Explanation of the Book of Fitnahs and Rulings-06a

The questioner : Some sects have become prominent and stated that these hadiths prohibiting rebellion against rulers are restricted to a specific issue, which is the widespread political shirk, or what they call "hakamiyyah" (the claim of divine sovereignty). What is your opinion regarding this restriction? This is an exercise of independent legal reasoning (ijtihad).

The Shaykh : My opinion regarding this exercise of independent legal reasoning (ijtihad) is that the texts of the Qur'an and the Sunnah are clear. And the hadiths, as you have seen, what is the motive for distorting them to the meaning you mentioned, except for following one's desires? All those who rebelled against 'Uthman and those after him also all say this: "Judgment belongs only to Allah. Why do you rule by men? Why do you do this?"