What is the preponderant opinion and the saying of the majority of scholars regarding the layman when scholarly opinions differ on an issue? Is it permissible for a layman to follow the easier fatwa as long as the scholar is trustworthy? And if that is not permissible and he follows it, does the fatwa become void, or is he only sinful?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
It is obligatory for an ordinary person to emulate the scholar he trusts most. If they are equal and none is more distinguished, it is said: he may choose; and it is said: he should take the more stringent opinion; and it is said: he should take the easier opinion. It is not permissible for a person to habitually follow concessions. However, if one takes some concessions from scholars due to necessity, there is no harm. So, if you emulate someone you trust, and he gives you the easier , your action is correct and there is no sin upon you.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/189732
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 189732
- 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