The Most Important and Prominent Sources of Contemporary Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh)
The Most Important and Prominent Sources of Contemporary Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh)
Contemporary Islamic jurisprudence represents a scholarly renewal within Islamic law, addressing modern-day issues through a methodological approach that respects the immutable principles of Sharia while considering changing circumstances.
To properly understand contemporary fiqh, one must be familiar with its core sources and foundations of derivation:
The Quran and Sunnah: These remain the primary sources of Islamic law, forming the fundamental reference base that contemporary jurisprudence adheres to. The Quran and the Prophet’s teachings provide unchangeable principles.
Consensus (Ijma’): The agreement among scholars from various eras on a specific legal ruling continues to play a vital role in reinforcing certainty in legal matters, especially new issues.
Analogy (Qiyas): This is used to apply existing legal rulings to new cases by analogy, enabling contemporary fiqh to address situations not explicitly covered by the primary texts.
Public Interest (Maslahah) and Objectives of Sharia (Maqasid): These play an increasingly significant role, whereby rulings aim to protect societal welfare and align with Sharia’s higher objectives, especially in issues like modern technology, environment, and economics.
Ijtihad (Independent Reasoning): Ijtihad is the main tool for jurisprudential renewal, requiring deep scholarly expertise to interpret texts in ways relevant to contemporary contexts.
Contemporary Fatwas: These are rulings issued by scholarly bodies on new issues, reinforcing the role of contemporary fiqh in guiding Muslim societies.
Comparative Jurisprudence: Studying differing opinions across Islamic schools enriches jurisprudential reasoning and broadens understanding.
Contemporary fiqh is dynamic and responsive to modern challenges, offering innovative and applicable solutions aligned with justice and sustainable development.
At ARID International University for Higher Studies, advanced programs in contemporary fiqh prepare scholars and researchers to engage with new-age issues responsibly and effectively.
For registration and inquiries about the programs of the College of Sharia and Legal Studies at Arid International University for Graduate Studies, you can visit the College of Sharia and Legal Studies portal via the following link:
https://ariduniversity.com/Services/Details/9
