Is it mandatory to follow one of the Four Math-habs?

Answer

Following one of the Four Math-habs is mandatory. Without following one of the Four Math-habs, it is not possible to follow the Sunnah of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). The entire Deen of Islam is encapsulated in the Four Math-habs.

Mixing Math-habs (Talfeeq) is not permissible. All Math-habs are unanimous in condemning Talfeeq. When Math-habs are mixed, one begins to follow the nafs (desire and fancy).

While we believe all Four Math-habs are the Haqq, we do not say that all are correct. Deen is a serious issue. Its teachings may not be subjected to whimsical fancy, desire and convenience. For example, the Hanafis believe that it is not permissible for the Muqtadis to recite Qiraa't in Salaat behind the Imaam. On the contrary, Shaafis believe that it is compulsory to recite Surah Faatihah in every raka't regardless of the Imaam reciting. Now this is a major difference, and there are many such issues of major differences among the Math-habs. It is quite logical that both these opposite views cannot be correct. Only one view is correct. However, since all Math-habs base their rulings on the Qur'aan and Hadith as interpreted and taught by the Sahaabah, we say that they are all on the Haqq.

Consider the example of performing Salaat in the plane. This issue did not exist during the early eras of Islam. The Ulama in this era therefore have formulated their rulings on the basis of the Principles of their respective Math-habs. Now according to us, the Salaat should be performed on time in a plane, but on landing, the Salaat should be repeated on the ground. Other Ulama have ruled that there is no need to repeat the Salaat as it is valid in the air. Since both groups have valid Shar'i basis and their respective arguments are based on sound Deeni premises, we shall not proclaim the different view to be baatil. Both groups are on the Haqq while it is just logical that one view will be incorrect. However, the ordinary people who lack academic knowledge have to follow someone. They are not permitted to practise on the basis of their fancy and their reasoning. Now what is the procedure for them? Obviously they will follow those Ulama from whom they generally acquire their guidance in Deeni issues.

It will not be permissible for them to sometimes follow one group and at another time another group merely because of convenience. If they do so, it will mean that they are following baseless desire. It is therefore necessary to follow one particular Math-hab.