This is why statements from adherents of the Sunnah and the Muslim community affirming this principle abound in their writings on the true methodology and sound creed that every Muslim should uphold. Among them is the statement of Imam Abū Jafar al-Tahāwī, may Allah have mercy on him: “We do not hold that one may rebel against our imams and those entrusted with authority over us, even if they act unjustly. We do not pray against them or withdraw our obedience from them. We regard obedience to them as an obligation and part of obedience to Allah, Mighty and Majestic, so long as they do not command disobedience to Him; and we pray that they be granted righteousness and well-being.”1.
Shaykh al-Islam Abū Uthmān al-Sābūnī, may Allah have mercy on him, said: “The adherents of hadith hold that the Friday prayer, the two Eid prayers, and other prayers should be performed behind every imam, whether righteous or wicked. They also hold that jihad against the unbelievers should be undertaken alongside them, even if they are unjust and wicked, and that prayers should be offered for their reform, success, righteousness, and establishment of justice among their subjects.”2.
The eminent hadith scholar Imam Abū Bakr al-Ismāīlī said: “They—that is, the adherents of the Sunnah—hold that the prayers, including the Friday prayer and others, should be performed behind every Muslim imam, whether righteous or wicked. ... They also hold that prayers should be offered for their righteousness and their inclination toward justice.”3. Statements from the early generations expressing this meaning are numerous.
A Muslim must take the utmost care to avoid reviling those in authority, maligning them, failing to pray for their good, or praying that evil befall them. Ibn Abī Āsim narrated in al-Sunnah—and al-Albānī graded it authentic—from Anas ibn Mālik, may Allah be pleased with him, who said: “Our elders from among the Companions of Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, forbade us, saying: The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said: