Questioner:
May Allah preserve you, Shaykh. There is a man who belongs to a Sufi order—he embraces Sufism and practices certain religious innovations (bid’ah). However, Shaykh, this man assists in charitable works. If his innovations are denounced and exposed among the people, he might stop helping those in need and supporting charitable causes. So, Shaykh, I do not know what should be done?
Shaykh:
Does this man have an influence through his da’wah (preaching/call)?
Questioner:
Yes, Shaykh, he calls people to his innovation.
Shaykh:
Huh?
Questioner:
Yes, he actively calls people to his innovation.
Shaykh:
Well then, which is worse: poverty or misguidance?
Questioner:
Misguidance, Shaykh.
Shaykh:
Misguidance is worse. Therefore, if this man is an active caller and influential, he must be exposed and people must be warned against him—even if he stops his charitable giving. In that case, he has only deprived himself. But to let him continue misguiding the servants of Allah just to gain a dirham or two through him? That cannot be.