The Wahhábís speak of themselves as Muwahhid, or Unitarians, and call all others Mushrik, or those who associate another with God; and the following are some of their distinctive religious tenets:—
1. They do not receive the decisions of the four orthodox sects, but say that any man who can read and understand the Qurán and the sacred Hadís can judge for himself in matters of doctrine. They, therefore, reject Ijmaʾ after the death of the Companions of the Prophet.
2. That no one but God can know the secrets of men, and that prayers should not be offered to any Prophet, Walí, Pír, or Saint; but that God may be asked to grant a petition for the sake of a saint.
3. That at the last day, Muhammad will obtain permission (izn) of God to intercede for his people. The Sunnís believe that permission has already been given.
4. That it is unlawful to illuminate the shrines of departed saints, or to prostrate before them, or to perambulate (tawáf) round them.
5. That women should not be allowed to visit the graves of the dead, on account of their immoderate weeping.
