And the opinions issued by Ibn Abbās and other Companions concerning oaths, vows, divorce, and marital dissolution at the wife’s request are correct, rather than the views of later scholars who disagreed with them.

In sum, this is a subject whose full exposition would be lengthy. The Companions were the most knowledgeable, discerning, and devout members of this community. Thus, al-Shāfiʿī—may Allah have mercy on him—expressed it well when he said:

“They surpass us in every kind of knowledge [and jurisprudence](1), religion, and guidance, and in every means by which knowledge and guidance may be attained. Their judgment concerning us is better than our own judgment concerning ourselves.”

Or words to that effect.

Ahmad ibn Hanbal said:

“The foundations of the Sunnah, according to us, are adherence to the way of the Companions of the Messenger of Allah—peace and blessings be upon him.”

How excellent, too, are the words of ʿAbd Allāh ibn Masʿūd—may Allah be pleased with him—when he said:

“O people, whoever among you wishes to follow an example should follow the example of those who have died(2), [for the living cannot be considered safe from tribulation](3). Those were the Companions of Muhammad. They were the finest members of this community: the most righteous in heart, the deepest in knowledge, and the least given to affectation. They were a people whom Allah chose to accompany His Prophet and establish His religion. So acknowledge their excellence, follow in their footsteps, and adhere as closely as you can to their character and religion, for they followed the straight path of guidance.”

Hudhayfa—may Allah be pleased with him—said:

“O company of Quran reciters, remain steadfast and follow the path of those who came before you. By Allah, if you remain steadfast, you will advance far ahead; but if you turn to the right or the left, you will go far astray.”