بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمنِ الرَّحِيمِ

  Shaykh Muhammad Nasir Uddin al-Albani /  Source: Al-Asaalah, Issue 9 Question: Why use the name Salafee? Is it a call towards a party or a group or a madh-hab (school of thought)? Or is it a new sect in Islaam ? Answer: Indeed, the word Salaf is well known in the Arabic language as well as in the religious terminology. But what concerns us here, is its discussion from the religious standpoint. Thus, it has authentically been reported on the Prophet, sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, that during the sickness from which he died from, he said to Faatimah, radyAllaahu ‘anhaa:  “…So fear Allaah and have patience. And I am the best Salaf (predecessor) for you.”  20 Furthermore, the scholars have used this word “Salaf” many times, such that it would be too abundant to number and take into account. Sufficient for us, is one example, and it was that which they have used in their battle against innovations:  “And every good lies in following he who has preceded (man salaf)...