The Consequences of a Questioner's Neglect in Verifying the Mufti when Seeking a Fatwa: An Aqeedah Study 10.35781/1637-000-134-001

Abstract

Objectives of the Research: - To clarify the position of the lay questioner (al-ʿāmmi) and the obligation upon him to ask the scholars when ignorant of a ruling. - To emphasize the necessity of exerting effort in seeking a qualified scholar to issue fatwas in religious matters, since negligence in this regard is not excused. - To highlight the consequences of negligence in consulting qualified scholars, particularly the doctrinal implications affecting the creed of the questioner. Methodology: Descriptive method and critical method. Key Findings: - The lay questioner, who cannot reach the knowledge of Allah’s rulings except by asking a mufti, is obliged to seek fatwas and worship upon insight. - It is obligatory for the questioner to verify the status of the mufti and his eligibility to issue fatwas, and to consult only those known for knowledge and piety, not merely anyone who speaks about religion, even if they have many followers. - Neglecting this matter by consulting anyone who claims knowledge leads to severe doctrinal consequences, some reaching the level of shirk al-ṭāʿa (associating partners in obedience), while others involve following ambiguities, abandoning clear rulings, misleading Muslims, and spreading innovations.