The Scholar Behind the Scholars: Shaykh Muhammad Al Hassan weld Al-Didu
Though he may not be a household name, he is widely respected as your favourite scholar’s favourite scholar. Memoriser of the Qur’an and all ten recognised recitations, master of hadith with complete isnād (chains of transmission) to the Prophet ﷺ, and expert in countless Islamic sciences – Shaykh Al-Didu’s scholarship is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Unity In A Time of Division
In an era where disunity plagues Muslim communities across the world, Al-Didu reminded us that diversity in schools of thought is natural. What matters, he explained, is not that differences exist, but how we respond to them. As long as all sides uphold Islamic morals, truthfulness and mutual respect, there is no harm in variety. Conflict must be met with the intention of reconciliation, as instructed in the Qur’an.
What is Ahl al-Sunnah?
Addressing theological divisions, Shaykh Al-Didu explained that Ahl al-Sunnah encompasses a wide scope of creeds and legal schools – including Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi‘i, Hanbali and others. These differences in fiqh and theology do not exclude someone from being among the Ahl al-Sunnah, so long as they believe in the Qur’an in full, the truthfulness of the Prophet ﷺ, and do not reject what is decisively established in Islam.
He stressed that no specific sect is “guaranteed” salvation. Rather, individuals are judged on their faith and actions. Each soul stands before Allah alone on the Day of Judgement.
Engaging with the West
When asked about living in non-Muslim lands, Shaykh Dedew encouraged Muslims to be contributors to society, upholding their religious values while respecting lawful civic norms. Participation in systems like parliaments or democratic processes is permitted as long as Muslims do not endorse what clearly contradicts the Shariah.
Regarding cultural integration, he distinguished between permissible adaptation and prohibited imitation. The key, he said, lies in remaining within the bounds of Islamic ethics and modesty.
On Gender Politics and Fairness
Shaykh Al-Didu spoke candidly about modern gender discourse, reaffirming that Islam upholds distinct roles for men and women rooted in divine wisdom. True justice, he explained, lies in fulfilling the rights and responsibilities assigned by Allah – not in erasing the differences between genders.
He reminded us that justice must be maintained even in disagreement. The good in someone should not be erased by a single mistake, and people must avoid being harsh judges of others’ faults.
Moonsighting and Unity
One issue that visibly divides the Ummah – especially in the west, is moonsighting. Shaykh Al-Didu advised that while astronomy plays a valuable role in determining visibility, Islamic rulings ultimately depend on actual sighting. Unity, he stressed, should be prioritised – and where differences persist, communities should agree on a common authority or decision -making body.
Final Reflections
Shaykh Al-Didu’s words offered a powerful reminder of the balance between tradition and modernity, unity and diversity, justice and humility. May Allah preserve our scholars, grant us the ability to benefit from their wisdom, and guide us to embody Islam with both knowledge and mercy.