What is Sect? Sect means a subdivision and What is Sects in Islam? Various subdivisions in Islam.
First of all I would like to tell you the order of Allah Subhanawata'la in Quran Surah An'am 6, Verse No.159
Verily, those who divide their religion and break up into sects (all kinds of religious sects), you (O Muhammad SAW) have no concern in them in the least. Their affair is only with Allah, Who then will tell them what they used to do.
Means those who are divided into subdivisions of Islam Or into sects of Islam he has nothing to do with Prophet PBUH. And a person who is nothing to do with Prophet PBUH where he will go you better know. But mostly sects of Islam says if you are Kalma-go Muslim means if you have already given shahada (witness) "There is no God but Allah and Prophet Muhammad SAWW is his messenger" will definitely go to Jannah. On the contrary Allah says in Quran surah Yusuf ch. 10 verse no. 116.
And most of them believe in Allah except (as) they are associators (of other gods with Him)
We will say them a Kalma-go mushrik because they have other associator of Allah too.
Usually, people blindly follow sects in our society because they see their elders and forefather doing the same. The majority of people in our society simply follow the Deen of their forefathers just like the people of Makkah did 1449+ year ago. Different group of Muslims kept different names and titles other than Muslim because that is what they are taught to do.
First of all I would like to tell you the order of Allah Subhanawata'la in Quran Surah An'am 6, Verse No.159
Verily, those who divide their religion and break up into sects (all kinds of religious sects), you (O Muhammad SAW) have no concern in them in the least. Their affair is only with Allah, Who then will tell them what they used to do.
Means those who are divided into subdivisions of Islam Or into sects of Islam he has nothing to do with Prophet PBUH. And a person who is nothing to do with Prophet PBUH where he will go you better know. But mostly sects of Islam says if you are Kalma-go Muslim means if you have already given shahada (witness) "There is no God but Allah and Prophet Muhammad SAWW is his messenger" will definitely go to Jannah. On the contrary Allah says in Quran surah Yusuf ch. 10 verse no. 116.
And most of them believe in Allah except (as) they are associators (of other gods with Him)
We will say them a Kalma-go mushrik because they have other associator of Allah too.
Usually, people blindly follow sects in our society because they see their elders and forefather doing the same. The majority of people in our society simply follow the Deen of their forefathers just like the people of Makkah did 1449+ year ago. Different group of Muslims kept different names and titles other than Muslim because that is what they are taught to do.
Similarly the Deobands also have their individual sub-sects and/or groups with similar beliefs. The slight disagreement exists due to each group following a different set of scholars. Tableeghi Jamat is also a functional group of Deobandis having the same set of beliefs but a different approach as their job is to concentrate solely on practical or ibaadah side of deen. This is no doubt great but can we do this while compromising the beliefs or while following an aqeeda that is contradictory to Quran and Hadith? Is such ibaadah any good? They also read "Fazail-e-Amaal" full of Weak Hadiths and fake stories of their saints breakng world records in Islam and possess the knowledge of Unseen (Ilm-e-Gaib).
They made Junaid Jamshed’s earning Halal by switching him from singing to a clothing brand, fine, but what you essentially did was, you took away his guitar and then involved him in reciting polytheistic Naats. Did you even correct his beliefs because now he certainly earns Halal income, has a long beard, preaches Islam and recites Naats however all of these good deeds and halal earning are backed up by questionable beliefs such as prophets and saints are alive in the graves and a source of blessing for Ummah? So his situation is like being out of the frying pan and into the fire, isn’t it?
Both of these ‘Sunni’ groups (Barelvis & Deobands) not only fight between themselves but also with a couple of their joint enemies or rival sects. Firstly we have the ‘Sunni enemy’, which are the Salafiyyah/AhleHadith whom they like to call Wahabis or Najdis, and the second one is of course the Shi’ites.
They made Junaid Jamshed’s earning Halal by switching him from singing to a clothing brand, fine, but what you essentially did was, you took away his guitar and then involved him in reciting polytheistic Naats. Did you even correct his beliefs because now he certainly earns Halal income, has a long beard, preaches Islam and recites Naats however all of these good deeds and halal earning are backed up by questionable beliefs such as prophets and saints are alive in the graves and a source of blessing for Ummah? So his situation is like being out of the frying pan and into the fire, isn’t it?
Both of these ‘Sunni’ groups (Barelvis & Deobands) not only fight between themselves but also with a couple of their joint enemies or rival sects. Firstly we have the ‘Sunni enemy’, which are the Salafiyyah/AhleHadith whom they like to call Wahabis or Najdis, and the second one is of course the Shi’ites.
For a Barelvi, every non-Barelvi is a Deoband/Wahabi/Najdi/Salafi/AhleHadees/Shia/Qadyani and Kafir. He has no idea what Deen e Islam actually is and how important it is for him to understand it. His sect has simply taught him that understanding the basics of the religion and follow the scholars. He is taught that the job of a common man is to grab hold of an existing religious scholars (ulama) and do Taqleed (Adherence) as that is his only way to salvation. And he is taught that whosoever disagrees with him or questions his beliefs is a deviant.
On the other side and very briefly speaking, there are very minor differences, mostly on non-issues or peripherals, between sects like Deobands and Barelvis as they both are offshoots of the same School of thought, which is called the AhleSunnah wal Jamat (Hanafi maslak). Both claim to be Hanafis or followers of Abu Hanifa (RA). Both are grave-worshippers in one way or the other. Also both are followers of Tasawwuf or Sufism teachings, which is essentially a mixture of Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism philosophies. It is just that one group blindly follows Darul uloom Deoband and its revered scholars like Qasim Nanutavi and Ashraf Ali Thanvi, Junaid Baghdadi and Zakaria Sahab. The other blindly follows the teachings and way of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi and thus the difference or disagreement on certain issues.
In reality neither of the above 2 sects actually follows the teachings of Abu Hanifa (RA) and both sects simply blindly follow their respective scholars. The fact is Abu Hanifa (RA) did not write a Fiqh of his own in his entire lifetime. This is why the scholars of both these sects falsely associate many questionable beliefs and practices that they invented themselves with Abu Hanifa (RA) even though none of these were actually taught by him. It is due to this vicious cycle of blind-taqleed that does not allow the followers of these sects to question any of these teachings or to analyse them in the light of Quran and Hadith.
Another latest or modern day offshoot of Barelvis is the Tahir-ul-Qadri group, which also follows exactly the same beliefs and practices or perhaps they are keener than Barelvis when it comes to inventing weird practices in the name of Islam. The only difference is that Tahir ul Qadri is the modern day Ahmed Raza Khan and a self-proclaimed sheikh ul Islam. As Dr Qadri became popular he was able to create his own fan-following who eventually separated from the Barelvis (or the Barelvis disowned him) and managed to create a sects of their own (MinhajulQuran). Barelvis who disagree with his teachings preferred to stick with the original maslak of Ahmed Raza Khan.
On the other side and very briefly speaking, there are very minor differences, mostly on non-issues or peripherals, between sects like Deobands and Barelvis as they both are offshoots of the same School of thought, which is called the AhleSunnah wal Jamat (Hanafi maslak). Both claim to be Hanafis or followers of Abu Hanifa (RA). Both are grave-worshippers in one way or the other. Also both are followers of Tasawwuf or Sufism teachings, which is essentially a mixture of Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism philosophies. It is just that one group blindly follows Darul uloom Deoband and its revered scholars like Qasim Nanutavi and Ashraf Ali Thanvi, Junaid Baghdadi and Zakaria Sahab. The other blindly follows the teachings and way of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi and thus the difference or disagreement on certain issues.
In reality neither of the above 2 sects actually follows the teachings of Abu Hanifa (RA) and both sects simply blindly follow their respective scholars. The fact is Abu Hanifa (RA) did not write a Fiqh of his own in his entire lifetime. This is why the scholars of both these sects falsely associate many questionable beliefs and practices that they invented themselves with Abu Hanifa (RA) even though none of these were actually taught by him. It is due to this vicious cycle of blind-taqleed that does not allow the followers of these sects to question any of these teachings or to analyse them in the light of Quran and Hadith.
Another latest or modern day offshoot of Barelvis is the Tahir-ul-Qadri group, which also follows exactly the same beliefs and practices or perhaps they are keener than Barelvis when it comes to inventing weird practices in the name of Islam. The only difference is that Tahir ul Qadri is the modern day Ahmed Raza Khan and a self-proclaimed sheikh ul Islam. As Dr Qadri became popular he was able to create his own fan-following who eventually separated from the Barelvis (or the Barelvis disowned him) and managed to create a sects of their own (MinhajulQuran). Barelvis who disagree with his teachings preferred to stick with the original maslak of Ahmed Raza Khan.
Shiites represent the second largest denomination of Islam. Adherents of Shia Islam are called Shias or the Shi'a as a collective or Shi'i individually. Shi'a is the short form of the historic phrase Shi'atul Ali (شيعة علي) meaning "followers", "faction" or "party" of Muhammad's son-in-law and cousin Ali, whom the Shia believe to be Muhammad's successor in the Caliphate. Twelver Shia is the largest branch of Shia Islam, and the term Shia Muslim is often taken to refer to Twelvers by default.
Another sect of Shi'ite is Ismaili (Agha Khani) whose adherents are also known as Seveners. The Ismaili get their name from their acceptance of Isma'il ibn Jafar as the appointed spiritual successor Imam to Ja'far al-Sadiq, wherein they differ from the Twelvers, who accept Musa al-Kadhim, younger brother of Isma'il, as the true Imam. Now a days they are followers of Prince Karim Agha Khan 49th hereditary imam.
Another sect of Shi'ite is Ismaili (Agha Khani) whose adherents are also known as Seveners. The Ismaili get their name from their acceptance of Isma'il ibn Jafar as the appointed spiritual successor Imam to Ja'far al-Sadiq, wherein they differ from the Twelvers, who accept Musa al-Kadhim, younger brother of Isma'il, as the true Imam. Now a days they are followers of Prince Karim Agha Khan 49th hereditary imam.
Similarly, for a Salafi every non-Salafi is deviated. They also like to call themselves the Ahl e Sunnah and their beliefs are, on a larger scale, different from the Barelvis and Deobands but similar when put under a spotlight. Salafis can also be called a modern day offshoot of the AhleHadith sect, as once again, minor differences occurred within the followers of AhleHadith and so one group declared themselves, the Salafis or the followers of Salaf-Saleheen (three generations after the Prophet-PBUH). On the face, both Salafis and AhleHadith claim to be ‘non-muqallids’ but this is only true to the extent of a claim as whenever the teachings of their scholars are proven wrong in the light of Quran and Hadith, they cling to the fataawa of their scholars in the reject Quran and Hadith in the process. Due to this tendency of blind-following of their own scholars, problems developed in their beliefs as well.
For instance they believe in Durood recited by Ummah being presented before the Prophet (PBUH) even though he has died. Common sense as well as Quran and Hadith confirm that all matters return to Allah and as reciting Durood is a Dua and thus a type of worship, this would also return to Allah. Moreover, Durood e Ibrahimi (that we recited in every Namaz/Salat) is the only Durood proven by the Prophet (PBUH) and this Durood starts from the words ‘Allahumma (O’ Allah). So by reciting this Durood we request Allah to shower His blessings upon Muhammad (PBUH) and his offspring, why then this address to Allah while it is being presented before Prophet (PBUH) instead of Allah? Similarly Salafi/AhleHadith also believe in the concept of souls of dead being returned to their dead-bodies in graves before Qayamat. Just like other sects the Salafi/AhleHadith also opt performance of religious duties (i.e. leading ba-jamat Salat, teaching Quran, performance of Nikah or Funeral prayers etc.) as a profession even though no such concept exists in Islam. Funny enough, Salafis/AhleHadith argue with Barelvis/Deobands and put fatwas of Kufr and Shirk on them for celebrating the Bidd’ah of Shab e Barat and Eid Milad (Prophet's birthday) yet when they are confronted that these beliefs were also propagated and supported by the likes of Abdul Qadir Jilani and Shah Wali Ullah, as both these scholars are held dear by the Salafi/AhleHadith, they immediately change their stance and start giving excuses. In short during all such situations taqleed of scholars supersedes the rulings of Qruan and Hadith.
The key here is to learn these differences, which can only be done by going through the actual Salafi/AhleHadith beliefs and their stark contrast with Quran and Sahih Hadith. Once you do that, they behave no differently from a typical blind-muqallid. They would openly reject Quran and Sahih Hadith and cling to fataawas of people like Ibn Taymiyah and Ibn Qayyam etc. But the formula for a Muslim should be the same, you are free to follow any scholar but the fatwa or saying of the scholar has to match with Quran and Hadith. The interpretation of the scholar can never overrule Quran and Hadith. However, Salafis/AhleHadith make the same mistake here like Barelvis and Deobands as they too give preference to the sayings of their scholars of the actual teachings of Quran and Sahih Hadith.
As a result every false story that Dr Tahir ul Qadri narrates in the name of Hadith is considered Sahih by his blind-followers as for them his word is superior than anything and everything else and similarly every hadith that has been collected in Masnad Ahmed bin Hanbal is unquestionable and infallible for a Salafi/AhleHadith even there would be heaps of jirah on it by the Muhadditheen.
For instance they believe in Durood recited by Ummah being presented before the Prophet (PBUH) even though he has died. Common sense as well as Quran and Hadith confirm that all matters return to Allah and as reciting Durood is a Dua and thus a type of worship, this would also return to Allah. Moreover, Durood e Ibrahimi (that we recited in every Namaz/Salat) is the only Durood proven by the Prophet (PBUH) and this Durood starts from the words ‘Allahumma (O’ Allah). So by reciting this Durood we request Allah to shower His blessings upon Muhammad (PBUH) and his offspring, why then this address to Allah while it is being presented before Prophet (PBUH) instead of Allah? Similarly Salafi/AhleHadith also believe in the concept of souls of dead being returned to their dead-bodies in graves before Qayamat. Just like other sects the Salafi/AhleHadith also opt performance of religious duties (i.e. leading ba-jamat Salat, teaching Quran, performance of Nikah or Funeral prayers etc.) as a profession even though no such concept exists in Islam. Funny enough, Salafis/AhleHadith argue with Barelvis/Deobands and put fatwas of Kufr and Shirk on them for celebrating the Bidd’ah of Shab e Barat and Eid Milad (Prophet's birthday) yet when they are confronted that these beliefs were also propagated and supported by the likes of Abdul Qadir Jilani and Shah Wali Ullah, as both these scholars are held dear by the Salafi/AhleHadith, they immediately change their stance and start giving excuses. In short during all such situations taqleed of scholars supersedes the rulings of Qruan and Hadith.
The key here is to learn these differences, which can only be done by going through the actual Salafi/AhleHadith beliefs and their stark contrast with Quran and Sahih Hadith. Once you do that, they behave no differently from a typical blind-muqallid. They would openly reject Quran and Sahih Hadith and cling to fataawas of people like Ibn Taymiyah and Ibn Qayyam etc. But the formula for a Muslim should be the same, you are free to follow any scholar but the fatwa or saying of the scholar has to match with Quran and Hadith. The interpretation of the scholar can never overrule Quran and Hadith. However, Salafis/AhleHadith make the same mistake here like Barelvis and Deobands as they too give preference to the sayings of their scholars of the actual teachings of Quran and Sahih Hadith.
As a result every false story that Dr Tahir ul Qadri narrates in the name of Hadith is considered Sahih by his blind-followers as for them his word is superior than anything and everything else and similarly every hadith that has been collected in Masnad Ahmed bin Hanbal is unquestionable and infallible for a Salafi/AhleHadith even there would be heaps of jirah on it by the Muhadditheen.
So what happens is that because the two major Sunni groups (i.e. Barelvi & Deoband) as well as the Shi’ites are more or less the same in essence and “obviously” on a questionable path, people are lead to believe that Ahl-e-Hadith or Salafis are the righteous ones simply because Salafis are against visiting shrines and also the typical beliefs of these 3 such as the belief of Tawassul through the dead etc. In reality, the Salafis may be the “self righteous” ones but certainly not righteous as they are also harbouring many incorrect beliefs due to the same blind-following issue.
Therefore the only solution is to be a Muslim and remain a Muslim only by following the way of Prophet (PBUH) and Sahaba. Allah has given that name in Quran Surah Hajj 22 verse 78.
It is He (Allah) Who has named you Muslims both before and in this (the Quran)
The only solution is to remain sect-free as the Sahaba never called themselves Sunnis or Muhammadis and similar the Taba’een never declared themselves Salafis. The only solution is to learn our Deen ourselves or by asking Ulama-e-Haq (True practising scholars). We must remember that all Ibaadah or Islamic appearance or attire become obligatory on a Kalima-go only when they have corrected their beliefs and have mentally and physically rejected all false beliefs and deities (i.e. Taghoot)! So the first step towards Emaan is rejection of all Taghoot (false and unproven beliefs, practices, groups, individuals)
Lastly, We should not start labelling everyone as Kafir/Mushrik! This simply means highlighting and rejection of false beliefs is a requirement from a Muslim! False deities, beliefs and practices are to be rejected but at the same time we should not give up on people and start labelling and pigeon-holing them. We should keep inviting people towards the real teachings of Islam as we have had examples in history where people accepted Islam during the last moments of their lives. So targeting the false beliefs is the aim and not the people who follow them. This is what Nabi (SAW) and Sahaba did.
I would appreciate your precious comments on False belief and taghoot. (Asslam-o-Alaikum)
Therefore the only solution is to be a Muslim and remain a Muslim only by following the way of Prophet (PBUH) and Sahaba. Allah has given that name in Quran Surah Hajj 22 verse 78.
It is He (Allah) Who has named you Muslims both before and in this (the Quran)
The only solution is to remain sect-free as the Sahaba never called themselves Sunnis or Muhammadis and similar the Taba’een never declared themselves Salafis. The only solution is to learn our Deen ourselves or by asking Ulama-e-Haq (True practising scholars). We must remember that all Ibaadah or Islamic appearance or attire become obligatory on a Kalima-go only when they have corrected their beliefs and have mentally and physically rejected all false beliefs and deities (i.e. Taghoot)! So the first step towards Emaan is rejection of all Taghoot (false and unproven beliefs, practices, groups, individuals)
Lastly, We should not start labelling everyone as Kafir/Mushrik! This simply means highlighting and rejection of false beliefs is a requirement from a Muslim! False deities, beliefs and practices are to be rejected but at the same time we should not give up on people and start labelling and pigeon-holing them. We should keep inviting people towards the real teachings of Islam as we have had examples in history where people accepted Islam during the last moments of their lives. So targeting the false beliefs is the aim and not the people who follow them. This is what Nabi (SAW) and Sahaba did.
I would appreciate your precious comments on False belief and taghoot. (Asslam-o-Alaikum)