Is it permissible for a scholar to describe himself as a "Rabbani" scholar?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
A Rabbani scholar is one who acts [upon his knowledge], teaches [it to others]. A Muslim should not sanctify himself or describe himself with this title, because self-sanctification is forbidden by and naturally blameworthy, as Allah Almighty said: "So do not sanctify yourselves; He is most knowing of who is righteous." The pious predecessors avoided sanctifying themselves and disliked mentioning their virtues. The prohibition of self-sanctification applies when it is intended for boasting and arrogance. However, if it is for a legitimate Sharia purpose, there is no objection to it.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/96923
Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 96923
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy