Thus, deeming something lawful in matters open to scholarly judgment—when the person errs in his interpretation despite his faith and good deeds—is among the errors Allah has forgiven this community, as expressed in the words:

“Our Lord, do not take us to task if we forget or make a mistake.” (Surah al-Baqarah, 2:286)

For example, some deemed certain forms of usury lawful; others deemed lawful a form of sexual immorality, namely anal intercourse with women; others deemed certain kinds of wine lawful; others deemed listening to musical instruments lawful; and others, on the basis of interpretation, deemed it lawful to shed the blood of certain people.

When such acts occur among people of faith and righteousness, they are sins that are expiated or forgiven, or errors that are forgiven. Nevertheless, it remains obligatory to explain the guidance and religion of truth indicated by the Quran and Sunnah, to enjoin adherence to it, and to forbid whatever opposes it, as far as possible.

Then these practices, which occurred among those earlier people, become more widespread and more grievous among others who come after them, until they lead them to deem lawful what Allah has forbidden and to depart from Allah’s religion. When these practices become grave, Allah punishes those who engage in them as He wills.