Testimony to the Truth

In other words, this is called Amr bil Ma’ruf (commanding good) and Nahi ‘an al-Munkar (forbidding evil). Imam Al-Nawawi states: There is consensus in the Quran, Sunnah, and Ijma’ (consensus of the Ummah) on the obligation to enjoin good and forbid evil. Religion is described as sincere counsel, and amr bil ma’ruf and nahi ‘an al-munkar are essential parts of this sincere counsel. (Sharh Sahih Muslim, Vol. 2, p. 22) This very act is mentioned in Chapter Al-Asr with the words Tawasi bil-Haqq (counsel each other to truth) and Tawasi bis-sabr (counsel each other to patience). In reference to Muslims, Allah has highlighted two significant aspects of the servant’s expression of devotion by describing it as mutual advice on truth and patience. One aspect of this act is that we, who are bound by our faith and commitment to Allah, encourage others towards that which Allah desires from His servants. The second aspect involves striving to maintain adherence to Allah’s will, even amidst the challenges and difficulties posed by this material world, fostering the strength to remain steadfast on His path. One of the Quran commentators explains both aspects in the following words: