Q: How do we reconcile the Hadith that states that difference of opinions is a mercy (for the nation), and the Ayah that declares: ...and do not dispute (with one another) lest you lose courage and your strength departs However, I am not aware of the degree of the Hadith in terms of authenticity. May Allah reward you. A: The Hadith in question is not Sahih (authentic). Differences of opinion are a trial and a test from Allah to His servants, not a mercy at all. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) states: And He it is Who has created the heavens and the earth in six Days and His Throne was on the water, that He might try you, which of you is the best in deeds. (Part No. 3; Page No. 11

A: The Hadith in question is not Sahih (authentic). Differences of opinion are a trial and a test from Allah to His servants, not a mercy at all. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) states: And He it is Who has created the heavens and the earth in six Days and His Throne was on the water, that He might try you, which of you is the best in deeds. (Part No. 3; Page No. 11) Allah (Exalted be He) also states: Verily! We have made that which is on earth as an adornment for it, in order that We may test them (mankind) as to which of them are best in deeds. [i.e. those who do good deeds in the most perfect manner, that means to do them (deeds) totally for Allâh’s sake and in accordance to the legal ways of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم]. Whoever exerts himself to reach the truth regarding debatable juristic matters and is scholarly and insightfully qualified to exercising Ijtihad (juristic effort to infer expert legal rulings) then arrives at the truth shall receive a double reward, but if the opinion is incorrect, then only one reward is received. However, whoever debates matters without knowledge following their desires is sinful and will not be rewarded. Thus, the proofs of the Qur'an, the Sunnah, and the juristic views are reconciled. Allah (Exalted be He) states: ...but they will not cease to disagree. Except him on whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy (the follower of truth The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: If a judge gives a verdict after making Ijtihad (juristic effort to infer expert legal rulings) and is correct, he will receive a double reward; and if he gives a verdict after making Ijtihad but his verdict is wrong, even then he will receive one reward. (Agreed upon by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.