Principles of Cooperation with Other Islamic Movements or Groups

Question :

For sure, it is imperative for different callers to Islam to cooperate, so that their efforts may be successful. The arena for Islamic work, though, is filled with a variety of workers. Just as these workers differ in personality and method, they sometimes differ in their take on important issues, such as 'Aqidah. What are the principles that should guide us when working with other people, groups, or organizations? The callers to Islam are in need of your guidance in this matter.

Answer:

There is no doubt that the guiding rule in issues of A difference is clarified in Allâh's Saying:
"O you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger, and those of you (Muslims) who are in authority. (And) if you differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger, if you believe in Allâh and in the Last Day. That is better and more suitable for final determination."

And His Saying :
"And in whatsoever you differ, the decision thereof is with Allah."

It is vital for those who have strayed from the truth-whether in issues of 'Aqidah or of actions and deeds to be reminded or instructed of the truth; if they return to the truth, then that is from Allah's blessings on them; if they don't, then that is an affliction from Allah Almighty for them.

We should enlighten them and point out their error to them, yet we should not lose hope, for Allah Almighty has guided many people to the Sunnah after a period wherein they were practicing dangerous innovations.

Most people are aware that Abu Hasan Al-'Asharee was following beliefs of the Mu'tazilah for forty years, then he changed to what was at least somewhat better for a while, and then finally, Allâh Almighty guided him to the way that is most upright, to the Mathhab (school) of Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal, the Mathhab that is Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah.

The issue of creed is very important, and just as we should advise others about issues of actions and deeds, we should advise others about issues of creed. The difference between the two is that there is a broader scope or range for difference in issues of actions and deeds, but to a lesser degree regarding issues of creed. Scholars disagree only in a few issues in matters of belief like whether the Fire is eternal, some matters concerning the punishment in the grave, the Scales on the Day of Judgement. When we look at the difference of opinion in matters of deeds, we can be complacent about the fact that scholars disagree very little in matters that have to do with creed, and to Allâh is all praise. Still, we should council those who deviate from the truth in either of the two categories.