On recognising a qualified shaykh

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[Hadrat Hasan Basri (رحمه الله), said, 'People this is your din, be careful who you attain it from’ - Muslim]

A shaykh should be qualified (kamil). Most make mistakes in recognising them and as such it is necessary that we know how to identify them. The key features are:

  1. They have ample knowledge of Islam; be it through formal learning or interaction [with the ulama]
  2. They are unwavering on ‘Amal (abiding by Islam)
  3. They enjoin good and forbid evil to those seeking [guidance]
  4. Have an attachment with an authoritative shaykh
  5. They do not hate the ulama and are not embarrassed to learn from them
  6. Their company instils the longing of the hereafter and the distaste for this world

So, whoever has these qualities is qualified and connection should be made with them.

Posted in ijtima.org, note 18. Originally published in ilm wa al-Amal in Khutbat Hakim al-Ummat. p.415 v.2

Translated by Muhammad Saifur Rahman

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