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The Life, Teachings and Influence of Muhammad ibn Abdul-Wahhaab
accepted and approved of the evil situation existing at that time or
they did not have the courage and strength to oppose it. 1
Nusair adds another very important point. She notes that
before the influence of ibn Abdul-Wahhaab, the nature of the study of
the scholars was such that it did not lead them to think about the
changes that were required. Their knowledge was restricted to passing
on what the earlier scholars stated, without question or debate about
how it is to be or how it is practiced at that time. 2 Without capable
scholars to lead, guide and advise the people, it is expected that the
ignorant and the strong will then come to the forefront and drag
people into practices that may not be consistent with the Quran and
Sunnah.
To reform and change society requires an in-depth
understanding of the way of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah
be upon him), a strong dedication to the faith, a willingness to
sacrifice for the sake of Allah and the ability to withstand the
onslaught of criticisms and attacks from those who do not wish to
change their ways regardless of what the Quran and Sunnah may say.
It takes someone with the understanding of the faith and of the caliber
of ibn Abdul-Wahhaab to change the entire foundation and edifice of
society. This reality should lead to a greater appreciation for what
people like Muhammad ibn Abdul-Wahhaab accomplished as well as
a greater appreciation for the task ahead of the Muslims of today.
Ibn Abdul-Wahhaab and Aqeedah (Beliefs and Faith)
Aqeedah—which is actually a term for the Quranic word alimaan
or faith—is the foundation of a person’s life and actions.
Straying in matters of belief and faith has ramifications for one’s
entire outlook, goal, purpose and behavior. 3
1 Saalih al-Fauzaan, Min Mashaaheer al-Mujaddideen fi al-Islaam (Riyadh: Al-
Riaasah al-Aamah li-Idaaraat al-Bahooth al-Ilmiyyah wa al-Iftaa wa al-Dawah
wa al-Arshaad, 1408), pp. 72-73.
2 Nusair, p. 59.
3 The following discussion must be kept brief. For details concerning all the
aspects of ibn Abdul-Wahhaab’s aqeedah or beliefs, see al-Abood, vol. 1, pp.
247-687 and vol. 2, pp. 1-114.