What is the opinion of the scholars of the Ummah and the Four Schools of Thought regarding Sheikh Al-Harith Al-Muhasibi and his book "Al-Tawahhum" (Illusion), and do you recommend reading it?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Al-Harith al-Muhasibi was one of the great imams of asceticism, and many scholars, such as Ibn Shadadhan, al-Khatib al-Baghdadi, and al-Dhahabi, praised him and his books. However, some scholars, such as Abu Zur'ah al-Razi and Imam Ahmad, warned against his books due to their excessive scrutiny, their deviation from the path of the Salaf, and his delving into 'ilm al-kalam (speculative theology). His books may be read by those who possess a good measure of knowledge to distinguish between what is beneficial and what is harmful. As for beginners, they should stick to books of asceticism that are pure from impurities.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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