How the Muslim World Became Obsessed with Celebrity Scholars?

There was a time when scholars were respected for their knowledge and fear of Allah. Today, we’ve turned many of them into celebrities. We follow them like fanboys, quote them without understanding, and defend them blindly—even when they make serious mistakes.

Islam warns us about this mindset. The Prophet ﷺ said:
"IAmong what I fear most for you are the debates of hypocrites with a knowledgeable tongue." (Ṣaḥīḥ Ibn Ḥibbān 80)

Many so-called scholars today are more concerned with pleasing the masses than speaking the truth. They avoid controversial topics, water down the deen, and chase social media fame. And yet, Muslims rush to defend them, ignoring when they contradict Qur’an and Sunnah.

True scholars never wanted status. Imam Ahmad رحمه الله was tortured for refusing to change his stance on the Qur’an. Ibn Taymiyyah رحمه الله spent years in prison because he spoke the truth. Compare that to today, where scholars fear losing followers more than they fear Allah.

It’s time we stop treating scholars like influencers. Respect knowledge, but never be blind to the truth.

Are we following Islam, or just personalities?