Study of the development of reformist Ijtihad and some of its applications in the twentieth century

Abstract

This study is an attempt to explain the necessity of iltihäd (i. e., the jurists' effort to deduce the rules of the shari'a or Islamic law) for the purpose of reforming Muslim society and adjusting it to the modern world.

The study deals first of all with some theoretical issues of iitihad as usually discussed by Muslim jurists in the science of usul al-figh (lit: principles of jurisprudence). This is followed by tracing the development of iitingd in the history of Islam since the time of Prophet Muhammad to the present day.

The decadence of the Muslim intellectual activities in later periods and the subsequent prevalence of taqlid or blind imitation in religious matters which has ever. since taken place in their community are discussed, together, with the detrimental consequences which this situation has produced.

Criticism of taqlid by certain scholars and their efforts to liberate the Muslims from its shackles are also brought into focus.

The Muslims' intellectual resurgence and their effort to regain their position by means of reactivating iitihad in the modern age are also examined. Some instances of iitihad endeavours regarding issues in different aspects of modern life are analysed. The need for certain methods to be utilized for the purpose of reformation is also explained. Some suggestions are finally made for the promotion of this goal.