Section: Preliminary Matters

Editor’s Introduction

In the name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.

[Editor’s Introduction]

All praise belongs to Allah, who says:

“Indeed, this is My path—perfectly straight—so follow it, and do not follow other ways lest they lead you away from His path. That is what He has enjoined upon you so that you may be God-fearing.” (Al-Anʿām 6:153)

He, exalted, also says:

“Do not be of those who associate partners with Allah—those who broke up their religion and became sects, each faction rejoicing in what it possessed.” (Ar-Rūm 30:31)

And the Mighty, the Majestic, says:

“Do not be like those who became divided and differed after clear proofs had come to them; such people will have a tremendous punishment.” (Āl ʿImrān 3:105)

I invoke blessings and peace upon the Prophet of mercy, the noble gift bestowed on mankind, Muḥammad ibn ʿAbd Allāh, who said:

“The best speech is the Book of Allah, the best guidance is the guidance of Muḥammad, the worst of matters are those newly introduced, and every innovation is misguidance.” 1

He, peace and blessings be upon him, also said:

“Whoever among you lives long after me will witness much disagreement. Therefore, hold fast to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the Rightly Guided Caliphs; cling to it with your molar teeth. Beware of newly introduced matters, for every innovation is misguidance.” 2

May Allah have mercy on al-Awzāʿī, who said:

“Follow the traces of those who preceded you, even if people shun you, and beware of the opinions of men, no matter how they adorn their words.”