Answer: This is a very good question, and I think there are two questions here in one. The first question is: When is Ikhtilaf regarded as good? And the second question is: When is Ikhtilaf regarded as acceptable?
First, we need to understand that there are two types of Ikhtilaf:
- Ikhtilafu Tanawwu’ (Complementary Differing): This is where the essence of the differing is not contradictory. For example, when we talk about the the rope of Allah, some people say the rope of Allah is the Qur’an, some say it is Islam, and others say it is the Sunnah. In reality, these interpretations are complementary, not contradictory. This type of Ikhtilaf is good because the different interpretations work together and do not conflict.
- Ikhtilafu Tadāḍ (Contradictory Differing): This is where the differing is contradictory. Some scholars do not use the word Ikhtilaf for this type but rather distinguish it with different terms. However, contradictory differing is never good. There is nothing praiseworthy about it. Allah, the Almighty never praised contradictory differing among people, and the Prophet ﷺ never praised it either.
Now, regarding the acceptability of Ikhtilaf:
Ikhtilaf is a reality. Contradictory differences exist, and this is the reality of our world. There are contradictions, disagreements, and differing opinions. While none of these are good if they contradict each other, some are more acceptable than others.
For example:
- Differing over whether Allah has names and attributes is not acceptable under any circumstances.
- Differing about whether to keep your finger pointing straight in the tashahhud or to move it, or whether to lift it during la ilaha illallah and put it down, is more acceptable. I am not saying it is good, but it is more acceptable than the previous example.
Ikhtilaf becomes acceptable when the matter returns to ijtihad (scholarly effort to derive a ruling) and there is no clear evidence favoring one side over the other. This type of differing is acceptable, even if it is not inherently good. It should be respected and handled with proper etiquette.
Similarly, when the evidence on both sides is strong, such as in the case of whether to place your knees or hands first during prayer, the differing becomes acceptable. Even though I believe there is a correct and incorrect answer, the strength of evidence on both sides makes this type of differing acceptable. It should be given due respect when discussed.
However, the fact that Ikhtilaf is acceptable does not mean there is no right or wrong answer. There is still truth, and our goal is to seek it.
This is a brief overview of the topic. We have dealt with this extensively in the introductory module on Madhhab, the foundations of fiqh, and the issue of disagreement (al-khilaf wal-ikhtilaf). This summary should help answer your question.
And Allah, the Almighty knows best.
— Answered by Ustadh Muhammad Tim Humble
