It is quite common today to find people who claim that they have the right to their own opinion on
Shariáh issues. They will readily and easily quote a Qurãnic verse or a Hadith text in support of
their own opinion. Furthermore, they at times go to the extent of uttering blasphemy either by
alleging that Allah Taãla is unjust (na uthu bi llaah) in certain matters, or by attacking and denigrating
the sacred authentic teachings (Hadith) of Nabi (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam).
Muslims need to understand that the Shariáh is a highly developed and sophisticated legal system
and that it does not merely consist of a 'few simple rules' as some ignorant people claim. The
indisputable fact of the matter is that this Shariáh has been revealed and designed by the supreme
Master and Creator of the universe who does not suffer from the defect of ignorance in the least; a
such it is His prerogative only to direct us to the true understanding and interpretation of His Deen
and His revelations.
Therefore, we will find after careful study of the Qurãn that Allah Taãla has categorically stated the
point that Nabi (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam) is the only authorised commentator of the Qurãn and
therefore we have to accept his (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam)'s lifestyle and teachings as the only
official commentary and interpretation of the Holy Qurãn. Among some of the many verses that
amply illustrate the point are the following:
- 'And we have revealed to you (O Muhammad) the Dhikr (Qurãn) in order that you explain
to the people that which has been revealed.'
- He (Allah Taãla) it is that has raised up among the unlettered people a messenger that will
recite to them His verses and purify them (spiritually), and teach them the Book (Qurãn) and
the wisdom (prophetic teachings)
- Indeed we have revealed to you the book with truth in order that you judge between the
people with that which Allah has shown you.
Nabi (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam) was raised up among the Arab nation who were masters of the
Arabic language and poetry and yet Allah Taãla stresses the point in so many verses as seen above
the fact that Nabi (Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam) has to explain and teach the people the book of
Allah.
Moulana Rafiq Muhammad
