in general terms—even when it runs counter to the opinions of fathers and shaykhs—for this is the only position that accords with sound faith, as the Exalted says: “But no, by your Lord, they will not believe until they make you the judge concerning whatever disputes arise among them, then find in their hearts no discomfort with what you decide and submit in full submission.”
It is therefore unsurprising that the imams enjoined this attitude upon their followers and pressed them to uphold it in many well-known statements. I have cited a large number of these in the introduction to my book The Prophet’s Prayer Described; whoever wishes may refer to it.
- The ḥadīth of Abū Baṣrah al-Ghifārī
We still need to discuss the ḥadīth of Abū Baṣrah al-Ghifārī. The Shaykh has claimed that, according to the relied-upon view, Abū Dāwūd’s silence about the report is not sufficient to establish its authenticity.
Our answer to this comprises several points:
First: What he has stated is correct with regard to a learned critic who is well-versed in the principles of disparagement and commendation, authentication and weakening, for such a person