Establishing Relationships with a Shia
Establishing Relationships with a Shia
Question:
What do Islamic scholars and Muftis of Shariah say about the following issue: A person declares that they accept Sayyiduna Siddiq-e-Akbar (R.A.) as the first Caliph and regard all the companions (Sahaba R.A.) and female companions (Sahabiyat R.A.) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as his followers. They do not object to any companion, and regarding the disputes among the companions, they believe that if any were mistaken, it was a jurisprudential mistake, and therefore, all were correct in their own ways. They assert that there is no basis for
dissimulation in Shariah, and they believe that whoever practices Taqiyya acts against Shariah. Furthermore, they regard acts such as self-flagellation, tearing clothes, and throwing dust on one’s head as prohibited in Islam. They also dissociate themselves from the current customs and beliefs prevalent among Shias. They sincerely affirm in the presence of Allah that their belief aligns with the beliefs of Ahl-e-Sunnah wal Jama’ah.
Note: They also acknowledge Sayyiduna Amir Muawiyah (R.A.) as a companion of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), with no doubt about his faith.
Can a person holding such beliefs be considered a Shia? Is it permissible or impermissible to establish familial relations with them?
Answer
A person holding the mentioned beliefs, if they do not deny any fundamental tenets of Islam, cannot be considered a disbeliever. However, if traces of Shia practices or beliefs are still apparent in them, it is advised to avoid forming marital relations with them, as such individuals may use Taqiyya as a strategy.
(Irshad al-Mufteen, Vol. 1, Page 446)