Q: If a scholar gives a very strict fatwa regarding something related to shirk, but all the other trustworthy and reputable scholars give a more balanced and moderate fatwa, then if I follow the opinion of the scholars who gave the balanced fatwa, will I become a disbeliever or sinner?
For example, when studying Darwin’s theory—if someone studies it while keeping in mind that it is false, and only continues studying it for academic purposes, and this opinion is supported by many scholars—But one scholar says that such studies are "trash" and that there’s no need to study them as it could harm one’s faith.
In that case, if I follow the balanced fatwa and not the harsh one, will I be considered a disbeliever or a sinner?
A: It is not permissible to study this theory as it is based on kufr and shirk. For further details, refer to the following links: https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=22417, https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=22442 and https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=23094
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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