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Is following the "Ahl al-Hadith group" - the Saudi Salafists - considered blind imitation, given the irrefutable accusations and evidence from both sides, and what is the solution for dealing with the contradiction of authentic hadiths among different schools of thought and groups?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

A Muslim should not be bewildered by differences, for Allah has given signs to truth and proofs to sincerity. The criterion for distinguishing between truth and falsehood is alignment with the understanding of the Companions, for they are the best and most knowledgeable of the Ummah. Deviant sects cite texts out of context and cannot prove that their understanding of the texts was like that of the Companions. The correct path is to adhere to the understanding of the pious predecessors (Salaf as-Salih). The people of innovation (Ahl al-Bid'ah) oppose the Sunnah and distort texts, while the people of the Sunnah mention the truth both for and against them, and prioritize the Sunnah over everything else. The best guidance is the guidance of the Prophet (peace be upon him), and the most knowledgeable people regarding this guidance are the people of Hadith and their jurists, who are the pious predecessors. The people of Hadith are not limited to a specific country or individuals; rather, they are everyone who follows the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him) with the understanding of the Companions and the Successors.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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