A Warning Against Withdrawing Obedience from the Ruler

There are those who break away from obedience in this matter.

and withdraw obedience from the ruler under the influence of imported ideas.

Is there any guidance on this matter?

Among the foundations of Muslim creed is adhering to the community.

and listening and obeying the ruler.

When the Prophet ﷺ gave them a powerful admonition.

hearts trembled and eyes wept. They said.

O Messenger of Allah, it is like a farewell sermon, so advise us.

He said, "I counsel you to fear Allah."

"and hear and obey, even if a slave is made your leader."

"For whoever among you lives will see much disagreement."

So at division and discord, we keep to the community and its imam.

And the Prophet ﷺ says.

"Keep to the community, for Allah's hand is over the community."

"Whoever breaks away breaks away into the Fire."

The Prophet ﷺ said.

"Whoever leaves the community by a handspan.

has cast off the yoke of Islam from his neck."

Meaning, he broke away from the community.

He left the community and exposed himself to danger and ruin.

So one must remain with the community and hear and obey the ruler.

And patience is essential. Whatever may befall us.

For patience with hardship is better than division.

And breaking the bond of obedience and splitting the community.

Then the Prophet ﷺ told Hudhayfah ibn al-Yaman.

About the trials that would come at the end of time.

He said, "What do you command me to do if I live to see that?"

He said, "Stay with the Muslim community and its imam."

He said, "What if they have no community or imam?"

He said, "Then keep away from all those sects."

"Even if you must bite a tree root till death comes to you in that state."

So keeping to the community is salvation.

"And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not be divided."

"And remember Allah's favor upon you."

"When you were enemies and He brought your hearts together."

"And by His favor you became brothers."

"And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it."

"Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses so that you may be guided."

This is the blessing we mentioned earlier.

Part of that blessing is unity among the Muslims.

And that there be someone to oversee their affairs.

And organize their affairs, and protect their security and stability.

This is one of the greatest blessings. Yes.

Thanks to Allah.