LINGERING DOUBTS

LINGERING DOUBTS religion (shahadat al-deen) and supporting the religion (ta’yid al-deen). • Witnessing to the religion refers to a movement that arises solely to convey the pure message of Islam, presenting it in its most authentic form, free from the deficiencies previously mentioned. This is the truly desired path, and in the Hereafter, only those who work in this way will be raised as true witnesses. • Supporting the religion refers to efforts that, directly or indirectly, contribute to strengthening Islam. Examples include refuting false ideologies, defending against enemies, or striving to preserve even a part of the faith. For this type of effort, neither soundness of belief nor uprightness of personal conduct is an essential condition. As the Prophet œ said: “Indeed, Allah supports this religion even through an irreligious man.”(Sahih alBukhari, Hadith 3967) I have no hesitation in acknowledging the valuable contributions of those holding the ideology under discussion; they have provided significant service in defending Islam. I am also willing to admit that they have a greater understanding of Islam’s interests than many of today’s so-called “Islamic representatives.” However, I strongly believe that the way they present Islam is