Definition and Meaning
Ijma (إجماع): Ijma signifies consensus or agreement within the Islamic legal tradition. It forms one of the four foundational sources of Sunni law, alongside the Quran, Sunnah, and Qiyas (analogical reasoning). Ijma comes into play particularly in cases where the Quran and Sunnah don’t explicitly address an issue.
Etymology and Background
Ijma is derived from the Arabic root j-m-‘ (جمع), which translates to “to gather” or “agree upon.” This linguistic connection underscores the collective nature of the concept, focusing on unity and common agreement.
Historical Context
Historically, the validity and scope of Ijma have been subjects of significant debate among Islamic scholars. The Sunnis widely regard it as authoritative, believing in a hadith where Prophet Muhammad stated, “My community will never agree on an error.” This underpins the belief in the collective infallibility of the Muslim community.
In the formative period of Islamic jurisprudence (8th–10th centuries CE), prominent figures like Imams Abu Hanifa, Malik ibn Anas, Al-Shafi‘i, and Ahmad ibn Hanbal articulated various interpretations and applications of Ijma.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Sunni Islam
In Sunni Islam, there’s a predominant agreement that only the consensus of scholars, known as ulama, is deemed authoritative. Here, Ijma can involve the Companions of the Prophet, the people of Medina, or the Prophet’s family.
Shia Islam
Contrarily, Twelver Shiism does not accord Ijma the same authoritative weight, arguing it’s not an infallible source, but rather reinforces existing laws when in agreement.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Shura (شورى): Consultation – Related to the concept of mutual decision-making.
- Ijtihad (اجتهاد): Independent reasoning – Reflects scholarly efforts to resolve new issues.
- Qiyas (قياس): Analogical reasoning – One of the other sources of Islamic law.
Exciting Facts
- Universal Agreement: If an Ijma is universally accepted over generations, it becomes an irrefutable precedent.
- Historical Influence: Ijma historically allowed for flexibility in adapting Islamic law to new circumstances without prophetic guidance.
- Modern Adaptation: Modern scholars sometimes employ Ijma to integrate democratic and consultative practices into Islamic governance.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Al-Ghazali: “Ijma is the third pillar of fundamental principles [of law], upon it so many matters depend in the Shariah.”
- Imam Shafi‘i: “There is no Ijma possible unless there is absolute and unanimous agreement.”
Recommended Literature
- “Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Mohammad Hashim Kamali: An extensive insight into Islamic legal theory.
- “Islamic Jurisprudence: Muslim Conduct of State and Legal Theory” by Farhad Nemati: Detailed exploration of Ijma among other foundational principles.
- “Islamic Law and Society” by Joseph Schacht: An academic perspective on the socio-legal components of Islamic jurisprudence.
Ijma Across Different Languages and Cultures:
- Arabic: إجماع
- Urdu: اجماع
- Persian: اجماع
- Indonesian: Ijmak
- Bengali: ইজমা (Ijma)
- Turkish: İcma
- Swahili: Uamuzi wa pamoja/ Ijma
Thank you for exploring the profound concept of Ijma with us. As we continue to seek knowledge and understanding, may we always find the truth illuminated by the wisdom of our collective learning.
Author: Nasreen Al-Rasheed
Date: 2023-10-12
