Is the Shaykh of one who has no Shaykh Shaytan?

Q: It is widespread among some people that the one who has no Shaykh has Shaytan as his Shaykh. So how do you direct them, O Shaykh?

A: This is a common error and ignorance from some of the Sufis, in order to encourage people to associate with them and imitate them in their religious innovations and misguidance. Indeed, if a person gains understanding of his religion by attending religious study circles, or by reflecting upon the Qur'an or the Sunnah and benefiting from them, it is not said that his Shaykh is Shaytan. Rather, it is said that he has exerted effort in seeking knowledge and has attained much good.
A student of knowledge should associate with scholars known for their sound creed and conduct, and ask them about what is difficult for him; because if he does not ask the people of knowledge, he may err greatly and matters may become confused for him.
As for one who attends study circles and hears sermons from the people of knowledge, he thereby attains much good and great benefits, even if he does not have a specific Shaykh. There is no doubt that the one who attends circles of knowledge and hears the Friday sermons, the festival sermons, and the lectures presented in the mosques has many Shaykhs, even if he does not affiliate with a specific one to follow and adhere to his opinion.