Merit of Islam “Faḍlul-Islam”

Course Description

The Merit of Islam explores the distinctive characteristics and virtues of Islam, based on the treatise “Faḍlul-Islam” by Shaykh Muhammad bin Abdul-Wahhab (may Allah have mercy on him). This concise book emphasizes the obligation to embrace Islam wholeheartedly, avoid religious innovation (bid’ah), and adhere to the foundational pillars of the religion. Through Quranic verses, authentic hadiths, and insightful commentary, the course provides a profound understanding of the blessings and superiority of Islam over other religions. It encourages deep reflection and contemplation of the teachings presented.

Course Outline

1. Introduction
   • The importance of understanding the merit of Islam
   • Biography of Shaykh Muhammad bin Abdul-Wahhab
2. Chapter 1: Obligation to Embrace Islam Solely
   • Quranic verses and hadiths about Islam being the only accepted religion
3. Chapter 2: The Definition of Islam
   • Shahadah, Salah, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj
   • The dangers of straying from the Muslim community
4. Chapter 3: The Dangers of Religious Innovation (Bid’ah)
   • Grave consequences of innovation in religion
   • The difference between sins and innovation
5. Chapter 4: The Great Blessings of Islam
   • Reflecting on Islam’s superiority over other religions
   • The merit of adhering to Islam’s teachings
6. Conclusion
   • How Islam is a complete way of life
   • The role of contemplation and reflection in appreciating Islam

Course Objectives

• To understand the obligation to accept Islam solely and avoid religious innovation.
• To learn the foundational pillars of Islam and their significance.
• To explore the dangers of innovation (bid’ah) and its consequences.
• To recognize the superiority and blessings of Islam over other religions.
• To reflect on Quranic verses and hadiths that highlight the merit of Islam.
• To appreciate the comprehensive and complete nature of Islam as a way of life.

Revision Questions

1. Why is it obligatory to embrace Islam solely and avoid other religions?
2. What are the key pillars of Islam, and why are they essential for Muslims?
3. How does the Quran describe Islam as the only accepted religion?
4. What is the significance of testifying that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His messenger?
5. How does straying from the Muslim community impact a person’s faith?
6. What is religious innovation (bid’ah), and why is it considered dangerous?
7. How does bid’ah differ from other sins?
8. What are the consequences of introducing innovations into the religion?
9. How do the Quran and hadith emphasize the dangers of bid’ah?
10. What are some examples of practices that are considered bid’ah?
11. How does Islam’s comprehensive nature distinguish it from other religions?
12. What blessings can Muslims recognize when they adhere to Islam fully?
13. Why is reflection and contemplation important when studying the merit of Islam?
14. How does Islam provide guidance for every aspect of life?
15. What are the consequences of calling to pre-Islamic practices (jahiliyyah)?
16. How can a Muslim ensure they stay within the boundaries of Islam?
17. Why is following the Prophet’s ﷺ Sunnah crucial in avoiding bid’ah?
18. How does the merit of Islam inspire Muslims to remain steadfast in their faith?
19. What role do Quranic verses play in highlighting the blessings of Islam?
20. How does Islam foster unity among Muslims?
21. How can Muslims balance practicing Islam and avoiding religious innovation?
22. What lessons can be learned from the teachings of Shaykh Muhammad bin Abdul-Wahhab about Islam?
23. How does appreciating the merit of Islam strengthen a Muslim’s relationship with Allah?

Audio Explanation of the Book