Salafism

Salafism is the methodology of following Qur'an and Sunnah upon the understanding of the first 3 generations of Islam.

History
The term salafi comes from early Sunni Muslim scholars who deemed in obligatory for sunnis to ascribed to the way of the first 3 generations of Islam. This was deemed so by the majority of the Sunni scholars.

Beliefs

 * Believe that Names and Attributes of God are literal and not metaphorical like the Kalmaites believed.
 * They don't believe in likening God's attributes to his creation and the creation to God.
 * Believe in strictly following Qur'an and Sunnah according to early generation of Muslims.
 * Believe in avoiding Innovations in religion and it's people who that.
 * Believe in obeying Muslim rulers whether they be righteous or sinful.
 * Reject building shrines over graves and rejecting making supplications to the dead.
 * Believe is six articles of faith accapted by all Muslims.

Anthropomorphism
One Misconception about Salafis is the accusation that they are anthropomorphists. This is an accusation of the Mutazilia, Asharis, and Maturidis. Salafis believe that God's attributes are not like His creation and vice versa.

Terrorism
Salafism is wrongfully associated with Terrorism in the west. This is not true. Salafis have always been outspoken against terrorism. They condemn it and hate it. They call these terrorists Khawarij because of them declaring Muslim rulers to be apostates.

Takfir
Another misconceptions is that Salafis declares Muslims to be disbelievers. This is not true. They do not declare Muslims to be apostates. Salafis believe only Muslim scholars can do this. However they do believe that one can apostate from Islam if all conditions for it are met.

Irja'a
Qutbis and Ikhwanis accuse Salafis of Irja'a. Irja'a is to delay action from faith. This is another lie. Salafis believe that faith is action and belief in the heart.