Skimming through another thread reminded of something that I’ve had on my mind lately.
As all of us know salah is a pillar of Islam and is obligatory upon all Muslims. Quite often I’ve noticed people are quick to jump to conclusions about what sort of meat is permissible and other such issues.
How legitimate is it for someone who does not pray on a regular basis to point finger at someone who might be consuming meat, which according to their (those not regular in prayers or other basic pillars) standards is impermissible?
The preceding is just one of many examples that I’m sure many of us must’ve encountered. I’m not trying to belittle or look down upon anyone. It’s something that always leaves me puzzled.
How exactly should we sort our priorities and how much of a say should we have in what others do, especially when we don’t always tend to follow the basic pillars of Islam?
My opinion: one should be selfish in seeking knowledge. one should have the 5 pillars of Islam within their lives first. one should spread the knowledge (whatever little knowledge they have).
There is a saying (probably Hazrat Ali RA) to the meaning 'look at what is being said, not at who is saying it'. If we look at WHO is saying it then we may very likely shrug off the message, but if we pay attention to WHAT is being said then this shouldn't be an issue. For people (a large population) who look at WHO is saying it, the best message is conveyed when preacher is practising himself, if not a perfect follower than s/he be 'better' follower than the audience.
Interestingly, the ones saying are the ones who aren't even properly informed. I've noticed some give more preference to other matters than to the five basic pillars of Islam.
neem hakeem khatra-e-jaan, neem mullah khatra-e-imaan :) ... well, some people like to share whatever little they have learned as The Answer. All mandatory duties should come first, other issues should be secondary, 'halal haram' should be looked at once you fulfil the mandatory duties IMO.