Since the existence of a field or profession unrelated to religion is not mentioned in Islamic sources, Islamic scholars have no specific definition of ‘religionist’. However, Muslim priests are generally tasked with making people aware of the truths taught in the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
In the practice of the 21st century, priests formally or informally guide the people in mosques and prayer houses, informing them about religious and moral issues and performing congregational worship. The Qur’an commands that the priest are not Lord (creator, master) and should not act as if they are.[1]
All people who are Muslims must know and live their religion well. In this context, there is no hierarchy among Muslims regarding religion.[2] However, regarding respect for religion, in Muslim societies, people who behave sensitively in their religious life are respected by the people.
Muslim clerics cannot express an opinion on whether people will go to heaven or hell.[3] They cannot judge people for the sins they have committed or the righteousness they have chosen. They are not different from other people in terms of being a servant of Allah. Each Muslim lives by feeling the presence of Allah in his life through prayers, repentance, and dhikr. Therefore, the clergy has no difference or privilege from Muslims in this regard. No benefits are granted to them. As a matter of fact, according to the Quran, One of the prophetic duties of Hz. Muhammad (PBUH) is to remove the intermediaries between Allah and people.[4]
In Islam, unconditional surrender to any discourse or person other than the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is incorrect. Ignoring the speeches and advised behaviors that are not passed through the mind filter is necessary. Everyone will face the consequences of their own choices.
[1] At -Tawba, 31.
[2] Ar-Room, 31- 32.
[3] Al-Baqara, 111.
[4] Al-Furqaan, 57; Fussilat, 6.