Raising the voice in the presence of scholars

Q 2: Does the threat that is mentioned in the Ayah (Qur’anic verse): O you who believe! Raise not your voices above the voice of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) apply to those who raise their voices above the voices of the Prophet’s inheritors, i.e., the scholars, or is it peculiar to the Prophet (peace be upon him)?

A: The threat mentioned in the Ayah, i.e. That good deeds will be rendered fruitless, is only meant for those who raised their voices above the voice of the Prophet (peace be upon him) during his lifetime. As for people other than the Prophet (peace be upon him), whether they are scholars or not, they are not included in the ruling of this Ayah. However, there are other Nas (Islamic texts from the Qur’an or the Sunnah) of the Shari‘ah (Islamic law) that clarify the good manners, shown in words and actions, with which a Muslim should treat people (Part No. 26; Page No. 144) according each person their due respect, as befits their status. This applies especially to the scholars, who are the heirs to the prophets, and should be shown a higher degree of respect and honor than other people. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.