Ahmad Al-Badawy

Q 5: It is said that the ancestral line of Al-Sayyid Al-Badawy is traced back to Ahl-ul-Bayt (members of the Prophet's extended Muslim family). Is this correct? Is Al-Sayyid Al-Badawy one of the Awliya' (pious people)? Is it permissible to celebrate his birthday or that of any other person by any means; or to speak about his memory and point out his outstanding traits and virtuous deeds on the radio or television?

A: Al-Sayyid Al-Badawy, whose full name was Ahmad ibn `Aly ibn Ibrahim Al-Husayny, was a Moroccan Sufi who lived in the seventh century. Many ignorant and Mubtadi` (innovative) Sufis and other people exceed the proper limits in revering Al-Sayyid Al-Badawy in a way that takes them out of the fold of Islam. Some people, for example, make Du`a' (supplication) to him, seek his protection and help, or make Tawaf (circumambulation) around what they believe to be his grave. It is not permissible to celebrate the anniversary of Al-Sayyid Al-Badawy or anybody else, for doing so is considered Bid`ah (innovation in religion). It may be worth mentioning that if a person peruses the biography of Al-Sayyid Al-Badawy, they will not find any distinguished contributions that merit much concern. (Part No. 2; Page No. 88) Therefore, Muslims have to beware of those who invent new matters in religion and self-seeking people who follow their whims, lest they should mislead them. A Muslim must hold fast to the Qur'an and Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet). They lead to salvation and success in this world and in the Hereafter.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.