By Imam and Professor Ilyas Usman eloquently expounded upon the esteemed status of true Islamic scholars and cautioned against the perils of ignorance and the distortion of religious knowledge. He began by praising Allah for establishing learned individuals throughout history to guide humanity back to truth and to endure hardships in illuminating the path for the lost. The profound impact of these scholars on countless lives was highlighted, alongside the lamentable ingratitude of those who seek to manipulate and misinterpret the divine teachings for their own selfish ends.
Professor Usman emphasized the unparalleled significance of scholars, describing them as beacons of guidance, lamps dispelling darkness, and embodiments of mercy. He posed poignant questions about the number of knowledge seekers they have enlightened and the multitude of stray souls they have steered towards righteousness. Their very presence within the community is a divine blessing, while their passing is a profound loss. This reflection served as a prelude to underscoring their elevated position within Islam, supported by both the Holy Quran and the Prophetic traditions.
Drawing from the Quran, Professor Usman cited the verse from Surah Aal-Imraan (3:18) where Allah Himself, along with the angels and the people of learning, bears witness to His Oneness. This divine testimony underscores the exceptional standing of religious scholars. Furthermore, he quoted a Hadith authenticated by Al-Albani, where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: “The worth of a scholar over a worshipper is like my worth over the least among you.” This powerful analogy further illustrates the immense value placed upon knowledge and those who possess it.
Professor Usman continued by referencing another significant Hadith, also authenticated by Al-Albani, which details the virtues of seeking knowledge. The Prophet (peace be upon him) described how Allah facilitates the path to Paradise for the seeker of knowledge, how angels spread their wings in joy for them, and how even the creatures in the heavens and the seas seek forgiveness for them. He emphasized that scholars are the true heirs of the Prophets, inheriting knowledge rather than worldly possessions, and that acquiring this knowledge is attaining a great share.
These scriptural and traditional proofs underscore the paramount importance of scholars within the Islamic faith. Professor Usman stressed that believers must hold them in high regard, recognizing that love for them is an act of obedience and a sign of faith. He elucidated that this love stems from their dedication to preserving the Quran, understanding and teaching the Sunnah, safeguarding the religion, embodying virtuous conduct, and upholding the noble banner of Islam. Their immense sacrifices for the Ummah warrant profound respect and prayers for their eternal reward.
In concluding his address, Professor Usman lamented the contemporary trend of unqualified individuals speaking on intricate religious matters and challenging established teachings with arrogance. He warned against the grave danger of those who, without proper learning, discuss fundamental concepts like Tawheed, loyalty, disavowal, and matters of lawfulness and unlawfulness. Drawing an analogy, he pointed out the absurdity of an untrained person offering medical advice, highlighting the far greater peril of those who misrepresent the religion of Allah. He cited Quranic verses and Prophetic sayings that strongly condemn speaking without knowledge, emphasizing the accountability of the hearing, sight, and heart, and the severe warning against fabricating lies about Allah by declaring things lawful or unlawful based on personal whims. The Imam’s discourse served as a powerful reminder to seek knowledge from its rightful sources and to hold true scholars in the high esteem they deserve.
