The Criticism of the Companion al-Aqrab ibn Habis

Question:
The questioner says: There are those who claim to belong to the da'wah and the callers to it who, in a tape of his, describes the Companion al-Aqrab ibn Habis as "makhbul" or "muhbul." What is obligatory regarding this?

Answer:
This is misguidance, and may Allah protect us from it. It is not permissible to belittle any of the Companions of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), for they have the virtue of companionship. Al-Aqrab ibn Habis (may Allah be pleased with him) has the virtue of companionship; he was a companion of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him). This distinction belongs to no one after the Companions. So we do not belittle the Companions of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), neither in general nor in detail. Rather, we respect them, honor them, and acknowledge that the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) said: And is al-Aqrab ibn Habis not among the Companions of the Messenger? He is among the Companions of the Messenger. The Prophet forbade cursing them. We ask Allah for well-being. Yes.