Does a Muslim take the safer course when scholars differ, in order to avoid doubtful matters?

The questioner : The questioner says: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: Many people do not know them, so whoever avoids doubtful matters has protected his religion and his honor. This is a hadith. Does this mean that in any disagreement between scholars, a person should take the position of the predecessors among them to avoid doubtful matters?

The Shaykh : There is scholarly disagreement on this issue, and it is one of the topics studied by students of knowledge. Some scholars say one should take the easier option, because the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) never had a choice between two matters except that he chose the easier of them, as long as it was not a sin. Others say one should take the stricter option, based on the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): "Leave what makes you doubt for what does not make you doubt." In my view, after looking into it, equality in every aspect does not exist. However, when looking at the similar evidence and comparing it with the general principles of the Shari'ah and the comprehensive fundamentals, it becomes clear which of the two opinions is closer to the truth, and one should follow that.