quote:

The guidance of the Salafus Saalih was to refer to one more knowledgeable as much as possible; this was the guidance of the Salafus Saalih. When Abu Musa Al- Ash'aree (radi Allahu 'anhu) saw those people in the Masjid sitting in circles remembering Allaah upon an innovated way, he knew what they were doing was false; however, because it was possible to go to Ibn Mas'ood (radi Allahu 'anhu) to inform him he did, and (then he) returned with Ibn Mas'ood (radi Allahu 'anhu). This was the guidance of the Salafus Saalih, to refer it to one who is more knowledgeable in knowledge-based issues. Refutations also enter into this topic. For example, if you find that one of the people of knowledge has already given a verdict, why would the student issue a verdict when the people of knowledge have already satisfied this affair? Likewise, if you find that one of the people of knowledge has issued a refutation which would be and is better (then there is no need for the student to issue a refutation). However, if a need arises, like there is a lecturer in a remote part of New Jersey and you don't have a means to call the people of knowledge but this lecturer is on the same (innovation) and saying the same thing that another innovator who has already been refuted by the people of knowledge said, and he (the student) has the ability to clarify this situation, why shouldn't he make it clear? Yes.