How Do You Spell MUJTIHAD?

Pronunciation: [mˈʌd͡ʒtɪhˌad] (IPA)

Mujtihad is a term used in Sunni Islam to refer to a scholar who can exercise independent judgement in interpreting Islamic jurisprudence. The word is pronounced /muˈdʒtæhɪd/ and is spelled with the letters "m," "u," "j," "t," "i," "h," "a," and "d." The "j" is pronounced as a dʒ sound, while the "t" and "h" are pronounced together as a voiceless dental fricative "θ." The "a" is a short vowel pronounced as ə, and the "i" is pronounced as a short "i" sound.

MUJTIHAD Meaning and Definition

1. Mujtihad is a term derived from Arabic that refers to the act of independent reasoning or interpretation of Islamic law (Shariah) by qualified Muslim scholars. In Islamic jurisprudence, mujtihad is the process of using logical deduction and personal judgment in deriving legal rulings from the Quran, Hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad), consensus (ijma'), and analogical reasoning (qiyas).

   A mujtahid is an individual who possesses the necessary expertise and qualifications to engage in independent reasoning and to derive legal opinions as a mujtihad. This includes having extensive knowledge of the sources of Islamic law and the principles of jurisprudence. Mujtahids play a crucial role in the Islamic legal system as they provide legal guidance and rulings in areas not explicitly addressed by the primary sources of Islamic law.

   The practice of mujtihad has historically been associated with Sunni and Shia legal traditions, where prominent scholars known as mujtahids have emerged over centuries. Their intellectual contributions and interpretations have shaped the development of Islamic legal thought and continue to influence contemporary debates.

   Mujtihad is regarded as a higher level of legal scholarship within Islamic jurisprudence, indicating the ability to delve into complex legal issues and make reasoned judgments based on Islamic principles. It represents the ongoing effort to apply Islamic law in different social and cultural contexts, ensuring relevance and adaptability while maintaining fidelity to the foundational sources of Islamic jurisprudence.

Common Misspellings for MUJTIHAD

• mujtihyad
• mutihad

Etymology of MUJTIHAD

The word "mujtahid" (spelled as mujtahid or mujtahid) is an Arabic word that has its roots in the Arabic verb "ijtahada", which means "to strive" or "to exert oneself". In Islamic law, a mujtahid refers to a scholar who strives to derive legal rulings and interpretations from the Quran and the Hadith (teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad).

The term mujtahid comes from the root letters "J-H-D" (ج-ه-د) which carry the basic meaning of striving or making an effort. The prefix "mu" added to the verb, transforms it into a noun, indicating a person who performs the action of striving or making an effort. Therefore, the word "mujtahid" essentially means "one who exerts effort" or "one who strives".