the views of the Companions, the Successors, and the renowned imams of Islam concerning these fundamental matters. This is recorded in works that contain the views of the majority of the imams and frequently cite their opinions on jurisprudence. The leading scholars among the followers of the four imams adhere to the position of the early generations in this regard. They also state this in many works compiled by the followers of Mālik, al-Shāfi‘ī, Abū Hanīfah, Ahmad ibn Hanbal, and others, which present the views of the early generations as teachings to be followed.

A reasonable person should recognize that the early generations were neither ignorant of such momentous questions, which are among the greatest matters of religion, nor neglectful of them. Rather, whoever does not know what they said is himself ignorant of the truth concerning these matters, of the views of the early generations, and of what the Quran and Sunnah indicate. In all disputed matters, the correct position is that held by the early generations—the Companions and those who followed them faithfully. Their position is what the Quran, the Sunnah, and sound reason indicate. This has been explained at length in many places. And Allah, glorified be He, knows best.