Question

What is the authenticity of the following narration:

Sayyiduna Anas (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said:

“Certainly the example of the ‘Ulama in the world is like the example of the stars through which guidance is obtained in the darkness of the land and sea. When the stars disappear, it is very likely that the rightly guided can be misled from the right path.”

Answer

Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration with a weak chain.

(Musnad Ahmad, vol. 3, pg. 157. Refer: Targhib, vol. 100/101 and Majma’uz Zawaid, vol. 1, pg. 121)

The Hadith in question is suitable to quote and is supported by similar statements of Sayyiduna Abud Darda (radiyallahu ‘anhu) and Abu Muslim Al Khawlani (rahimahullah).

(Refer: Hilyatul Awliya, vol. 5, pg. 120 and Al Mudawi, Hadith: 2441/1105)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar