Is isolation better for one who cannot influence people?
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The questioner : Shaykh, is it correct for one to choose isolation at this time?
The Shaykh : By Allah, people differ. If a person cannot influence society with proper guidance, his isolation may be better. However, if he is able to influence, then mixing with people and clarifying the reality and the truth is better, better. This is because people in times of fitnah (trial, discord or temptation) surge like the waves of the sea; some are advancing and some are retreating, and there is no one among them to guide them. So people differ. If this man has influence and is a role model for people, he should not isolate himself; he should speak with what he sees to be the truth.
The Shaykh : By Allah, people differ. If a person cannot influence society with proper guidance, his isolation may be better. However, if he is able to influence, then mixing with people and clarifying the reality and the truth is better, better. This is because people in times of fitnah (trial, discord or temptation) surge like the waves of the sea; some are advancing and some are retreating, and there is no one among them to guide them. So people differ. If this man has influence and is a role model for people, he should not isolate himself; he should speak with what he sees to be the truth.