Reviving Ijtihad

regarding his decision. He failed to verify reports of the desecration of Islamic symbols in Punjab. Additionally, he did not assess the military strength of Maharaja Ranjit Singh or the capacity of his own untrained followers to face such a formidable force. Driven by blind faith, he entered Ranjit Singh’s territory without a complete understanding of the geography. Unsurprisingly, the result was that Syed Ahmed and most of his Companions were killed by Ranjit Singh’s army. This campaign ended in a unilateral disaster for the Muslims. This example underscores the critical importance of allowing the articulation of differing opinions in order to arrive at sound decisions in collective matters. Criticism should be welcomed with an open heart, and efforts should be made to reach the best decisions through scholarly discussions and debates. In conclusion, listening to criticism and fostering open dialogue are essential for making informed and effective decisions. These processes ensure that actions are taken based on thorough investigation and mutual consultation. Ignoring criticism and suppressing dissent leads to disastrous outcomes, as demonstrated in the case of Syed Ahmed Shaheed Barelvi. Therefore, creating an environment that encourages open dialogue and constructive criticism is vital for the progress and success of any community. Principles Over Personalities An Islamic scholar once criticized his spiritual guide (Sheikh) on a scholarly matter. When someone pointed