The Ruling on the People of Innovation and the Correct Methodology for Responding to Them

Question:
The questioner asks: Are the people of innovation present in every time and place? And what is the correct methodology for thwarting their schemes?

Answer:
Yes, the people of innovation exist in every time; no time is free of them. Therefore, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) warned against them, warning against religious innovations (bid'ah). It is our duty to advise them; it is our duty to advise them and to make clear to them the harm and danger of bid'ah. The Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) described them as misguidance, saying: “Every innovation is misguidance, every misguidance is in the Fire.” We must advise them and make things clear to them. If they comply, praise be to Allah. If not, we have fulfilled the duty required of us, and then we distance ourselves from them. If they do not accept, we distance ourselves from them; we do not sit with them until they repent to Allah (Mighty and Majestic). Yes.