Concept of Fiqh in Islam

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Fiqh is the Islamic science of jurisprudence that deals with the understanding and application of Islamic law (Sharia) to everyday life. It is based on the Quran, Sunnah, and the consensus of Muslim scholars (ijma). Fiqh scholars use a variety of methods to derive rulings on specific issues, including analogy (qiyas), juristic preference (istihsan), and public interest (maslahah).

Fiqh is an important part of Islam because it provides guidance on how to live a life that is pleasing to Allah. It covers a wide range of topics, including prayer, fasting, charity, marriage, divorce, inheritance, and criminal law. Fiqh scholars also issue fatwas, which are legal opinions on specific issues.

There are four main schools of fiqh in Sunni Islam: Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali. Each school has its own unique approach to deriving rulings, but they all agree on the basic principles of Islamic law. Shia Islam also has its own school of fiqh, known as Ja'fari fiqh.

Fiqh is a dynamic discipline that continues to evolve as new challenges and situations arise. Fiqh scholars are constantly reinterpreting the Quran and Sunnah to find new ways to apply Islamic law to the modern world.

Here are some examples of fiqh rulings:

Prayer: Muslims are required to pray five times a day. Fiqh scholars have determined the specific times for prayer and the specific procedures that must be followed.


Fasting: Muslims are required to fast during the month of Ramadan. Fiqh scholars have determined the rules for fasting, such as what foods and drinks are allowed and what are not.


Charity: Muslims are required to give charity to the poor and needy. Fiqh scholars have determined the amount of charity that must be given and how it should be distributed.


Marriage: Muslims are required to get married before they have sexual relations. Fiqh scholars have determined the requirements for a valid marriage, such as the consent of the bride and groom and the payment of a dowry.


Divorce: Muslims are allowed to get divorced, but it is a serious matter and should only be done as a last resort. Fiqh scholars have determined the conditions under which a divorce is permissible and the procedures that must be followed.


Inheritance: When a Muslim dies, their assets are divided among their heirs according to Islamic law. Fiqh scholars have determined the rules of inheritance, such as who is entitled to inherit and how the assets should be divided.


Criminal law: Muslims who commit crimes are subject to punishment under Islamic law. Fiqh scholars have determined the types of crimes that are punishable and the appropriate punishments.

Fiqh is a complex and nuanced discipline, but it is an essential part of Islam. It provides guidance on how to live a life that is pleasing to Allah and to be a good Muslim.