Should I Clarify Islamic Beliefs to a Person I Shared Questionable Ideas with in the Past?
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
Years ago, I was influenced by a cult and shared some questionable ideas on religion with one person who likely didn’t understand. Now, my OCD worries that I might have affected their beliefs—should I reach out to clarify, even after nearly a decade?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate. May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.
It’s natural to feel concerned about past actions, especially when faith is involved. However, giving in to such thoughts, especially years later, can often be a form of waswasa (whisperings) that your OCD might be amplifying.
Islamically, we are encouraged to trust that Allah (Most High) knows our intentions and forgives those who sincerely repent. If the individual did not express confusion or harm from what you shared, it’s likely that any unintended impact was minimal or nonexistent.
Remember the comforting hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace): “The one who repents from a sin is like one who has no sin” [Ibn Maja]. This teaches us that sincere repentance erases past mistakes, and Allah (Most High) is both forgiving and merciful. Since you have repented and regret any potential harm, you can rest assured that Allah (Most High) has accepted this repentance, as He promises to forgive those who seek His forgiveness sincerely.
Instead of reopening old conversations, consider focusing on positive, sincere da‘wa (inviting to goodness). Begin by exemplifying good character, which is a powerful form of da‘wa, and if the opportunity naturally arises, share clear, sound knowledge on Islam.
Make du‘a for this person and others, asking Allah to guide them and correct any misunderstandings they may have. Remember that your sincere intentions, repentance, and present efforts to do good are what truly matter.
I pray this is of benefit and that Allah guides us all.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Mohammad Abu Bakr Badhib
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Mawlana Yusuf Karaan, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has served as the Director of the Discover Islam Centre and Al Jeem Foundation. For the last five years till present, he has served as the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has thirteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic online learning and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy living and fitness.
