A reminder to say “I don't know” - assalamualaikum

Assalamualaikum! Lately I’ve noticed a worrying habit: many people acting like muftis or scholars and answering things they’re unsure about, just to look knowledgeable or give a quick ruling. Remember, issuing religious judgments is for those with Ilm and training. It’s better to only speak with certainty, inshaAllah. To show the value of admitting ignorance, think of Imam Malik (may Allah have mercy on him). He was a major Imam of Ahl as-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah and one of the founders of the four madhahib, yet he was known for saying “I do not know” when he didn’t have knowledge. There’s a report where a man traveled six months to ask him a question, and Malik answered, “I do not know it,” then told the man to tell his people the same - that Malik said “I do not know.” That humility from such a great scholar teaches us how careful we must be with our words. Our tongues can lead us astray. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) warned that people will be thrown into Hell because of what comes out of their mouths. He advised keeping the tongue in check as something that holds all the important acts together. Mu'adh ibn Jabal asked the Prophet about actions that lead to Jannah, and among the guidance the Prophet gave, he emphasized controlling the tongue. He even took hold of his tongue and said, “Keep this in control.” Also, scholars like Al-Sha’bi said, “The statement ‘I do not know’ is one half of knowledge.” So let’s try to be humble: say “I don’t know” when we truly don’t, seek knowledge from qualified people, and avoid giving fatwas or firm answers without proper knowledge. May Allah grant us sincerity and sound understanding, and save our tongues from causing harm. Ameen.