Definition
The Companions, the Tābi‘ūn (their followers), and the Atbā‘ at-Tābi‘īn (the followers of the followers). The Prophet ﷺ said: 'The best of mankind is my generation, then those who follow them, then those who follow them.' (Bukhārī 2652)
Pronunciation: SA-laf
Etymology & Root
From the root س-ل-ف (s-l-f), meaning 'to precede.' The Salaf are 'those who went before' — the predecessors of this Ummah in knowledge and piety.
Usage in the Qur'an
'And the first forerunners — the Muhājirūn and the Anṣār — and those who followed them with iḥsān, Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him.' (at-Tawbah 9:100)
Scholarly Notes
Following the Salaf is not blind imitation — it is recognising that they understood the religion best, having received it directly from the Prophet ﷺ and his immediate students. Their consensus is binding; their disagreement is the boundary of legitimate ijtihād.
Practical Application
Whenever you encounter a question of ‘aqīdah or manhaj, ask: 'Did the Salaf understand it this way?' If not, abandon the new understanding.
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