Kashf Ghayahib al-Zalam an Awham Jala al-Awham
- Author died
- 1349 AH
- Editions
- Aḍwā’ al-Salaf
Kashf Ghayahib al-Zalam an Awham Jala al-Awham (Unveiling the Murk of Darkness from the Delusions of "Clarifying Delusions") is a theological treatise by the Najdi Hanbali scholar Sulayman ibn Sahman (d. 1349 AH / 1930 CE), written to defend the teachings and legacy of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab against polemical attacks .
Background and Purpose
The treatise was authored as a point-by-point refutation of a work titled Jala al-Awham an Madhahib al-A'immah al-A'lam (Clarifying Delusions Regarding the Schools of the Great Imams), composed by a Syrian author identified as Ahmad Pasha al-Azmi (and noted as Mukhtar ibn Ahmad al-Mu'ayyad al-Azm) . In that text, the author criticized the Najdi reform movement, accusing its followers of religious innovation, unwarranted ijtihad, and misrepresenting Islamic orthodoxy . Ibn Sahman stated in his introduction that his primary purpose was to vindicate Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, demonstrate his adherence to the Quran and the Sunnah, and refute the allegations directed against his call (da'wah) .
Structure and Content
The work is organized into successive thematic sections (fusul). In each section, Ibn Sahman quotes passages from his opponent's tract and follows them with detailed counter-arguments .
Major topics covered in the book include:
- Tawhid and Worship: Defending the exclusivity of worship to God alone and criticizing practices such as supplication to the dead, seeking aid from righteous persons (istighathah), and the veneration of inanimate objects like trees and stones .
- Origins of the Najdi Call: Addressing the historical narrative surrounding Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab's movement, including disputes over theological authority and earlier polemical writings .
- Adherence to Revelation: Emphasizing strict adherence to scriptural texts over blind imitation and theological interpretations that compromise divine oneness .
Publication History
The book was published in single-volume editions, including a print by Matabi' al-Riyadh in 1376 AH / 1956 CE and a later edition published by Adwa' al-Salaf in Riyadh in 1426 AH / 2005 CE .
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