| Author | Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah bin Baz |
| Binding | Paperback |
| Pages | 22 |
| Size | 5.5x8" (14x20cm) |
| Weight (lbs) | 0.2 |
Ibn Baz, a prominent Saudi Arabian Islamic scholar, has written extensively on various theological issues, including the topic of seeking help from sources other than Allah. According to Ibn Baz, seeking assistance from anyone or anything other than Allah, particularly in matters that only Allah has control over, is considered shirk (associating partners with Allah), which is a grave sin in Islam.
Here are some key points based on Ibn Baz's teachings regarding seeking help from other than Allah:
Tawheed (Monotheism): Ibn Baz emphasizes the importance of Tawheed, the oneness of Allah, as the foundation of the Islamic faith. He stresses that all forms of worship, including supplication and seeking help, should be directed to Allah alone.
Shirk (Polytheism): Seeking help from other than Allah in matters beyond human capability (such as supernatural intervention) is considered shirk. This act contradicts the fundamental principle of Tawheed and can lead to a Muslim being excluded from the fold of Islam if done deliberately and persistently.
Permissible Intercession: Ibn Baz acknowledges that seeking help from others in permissible ways, such as asking for medical assistance from a doctor or help from a fellow human in worldly matters, is allowed. This does not constitute shirk as long as the person recognizes that ultimate help and success come from Allah alone.
Supplication (Dua): He stresses the importance of making dua directly to Allah for all needs, big or small. He encourages Muslims to develop a direct relationship with Allah through constant supplication and reliance on Him.
Grave Worship and Saint Veneration: Ibn Baz specifically warns against practices like seeking help from the dead, visiting graves to ask the deceased for assistance or venerating saints to the extent that they are believed to have powers independent of Allah. Such practices are deemed innovations (Bid'ah) and are strongly discouraged.
Education and Awareness: He advocates for educating Muslims about the correct understanding of Tawheed and the dangers of shirk. By doing so, believers can avoid falling into practices that contradict the core tenets of Islam.
Ibn Baz's rulings and writings are influential in shaping contemporary Islamic thought, particularly in Saudi Arabia and among Salafi scholars worldwide. His works continue to be referenced for guidance on maintaining the purity of Islamic monotheism and avoiding practices that could compromise it.
