Q 3: What is meant by the Hadith dealing with rectifying evil acts? Does it mean that in order to rectify a certain evil act one should leave the place where the evil act is committed, or stay there while abhorring it internally? Kindly respond, may Allah reward you!

A: Regarding resisting evil, Muslims should be of three types. First: Those who must rectify it by force such as rulers or those given the same authority such as a father with his children, a master with his servant and a husband with his wife, provided that those committing the evil act will not desist except by force. Second: Those who have to resist evil through advising, guidance, admonishing and practicing Da`wah (call to Islam) in a way that is (Part No. 12; Page No. 335) best. Such may not use force or violence so that they may not cause turmoil and spread chaos. Third: Those who must resist evil by internal denial because they lack the authority and influence. In fact, the latter category represents the least of faith. The Prophet (peace be upon him) highlighted the above mentioned three categories in the Hadith that reads: Whoever, among you, sees something abominable should rectify it with his hand; and if he has not strength enough to do it, then he should do it with his tongue; and if he has not strength enough to do it, (even) then he should (abhor it) from his heart, and that is the least of Faith. (Recorded by Muslim in his Sahih (authentic book of Sunnah) on the authority of Abu Sa`id Al-Khudry (may Allah be pleased with him).) However, if there is a Shar`y (Islamic legal) interest in remaining in a place where evil is prevalent outweighing the harm therein when one can resist evil temptations, one may stay among those who commit evil acts provided that one tries to resist according to what category he falls under. Otherwise, one will have to leave in order to safeguard one's religion.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.