Definition

Noun: 1. The independent reasoning or effort by a qualified Islamic scholar (mujtahid) to derive a specific legal ruling from the foundational sources of Islamic law, primarily the Quran and the Sunnah (Hadith). This process involves interpretation and juristic reasoning when no clear, explicit ruling exists in the sacred texts. 2. The product or outcome of such scholarly effort, i.e., the legal ruling or opinion itself.

Usage

• Ijtihad is a technical term in Islamic jurisprudence (). It is the methodological process used to address new questions and circumstances not directly covered by existing rulings.
• The scholar performing ijtihad is called a mujtahid.
• The concept is often contrasted with , which means following the established rulings of earlier scholars.

Examples

• The scholar engaged in ijtihad to determine the permissibility of a new financial transaction.
• Some contemporary issues require fresh ijtihad rather than reliance on centuries-old legal opinions.
• His ijtihad on the matter was widely respected, though debated by other jurists.

Advanced Usage

• The "closing of the gates of ijtihad": A historical concept suggesting that around the 10th century, Sunni Muslim authorities declared that all major legal questions had been resolved and independent reasoning was no longer permissible, leading to a rigidification of law. Many modern historians argue this "closing" was not absolute or universally accepted.
• Reopening ijtihad: A call by many modern and reformist Muslim thinkers to revive the practice of independent juristic reasoning to make Islamic law relevant to the contemporary world.

Variants and Related Words

• Mujtahid (noun): A qualified Islamic scholar who is capable of performing ijtihad.
• Ijtihadi (adjective): Relating to or based on ijtihad (e.g., an ruling).
• Taqlid (noun): The opposite practice; the following of established legal precedent without independent reasoning.

Synonyms

• Independent reasoning
• Juristic effort
• Legal interpretation (within the specific Islamic context)

Notes on Meaning

The term is specific to Islamic legal theory. It does not mean general "interpretation" or "effort" in a secular context. Its core meaning is the disciplined, scholarly endeavor to discern divine law.

Noun

1. the endeavor of a Moslem scholar to derive a rule of divine law from the Koran and Hadith without relying on the views of other scholars; by the end of the 10th century theologians decided that debate on such matters would be closed and Muslim theology and law were frozen
   • some reform-minded Islamic scholars believe that reopening ijtihad is a prerequisite for the survival of Islam