SUMMARY:

Testing individuals, when necessary, by asking about their stance on the Imāms of the Sunnah and the people of innovation is NOT an INNOVATION! How could it be when there are so many Āthār from the Salaf supporting this?! https://t.me/madrasatuna/4115 In fact, labelling this practice as an innovation is closer to being an innovation itself, as Sheikh Rabee' rightly stated: "So, if you hear someone criticising the people of the Sunnah for this, know that he belongs to the people of desires and innovation—unless he is ignorant. In that case, teach him and explain that this practice of testing the people of desires is a legitimate one, backed by the Qur’ān, Sunnah, and the actions of the early generations. Only the people of innovation are troubled by it and speak against it, as it exposes them and reveals their concealed innovations." Those who argue that this practice is no longer applicable in our era lack evidence for their claim, as Sheikh Yaḥyā beautifully expressed: "The latter part of this Ummah will not be rectified except by what rectified its early part. We have no new methods. What was practiced in earlier times should be applied in later times when possible...Thus, what was valid in the early days remains valid now, unless someone is unable to apply it." Similarly, Sheikh Zaid Al-Madkhali raḥimahullāh said: "People are tested in every era and place based on their stance towards the scholars of the Sunnah, both in ‘Aqeedah and Sharī’ah." Given this, the remaining question is: why do some scholars criticise or even prohibit this practice? I believe the reason for this negativity stems, not from the practice itself, but from the widespread MISAPPLICATION that we all witness before our eyes. This misapplication has led to: 1. Fanaticism toward certain individuals: While some of these individuals may be esteemed scholars, the goal of this practice was never to create exclusive clubs or fanbases, but rather to distinguish those who truly follow Muḥammad ﷺ. Perhaps this is why Sheikh Fawzān ḥafidhahullāh emphasises: "Test people by their connection to Rasoolullah ﷺ, not by other individuals! https://t.me/madrasatuna/4121 Sheikh AbdulAzeez Ar-Rajihi conveys a similar message. https://t.me/madrasatuna/4119 2. Chain tabdee': Those who misapply this practice have misunderstood that it is meant as a GENERAL INDICATION rather than a FLAWLESS YARDSTICK. They also overlook the process of assessing the conditions and preventions of tabdee'. 3. Time-wasting: Another misapplication is needlessly testing individuals without purpose, as seen in this example... https://t.me/madrasatuna/4120 4. Hostility and disunity: Misapplication causes division. https://t.me/madrasatuna/4118 Conclusion: Testing people is a Salafi practice, and calling it an innovation is incorrect. If anything is to be labelled as innovation, it is the misapplication by overzealous individuals.