he is excused and rewarded with one reward because the text did not reach him at all, or it reached him in a manner that did not constitute proof for him, or for other reasons known to the scholars. As for those to whom the text was established after him, they have no excuse in following him; rather, it is obligatory to follow the infallible text, and this is the purpose of this introduction. And Allāh ﷿ says: "O you who have believed, respond to Allāh and to the Messenger when he calls you to that which gives you life. And know that Allāh intervenes between a man and his heart and that to Him you will be gathered" (al-Anfāl, 24). And Allāh speaks the truth and guides to the path. He is the best protector and the best helper. May Allāh send blessings upon Muḥammad and his family and companions, and grant them peace. All praise is due to Allāh, Lord of all the worlds. Damascus, 20/5/1381 AH. Muḥammad Nāṣir al-Dīn al-Albānī