Fatwa ID: 03182

Answered by: Alimah Nasima Umm Hamza

Question

Assalamu alaikum

I told a group of people that in Islam we believe that when a person commits suicide he will never enter Jannah. I read a fatwa on this platform, however, which tells me otherwise. Have I sinned against Allah for the misunderstanding and wrong interpretation and what should I do in this case?

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمنِ الرَّحِيْم

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

In Islam, it is an obligation to seek knowledge and to learn the correct understanding of Islam. Without seeking knowledge, we can easily fall into sin and speaking about things of which we have limited knowledge.

Therefore, I would strongly encourage that you first and foremost ensure you have the correct understanding of a hukm (ruling) before speaking about it. The great scholars (RH) of the past were not afraid to say ‘I don’t know’. 

However, as human beings, we are prone to forgetfulness and making mistakes. Allah (SWT) is Ar-Rahmaan Ar-Raheem and by His infinite mercy forgives us for our mistakes and forgetfulness. He (SWT) also teaches us how to ask for forgiveness and repent.

The Prophet (PBUH) said:

رُفع عن أمتي الخطأ والنسيان وما استكرهوا عليه

(Sunan Ibn Majah)

رَبَّنَا لَا تُؤَاخِذْنَا إِن نَّسِينَا أَوْ أَخْطَأْنَا

"Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we have forgotten or erred.” (Surah al-Baqarah, verse 286)

Therefore turn in repentance to Allah (SWT) and ask for His forgiveness and mercy.

If you are in contact with those you spoke to, then please inform them that you have gained more clarity on the situation and wished to inform them of the correct understanding.

Only Allah knows best

Written by Alimah Nasima Umm Hamza

Checked and approved Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham