How can we reconcile the idea that death comes at its appointed time with the fatwa that exempts the sole scholar in his country from jihad for fear of his death? And does jihad hasten death?

Indeed, a person's lifespan is predetermined before their creation, whether they die a natural death or are killed in jihad. Every soul fulfills its appointed term and sustenance, and a martyr is only killed when their time of death arrives. This does not contradict the fact that fighting can be a cause of death, for whoever's time has come will die, whether they fight or not.

The mujahid (one who strives in the way of Allah) has the merit of exposing himself to death and being eager for martyrdom.

The martyr intercedes for seventy of his family members and relatives, including wives and all those considered part of his kin.

Jihad is not obligatory for a scholar if his presence is essential for the people of his country, so that they are not lost by his departure. This is in accordance with the Almighty's saying: "And it was not for the believers to go forth [to battle] all at once. For there should separate from every division of them a contingent to obtain understanding in religion and warn their people when they return to them that they might be cautious."