The Craft of Issuing Fatwas

MASSIVE progress in science and technology and the diversity of people's novel needs with their consequent multiple and different circumstances, have led Muslims to seek God's prescribed rulings (Ahkam) so as to distinguish between those matters which are lawful or unlawful, valid or invalid, and acceptable or rejected. The people seek the religious advice in these matters, after the Messenger of God , from the muftis who are known for their knowledge and piety. They are those who are specialized in dictating the rules of God from primary texts, the Qur`an and sunna, through the tedious process of istinbat Shri'I (deducting rulings from textual evidences) as per the words of God the Almighty, "So ask the people of knowledge if you know not." (Qur`an 16: 43)

Given the importance of the ifta` (issuing fatwas) the lives of Muslims and, because it is not an easy process such that anyone can be bold enough to undertake or rush to claim their ability therein, it is necessary to introduce this important craft which is indispensable for the entire Muslim community and focus on its essence, conditions, and methodology; its elements and etiquettes with respect to the mufti and mustafti (inquirer or person soliciting a fatwa) as well as mention its stages; the extent of the change in fatwa with time, place, people and circumstances; and finally how it takes into account the higher objectives of shari'a. 

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