ALLAH's ADDRESS TO MUSLIMS (PART 24)

ALLAH's ADDRESS TO MUSLIMS (PART 24) -

In the name of Allah and may Allah's blessing be upon the last and final prophet, Mohammadﷺ

{Believers! Many of the rabbis and monks wrongfully devour mankind's possessions and hinder people from the Way of Allah. And there are those who amass gold and silver and do not spend it in the Way of Allah. Announce to them the tidings of a painful chastisement}

Quran 9:34

Explaination -

Taking others’ wealth wrongfully is that action which is known as exploitation in modern times. The ancient religious leaders indulged in the large-scale exploitation of the general public. They spread false stories among the people to ensure that they entertained extraordinary hopes of holy persons and, treating them as holy persons, would seek their blessings, and present them with offerings and gifts. In the name of service to religion they used to extract money from people, though the faith they presented to the people was their own brand of religion and not at all that which was sent down by God. They used to collect huge donations in the name of the revival of the community. Whatever they did on this pretext aroused false hopes, so that they could maintain their leadership.

This ayah is although referring to jewish rabih's and christian monks, but this also applies to the so called muslim scholars or peers who make their own fortunes through giving incorrect fatawas or by promoting innovations in islam. They give people  hopes of getting their love or having children or getting a job paying them and following their nonsense actions.

May Allah save us all.