IJTIHAD AND TAQLID IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ISLAMIC JURISPRUDENCE

IJTIHAD AND TAQLID IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ISLAMIC JURISPRUDENCE

Abstract:

Islamic jurisprudence underlies the conception that all phenomena of existence are a Unity. Its control lies solely and absolutely with One and Only Supreme Being – Allah. By His Divine choice and benevolence, He made man His Vicegerent on earth In consequence, all phenomena of existence are made subservient to man by virtue of Trust conferred on him. In this regard, the entire affairs of man are determinate by Allah’s rules with some latitude of freewill. These rules regulate on one hand, the relationship between man and his Creator – Allah and on the other hand, the relationship between man and his fellow human beings and other phenomena of existence. In the final analysis, the peace and success or otherwise of this world rest squarely on how he is able to recognize, appreciate and implement I hose divine rules. And, of course, the sum-total of these will form an integral part of evidence for or against him in determining his eventual end, Hell-fire or Paradise, as the case may be Hence, Allah sent messages of guidance to mankind through the chosen messengers and prophets (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon them all). Prophet Mohammed (SAW.) came to bring into conclusion the messages of Allah by the medium of the Divine Revelation – the Qur’an and the empirical demonstration of his Sunnah. The two constitute the Inner Chamber of Law. To enter this Inner Chamber, one has to go through its door-gate known as ljtihad. In essence, ljtihad constitutes the only gate to the Inner Chamber of the Islamic Law. Islamic Law is not only dynamic but, also relevant at all time and place. It cannot be otherwise.

IJTIHAD AND TAQLID IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ISLAMIC JURISPRUDENCE

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