Is There Something Wrong with the Expression “Transcends Time”?

Is it permissible for a Muslim to use the expression: “information that transcends time”? The newspaper’s name worldwide is “Morocco Diplomatic Information that Transcends Time.” The original title in French carries the same meaning in its English translation: “Maroc diplomatique l’information qui défie le temps.” I want to clarify that my intention here is not to find faults in individuals; quite the opposite. Should the person seek repentance for using such an expression if a mistake has been made?

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate. May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.

The expression “information that defies time” in the context of a newspaper’s title, such as “Morocco diplomatic information that defies time,” does not appear to carry any inherently religious or moral significance. It seems to be a creative choice for a newspaper title and does not, on the surface, involve any theological or ethical concerns.

However, it’s essential to consider the broader context and purpose of language usage. If this expression intends to convey the idea that the newspaper provides reliable and timeless information, it could be considered a symbolic or poetic use of language.

Muslims should generally be mindful of their language, ensuring that it is respectful, truthful, and following their ethical and moral values. If a person feels that they have used language that was inappropriate, disrespectful, or in violation of Islamic principles, it is commendable to seek forgiveness and repentance from Allah.

In summary, as described, the expression in the newspaper title does not appear to raise immediate religious concerns. However, if an individual believes they have used inappropriate language in any context, seeking repentance and committing to choose their words more carefully in the future is an advisable course of action.

I pray this is of benefit and that Allah guides us all.

[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick

Checked and approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

 

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.