Answered by Sayyidi Habib Umar bin Hafiz (may Allah protect him and benefit us by him).
How do we respond to those who criticise our methodology?
We do this by clarifying the truth. This entails:
- Choosing our words and dealing well with those who criticise us
- Mentioning attributes and concepts and not the names of opponents or critics
- Addressing controversial issues in a way that is relevant backed up with firm knowledge
- Clarifying the truth to those who we believe will benefit from clarification. Those who will not benefit from clarification should be completely ignored, such that it is as if they have not said anything and we have not heard anything.