mrislam

A few days ago, I witnessed an argument two people had about whether a Muslim or non Muslim had more right to be invited to an Eid gathering.

The Muslim was a distant fellow who really didn't upkeep ties, but the other man was a helpful man who had been there for the whole community several times.

They argued, cited Quran, raised voices at times, called in other people, referred to books. I was called upon at one point, and found myself unable to express myself.

I just said that invite both people to be safe and not sin, and ask someone of more knowledge about who has more “right”.

They didn't cease, and facing increasing pressure I told them my independent ijtihad that on Eid a day if celebration and building brotherhood of Muslims, the Muslim should not be left bereft of the invitation. And there's no harm in inviting the Hindu, provided your intent is pure.

But I did so regretfully — who am I to make ijtihad? If the situation came up now, and we were unsure about what to do — then sure, we'll do our best from our limited knowledge.

But in debating hypotheticals, we are just laymen. We can tell that gravity pulls down anything you throw up, but only a scholar can tell us F = mg.

If they came to me again, I would ask them what problem they have. If it's a practical issue they are facing, I'll give them a hearing because I might know a relevant ayah, or the ruling of a scholar.

If hypothetical, or about a general principle, then I'll proceed with wariness. If I know a relevant evidence and ruling, I'll tell them. If not, I won't start throwing out immature ideas from my limited knowledge — I'll tell them to go ask someone of knowledge.

Because if they really cared about their Deen, they would take that trouble.