Questions on the Explanation of the Book of Nullifiers of Islam

Question:
Does mocking the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) carry the same ruling as mocking the scholars?

Answer:
Mocking the Messenger is certainly more severe. As for mocking the scholars, it is because they are the heirs of the prophets. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “The scholars are the heirs of the prophets.” So the one who mocks the scholars is mocking the heirs of the prophets, and whoever mocks the heirs of the prophets is mocking the prophets. Yes, the reason for the obligation is: why does he mock them? It is only because of their inheritance of knowledge and their carrying of knowledge.