Is it possible for one to combine being a religious scholar and a physics scholar? And which of the two carries a greater reward from Allah Almighty: dedicating oneself to religious sciences, or combining them with physics?

Beneficial material sciences, like physics, are religiously required to be learned; indeed, they are among the fard Kifaya (collective obligations). However, their rank remains below that of the Sharia sciences, which are superior and yield greater reward. This does not mean that all Muslims should devote themselves exclusively to Sharia sciences and neglect other sciences they need for the sustenance of their worldly affairs. What is best for a particular individual might change based on their circumstances, abilities, and the needs of their society. Combining the pursuit of Sharia knowledge with beneficial material sciences is good for whoever is able to do so, and learning the indispensable amount of Sharia knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim.