If a Muslim is confused by the differing opinions of scholars and cannot settle on a particular view, is he permitted to adopt the easiest one? And if he does so, will he be held accountable on the Day of Judgment for choosing the less weighty opinion?

Whoever is qualified for ijtihad (independent reasoning) must exert their utmost effort in it. As for the common person (ammi) who is unable to perform ijtihad, they should follow the most trustworthy person available to them.

If the evidence is equal for the mujtahid (one who performs ijtihad), or if the scholars are of equal standing in the eyes of the common person, and opinions diverge, there are three differing views on the matter:

1. One should follow the most cautious opinion. 2. One may adopt any opinion they wish, as long as they do not intend to selectively follow only dispensations (rukhs). 3. One should adopt the easier opinion, because the Sharia is built upon alleviation.

Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen favored the third opinion, stating that adopting the easier opinion is the most valid when scholarly opinions differ and there is no clear preference, because religion is ease. This applies to one's own person. However, if it leads to harm, then one must refrain from manifesting or publicizing it, and should only adopt the easier opinion for themselves.

Whoever follows this opinion, which is to adopt the easier option when evidence is equally balanced, there is no blame upon them, and they will not be held accountable on the Day of Judgment. For the mujtahid who errs is excused and not held accountable, and they receive a reward.