What is the ruling on adopting the easier opinion among different madhahib (schools of thought), based on the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) hadith: "He was not given a choice between two matters but that he chose the easier of them, as long as it was not sinful"?

Summary of the Fatwa:

Taking the easier of scholarly opinions, if done deliberately and intentionally seeking out the most lenient, is prohibited by many scholars, and a person who consistently seeks out dispensations may be deemed a transgressor. It is incumbent upon a Muslim to be cautious in matters of their religion, to follow the evidence from the Qur’an and Sunnah, and to consult trustworthy scholars without seeking what aligns with their personal desires; otherwise, this indicates negligence.

However, some scholars have favored the permissibility of taking the easier opinion if it occurs incidentally, without the blameworthy intention of consistently seeking out dispensations, especially for common people. An example of this is when a person performs ablution, wipes part of their head imitating Imam Al-Shafi’i, and then touches their private parts imitating Imam Abu Hanifa; their ablution is valid.

The Hadith stating that the Prophet (peace be upon him) always chose the easier option is qualified by the condition that it does not involve sin. Seeking out dispensations, according to many scholars, involves disobedience and sin.