Scholars and Students of Knowledge

The Ruling on Seeking Fatwa from Non Scholars

Shaykh Salih al-Fawzan advises that fatwa must be sought from trustworthy scholars known for their knowledge and piety. The recipient should avoid those who issue rulings without proper knowledge, and instead rely on established scholars who are firm and reliable.

September 1, 2016

Questioner:

“It has become overwhelming in our time, people who issue fatāwa without (having the appropriate) knowledge. So how does the recipient of the fatwa act when there is a difference in ruling with regards (to a certain) matter?”

Shaykh Ṣāliḥ ibn Fawzān al-Fawzān:

“O my brother, the obligation (upon you) is to ask the people of knowledge, who are known for their knowledge and piety because this (knowledge) is religion, so you should take it from the people of religion (scholars). Allah said

۞ فَاسْأَلُوا أَهْلَ الذِّكْرِ إِن كُنتُمْ لَا تَعْلَمُونَ

“And ask the people of knowledge if you do not know.” (Q: 21:7)

The (scholars) who are depended upon (by the people) for fatwa are known in every society and all praise is due to Allah . This is something that Allah places in the hearts, so you would find a society tranquil to the fatwa of those scholars who have gathered between knowledge and action (act upon their knowledge).

And you find people who turn away from those pretending to have knowledge or those who are misguided. Do not ask (questions from) anyone regarding the religion, rather ask those who are trustworthy and firm, (meaning) the scholars.”