Introduction
The Islamic rule of faith is integral to understanding the intricate tapestry of beliefs and practices that define the religion. This structure is underpinned by what are known as the “four foundations of orthodoxy”:
- The Qurʾān (Kalāmu ‘llāh): The Word of God.
- Ḥadīth: Traditions of the sayings and practices of Prophet Muhammad.
- Ijmāʿ: Consensus of the learned scholars.
- Qiyās: Analogical reasoning by the scholars.
In this essay, we explore these foundations, understanding their roles and importance in shaping Islamic religious tradition.
1. The Qurʾān 📖
Definition and Etymology: The Qurʾān (Arabic: القرآن) is regarded as the literal Word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad over a period of approximately 23 years. The term “Qurʾān” derives from the Arabic root “قرء” (qarā’a), which means “to read” or “to recite”.
Background: Viewed as the ultimate authority in Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and morality, the Qurʾān addresses many facets of human existence, including spirituality, ethics, law, and social issues.
Cultural Impact: The Qurʾān dictates important rituals and practices, influencing art, music, and literature, thus playing a significant role in the cultural life of Muslims worldwide.
Synonyms/Antonyms:
- Synonyms: Kitaab (Book), Mushaf
- Antonyms: Profane, Secular texts
Related Terms:
- Tafsir: Exegesis or explanation of the Qurʾānic text.
- Sunnah: Practices of the Prophet Muhammad comparable to the teachings found in the Qurʾān.
Fact: The preservation of the Qurʾān has been meticulous, with modern copies mirroring ancient manuscripts.
Quotation: “Indeed, this Qurʾān guides to that which is most suitable.” (Qurʾān 17:9)
2. Ḥadīth 📝
Definition and Etymology: The Ḥadīth (Arabic: الحديث, plural Aḥādīs̤) are reports detailing the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad. The term “ḥadīth” stems from the Arabic “حدث” meaning “to report” or “to occur”.
Background: Serving to complement the Qurʾān, the Ḥadīth offers a more detailed guide to daily living and worship, deeply influencing Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh).
Cultural Impact: Authorities and laypeople often refer to Ḥadīth collections when facing religious or personal decisions.
Synonyms/Antonyms:
- Synonyms: Sunnah, Narrations
- Antonyms: False reports, Fabrications
Related Terms:
- Sahih: Authentic
- Da‘if: Weak
- Bukhari, Muslim: Notable collections of Ḥadīth
Fact: The most authoritative collections of Ḥadīth, known as “Sahih” compendiums, were compiled by scholars like Al-Bukhari and Muslim ibn al-Hajjaj.
Quotation: “The Prophet Muhammad said, ‘The strong one is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength, but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger.’” (Ṣaḥīḥ Bukhārī)
3. Ijmāʿ 📜
Definition and Etymology: Ijmāʿ (Arabic: إجماع) signifies the consensus of the Islamic community, particularly scholarly consensus. The word derives from the root “جمع” denoting “to gather” or “to agree upon”.
Background: Ijmāʿ serves as a mechanism to address new issues not explicitly covered in the Qurʾān and Ḥadīth, thereby maintaining a dynamic and relevant religious practice.
Cultural Variations: While the concept of consensus is central to both Sunni and Shia traditions, the extent and sources of authority recognized within it may differ.
Synonyms/Antonyms:
- Synonyms: Consensus, Agreement
- Antonyms: Disagreement, Dissent
Related Terms:
- Ijtihad: Independent reasoning
- Madhhab: Legal school of thought
Fact: Ijmāʿ is often seen as the third-level source of law after the Qurʾān and Ḥadīth.
Quotation: “My community will never agree upon an error.” (Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad)
4. Qiyās 🧠
Definition and Etymology: Qiyās (Arabic: قياس) involves analogical reasoning when deducing Islamic law. It derives from “قاس” which means “to measure” or “to compare”.
Background: Qiyās allows for the extension of Islamic jurisprudence by drawing analogies between new issues and established precedents.
Synonyms/Antonyms:
- Synonyms: Analogy, Deduction
- Antonyms: Literalism, Fixed interpretation
Related Terms:
- Fiqh: Jurisprudence
- ‘Ilm al-Kalam: Islamic theology
Fact: Qiyās’ validity and scope have been widely debated among scholars, particularly between the traditionalists and reformists.
Quotation: “Compare with that, what you see similar and by which you arrive at a correct judgment.” (Umar ibn al-Khattab)
Engaging Titles for Further Exploration
- 🕋 “Embracing Faith: The Foundations of Islamic Belief”
- 📚 “The Qurʾān: A Journey Into The Divine Revelation”
- 🌟 “Ḥadīth: The Key to Understanding Prophetic Teachings”
- 💫 “Ijmāʿ: Unity in Diversity – The Islamic Consensus”
- 🧩 “Qiyās: Bridging Analogies in Islamic Jurisprudence”
Quizzes for Self-Assessment
Suggested Literature and Further Studies 📚
- “The Qurʾān” (Translated by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem) – A comprehensive translation providing deep insights into Islamic scripture.
- “Between Reason and Revelation” by Franz Rosenthal – A scholarly work on the contrast between rationalism and revelation in Islamic thought.
- “The Four Imams” by Muhammad Abu Zahra – An exploration of the lives and thoughts of the founders of the four Sunni schools of thought.
- “Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Muhammad Hashim Kamali – A detailed exploration of Qiyās and other sources of Islamic law.
Farewell Thought
Islamic orthodoxy is a rich and intricate blend of divine revelation, prophetic tradition, scholarly consensus, and reasoned analogy. Each layer strengthens the faith’s foundation and ensures its relevance through time. As the ancient records guide the present and future, let us be inspired by their eternal wisdom and pursue a deeper understanding with open hearts and minds.
Warm Regards,
Muhammad Al-Ghazali 🌟
Published on October 6, 2023
