CSS 2018 Solved Islamiyat Past Papers | Ijtihad in Contemporary World under Islam
The following question of Islamiat is solved by Miss Ayesha Irfan, the highest scorer in CSS Islamiat. Moreover, the question is attempted on the same pattern taught by Sir Syed Kazim Ali to his students, scoring the highest marks in compulsory subjects for years. This solved past paper question is uploaded to help aspirants understand how to crack a topic or question, how to write relevantly, what coherence is, and how to include and connect ideas, opinions, and suggestions to score the maximum.
Question Breakdown
The examiner asked about the term “Ijtihad.” However, if you want to get ahead in Islamic studies, you should provide a comprehensive explanation of Ijtehad in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah. Furthermore, elucidating its current relevance within the framework of Islamic Fiqh could serve as the benchmark for this question.
Outline
1-Introduction
2-Concept of Ijtihad and its principles in Islam
3-Importance of ijtihad according to the Quran and Sunnah
4- Contemporary importance of ijtihad in the light of Islamic Fiqh
- ✓Improving justice in Islamic societies through ijtihad
- ✓Solution to political unrest
- ✓Solution to evolving social issues
- ✓Combating humanitarian issues and warfare
- ✓Fostering Globalization and unity through ijtihad
- ✓Resolving economic challenges
- ✓Empowering women in Islam
- ✓Sunni-Shia reconciliation through ijtihad
5- Critical analysis
6- Conclusion
Answer to the Question
Introduction
Ijtihad, a secondary source of Islamic law, is a legislative process which makes the legal system of Islam dynamic and enables Muslim scholars to interpret and apply Islamic principles to contemporary issues from particular academic research and intellectual efforts. Mujtahids are always present to answer inquiries and cope with emerging issues in Islamic society. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged the mujtahid to use his faculties to find out the solution to the question, if it is not available in Quran and Sunnah. However, it must be kept in mind that the struggle to find out legal issues must be subservient to the Quran and Sunnah (SAW) and should not be contradictory to these two essential sources of Islam. In the modern era, ijtihad is a pivotal tool to maintain Islamic law’s remains relevant in ever-changing social, political, and economic contexts, fostering adaptability while upholding Islamic values. As it builds a bridge between eternally valid divine injunctions and time-specific requirements of every age, it is the key to providing an Islamic interpretation of modern developments and circumstances.
Concept of Ijtihad and its principles in Islam
Ijtihad is derived from the Arabic word ‘jahada’ meaning “to strive or attempt”. The term is used particularly in such occasions where rigorous efforts are involved. Imam Ghazali (a philosopher of the Islamic golden age) defines ijtihad as expanding one’s capacity to the utmost in a particular matter. Some scholars describe it as a means of expanding to the fullest capacity by the mujtahid to acquire shariah knowledge. In Islamic jurisprudence, it enables scholars to derive legal rulings in cases where the Qur’an and Sunnah are silent. The Quran provides a solid foundation for ijtihad,
“As for those who strive in us, we surely guide them to our path”
(Surah al Ankaboot)
This verse highlights the importance of intellectual striving and critical thinking in Islamic scholarship to meet the increasing legal requirements of society in the future. Consequently, ijtihad is a fundamental tool of legislative system that involves various methodologies such as analogy, consensus, and personal reasoning to form judgments that uphold Islamic principles.
Importance of ijtihad according to Quran and Sunnah
Ijtihad, as an essential element of law and legislation, is supported by both the Quran and Hadith. The Quran has recognized the necessity of independent judgment in the following verse,
“And when there comes to them tidings of safety or fear, they spread it all around, whereas if they had referred to the Prophet (SAW) and to such other persons as are in authority those among them who can search out the Knowledge of it, would have known it”
(Quran, al-Nisa)
This verse emphasizes the importance of verifying information and referring to authorities for guidance. Ijtihad is expressly recognized in the Hadith as a method of decision-making in situations, whereas the Quran and Hadith provide no clear clue. The following Hadith is regarded as the basis of Ijtihad in Islamic Jurisprudence: On being appointed as the Governor of Yemen, Hz. Muaz (RA) was asked by the Prophet (SAW) “O Muaz, by what Rule would you be guided”? He replied, “By the Law of the Quran, But if you find no direction therein? Asked the Prophet (SAW); then I will act according to the Sunnah (SAW) of the Prophet, replied Muaz. But what if that also does not find? He was again asked. Then I will exercise my judgment and act accordingly, was the reply. The Prophet raised his hands in satisfaction and thankfulness to God and uttered, “Praise be to Allah, who guides the Messenger of His Apostle as He pleases.” Therefore, ijtihad is done in the light of the Quran and Sunnah for those having knowledge of the Book of Allah if ruling is not found in the Quran and Hadith.
Contemporary importance of ijtihad in the light of Islamic Fiqh
There are many problems Muslim society is facing today in political, economic, and social spheres that can only be solved by resorting to Ijtihad, especially in those matters where there is found no Clear either from the Quran or the Sunnah of the Prophet. In the modern era, ijtihad is still somewhat relevant in contemporary issues regardless of what religion anyone followed.
- Improving justice in Islamic societies through ijtihad
Ijtihad, independent reasoning, is an essential tool for promoting justice in Islamic societies by interpreting Islamic principles. In Islam, judgment is emphasized through Islamic fiqh, ijtihad and shura, with the Quran urging believers to stand firm for justice. Ijtihad fosters a more just and equitable society.
“Be just, that is nearer to righteousness.”
(5:8)
Historically, Caliph Umar Ibn Abdul Aziz (717-720 CE) exemplified Ijtihad-based justice by eliminating unjust taxes, protecting minority rights, promoting social welfare, and ensuring fair resource distribution. Through Ijtihad, Muslim societies can deal with current-era challenges, promote human rights and dignity, foster harmony, and uphold Quranic ideals of justice and righteousness, creating a more just and peaceful world.
- The solution to political unrest
Political unrest and corruption are the major today issues in many Muslim countries today, and ijtihad can play an important role in addressing issues related to political unrest like corruption, the method of election to the assemblies and the head of the State, the system of adult franchise in the context of the practice of western democracy as prevalent in several Muslim countries in today’s world. The Quran emphasizes justice and Shura (consultation) as essential principles of governance
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice…”
(4:58)
Moreover, during the Caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab, consultation with the people, including public gatherings, was a key element of political decision-making. Today, ijtihad can be applied to contemporary political challenges by encouraging democratic participation and adapting Islamic principles to modern governance systems. Scholars can use ijtihad to establish frameworks that ensure transparency, accountability, and justice in political systems, helping to address the root causes of unrest.
- The solution to evolving social issues
Islamic scholars can discuss contemporary social issues like social justice, racial discrimination, and gender equality through ijtihad. The Quran promotes equality and justice
“O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you…”
(Quran 49:13)
Social harmony is exemplified by the values outlined in the Medina Charter of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which permitted diverse communities to coexist. Scholars can ensure that Muslims live according to ethical standards in the changing social circumstances by employing ijtihad to issue, that remain rooted in Islam’s core principles.
- Combating with humanitarian issues and warfare
The Quran and Sunnah prioritize peace, justice, and humanitarianism. Even in conflict, Islam mandates the protection of civilians, fair treatment of prisoners, and minimizing harm
“And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah…”
(Quran 8:61)
The rules of warfare established by Abu Bakr al-Siddiq emphasized ethical acts in battle. Ijtihad can be employed to redefine the Muslim response to modern warfare, terrorism, and humanitarian crises. Today, scholars can provide guidance on ethical responses to warfare and occupation, emphasizing diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and peacebuilding based on Islamic principles.
- Fostering Globalization and unity through ijtihad
The Muslim world is now more influenced by a diverse range of cultural, political, and economic factors due to globalization. However, ijtihad enables Muslims to engage with globalization while adhering to Islamic principles. Moreover, the Quran promotes open mindedness:
“Say, ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’ Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding”
(39:9)
Using ijtihad to integrate knowledge without compromising faith, Islamic scholars engaged with Greek philosophy, Indian mathematics, and Persian literature during the Abbasid Caliphate, a period of intellectual flourishing in history. Similarly, while preserving Islamic identity, contemporary Muslim scholars can use ijtihad to promote cultural, educational, and economic exchanges within the framework of globalization. Consequently, this fosters unity and cross-border cooperation while balancing the demands of a globalized world with the preservation of fundamental Islamic values.
- Resolving economic challenges
Islamic economics encourages the distribution of wealth, justice, and the well-being of the less fortunate and prohibits Riba (interest). A fair economic system is described in the Quran as follows
“…so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you.”
(Quran 59:7)
Welfare programs were established during the Umar Caliphate, providing for the needy through Zakat and other charitable giving. Ijtihad is necessary today to create Islamic finance and banking models that prevent interest while promoting economic expansion. Ijtihad has been used by contemporary academics to develop financial systems that adhere to Sharia law and strike a balance between Islamic principles and economic necessities. Therefore, ijtihad continues to be essential in addressing unemployment, wealth inequality, and poverty by adapting historical concepts to meet current global economic challenges.
- Empowering women in Islam
Islam has traditionally given women more power through social interaction, property rights, and education. The Quran affirms the equal spiritual status of men and women
“Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while being a believer – We will surely cause him to live a good life”
(Quran 16:97)
During the Prophet’s lifetime, women like Khadijah and Aisha played important roles; Aisha even rose to prominence as a scholar. Ijtihad can be used in the present to oppose societal norms that restrict women’s rights and promote their participation in leadership, education, and the economy. Therefore, modern scholars can ensure women’s complete empowerment in accordance with Islamic principles while adapting to the current environment by reinterpreting certain aspects of Islamic jurisprudence through the use of ijtihad.
- Sunni-Shia reconciliation through ijtihad
Sectarian differences between Sunni and Shia Muslims have been a source of conflict in many parts of the Muslim world. The Quran emphasizes unity and avoiding division:
“And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided…”
(Quran 3:103)
Historically, there have been periods of coexistence and intellectual exchange between Sunni and Shia scholars, especially during the Abbasid era. Scholars from both traditions can engage in dialogue, focus on shared beliefs (such as the Five Pillars of Islam), and strive towards reconciliation through ijtihad. Ijtihad can be used to re-interpret contentious historical and theological differences in a way that emphasizes unity, tolerance, and mutual respect. Modern initiatives, such as intersect dialogue,e can promote harmony and understanding between people, based on ijtihad’s principles of intellectual re-evaluation and cooperation.
Critical analysis
For sure, ijtihad is still applicable in today’s world. It remains highly relevant in today’s world, fostering dynamic Islamic thought and addressing emerging challenges. Its adaptability enables Islamic scholarship to stay abreast of contemporary issues, ensuring the continued relevance of Islamic principles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ijtihad is a vital and crucial aspect of Islamic jurisprudence, offering flexibility in addressing contemporary issues while maintaining the integrity of Islamic issues. Ijtihad bridges the gap between eternal divine injunctions and time-specific requirements, ensuring Islamic law’s continued relevance. It addresses political unrest, social issues, humanitarian crises, globalization, economic challenges, women’s empowerment, and Sunni-Shia reconciliation.
CSS Solved Past Papers’ Essays
Looking for the last ten years of CSS and PMS Solved Essays and want to know how Sir Kazim’s students write and score the highest marks in the essays’ papers? Then, click on the CSS Solved Essays to start reading them.
CSS Solved Essays
CSS Solved Islamiyat Past Papers
Want to read the last ten years’ Islamiyat Solved Past Papers to learn how to attempt them and to score high? Let’s click on the link below to read them all freely. All past papers have been solved by Pakistan’s top CSS Islamiyat coach having the highest score of their students.
CSS Solved Islamiyat
CSS Solved General Science & Ability Past Papers
Want to read the last ten years’ General Science & Ability Solved Past Papers to learn how to attempt them and to score high? Let’s click on the link below to read them all freely. All past papers have been solved by Pakistan’s top CSS GSA coach having the highest score of their students.
CSS Solved General Science & Ability
