The claim of encompassing all truth and reality represents one of the most prominent manifestations of intellectual delusion in the modern era, where many believe that correctness is exclusive to them in all matters of life. This intellectual closed-mindedness makes one reject advice and confront opponents with overwhelming responses, forgetting that the era of infallibility ended with the death of prophets and messengers.
Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ghazali warned long ago against the phenomenon of intellectual intrusion, where someone who succeeds in one field believes they have become an expert in all fields. This intellectual arrogance closes the doors of reform in the nation and makes those who volunteer for good imagine themselves infallible, thus hindering any real progress.
Quranic texts indicate that the youth are the most flexible and accepting of differences, as mentioned in the story of the youths of the cave whom God guided further. The vitality of youth makes them more capable of accepting the correct opinion once it becomes clear to them, which is something lacking in some who have deeply rooted unilateral tendencies.
Looking at the Prophet's biography, we find that the Prophet, peace be upon him, broke the age barriers in assuming leadership positions when he appointed Usama ibn Zayd to lead the army. This decision was a clear message about the necessity of prioritizing competence over seniority, even in the presence of senior companions and people of opinion and consultation.
In contrast, today we find a strange insistence from some elites on excluding youth from decision-making circles, as if wisdom is exclusively linked to old age. This approach contradicts the spirit of the age and historical experiences that have proven that renewal is the secret to the survival and strength of nations.
The paradox appears when observing Western societies that might entrust a young Muslim like Zohran Mamdani with major responsibilities based on his competence. Whereas in our societies, elders insist on remaining at the forefront even if their ability to contribute in the field or travel constantly has declined.
The idea of unifying people on a single opinion or an identical lifestyle is an idea that contradicts human nature and the cosmic laws established by the Creator. Difference is not merely an incidental matter, but rather a creative purpose, as Imam Al-Qurtubi pointed out in his interpretation of the verses of Surah Hud, where God created people to be distinct.
The question that arises for those who monopolize their opinions is: What if life proceeded in one direction and in an unvarying, repetitive pattern? The absence of diversity means the death of creativity and the transformation of societies into silent machines, which contradicts the development of the earth that requires the cross-pollination of ideas and the multiplicity of visions.
The prophetic methodology was based on gentleness and consultation, in implementation of the divine command that linked mercy with people gathering around the leader. If the Messenger had been harsh and hard-hearted, people would have dispersed from around him, and this is a profound lesson for anyone who tries to impose their opinion by force or intimidation.
Attempting to compel the nation to a single opinion, especially in matters of ijtihad (independent reasoning), can lead to dire consequences, sometimes even bloodshed. Rigidity in positions without considering the opinions of experts who advise caution reflects a flaw in understanding the jurisprudence of balances and interests.
Some sometimes link adherence to an opinion with personal interests or what is known as 'livelihood', which turns intellectual disagreement into a utilitarian conflict. This conduct justifies to the self what God has not justified for Himself, ignoring that sustenance is in the hands of the Creator alone and should not be the price of flattery.
One of the most dangerous contemporary phenomena is accusing opponents of treason or falsehood merely because of their differing political or social viewpoints. This intellectual terrorism frightens those with sound opinions and prevents them from speaking the truth, thereby endangering the future of the entire nation.
I recall here the saying of Sheikh of Arabic, Mahmoud Shaker, who affirmed that every honorable Arab is truly responsible for the destiny of this nation. This responsibility requires clarity and foresight before it is too late, and the recognition that the nation's strength lies in the collective minds of its children, not in a single mind.
In conclusion, we must realize that rigidity in a single opinion can be a reason for alienating people from religion itself, as Sheikh Al-Ghazali pointed out. Mercy, ease, and acceptance of the other are the pillars upon which this religion was built, and without them, we turn into closed societies that lose their present and future.
Some excel in one field of worldly affairs and then interfere in another they are not good at, as if they have mastered both because of their mastery in one of them.
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The Dilemma of Opinion Monopolization: Why Do Some Fear the Culture of Disagreement and Leadership Renewal?