Salafi is a reformist movement in Sunni Islam that promotes returning to the pure practices of the first three generations of Muslims. Adherents rely strictly on the Quran and the Sunnah, aiming to remove later cultural or religious additions.

Core Beliefs

The Salaf: The term comes from al-salaf al-salih, meaning the “pious predecessors,” which refers to Prophet Muhammad, his companions (Sahabah), and the two following generations (Tabi’un and Tabi’ al-Tabi’in).

Textual Focus: Followers use a literal and direct interpretation of the Quran and Hadith, avoiding rigid loyalty to traditional legal schools (madhhabs).

Purification: A primary goal is cleansing everyday religious practice of innovations (bid’ah) that developed over later centuries.

Movement Streams

Scholars generally split modern Salafism into three major categories based on how they approach society and authority:

• Purists (Quietists): Focus on learning, teaching, and peaceful spreading of the faith while avoiding involvement in politics.
• Politicos (Activists): Engage directly in political systems and public organizations to promote their goals.
• Jihadists: Support militant action and armed struggle to achieve ideological changes.