And Imam Ahmad’s statements on this subject accord with those of the rightly guided imams who preceded him. He introduced no doctrine of his own; rather, he made the Sunnah known, explained and defended it, clarified the standing of those who opposed it, strove in its cause, and patiently endured harm for its sake when deviant doctrines and innovations were openly promoted.

Allah Most High said:

“And We made from among them leaders guiding by Our command when they were patient and were certain of Our signs.”

It is through patience and certainty that leadership in religion is attained. When he embodied these qualities, his name became associated with the leadership in the Sunnah for which he became renowned. He became a model for those who came after him, just as he had followed those who came before him. The Sunnah itself, however, is what the Companions received from the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and what the Successors received from them, followed by their successors, down to the Day of Resurrection—even though some imams possess greater knowledge of it and greater patience in adhering to it.

Allah, glorified and exalted, knows best and is most wise. And Allah knows best.