Hanafi Salafism: An Oxymoron? In conclusion, it is perfectly possible for a Hanafi to ascribe to Salafism whilst a Salafi may be an adherent of a school of thought being convinced of its methodology. To be a Hanafi is to ascribe to a certain understanding of the Quran and Sunnah, whereas Salafism is to ascribe to an Islamic methodology and outlook, namely that of the earliest generations of Islam. There is no contradiction between the two since they are not in the same category. One is to follow an interpretation of the Islamic sources of authority – fiqh; and the other is to have a distinguished manner by which to practice ones faith and approach its different aspects - manhaj. Once this is understood, we can call for a revival of the relationship between adherents of the various schools whereby they should strive to follow the same methodology of their Imams. There also needs to be an endeavor where those who attribute themselves to Salafism need to understand what truly is blameworthy when it comes to following Schools of Thought. Furthermore, we should not limit Salafism to a method of deriving Islamic law, but instead as a way by which to follow the early generations in all aspects of the faith such as believing in and preserving the Orthodox Islamic creed (aqidah), worshiping Allah, keeping away from sins, maintaining morals and etiquette, and implementing Islamic rules of engagement with Muslims and non-Muslims alike. It is up to us to achieve a breakthrough in uniting Muslims, something which will undoubtedly ensure a lasting revival since we learn from history that the recovery of a nation is preceded by a revitalization in its thoughts and ideas. Likewise, such a revival equips the ummah with the necessary tools to free its thinking from narrow-mindedness, partisanship, shallowness, ignorance, and an inferiority complex. Allah says, And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Allah, and be not divided among yourselves, and remember Allahs Favor on you, for you were enemies one to another but He joined your hearts together, so that, by His Grace, you became brethren - you were on the brink of a pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus Allah makes His signs clear to you, that you may be guided.(Quran 3:103)
Posted on: Mon, 01 Sep 2014 04:49:31 +0000
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