Aqaaid

Muslims participating in memorial services

Q: In order to appease the kuffar, Muslims are today participating in memorial services, joint prayers with non-Muslims, vigils etc to remember the those (predominantly non-Muslim) that died in unjustified terrorist attacks. I am not a scholar but I even see scholars condoning participation in such events by participating themselves. Am I correct in understanding that participating in such prayers, vigils and services is haraam because we are not permitted to pray for a dead kafir and also imitation of kuffar methodology in expression of grief is not permissible. I also find it discomforting that at these events there is free mixing and acknowledgement by virtue of participation that all religions are equal. Would you please provide proof in light of Qur'an and Hadith whether participation in joint vigils, memorial services and prayers is permissible as family and friends do not just accept a simple answer of no without evidence of why?

Kissing the thumbs at the time of Azaan

Q: Some people claim that it is mustahab to kiss the thumbs and place them on the eyes at the time of hearing the blessed name of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) in the Azaan. They substantiate and prove their claim through narrations mentioned in the following kitaabs; Musnadul Firdous, Kanzul Ibaad and Fataawa Soofiyah. What is the correct shari ruling in this regard?

The khawaarij

Q: In the details of the differences between Hazrat Ali (Radiyallahu Anhu) and Hazrat Muaawiyah (Radiyallahu Anhu) our opinon is that there was a ijtihadi difference. Hence whoever was right they will receive two rewards and the one in the wrong will receive a single fold reward. The query is why are the Muhakimiyyah/Khawaarij not afforded this choice, but rather they are branded as total outcasts, though not kafirs. I'd really appreciate your guidance in this matter.