Fragmentation of Ijtihad, and its Relationship to Calamities (A Fundamentalist Study)

Abstract

The divisibility of ijtihad and its relation to nawazil: a legal-theory study

This study aims to examine the true nature of ijtihad, the ruling on it and the requirements of the mujtahid. It explores an important aspect of this subject, namely: the divisibility of ijtihad, attempting to reach conclusive answers on this issue while considering the causes behind the differences of opinion with respect to it. It traces the various opinions, ascribes them to their respective authors, cites their arguments and evidences, before presenting the preponderant and most accurate view (in the researchers' opinion.

This study also seeks to examine the link between the divisibility of ijtihad and nawazil (catastrophes), by exploring the nature of the latter and why their occurrence is currently prevalent, and what bearing - if any - the belief in the divisibility of ijtihad has on nawazil. Allah knows best.