I have heard one of my previous teachers say that it is important to "follow one scholar" in terms of procuring rulings, and I wanted to ask what this means? Does this mean that if there are multiple ʿulamāʾ from the same madhhab, we should only choose to follow one of them?
الجواب حامدا ومصليا
You may acquire your rulings from a scholar as long as they are reliable, trustworthy, and qualified. It is not necessary to follow one particular scholar for this purpose. However, taking rulings from a specific scholar has its benefits. The scholar will have knowledge about your previous inquiries and could give a specific ruling based on your circumstances, similar to one's primary physician who has context on prior visits and health history. Moreover, placing your trust and taking rulings from one scholar may protect you from falling into acting upon your desires, as you would be content with their answer and not shop for multiple opinions to choose one to your liking.
Additionally, it is important to take rulings from a scholar familiar with the area's norms and local customs as they can provide guidance relevant and applicable to your specific context, and they are usually more accessible as well.
And Allah knows best.
Mf. Jubair Mahmud
Graduate, Darul Iftaa Chicago
Checked and Approved:
Mf. Abrar Mirza
Head Mufi, Darul Iftaa Chicago