The reply to the third question: There is no doubt that preachers are like doctors for society. It is known that doctors examine diseases and do their best to find a suitable cure for each disease, beginning with the most fatal of such diseases. This was the way of the best of all creatures, Muhammad (peace be upon him) who, when he was sent by Allah to mankind, forbade people to commit the worst of all sins, Shirk (associating others in worship along with Allah). That is why the Prophet (peace be upon him) kept on warning people against Shirk and calling them to Tawhid (monotheism) for ten years after which he began to enjoin people to perform Salah (Prayer) and do other obligatory acts of worship. Similarly, preachers should follow his guidance by tackling the most important issues first and then the lesser ones. However, if the society is a Muslim one, a preacher can discuss both important and ordinary issues alike, and had actually better do so as much as he can. This is because a preacher has to do his best to reform the Muslim society and remove any misconceptions relating to Islamic `Aqidah (Creed) and purify the Muslim nation from any corrupt manner that may harm the Muslim society and weaken its faith. A preacher can begin his sermons by tackling ordinary issues if he has no chance to discuss the most important issues. He can prioritize some issues and delay some others in case he sees that it is better to begin with important issues and is afraid that being occupied with all issues may
lead him to failure in all affairs. As a matter of fact, this is what is done by notable reformers and doctors who care for the ways of reform and treatment and apply the best of these ways. In case they are unable to realize what they seek, they begin to care for what can be obtained. Reflecting on the rules of Shari`ah (Islamic Law) and the biographies of the Prophet (peace be upon him), the RightlyGuided Caliphs and the righteous Imams, one can realize what I have just mentioned regarding the way a preacher can guide people and lead them to safety. As a matter of fact, whoever has sincere intentions, does his best to realize the truth, seeks guidance from his Lord to the best ways of preaching, and consults knowledgeable scholars, will definitely realize success and be surely guided to what is right. Allah (may he be Praised) says:
As for those who strive hard in Us (Our Cause), We will surely guide them to Our Paths (i.e. Allâh's religion Islâmic Monotheism). And verily, Allâh is with the Muhsinûn (good doers).