Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Tarifi responds to those who say that Sunnis and Shiites are brothers

Summary

The transcript discusses the complex relationship between Sunnis and Shiites, addressing the concept of brotherhood and the theological differences between them. The speaker criticizes certain practices in Shiism, particularly the veneration of saints and figures like Hussein and Ali, calling it a form of polytheism. The speaker draws parallels between these practices and pre-Islamic idol worship. Additionally, the discussion highlights how the West has historically influenced the spread of Shiism, and the speaker emphasizes the need for resistance through awareness, education, and counter-calls, urging Muslim nations to invest in spreading the true message of Islam.

Takeaways

• 😀 The issue of brotherhood between Sunnis and Shiites is still being discussed, with a focus on belief and practice rather than mere affiliation.
• 😀 The Shiite belief in venerating Ishmael and following the religion of Abraham is acknowledged, but the emphasis is placed on actions rather than religious labels.
• 😀 The importance of worshiping God alone is highlighted, cautioning against polytheistic practices such as calling upon saints or seeking their intercession.
• 😀 The speaker criticizes the practice of seeking help from figures like Hussein or Ali, arguing that it constitutes polytheism even within the Islamic framework.
• 😀 The speaker draws a parallel between the polytheism of the Quraysh during pre-Islamic times and the practices of some groups within Islam today, highlighting that simply belonging to Islam is not enough for recognition.
• 😀 Claims of truth in religious belief are scrutinized, with the example of Pharaoh's claim to be on the path of right guidance used to emphasize the importance of aligning with true Islamic teachings.
• 😀 There is a distinction made between verbal claims of truth and actual adherence to Islamic principles, stating that actions speak louder than words.
• 😀 The West's role in fostering rapprochement between Sunnis and Shiites is criticized, suggesting that this was a tactic to allow the Shiite faction to gain power and eventually dominate certain regions like Iraq and the Levant.
• 😀 The West’s support for the Rafidah (a term often used to describe certain Shiite groups) is seen as a strategic move to weaken the spread of true Islam, with the implication that the West is trying to hinder the Islamic expansion.
• 😀 The spread of Shiism in various Muslim-majority countries, including Africa and Southeast Asia, is seen as a challenge that must be confronted through awareness campaigns, educational efforts, and the promotion of true Islamic teachings.

Q & A

What is the primary issue being raised in the script regarding Sunni and Shiite relations?

The script discusses the issue of brotherhood between Sunnis and Shiites, questioning whether they can truly be considered brothers due to their differing beliefs and practices, particularly in their worship and veneration of saints.

How does the speaker view the worship practices of some Shiites?

The speaker views the veneration of saints, such as Hussein and Ali, by some Shiites as a form of polytheism, which he considers to be more severe than the polytheism practiced by the pre-Islamic Quraysh.

What comparison does the speaker make between the Shiites and the pre-Islamic Quraysh infidels?

The speaker compares the Shiites' practices of venerating saints and seeking their help to the polytheistic practices of the Quraysh, who also belonged to the Hanafi faith but were still considered infidels due to their deviation from pure monotheism.

What is the significance of the statement 'The lesson is not in the call or in belonging, but rather the lesson is in the work'?

This statement emphasizes that merely claiming to belong to Islam or calling oneself a Muslim is not enough. The true measure of faith is in one's actions, and if those actions involve polytheistic practices, the claim to Islam is invalid.

How does the speaker criticize the concept of 'rapprochement' between Sunnis and Shiites?

The speaker criticizes the Western-driven efforts to create rapprochement between Sunnis and Shiites, suggesting that these efforts were aimed at allowing Shiites to gain power and spread their beliefs, ultimately leading to conflict and bloodshed once they gained influence.

What is the speaker’s perspective on the role of the West in the Sunni-Shiite conflict?

The speaker argues that the West's support for the Shiites is strategic, aimed at weakening the influence of true Islam and diverting attention from the expansion of Islam. The creation of Israel and the promotion of Shiism are seen as tools to prevent the spread of Islam.

What solution does the speaker propose for resisting the spread of Shiism in the Arab world?

The speaker suggests raising awareness about the dangers of Shiism, providing counter-narratives, and supporting efforts to promote the true teachings of Islam through publishing, media, and sending preachers to educate Muslim populations.

What role does the speaker believe preachers can play in combating the spread of Shiism?

Preachers can play a crucial role by studying and understanding the true teachings of Islam, then returning to their countries to spread the message and educate people about the dangers of deviating from the true faith.

How does the speaker describe the nature of polytheism practiced by certain Shiite groups?

The speaker views the polytheism practiced by these Shiite groups as involving the invocation of saints and seeking their help, believing them to be infallible, and considering them to have powers similar to God, which he considers a grave deviation from monotheism.

What is the speaker’s view on the relationship between religion and the worship of saints in Islam?

The speaker believes that true Islam rejects the worship of saints and emphasizes direct worship of God alone. He argues that seeking intercession from saints or venerating them is contrary to the principles of Islam.