What is the definition of a layperson (عامي) in the terminology of scholars, and does their saying: "A layperson has no madhhab (school of thought), and his madhhab is the madhhab of his mufti (granter of fatwa)" apply to every Muslim who is not a student of knowledge, even if they can understand the sayings of the people of knowledge and their evidences and benefit from available lessons? And is it permissible for someone who has learned fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) according to a specific madhhab to teach other Muslims?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
The term "commoner" (العامي) is applied to someone who is not a mujtahid (independent legalreasoner). It is permissible for such a person to follow whichever of the recognized schools of thought they wish. It is also permissible for a student of knowledge to specialize in a particular (school of thought) and benefit others with what they have learned, after verifying the correctness of what they teach.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/162943
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 162943
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Read the full answer on Ftawy