In a modern world that is often viewed as advanced and driven by higher technology, the overload of data and information has led to greater confusion and doubt, particularly in matters of religious belief. Last year, a deviant sect known as The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light emerged, claiming that the awaited Imam al-Mahdi had already appeared and was currently in hiding. Their leader, Abdullah Hashem Aba Sadiq, is considered by their followers as one of the many “little mahdis” who would represent the al-Mahdi before his public emergence (zuhur). What is more worrying is that one of their so-called “bishops” is a Malaysian.
This is not the first time we have seen such teachings. Since the 1990s, Malaysia has faced many of them: Al-Arqam, which claimed that Friday prayers were not obligatory; Kahar Ahmad, who declared himself a messenger from God; Ayah Pin, who claimed himself as god and many more. According to records, approximately 33 fatwas have been issued against deviant groups in the Federal Territory alone since the 1980s. This raises the question: why do one keep falling for such false teachings?
It goes back to how individuals uphold their faith—whether it is truly grounded in evidence and reason, or simply based on blind imitation (taqlid). To attain certainty (iman), our scholars from the Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama‘ah have outlined a comprehensive definition of knowledge. Knowledge (‘ilm) is considered the basic aspect of true faith:
“Knowledge is a firm conviction that conforms to reality and is supported by evidence.”
The definition comprises three essential components of knowledge, each of which must be well understood:
- Firm Belief: The belief must be unwavering and certain, such that the individual holds no doubt about what they affirm. For instance, one truly believes that Prophet Muhammad is the true Messenger of God, without the slightest doubt of falsehood.
- In Accordance to Reality: The belief must be consistent and in accordance to reality and truth as revealed in the Qur’an. For example, if a person claims to be the final prophet or possesses miracles, one must reject it, as the Qur’an explicitly states that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the Final Messenger sent to mankind to fulfil the establishment of Islam.
- Supported with Evidence: According to Imam al-Sanusi, a person’s belief is only valid once he/she possesses it with evidence. For example, one believes in the existence of God must be supported—at minimum—by general evidence (dalil ijmali), whether textual (naqli) or rational (‘aqli). Such verse is from surah Fussilat (41): 53:
“We shall show them Our signs in the horizons and in themselves until it becomes clear to them that this is the truth. Is it not enough that your Lord is a witness over all things?”
Besides, rational evidence can also support belief in God’s existence, for example: everything that exists must have a cause. If there is a house, there must be a builder. Similarly, this universe must have a Creator who is All-Willing and All-Powerful.
Hence, Islam is a religion based on both divine revelation and reason. One must accept all that has been revealed by Allah to His Messenger (PBUH) while using reason to strengthen one’s belief. The scholars of the Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama‘ah (specifically the Ash‘ari schools) have established a systematic framework of belief known as the Twenty Divine Attributes (Sifat Dua Puluh), which serve as a guide for a Muslim’s understanding of God and protecting his/her faith, especially in facing internal doubts or external ideological attacks. The Twenty Attributes, have been the foundational text for Islamic creed in the Malay World since the 17th century.
As we welcome the new Islamic year 1447 Hijrah, we must take this opportunity to increase our understanding and strengthen our belief by mastering true Islamic creed (‘aqidah) while remaining vigilant against strange ideologies that can harm our faith. It is incumbent on us as Muslims to seek authentic knowledge from respected and qualified scholars. For those who may not have the means or ability to study in depth, it is sufficient to follow the guidance and rulings provided by responsible institutions and authorities such as the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM), the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), and others. May we reflect and truly understand His Words as Allah affirms in surah al-Baqarah (2): 2: “That is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”
