ما هو أساس الثقة بعلم وورع من يُستفتى؟

Reliance in knowing the Mufti is by one of two matters: either his fame and widespread reputation of being qualified for issuing fatwas, or the commendation of trustworthy scholars for him. Thus, it is permissible to seek a fatwa from one whose qualification is well-known, and from one about whom a renowned qualified person has reported. The report of a single upright person is sufficient for knowing his qualification, provided that one is sure the reporter possesses knowledge by which he can discern the Mufti's qualification, and one should not rely on the reports of common individuals.