The Sunni Schism

Are Imam Ahmad and Ibn Taymiyya Kafir Mushriks (disbelieving polytheists) according to Ibn Abd al-Wahhab (MIAW)?

Supporters of MIAW claim that he followed Imam Ahmad and Ibn Taymiyya in creedal matters. However, this is demonstrably false. According to MIAW’s creed both Imam Ahmad and Ibn Taymiyya would be considered kafir mushriks who deserved to be killed for apostasy. I will provide citations to justify this claim, God willing.

MIAW’s Position on Seeking Intercession

In Kashf al-Shubuhat, MIAW states that the pagan mushriks would call upon righteous individuals, prophets, trees, angels, and jinn for intercession. He writes:

"[...] among them were those who would call upon the angels for intercession due to their righteousness and closeness to God. They also called upon righteous people, such as al-Lat, or a prophet such as ʿIsa. [...] Their seeking intercession from the angels, prophets, or righteous individuals, and seeking nearness to God through these means, was what made their blood and wealth lawful. This is the Tawhid that the Messengers called to, which the mushriks refused to accept. And this Tawhid is the meaning of La ilaha illa Allah. For the mushriks considered a deity to be one who is sought for these purposes—whether an angel, a prophet, a tree, a grave, or a jinn."

(Ibn Abd al-Wahhab, Kashf al-Shubuhat)