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Virtues of the Ulama (scholars of Islam):

Love. ‘Be an Alim (scholar of Islam) or a student. And if you are unable to do so, then love the Ulama and do not bear hatred and malice against them.’ (Majma)

Difference. Once a person came to Ibn Masood radhiallahu anhu to ask how a particular verse of the Quraan should be read. When Ibn Masood radhiallahu anhu recited it, the person said that Umar radhiallahu anhu recited it in a different fashion. Ibn Masood radhiallahu anhu began to weep and said: ‘Recite it as Umar radhiallahu anhu had recited it to you.’ He then mentioned Umar radhiallahu anhu’s contribution to Islam. When differences arise, we need to respect the scholar’s contribution to Islam and his knowledge.

Ignorance. Ali radhiallahu anhu said: ‘The ignorant ones are enemies to the men of knowledge.’

Fear of disbelief. Fatawa Alamghir: ‘There is fear of disbelief against that person who harbours hatred against any Alim (scholar) without any acceptable, clear reason.’

Hypocrites. ‘There are three persons whom none but hypocrites can look upon as insignificant … the second is the men of knowledge (Alim) …’ (Targheeb)

Enmity. ‘Be an Alim or a student or a listener to the discourses of knowledge or one who loves the men of knowledge. And be not a fifth one (who bears hatred for the Ulama) for then you will meet with destruction.’ (Hadith)