Yahya bin Said al-Qattaan (Rahmatullahi alayh)

Yahya Bin Said Al-Qattaan (Rahmatullahi alayh) was a prominent scholar of Deen of the second century (120-198 H). He was an expert and a professional in the field of Hadith. Imam Ahmad Bin Hambal (Rahimahullah) had great admiration for him. Imam Ahmad Bin Hambal (Rahimahullah) said: "I have never seen the like of Yahya Bin Said Al-Qattaan (Rahmatullahi alayh)."

What is more surprising is that despite the vast knowledge of Yahya Bin Said Al-Qattaan (Rahmatullahi alayh) in the field of ​​Hadith, he was giving judgement and Fatwa according to the opinion of Imam Abu Hanifah (Rahimahullah).

Likewise, we have the example of great scholars in the field of Hadith who have always felt the necessity to follow one of these 4 Imams.

It is true that not everyone knows the value of a true pearl. If these scholars felt the necessity to follow these Imams, it is because they must have perceived something. They must have found themselves incapable to a certain degree whereby they have understood the need and the necessity of the support of one who has more knowledge.

If today one sees that one does not need this, it is not because one acquired a lot of knowledge or one has exceeded them in knowledge. But rather it is due to a shortcoming in oneself that renders one incapable to see that which they saw and understood. It is by dint of knowledge that they have seen the necessity and it is due to lack of knowledge that nowadays, one ignores this necessity. Therefore, to feel such a need is an indication of wisdom and intelligence of the person and to ignore it is an indication of the opposite.

 [English version of "Yahya bin Saïd Al-Qattaan (r)" – Al Jamiat – Vol.5 No.14]