Ali Ibn Abi Talib - Volume 2 of 2

Xli ibn Abi Tiilib 601
(g), the Rightly Guided Caliphs and those scholars and jurists who
followed their way.
The followers of truth who adhere to the way of Ah1 as-Sunnah
have no innovations, praise be to Allah (s). Their reference points
are the Qur'an and the sound Sunnah, and they cannot give up
anything of that because they cannot compromise on issues of
religion. As for the Rsfifidi Shia, they take part in a great deal of
innovation. Nothing prevents them from giving it up except blind
fanaticism, following whims and desires, and the materialistic
interests of some of their shaykhs who deviated from the guidance of
Amir al-Mu'mineen 'Ali and the scholars of Ah1 al-Bayt (may All;&
be pleased with them all).
The scholars stated that Ahl asSunnah should denounce the
innovation of the innovators, even if the person is doing it as an act of
worship, believing it to be correct. Nevertheless, we should limit our
denunciation of these innovations by evaluating the pros and cons. It
may be better to put up with some lesser evil caused by innovation in
order to ward off a greater evil, or to miss out on some lesser benefit
in order to attain a greater benefit, and this is a sound principle
according to the jurists. Following this principle might cause us to
refrain from denouncing the innovation of the Rifidi Shia at certain
times or in ceaain places, so as to prevent bad consequences, as when
condemnation would stir up trouble and lead to bloodshed and
fighting among the people of a counhy where Shiites and Sunnis are
equal in number. In normal situations, though, where no bad
consequences are expected from this denunciation, it is appropriate
and may be obligatory.1i89
The Sunni scholars have to adhere to a calm, academic style
when discussing innovations, and they should be gentle towards the
innovators. Part of being gentle may include visiting them and
cooperating with them in matters concerning which there is no