Question
Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) said: “I would spend three years thinking about one question before coming to a firm conclusion.”
Is there any reference for this quote?
Answer
Imam Ibnul Jawzi (rahimahullah) has recorded this statement of Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah).
Imam Ahmad ibn Hambal (rahimahullah) said: “At times, I would spend three years [pondering/researching over] an issue before coming to a firm conclusion.”
(Manaqibul Imam Ahmad, pg. 359)
This demonstrates the piety and extreme measure of caution Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) would exercise at times before coming to a conclusive verdict.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar