Is the methodology that rejects the sayings of the Four Imams and scholars, under the pretext of adhering to "the Messenger said such and such," and slanders the scholars of Ahl al-Sunnah wal-Jama’ah, a unique methodology or does it represent one of the sects, and what is its name?
The truth is a middle ground between two extremes. We must not exaggerate in our veneration of scholars, raising them above their true status or attributing infallibility to them. Nor should we be harsh towards them, diminishing their standing or equating them with the common people. The same applies to their schools of thought and principles: what is authentically established from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, should not be rejected for anyone's statement, nor should scholars be treated disrespectfully, for their statements are intellectual efforts (ijtihad) in understanding Islamic law. It is impermissible to combine attacking Salafism and advocating a return to the Qur'an and Sunnah with the understanding of the pious predecessors, with slandering scholars and the followers of established madhhabs, because this leads to chaos, confusion, and opens the door to division among the general populace.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/123721