BENEFIT 345: Setting scholars' fatwas against one another

Sheikh Sulayman Ar-Ruhaili وفقه الله states: My dear brothers, first and foremost, the fatwa I issue—or that any other scholar issues—is based on what appears to be the correct view according to the evidence and the principles of the Shari'ah. It is not permissible, from a legal standpoint, to pit fatwas against one another. It is not acceptable for someone to seek my ruling on a matter and then later claim that "Sheikh Sulayman is refuting so-and-so" regarding a particular fatwa. This is incorrect because a mufti is obligated to issue fatwas based on what he believes to be the truth, as derived from the evidence and legal principles. It is not permissible for me to issue a fatwa merely to align with the opinion of another scholar when I know that the evidence does not support his view. When I issue a fatwa, I am not refuting a scholar or a sheikh; rather, I am simply stating what I believe to be the truth based on my knowledge. The second point to understand is that fatwas should not be weighed based on the person issuing them. When there is a difference of opinion among scholars, the proper approach is to examine which fatwa is closer to the truth and to act accordingly. This is a principle that students of knowledge must grasp. My opinion is not necessarily the absolute truth, but my duty is to speak the truth as I understand it. It is possible that I may issue a fatwa while the correct view lies with another scholar who has issued a differing opinion. However, based on my knowledge, what I have stated is the truth. People are not obligated to follow a fatwa simply because it was issued by me. Rather, if there is a fatwa from a reputable and recognised scholar that contradicts another, the matter should be examined carefully, and the stronger and more well-supported opinion should be followed.