What is your guidance regarding criticizing scholars on the grounds that they are not prophets or companions, and that they are fallible human beings?

The general principle is the sanctity of a Muslim, and the preservation of his blood, wealth, and honor. This was emphasized by the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, in numerous hadiths. This sanctity increases when it concerns scholars, as slandering them is a grave matter with dire consequences. Ibn Asakir said, "The flesh of scholars is poisoned, and Allah's custom in unveiling the coverings of those who denigrate them is well-known."

However, this does not mean that scholars are infallible. Rather, they may be refuted when they err, but the refutation must be done with respect, without discarding their correct views and good deeds, and without the motive for refutation being ignorance or caprained desire. The believer combines knowledge of Allah's religion with the rights of believers, submits his heart towards them, and assumes the best of them. Whatever the scholar's slip, he is excused for it due to his ijtihad (independent reasoning), and his status and position are not diminished.