THE WISDOM OF SILENCE

The Quran states that a person will be questioned about their hearing, sight, and heart. (17:36)

A hadith says: “The one among you who is most bold in giving legal opinions (fatwas) is the most bold in approaching the Fire.” (Musnad Al-Darmi, Hadith No. 159)

Because of this, the companions of the Prophet of Islam were extremely cautious about issuing fatwas (religious or legal rulings). A hadith mentions ‘Abdullah ibn Mas‘ud, stating that He is heavier on the scales than Mount Uhud. (Al-Adab al-Mufrad by al-Bukhari, Hadith no. 237) However, his attitude was characterised by restraint. He was once in Kufa when someone asked him about a jurisprudential issue concerning marriage. They kept returning to him for a month, but he did not give an answer. Eventually, they said to him: ‘Whom shall we ask if not you—when you are one of the prominent Companions of the Prophet in this town, and we find no one else but you?’ So, he answered the question with great caution. (Sunan al-Nasai, Hadith No. 3358)

Similarly, ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar would avoid giving fatwas. When pressured, he would say: “Don’t make our backs a bridge to the Fire.” (Al‑Ma‘rifah wa‑t‑Tarikh by Al‑Fusawi, Vol. 1, p. 493)

These reports about fatwas do not refer to a limited set of rulings. Rather, they apply to all matters where Muslims seek guidance from scholars and leaders. In such situations, scholars and decision-makers must think more than they speak. They should only issue a statement after thoroughly fulfilling all conditions of consultation, study, and reflection.

In these matters, remaining silent is better than speaking irresponsibly.

Offering opinions on public issues is a delicate responsibility. If the opinion turns out to be wrong, it may cause harm for an unknown period of time. Therefore, if someone wants to speak, they must first fulfill all its requirements, and only then give their view.