Q 1: Is it permissible for a person to desert their Muslim brothers for the purpose of Da`wah (call to Islam)? What is your reply to this?

A: It is not permissible for a Muslim to desert their Muslim brothers beyond three days if it is due to a worldly reason, for the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated, A Muslim is not permitted to desert their (Muslim) brother above three days However, if this is done for the sake of religion, when a person commits an act of disobedience or Bid`ah (Innovation in religion) and does not respond to advice, it will be permissible to desert them hoping this will deter them and enable them to repent. On the other hand, if deterrence is not attained, rather it is feared that it might result in increasing their evil, then desertion should not be applied; instead, a person should continue advising them, perhaps (Part No. 25; Page No. 327) Allah will guide them. In this case, the benefit gained from desertion should be compared to the evil resulting from it.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.