regarding how a student of knowledge should discuss with his shaykh who calls to his innovation, such as if he were teaching an Ash'ari methodology.
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The student: In countries other than this one, for example, there are scholars well-versed in certain sciences, but for example, they may be Mu'tazilah or Ash'ari. So during the lesson, they may teach the school of thought. If a student of knowledge knows the truth in this issue, should he discuss it with his shaykh, especially since the shaykh may be advanced in age and it may be difficult for him to return from his opinion?
The Shaykh : First of all, there is no doubt that those who call to religious innovation should be avoided, and sustenance is from Allah, even if they are scholars in grammar and rhetoric, for there is no good in them. These are the ones who call to it. As for those who do not call to their innovation and conceal it, there is no harm in sitting with them in what is beneficial. But if you see that they have strayed from the straight path, you must warn them. However, do not warn them in front of the students, because a person may be overcome by arrogance in sin, especially if he sees himself as distinguished in one of the sciences. If a student of knowledge comes and refutes him in front of people, it is heavy that he will become inflated and be greater than a mountain and not return. But it is possible to write to him a letter clarifying the truth for him if you are unable to discuss it with him directly. If he is a caller to the religion, do not approach him at all and warn against him, because he is to be feared. Then, if people see that you and so-and-so and so-and-so return to him, they will suspect that he is upon the truth. Do you understand? We ask Allah the Exalted to include us and you in His mercy, and to guide us and you to what He loves and is pleased with.
The Shaykh : First of all, there is no doubt that those who call to religious innovation should be avoided, and sustenance is from Allah, even if they are scholars in grammar and rhetoric, for there is no good in them. These are the ones who call to it. As for those who do not call to their innovation and conceal it, there is no harm in sitting with them in what is beneficial. But if you see that they have strayed from the straight path, you must warn them. However, do not warn them in front of the students, because a person may be overcome by arrogance in sin, especially if he sees himself as distinguished in one of the sciences. If a student of knowledge comes and refutes him in front of people, it is heavy that he will become inflated and be greater than a mountain and not return. But it is possible to write to him a letter clarifying the truth for him if you are unable to discuss it with him directly. If he is a caller to the religion, do not approach him at all and warn against him, because he is to be feared. Then, if people see that you and so-and-so and so-and-so return to him, they will suspect that he is upon the truth. Do you understand? We ask Allah the Exalted to include us and you in His mercy, and to guide us and you to what He loves and is pleased with.