commanding Muslims to dissociate themselves from evil persons,42 are the proofs adduced by Ibadhi scholars for the obligatory nature of walayat al-ashkhas.

a) It is reported that the Prophet said, "He who gave and forbade for the sake of Allah, and loved and hated for the sake of Allah has fulfilled the faith."43

b) He also said, "Allah blesses Abu Dharr, he walks alone, he will die alone, and will be resurrected from death alone."44

c) It is reported that Umar b. al-Khattab said, "In whomsoever we saw good, and of whom we thought good, we say good of him and take him as a friend (waliy), and in whomsoever we saw evil, and thought badly of him, we speak bad of him, and dissociate ourselves from him."45

d) It is also reported that Abdullah b. Umar said, "By Allah, if I fast the whole day and pray the whole night and spend all my property in the way of Allah, then I die with no love in my heart for those who obey Allah, and no hatred for those who disobey Allah, all of that (good I have done) will be in vain for me."46 Relying on the above mentioned Traditions then, Ibadhi scholars furnish the proof that walayah with individuals, walayat al-ashkhas, is an obligatory duty.47

The individual merits, walayah, under the following conditions.48

i) If he behaves and conducts himself, even with regard to his physical appearance, in the manner befitting believers.

ii) Only satisfactory reports should be heard about him with regard to fulfilling his religious duties.

iii) A believer should be satisfied in his own heart about what is heard and seen of that individual

iv) His views should be consistent with those of the Ibadhi school.

This individual merits walayah, from the believers if it were observed that:

1. It is known through personal experience that he is in full agreement with the believers (i.e. Ibadhis) in word and deed.

2. It is widely known that he faithfully observes his religious duties.

3. It is known that he is faithful in fulfilling his religious duties, as testified by two persons of equity.

4. It is known that he faithfully observes his religious duties, as testified by one person of equity, even if the witness were a woman or a slave.49 Any person who is known to meet the above conditions merits 'walayah' from the