelieving in what Allaah revealed - even one ayah or one authentic hadeeth - leads to oppression in this wordly life, and torment and the fire in the hereafter.

May Allaah unite the Muslims upon the Qur`an and authentic Sunnah (upon the specific understanding that Allaah sent down to His Messenger to convey to the companions), and guide us to hold onto the Qur`an and authentic Sunnah with our molars, and guide us to avoid placing our opinions and desires above what He revealed to Muhammad (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam). May Allaah guide all the Muslim rulers, and may Allaah continue blessing Arabia and any country that follows it in ruling by what Allaah revealed for the sole purpose of pleasing Allaah alone.

Footnotes:
[1] From Shaykh Muhammad al-Imaam's book Tanweerudh-Dhulamaat bi Kashf Mafaasid wa Shubahaat Al-Intikhabaat (Illuminating the Darkness in order to uncover the corruptions and doubts concerning Voting), pages 39-40.

[2] Nasaa`ih Wa Fadaa`ih, page 17; Tuhfatul-Mujeeb, page 303.  

[3] The Ruling on Elections and Demonstrations Al-Jareedat ul-Jazeerah, Issue 11358, Ramadaan 1424.  

[4] Sahih Muslim, In the Book of Government (CHAPTER: PROHIBITION OF A DESIRE FOR A POSITION OF AUTHORITY AND COVETOUSNESS THEREOF).*  
* In the case of Prophet Yusuf ('alaihi salam), Ibn Katheer said, "Yusuf praised himself, for this is allowed when one's abilities are unknown and there is a need to do so." [Tafseer Ibn Katheer (Tafseer of Surat Yusuf, Vol. 5).]

[5] Sahih Muslim, In the Book of Government (CHAPTER: PROHIBITION OF A DESIRE FOR A POSITION OF AUTHORITY AND COVETOUSNESS THEREOF).  

[6] Manhaj ul-Anbiyaah fi ad-Da'wah ilal-Laah (Methodology of the Prophets in Calling to Allaah).

[7] From Shaykh Muhammad al-Imaam's book Tanweerudh-Dhulamaat bi Kashf Mafaasid wa Shubahaat Al-Intikhabaat (Illuminating the Darkness in order to uncover the corruptions and doubts concerning Voting), pages 31-35.

[8] Fatawa Arkan-ul-Islam (Islamic Verdicts), Vol. 1

[9] Tafseer Ibn Katheer (Tafseer of Surat al-Ma`idah, Vol. 3)  
* Ibn Baaz said: The rulers who judge by other than what Allaah revealed are divided into different categories, according to their beliefs and to their deeds. One who judges by other than what Allaah has revealed, believing that it is better than the Law of Allaah, is a kaafir by consensus of all the Muslims, as is the one who judges by man-made laws instead of the Law of Allaah, and claims that this is permissible. As for the one who judges by other than what Allaah has revealed, because he finds it convenient to do so, or because of bribery, or due to enmity between him and the person being judged, or any other reason, in the full knowledge that he is acting in disobedience to Allaah and that it is wajib for him to judge by Allaah's Law, he is considered to be one of the disobedient ones and a perpetrator of a major sin and he has committed minor kufr and minor dhulm and minor fisq, as has been reported on the authority of Ibn 'Abbaas (radiallaahu 'anhuma), Tawoos, and a number of righteous salaf. This is what is well known to the people of knowledge. And Allaah is the Granter of Success. [Fatawa Islamiya (Vol. 1)]

[10] Tafseer Ibn Katheer (Tafseer of Surat Yusuf, Vol. 5.)

[11] (al-Ajwibah al Mufeedah no. 24)

[Note: This treatsie is based on the stronger of the two opinions, the opinion followed by the overwhelming majority of the scholars of Ahlus-Sunnah wal Jama'ah. Those in the minority who said it is "the lesser of two evils" provided no proof for their statements, and ijtihaad is not exercised when the majority of scholars have already refuted an issue. And of course, scholars are not followed in their mistakes. This would be blind-following. Even then, those with the weaker of the two opinions stipulated that their opinion was based only if the Muslims do not have full rights to practice their religion, which is not the case in America, and to Allaah belongs all Praise.]

Subhanak Allaahuma wa bihamdika ash-hadu anlaa illaaha illa anta astaghfiruka wa atubu ilayk  

If I said anything correct, then it is from Allaah (subhanahu wa taa'ala), and if I erred, then that is from me and shaytan.


sajid_chauhan_81    -- 08-06-2009 @ 5:38 AM
  Allamah Badiuddin Shah as-Sindhi rahimahullah on Democracy

In this manner, some of our brothers have accepted democracy and have mistaken it for Islaam. It is astonishing how they have accepted a western ideology while being AhleHadeeth. Did the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) give us this ideology, did the rightly guided Khulafaa give us this ideology, or did the four Imaams give us this ideology? Who gave us this ideology? An ideology emerged from Europe and you accepted, you deemed the ideology of the Messenger sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam deficient! Let me ask you one question. Are there any opposing political parties in the Shareeıah. If the government was established for the sake of Allaah, and someone stood in opposition of it, what would become of him? There would be hostility everywhere. Democracy safeguards these hostilities, and this is why evil is given a chance to exist. It is for this reason that these people who are starving for power attempt to win power and fight (amongst each other).

Has Islaam not taught you how to run the governments? Did not the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) establish an Islaamic government within a kingdom of kufr? How did the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam), how did he establish this government? He acted upon the guidance of Allaah and he was successful, Allaah gave him victory, Allaah gave him success. All forces were in opposition to the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) and they still are; the forces of these selfish maulvis (religious leaders), the forces of saints (peers), and the forces of the wealthy. All of these groups are against each other but are united against the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam). The time came when the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) was given victory, and he announced on the hill of Safaa, ıThere is none worthy of worship except Allaah alone, and He aided His salve, and completed His promise, and He by Himself defeated the forces. This is Islaam, and this is our methodology, and this is our Imaam.

How is it that we accept those things that he (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) cursed, and we accept the methodology of the enemies of the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam)??

Today, there is a group that claims that they are from the upholders of the religion, and they used to claim at one time that it was impermissible to partake and run in elections. Later, they claimed that all of these things are necessary and permissible if we want to gain power, so they began to partake in all of these things that these worldly (political) parties partake in. The people of the Jamıeeyah (AhleHadeeth) began to walk in their footsteps.

This is what taqleed is, acting upon the correct and incorrect actions of your Imaam; they do not separate, take what is correct and what is incorrect, this is the Muqallid. When these people (who partake in elections) received the fatwa that these action are impermissable, none of them objected, even though it is necessary that one of the two is incorrect.

An ideology in which an individual who seeks leadership stands in elections, and they divide into groups and parties, and they severely waste the wealth of the Muslims on backbiting and mud-slinging, how can an ideology such as this be correct?

So my brothers, this methodology in not found in the Quraan and the Sunnah. The methodology of the Quran and the Sunnah is that of the Khilaafah, where the Muslims have one leader under whose order all are included..."

excerpt from here


zejd.peqin    -- 09-02-2010 @ 10:59 PM
  Shaykh Allaamah 'Abdullaah al-Ghudayaan (hafidhahullah) of the Committee of Major Scholars and the Permanent Committee for Fatwa and Research in Saudi Arabia, was asked a question:

Question: 'Shaykh, the same question about mosques here which ascribe themselves to the Sunnah, however we have found from them some matters which are contrary to what our Shaykhs are upon; from them,
O our Shaykh, is that they encourage the people to enter into democratic elections; knowing that they encourage the worshippers to vote for a Muslim woman who is a member of a Socialist party. O Shaykh, what is your advice for the people here in Britain?

Answer: 'By Allaah, Look, O my brother, you know that the Muslim must have an Islamic personality. He should not have a personality such that he just follows the people. What is required is that when the Muslim acts.. his actions.. the people will say: 'This action is from Islaam'; and my advice is for the Muslims not to enter into these affairs ever! This is from one aspect.
And from another aspect; the Hadeeth: "Never will a people prosper who place a woman in charge of their affair."
So the suggestion that she should, for example, be like this, no! She should not enter into this,
and you should not enter into this, ever. Not at all! This is from another aspect.
-------
And the Shaykh, the Allaamah Ubaid al-Jaabiree was informed of the question of the Shaykh, the Allaamah Abdullaah al-Ghudayaan (hafidhahumallaah), so he said: "That is my position also, without any difference".

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Shaikh Abdul Muhsin Al Abad - Elections in Iraq

ما هي نصيحة شيخنا عبد المحسن العبَّاد البدر ـ حفظه الله ـ لأهل العراق في انتخاباتهم المقبلة؟؟
الحمد لله والصلاة والسلام على رسول الله وعلى آله وصحبه ومن وآلاه:
وبعدُ:
فقد سُئل شيخنا عبد المحسن بن حمد العبَّاد البدر ـ حفظه الله ـ في ليلة الإثنين الموافق الخامس عشر من شعر ربيع الأول عام 1431هـ في المسجد النبوي في درس سنن ابن ماجه ما يلي:
س/ شيخنا حفظكم الله ما رأي فضيلتكم في الانتخابات؟ إذا كان جميع المرشحين من أهل الضلال, وقد يتفاوتون في ضلالهم وعداوتهم, ولكنهم جميعاً يعادون السنَّة وأهلها؟
جـ/ أجاب شيخنا بقوله: أبداً يَبْتَعد عن هؤلاء جميعاً.
ملحوظة: هذا الجواب سمعته أيضاً من شيخنا ـ حفظه الله ـ يوم الأحد الموافق 14/ 3/ 1431هـ عند بيته بعد صلاة الظهر لمَّا سُئل شيخنا عن حال إخواننا في العراق والقوائم المرشحة لنفسها من الإخوان المسلمين وأهل الرفض وغيرهم من العلمانيين فأجاب بمثل هذا الجواب وزاد عليه: (( لا يُرشحون أحداً, وكونهم يَسْلَمون هم من تبعات الجميع أولى, و أيضاً يُسلِّمون أنفسهم من الضرر)).
http://file9.9q9q.net/Download/34434...-----.mp3.html

Source: http://sahab.net/forums/showthread.php?t=376341

Listen and download the audio CLICK HERE

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Shaykh Muqbil , may Allaah have mercy upon him,said:The one who calls to the permissibility of elections is not salafi rather falsafi

Reference: The Questions of the youth of Somalia on Jihaad


sajid_chauhan_81    -- 21-06-2010 @ 4:33 PM
  Please click here to download the mp3 of a detailed tele-link with [url=http://www.alburaaie.com/]Shaykh Abdul Azeez al-Bura'ee[/url] in which he refutes many of the common doubts of those who allow participation in elections and voting.


SunnahPublishing.Net    -- 30-05-2011 @ 4:58 PM
 

Shaykh Muhammad Naasirud-Deen al-Albaanee
on Voting in American Elections



Shaykh Muhammad Naasirud-Deen al-Albaanee on Voting in American Elections - The noble Shaykh, the Muhaddith of our era, is asked about American Muslims who seek to vote for a non-Muslim candidate, seeking support with the principle of taking the lesser of two evils.  The Shaykh onto to clarify that this is a haraam (unlawful) affair and refutes their usage of this principle to justify voting in the west.
Click here to Listen




yasin3683    -- 02-06-2011 @ 5:22 AM
 
Bismillaah Al-Hamdulillaah wa salatu wa salaamu 'ala rasulullaah
Amma ba'd

Question: What is the ruling on some of the American Muslims participating in the elections that take place in America? They use as proof for that the principle of taking the lesser of two evils. They think that one of those candidates running for office will be less oppressive and less problematic upon Islaam and the Muslims.


Shaikh Muhammad Nasir-ud-Deen al-Albanee (rahimahullaah) answered:

quote:
Kufr is one religion, and our Rabb (Lord), 'Azza wa Jall, reminds those Muslims who think that they are applying the principle of taking the lesser of two evils. Allaahu Ta'aala said:

Never will the Jews nor the Christians be pleased with you (O Muhammad) till you follow their religion... (Al-Baqarah, ayah 120)

So I am amazed with all amazement at these youth who rely upon the likes of this delusion as occurs in your question - baarak Allaahu feek (may Allaah bless you). And Allaahu 'Azza wa Jall says:

And incline not toward those who do wrong, lest the Fire should touch you... (Hud, ayah 113)

And the fire of the dunya comes before the fire of the akhira (hereafter).

Due to that, we say that it is not permissible to participate in the likes of these elections, because that participation means taking the kufaar as friends through your action. And that is haram according to the text of the Qur`an. Rabb-ul-Anaam said:  

And if any amongst you takes them as friends, then surely he is one of them... (Al-Ma`idah, ayah 51)



Subhanak Allaahuma wa bihamdika ash-hadu anlaa illaaha illa anta astaghfiruka wa atubu ilayk  

If I said anything correct, then it is from Allaah (subhanahu wa taa'ala), and if I erred, then that is from me and shaytan.  


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