When Imaam Maalik (rahimahullah) heard this, he replied, “O Ameer-ul-Mu’mineen! Do not do this! For there are numerous verdicts of Deen that have reached the people, people have heard the Ahaadith of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and are narrating various narrations from the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum). Each group from the people has taken that which has reached them and began practicing upon it, regarding it as their Deen. This knowledge that has reached them is also from the various opinions of the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) and Taabi‘een. For you turn them away from the knowledge that has reached them is not good. Thus leave the people upon the knowledge that they are following from the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum).”

On hearing the reply, Al-Mansoor said, “By my life! Had you consented, I would have issued the instruction (for your kitaab to be followed and all other knowledge to be discarded).”

(Siyar A’laam min Nubalaa 8/78)