Using the phrase "Islamic customs and traditions"
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The third question of Fatwa No. ( 282 ):
Q3: There are words used in Islamic societies in the context of highlighting the path these societies follow in accordance with Islamic teachings, namely their saying: "In line with Islamic customs and traditions, we have adopted such-and-such." Given that some contemporary scholars differ on the permissibility of using this phrase, one group holds that its use should be prohibited; because Islam differs from and is distinct from customs and traditions, and they have spoken extensively about it, including the claim by some that this phrase is a fabrication inserted by the enemies of Islam. Another group holds that there is no harm in using it; because it indicates the Muslim's submission and surrender to what his Lord, Mighty and Majestic, commands him, and to what the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) commands him, without regard to any other matter, and this is the ultimate goal of worship. Drawing upon the concept of taqlid (following a scholar without knowing his evidence) as defined by scholars in books of knowledge, in light of this disagreement, I ask you to clarify the circumstances of this phrase and then
what is the ruling on its use, whether permissible or prohibited, with evidence?
A3: Islam itself is not customs or traditions, but rather it is revelation that Allah revealed to His messengers and by which He sent down His books. When Muslims adopt it and persist in acting upon it, it becomes their character and one of their affairs. Every Muslim knows that Islam is not a system derived from customs and traditions, due to his faith in Allah and His messengers and the other principles of Islamic legislation. However, common phrases used in broadcasting, newspapers, and magazines, and in the formulation of systems and regulations, have become dominant among them, such as the phrase mentioned in the question: "In line with Islamic customs and traditions." They use it with good intentions, aiming by it to express submission to the Islamic religion and its rulings, and this is a sound intention for which they are praised. However, they should seek a clear expression of their intention that is not ambiguous, implying that Islam is a set of customs and traditions that we followed or inherited from our Muslim predecessors. For example, one should say: "In line with the Shari'ah of Islam and its just rulings" instead of this phrase that many have become accustomed to using in the context of highlighting the path these societies follow... and so on. Good intention alone is not sufficient for the Muslim; he must also ensure the soundness and clarity of the expression. Accordingly, it is not permissible for a Muslim to use this phrase or similar phrases that imply the error of considering Islamic legislation as customs and traditions, and his good intention does not exempt him from the consequences of words that imply such
an error, especially when it is possible for him to take another path that is more protective of his tongue and further from criticism and ambiguity. And success is from Allah. May Allah send prayers and blessings upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his companions.
Source
www.alifta.gov.sa
The Arabic text is copied verbatim from the original source, without any edits.