Q 11: Is it permissible for us to study the religious books that are (Part No. 12; Page No. 131) published by Dar Al-Tawhid in the Republic of Iran?

A: We advise you not to read the religious books published in Iran, as they include Bid‘ah (innovation in religion), Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship), and curse the Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet). We advise instead that you read the Qur’an frequently, contemplate on its meanings, and apply it. We also advise you to read many reliable books of Tafsir (explanation/exegesis of the meanings of the Qur’an), such as by Imam Ibn Jarir Al-Tabary, Imam Al-Qurtuby, and Hafizh Ibn Kathir. You should also read Hadith books, such as the Two Sahih (authentic) Books of Hadith (i.e. Al-Bukhari and Imam Muslim), the Four Sunan (Hadith compilations classified by jurisprudential themes by Abu Dawud, Al-Tirmidhy, Al-Nasa’y, and Ibn Majah), "Al-Muwatta'" by Imam Malik, and the Musnads (Hadith compilations), such as “Musnad (Hadith compilation of) Imam Ahmad”. Books on Tawhid (belief in the Oneness of Allah/ monotheism), such as "Fath-ul-Majid" by Shaykh `Abdul-Rahman ibn Hasan the books of Shaykh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, the most concise and beneficial book among them: "Al-‘Aqidah Al-Wassatiyyah", and the books by his student Ibn Al-Qayyim and Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama‘ah (those adhering to the Sunnah and the Muslim main body). We warn you against the books written by those who practice Bid‘ah (innovation in religion), such as the Shi`ah (Shi'ites) and others.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.