Summary of the concepts of Ahl al-Sunnah
Beneficial exhortation
Beneficial exhortation
is that which, as previously mentioned, encompasses the style of encouragement and deterrence,
and the combination of fear and hope.
Beneficial exhortations
are those that adhere to his guidance, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, in preaching,
and avoid newly introduced and innovated means.
Among the most important characteristics of the Prophetic guidance in preaching
is, firstly,
sincerity in one's exhortation for the sake of Allah the Almighty,
and not seeking fame or praise from one's preaching,
nor anything from the pleasures of this world.
Secondly,
not to speak except with knowledge and evidence,
and to warn against speaking about Allah the Mighty and Majestic without knowledge,
like those who cite fabricated and weak hadiths,
Isra'iliyyat (tales from Jewish tradition), strange narratives, and false stories.
Thirdly,
to approach people with exhortation and not bore them.
Fourthly,
to avoid raising the voice and affected humility.
Fifthly,
that the preacher be a role model in his demeanor, conduct, worship, and creed.
Sixthly,
that he has prepared the elements of his exhortation before delivering it,
so that it may be beneficial without causing distraction or prolonging the time.
Seventhly,
that the goal of every exhortation be two fundamental matters:
The first
is to inform people about their Lord, His Most Beautiful Names, and His High Attributes,
and what that yields in terms of veneration, love,
fear, hope,
and other matters of the heart.
The second
is to teach people their individual obligations (fard 'ayn) concerning what is commanded and forbidden,
and what results from them in terms of reward and punishment.
Eighthly,
to avoid affectation in clothing and adornment for people before the exhortation.
Ninthly,
not to take payment from people for one's preaching.
This includes the extravagance and excessiveness in travel expenses,
such as for transportation, food, or lodging,
which are paid by those inviting the preacher.
Summary of the concepts of Ahl al-Sunnah