What is the ruling on concealing knowledge for the sake of benefit?
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Question:
Is it permissible to conceal knowledge for the sake of benefit?
Answer:
One conceals knowledge that is not appropriate for the gathering, such as when he fears that they will become complacent or the like. However, it is better to clarify it to them, explaining the reasons that prevent them from becoming complacent.
Q: Mu'adh's notification out of fear of concealment?
A: Just as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: This means: They may be ignorant and assume that mere tawhid (the oneness of Allah), even if they commit sins, is a cause for entering Paradise and being free from punishment. This is a mistake; because Allah (Exalted and Majestic is He) says: [Al-Nisa: 48]. So whoever dies upon sins is in danger; he may be forgiven or he may be punished.
Is it permissible to conceal knowledge for the sake of benefit?
Answer:
One conceals knowledge that is not appropriate for the gathering, such as when he fears that they will become complacent or the like. However, it is better to clarify it to them, explaining the reasons that prevent them from becoming complacent.
Q: Mu'adh's notification out of fear of concealment?
A: Just as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
Do not give them good news so that they become complacent
لا تُبَشِّرهم فيتَّكلواIndeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills
إِنَّ اللَّهَ لا يَغْفِرُ أَنْ يُشْرَكَ بِهِ وَيَغْفِرُ مَا دُونَ ذَلِكَ لِمَنْ يَشَاءُ
Source
binbaz.org.sa
The Arabic text is copied verbatim from the original source, without any edits.