THE METHODOLOGY OF SHEIKH MUHAMMAD IBN UTHAYMEEN, MAY ALLAH HAVE MERCY ON HIM, REGARDING CERTAIN ISSUES OF KUFR (DISBELIEF) AND TAKFIR (ACCUSATION OF DISBELIEVING)

Abstract

The methodology of Sheikh Muhammad ibn Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy on him, regarding certain issues of disbelief (kufr) and declaring disbelief (takfir), follows the approach of the Salaf as-Salih (the righteous predecessors). He did not exclude himself from the scholars who preceded him in the matters he addressed; rather, he relied on their previous sayings and evidence.

              He cited numerous evidences for the existence of the Creator, which are established in Islamic law (Sharia), as well as present in human nature, reason, the witness, and sensory perception. He clarified that only a stubborn or insistent person would deny these signs. He also demonstrated that ignorance is not a valid excuse in many issues, and he was among the most cautious and wary of declaring someone a disbeliever (kafir).

              Sheikh Uthaymeen believed that anyone who receives the clear proof of Allah sent through His messengers, and is free from any excuse, has the evidence established against them, even if they do not fully understand it. Additionally, he adhered to the conditions and prohibitions related to takfir, emphasizing the importance of precision and caution in this judgment.

              He highlighted that the issue of takfir is a serious matter that must be left to the scholars of seniority and knowledge. Sheikh Uthaymeen was heavily influenced in discussing these issues by the teachings of Imam Ibn Taymiyyah and his student Ibn al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy on both.