"I only fear for my Ummah from the misguiding A'immah." He said that the Messenger of Allah(s.a.w) said: "There will never cease to be a group from my Ummah manifest upon the truth, they will not be harmed by those who forsake them until Allah's Decree comes."
Commentary on the Hadith of Misguiding Leaders
This profound narration from Jami' at-Tirmidhi (2229) contains two essential warnings and assurances from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regarding the trials (fitan) that would befall his Ummah.
The Fear of Misguiding A'immah
The term "A'immah" here refers not only to prayer leaders but to all those in positions of religious and worldly authority who deviate from the straight path. The Prophet's specific concern indicates that the greatest danger to the Ummah comes from within - from those who claim to guide but actually misguide.
Classical scholars explain that these misguiding leaders employ religious rhetoric while contradicting Islamic principles, leading people astray through apparent piety while secretly corrupting the religion. Their danger exceeds that of open enemies because they operate under the guise of religious authority.
The Promise of the Victorious Group
The second part of the hadith provides divine assurance that truth will never vanish from the earth. Scholars like Imam Ahmad and Ibn Taymiyyah explain that this "manifest group" represents the people of authentic knowledge and correct practice who adhere to the Quran and Sunnah as understood by the righteous predecessors.
This group remains protected and victorious in essence, even if numerically small or apparently weak. Their victory lies in their adherence to truth, not necessarily in worldly power or numbers. They are unaffected by the abandonment or opposition of others until the final hour approaches.
Practical Implications
This hadith teaches Muslims to be vigilant about religious leadership, verifying claims against the Quran and authentic Sunnah. It also provides comfort that despite trials and deviations, the true path will always have adherents whom believers should seek out and support.
The scholars emphasize that recognizing this victorious group requires sound knowledge of Islamic fundamentals, as they are distinguished by their adherence to the methodology of the Salaf, not by mere claims or popularity.