BENEFIT 445: Fanaticism vs. Ittibaa'

Sheikh Zaid Al-Madkhali rahimahullah states: Know that fanaticism should be shown only toward the Messenger of Allāh ﷺ, for he is infallible and does not speak from his own desires. As for fanaticism toward individuals—whether they are right or wrong—this is not befitting for students of knowledge. On another note, when it comes to examining Sheikh so-and-so or Sheikh so-and-so, as the questioner mentioned, we must consider who is truly upon the correct path and adheres to the methodology of the righteous predecessors. This is the person whose hand we place ours in—not out of blind following, but because he is upon the truth. We align ourselves with him on the basis of truth and walk together upon one path, in accordance with the saying of Allāh the Almighty: "And indeed, this is My straight path, so follow it, and do not follow other ways, for they will separate you from His way." [6:153]