The Ruling on Visiting and Socializing with the Rafidah (Shiites)
Question:
A man lived with the Rafidah (Shiites) for a period of time, after which he moved away to a distant region and promised to visit them. Is it permissible for him to fulfill his promise to them or not? Is it permissible for him to greet them (with Salam) and kiss them? And is it permissible for him to eat their food and drink their water?
Answer:
It is obligatory upon a person to offer sincere advice (al-Nasiha) for the sake of Allah, His Book, His Messenger, and the general public. Regarding these Rafidah with whom he resides, he must do the following:
- First: He must advise them, clarify the truth to them, and demonstrate that the path they are on is not the truth.
- Second: If they are obstinate and refuse to accept the truth, then he should leave them and not sit with them, as they are defiant dissenters.
As for leaving them to their misguidance without offering advice, this is contrary to the guidance of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and contrary to what Allah has commanded. The obligation is to offer advice first; if Allah guides them to the truth, then that is the desired outcome. However, if they are not guided and persist in their misguidance, then he should leave them, not sit with them, and not visit them if he has moved away from them or they have moved away from him.