Question:
I would like to know if Dr Zakir Naik is a reliable scholar and if its permissible to listen to his talks and lectures?2-Is Dr Zakir Naik a Deobandi Scholar because in one of his lectures he says that he follows the foot steps of Sheikh Ahmed Deedat R.A.A.
Answer:
Dr. Zakir Naik is an informer and a dialectician of Islam. He debates and gives a good answer to the objections and doubts raised by the non Muslims. So in order to combat the non Muslims we can benefit from his lectures etc. However, because he is not a pronounced Mufti, it would be better not to ask him any questions with regards to Shari’ah. If his lectures or views are in contradiction to that of the majority of Ulama, then you should contact a Mufti and ask from that Mufti.
And Allah Ta’ala knows best
Mufti Muhammad Ashraf
Darul Iftaa
Jameah Mahmoodiyah
Springs
07 July 2006
10 Jumaadul Ukhraa 1427