Ijtihad and Legislation Sources in Islam

In Islamic law, Ijtihad is the process of legal reasoning and interpretation of the issues that are not clearly covered in the sacred sources. In its literal meaning, the word can be defined as striving or a physical or mental effort. Indeed, using reasoning in finding a solution is a complicated task that can be compared to striving. Ijtihad includes the system of principles, arguments, and methods that help explore social and religious issues. Scholars responsible for such decisions are called mujtahids; they need to understand and operate all principles and values of Islamic jurisprudence. Ijtihad includes the choice of legislative sources, their interpretation, and compromise in the case of disparity.

The Qur’an and Sunnah are the first two sources of Islamic legislation. They are considered the basic sacred scriptures due to their special place in the history of the Muslim religion. The Qur’an is the only Divine Book that contains the summary of previous teachings, purposes of Islamic law, and the values of Islam. It is considered the Final Book since Muhammad was the last Prophet to convey the final message. As for the Sunnah, this holy book refers to the practices of Muhammad himself, and therefore, is valued as an example of behaviour for every Muslim. The prophetic traditions described in the scripture are considered true and undoubtful. Together, the Qur’an and Sunnah make up Sharia, which is a set of Islamic rules and principles that every Muslim needs to follow.