The Ruling on One Who Curses the Companions

Question:
Is cursing the Companions disbelief in all cases, or is there a distinction?

Answer:
The correct view is that it is disbelief. Whoever curses them in general or hates them has committed disbelief. No one hates them except a disbeliever; for they are the bearers of the Shari'ah.
Q: Is there a difference between the senior Companions and the others?
The Shaykh: The intent is the Companions in general or the majority of them. As for some individuals, such as Mu'awiyah and others besides Mu'awiyah, this is open sinfulness. If one curses any of them, he deserves to be punished with a discretionary punishment and disciplined.
Q: But what if he curses one of the Ten Promised Paradise?
The Shaykh: Even if he curses one, he is an open sinner and deserves to be disciplined.
Q: He is one who has been attested to as being in Paradise?
The Shaykh: Cursing may have causes. However, cursing the majority or cursing them in general indicates doubt in his religion and hatred in the religion.