Understanding Of Ijtihād From The Mind Of Sister In Islam: A Critical Analysis

Zuraidah, Kamaruddin and Rahimah, Embong and Sakinah, Salleh and Zurita, Mohd.Yusoff and Wan Zailan Kamaruddin, Wan Ali (2015) Understanding Of Ijtihād From The Mind Of Sister In Islam: A Critical Analysis. In: Proceedings of ICIC2015 – International Conference on Empowering Islamic Civilization in the 21st Century, 6 - 7 September 2015, UNISZA.

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Abstract

The human problems are not endless and keep on changing in accordance with their current needs, times and circumstances. Yet, disputes among humankind regarding their matters of life will continue to exist. In Islam, the use of reasoning (ijtihād) is permissible and necessary in solving human problems, finding answers and reaching conclusions. In Malaysia, the need of using ijtihād is promoted by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) called “Sisters in Islam” (SIS). This NGO offers alternative solutions for any current problems facing Muslim society. Since the method of problem solving in Islam is significant to ensure the given solution does not contradict with Islamic principles. This article aims to examine the concept of ijtihād as interpreted by SIS and then, it analyzes the method of problem solving through ijtihād exercised by SIS. The method of this study is critical analysis by analyzing same related statements presented by its founding member named Zainah Anwar in Musawah, an initiative of Sisters in Islam (SIS Forum Malaysia). Her ideas and understanding have been analyzed from the Islamic thought perspective. There are two main findings of the analysis, the first is misunderstanding of the categorization relating to the matter of ijtihād and the second is the inconsistency of the methods of problem solving through ijtihad with Islamic principles. Notwithstanding the use of Ijtihād is vital to understand and derive Islamic rulings, certain methods must be followed accordingly. Thus, every proponents of SIS must have a clear understanding about the concept of ijtihād and its proper methods in practicing ijtihād. This is because their answers and proposed solutions can give a big impact to the beliefs and practices of Muslim society in Malaysia

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