Opposing the imam for not contributing to the Muharram [rites]

Question

Zayd is a hafiz of the Qur’an. When the villagers asked [him] for a contribution for the ta‘ziya custom (processions with replicas of Imam Husayn’s tomb in Muharram), Zayd refused to give it, saying: “There are many impermissible things in it, such as music and so on, so I will not take part.” Then those people said: “We will hold a niyaz (a votive food offering made in the name of a saint) and fatiha; [you just] give the contribution.” The respected hafiz said: “Stop the games and the ta‘ziyas, and I will join.

Answer

The villagers have done all this against the Shari‘a, and it is a sinful deed; repentance is necessary for them. If they wish to set right their final end (‘aqiba), let them admit their mistake and ask the respected imam’s forgiveness, stop the wrongful rites completely and follow the sunna of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ steadfastly.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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