As Muslims, we are obliged to believe and understand our religion in a manner that Allah wants us to. The way to achieve this is mentioned in the Qur’aan.
Allah says, “And if they believe as you (i.e., the Sahabah) believe then they are rightly guided, but if they turn away, then they are only in opposition.” [Soorah al-Baqarah (2): 137]
In light of this verse, the correct understanding is what emulates the beliefs and understandings of the Sahabah (the Prophet’s Companions).
The Sahabah were the fortunate people who accompanied the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) and learned the religion directly from him (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam). They witnessed the revelation of the Qur’aan and the Sunnah and experienced the circumstances in which they were revealed. The Sahabah’s understanding of the religion is therefore, the most pure and perfect, and they are a group that has definitely succeeded in achieving what Faith is meant to achieve, i.e. Allah’s Pleasure. “And the first to embrace Islam of the Muhajirun (those who migrated from Makkah to al-Medina) and the Ansar (the people of al-Medina who helped the Muhajirun) and also those who followed them exactly (in Faith). Allah is well-pleased with them as they are well-pleased with Him. He has prepared for them Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise), to dwell therein forever. That is the supreme success.” [Soorah at-Tawbah (9):100]
