Guideline to determine if speakers are reliable

[ummtaalib]

Following is a reply to a question on an Ifta group (Mufti Muajul I. Chowdhury) on being asked about certain famous speakers with big following on social media.

In the Name of Allaah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salaamu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullaahi wa-barakaatuh.

Imaam Muhammed ibn Sireen (Rahimahullaah) has advised[1]:

إِنَّ هَذَا الْعِلْمَ دِينٌ، فَانْظُرُوا عَمَّنْ تَأْخُذُونَ دِينَكُمْ

“Verily, ‏this knowledge is Deen, so be cautious of whom you take your religion from.” (Muslim)

The following guidelines will assist in determining an upright ‘Aalim (scholar) of Deen:

He is from the Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah[2] in matters of ‘aqeedah and fiqh.

He is a graduate of a celebrated and accepted Islaamic traditional institute.

He does not violate the laws of Shari’ah[3], for example: the laws of hijaab and intermingling.

His teachings and statements are in accordance to the Shari’ah.

He does not engage in bid’ah[4].

He is recognized and approved by the righteous learned scholars.

If any of the above guidelines are violated, then one should not follow such a person. You may conduct your own investigation regarding the above individuals and use the above guidelines to decide. You should also enquire from the local ‘Ulamaa about them based on the above guidelines. If any person falls short of any one of the above conditions, then one should respectfully avoid seeking guidance from such a person.

And Allaah Ta’aala Knows Best.
Muajul I. Chowdhury
Read more at askimam.org/public/question_detail/41666