Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Whoever takes up arms against us, is not from us."
Hadith Text & Reference
"Whoever takes up arms against us, is not from us." - Sahih al-Bukhari 7070
Linguistic Analysis
The phrase "takes up arms" (man tahawwaza) denotes bearing weapons with hostile intent. "Against us" signifies opposition to the Muslim community. "Is not from us" indicates complete dissociation from the Islamic brotherhood.
Legal Ruling on Rebellion
This hadith establishes the prohibition of armed rebellion against legitimate Muslim rulers and the established Muslim community. Scholars interpret this as applying even to rulers who commit injustices, while requiring peaceful counsel rather than violent uprising.
Spiritual Implications
The declaration "not from us" indicates such action constitutes a major sin that severs the bond of Islamic brotherhood. It reflects the grave danger internal strife poses to Muslim unity and security.
Context in Afflictions & End Times
As narrated in "Afflictions and the End of the World", this teaching becomes particularly relevant during times of fitnah when Muslims must avoid joining rebellious factions that fracture community unity before the Hour.