It is said that Imam al-Ghazali was once invited to a meeting of judges, and the greatest of them said to him:
- You are a learned person, just like all of us; many come to you so that you explain to them the sacred law of Sharia. We have learned that you recommend that they not fast during the holy month of Ramadan. We also know that you discouraged people from making the pilgrimage to Mecca. They also say about you that you forbid people to say “There is no God but Allah.” Everything is indisputable evidence of your infidelity. Your reputation is the only thing that has protected you so far from death for apostasy. People need to be protected from people like you.
Ghazali answered with a sigh:
“It is written in the Sacred Law of Islam that people who do not understand the Law and what it means are not criminals and are not subject to its judgment. This includes children and the weak-minded, but it should also include those who lack understanding. If a person fasts without realizing why he is doing it, or goes on a pilgrimage only to suffer, or recites the Creed but has no faith, that person lacks understanding and should not be encouraged to continue what he is doing, but put on the path. In your words, people should be protected from people like you, because you do not reward them for virtue and punish them not for crimes.
If a person is unable to walk, if he is lame, do you tell him to walk at all costs, or do you still give him crutches and means to treat his illness?
The Prophet said this about you, predicting your appearance: “Islam came as a stranger, and as a stranger it will leave.” Understanding the meaning of things lies beyond your intentions, your training and your abilities.
That is why you have no choice but to frighten people with death for apostasy, and yet the apostates are not I, but you.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru