Q 1: In our town, we have a Masjid (mosque) for Ahl-ul-Sunnah (those adhering to the Sunnah), another one for Al-Tijaniyyah (a deviant Sufi sect embracing strange beliefs far from Islam), and another one for Al-Qadiriyyah (a deviant sect that claims Allah has no power over His Creation and humans are independent of Him), as well as other Masjids that are known for superstitious practices. If we practice Da‘wah (calling to Allah) in the Masjids of Ahl-ul-Sunnah, it will not be possible for us to reach these people, unless we go to their Masjids and offer Salah (Prayer) with them. We can then practice Da‘wah in their Masjid, with the intention that if we do it in their Masjids some of them might accept it. Is it permissible for us to offer Salah with them for this purpose? What advice can you give me when I arrive in the town and what are the ways that I can use to confront these people?

A: When arriving in your town, you should adhere to Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama‘ah (those adhering to the Sunnah and the Muslim main body), and populate their Masjids with ‘Ibadah (worship), cooperate with them to study beneficial knowledge and to deliver lessons, Khutbahs (sermons), and exhortations, to guide people to the Truth and inform them about the way of the Salaf (righteous predecessors) in terms of the knowledge and practice. You can also attend the assemblies of Al-Tijaniyyah, Al-Qadiriyyah, and other groups who introduce Bid‘ah (innovations in religion), and go to their public gatherings, and invite them to the Qur’an and the Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet) with wisdom and good exhortation, and argue against their Bid‘ah in a way that is best. (Part No. 12; Page No. 384) In the hope that Allah will guide them to the Right Path, but do not perform Salah behind them.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.