Calling oneself Salafi is a matter that should not be taken lightly. It is important to understand the true essence and principles of Salafism before adopting the label for oneself. The term “Salafi” refers to someone who follows the way of the Salaf, which refers to the pious predecessors of the early generations of Muslims.
If one truly adheres to the beliefs and practices of the Salaf and strives to emulate their way of life, then calling oneself Salafi is appropriate and there is no issue with it. However, if one claims to be Salafi without actually following the teachings and methodology of the Salaf, then it becomes problematic and misleading.
The Quran warns against false claims and pretensions in several verses. In Surah At-Tawbah (9:100), Allah says, “And the first forerunners [in the faith] among the Muhajireen and the Ansar and those who followed them with good conduct – Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him, and He has prepared for them gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide forever. That is the great attainment.” This verse highlights the importance of following the footsteps of the early companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and their righteous successors.
Salafism, as understood by those who truly follow it, is characterized by a commitment to the Quran and the authentic Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him), as understood and practiced by the early generations of Muslims. It emphasizes a return to the pure, unadulterated teachings of Islam, free from innovations and deviations.
To truly be considered a Salafi, one must strive to gain knowledge and understanding of the Quran and Sunnah, as interpreted by the righteous predecessors. This requires studying the works of scholars who adhered to the Salafi methodology, attending classes, and seeking guidance from knowledgeable individuals who are well-grounded in the authentic teachings of Islam.
It is important to note that Salafism is not a monolithic movement with a centralized authority. There are different schools of thought within Salafism, and it is crucial to follow the scholars who are known for their adherence to the Quran and Sunnah without any personal or sectarian biases.
Calling oneself Salafi is permissible if one truly follows the teachings and methodology of the Salaf. However, it is not appropriate to claim this title without sincerely adhering to the principles and practices of the early generations of Muslims. It is essential to gain knowledge, seek guidance from qualified scholars, and strive to emulate the pious predecessors in order to truly embody the spirit of Salafism.