What is the Shari`ah''s stance

Q: I am a seeker of knowledge; I love to learn and I strive hard in the pursuit of knowledge. I attend classes on Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), grammar and Tajwid (reciting the Qur'an following the rules of recitation) given by a Shi`ah (Shi`ites) scholar. Some of my brothers told me that these people slander some of the Sahabah (the Prophet's companions), and in fact I have found that this is true in some cases, however, I am still studying with them. I hope that you can tell me which is best; should I complete my studies with them, or look for other scholars?Moreover, I have pen friends in Iran with whom I exchange political and Islamic books. These books emphasize the sect of Imamis that shows great reverence for Ahl-ul-Bayt (members of the Prophet's extended Muslim family). Should I maintain my communication with them or not?In Ramadan, I read a great deal of the Qur'an, but I found that I make mistakes in my reading. I went to one of the scholars and asked him to teach me, but I discovered that he makes mistakes, and I do not know what to do. In my area there is no hafiz (title given to people who have completely memorized the Qur'an) and during Ramadan I stay in my village. Is it permissible for me to buy tapes of Qur'an or should I look for a scholar who can teach me Qur'an?

A: You have to study with scholars who are known for their knowledge and whose `Aqidah (creed) is sound, (Part No. 12; Page No. 100) and you should keep away from innovators who go against the Ahl-ul-Sunnah (those adhering to the Sunnah). Such people include Shiites and Al-Imamiyyah. You must not study with them, sit with them, correspond with them or read their books, lest they lead you astray from the path of Allah (Exalted be He). Study the Qur'an with a reciter who reads it well and whose `Aqidah and religious commitment are sound. There is no reason why you should not listen to Quran tapes to benefit from them.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions!