How can one distinguish between the levels of scholars and determine who is qualified to issue fatwas, and what is the status of scholars like Sheikh Ibn Baz, Ibn Uthaymeen, and Al-Albani?

To enable non-specialists to distinguish qualified, diligent scholars capable of issuing fatwas, five signs can be used:

1. Drawing evidence from the verses of the Holy Quran and the hadiths of the Prophet, peace be upon him, understanding their implications and contexts, and prioritizing the Quran. 2. Complete religiosity and good morals, emulating the righteous predecessors, attributing their fatwas and sayings to the followed imams, and staying away from those who do not rely on these scholars. 3. Not being confined to a specific group or isolated by a particular name or description, but rather belonging to the general body of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama'ah, and staying away from specific doctrinal sects or newly invented names. 4. Accredited academic degrees, especially higher ones, from reputable universities in Sharia specializations, while knowing that a degree alone is not sufficient. 5. The widespread fame of the scholar, their trustworthiness, and their knowledge among academic elites and specialized circles, and having been attested to by scholars and specialists for their understanding, mastery, and strong argumentation.

These signs remain within the realm of indicators and do not provide certainty and conviction except for those specialized in the science itself.