What is the preponderant opinion and the saying of most scholars concerning the layperson when scholars differ on an issue? Is it permissible for the layperson to follow the easiest fatwa for him as long as the scholar is trustworthy? If that is not permissible and he follows it, does the fatwa become invalid, or does he merely incur sin?
Scholarly opinions have differed regarding what an ordinary person (layman) must adhere to when there is a divergence in the sayings of scholars. Some have opted for discretion (choosing what they prefer), or adopting the opinion of the most knowledgeable and pious, or taking the stricter/heavier opinion, or the lighter one, or the one with stronger evidence, or consulting another . The most preponderant view is that the layman must exert their effort in weighing between the muftis. If unable, they should adopt the easier opinion, unless that leads to harm. In this case, they should adopt the easier opinion only for themselves. Adopting the easier opinion is permissible if its preponderance is apparent, or in cases of necessity and hardship. However, seeking out concessions without need or without regard for the preponderant view is blameworthy.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 160397
- 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.
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- Read the full answer on Ftawy