Re: How to become a scholar?
As for scholars echoing scholars of the past. I think its a brilliant move. Scholars who are traditionalists are able to understand the world we live in today better. This is because they can compare and contrast the people of the past, the history Islam has had, and how it can be applied in this lifetime.
So often do we forget that we are born an this era where alot has changed from times before. We are immune to the evils of society, the unjust systems we live and adhere to in our daily lives. The scholars are aware of it we are not. Thats why their opinion seems strange and out dated, but they have a better grasp due to their knowledge and understanding of the past.
Islam was stronger before, than it is now. We need to learn our history to gain strength today. If we focused on issues at hand today, without knowledge of the framework used back in the day to right the wrong, we will surely be in loss! Which we are.
May Allah bless these scholars, and keep them strong.
They are open minded, they are educated, and if people put aside the stereotype against the "mullahs" which they have been brainwashed into adopting, they will see the illuminating life of this deen, the Scholars of Islam.
Finally, to be a scholar you must have two very important things, Isnad and Ijazah. Permission from a previous scholar, and a lineage of scholarship going back to the Prophet pbuh.
I also would like to ask you regarding Sh. Hamza Yusuf, as he lacks the image of a scholar you described, and is able to do all and more of which you recommended.