What are the causes of differences of opinion among scholars?

Summary

Differences in understanding the evidence of Islamic law are considered natural because human intellects vary in level, and such differences already occurred in the time of the Prophet and the companions. Causes include understanding of the Arabic language, the Quran's method of stating rulings, the Sunnah not explaining every verse, differing assessment and acceptance of hadith, apparently conflicting evidence, understanding of the Prophet's commands or actions, and whether a type of evidence can be used as proof. Most scholars regard the saying that the community's disagreement is a mercy as having no basis. Disagreements should be handled with proper manners such as sincerity, open-mindedness, avoiding harsh words and respecting the other side.

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