Imaam Ahmad Bin Hambal’s Advice

Is-haaq Bin Raahwaih, who went on to become the Ustaad with probably the most influence on Imaam Bukhari, says: “We were in Makkah Mukarramah. Imaam Ahmad Bin Hambal said to me: ‘O Abu Ya’qoob! Go and sit by this person (referring to Imaam Shaafi’).’ I answered; ‘What benefit is there in it? We are of the same age. And, should I leave Ibn Uyainah and Sa’eed Al-Maqburi [who are Hadeeth-masters]?’

Imaam Ahmad replied: ‘You will not gain the tafaqquh [deep insight and understanding] which Imaam Shaafi’ possesses. On the other hand, the narrations they [Ibn Uyainah and Sa’eed Al-Maqburi] have will eventually be acquired by you.”