Consensus (Ijma)

Consensus, or Ijma, is an Islamic legal principle where scholars agree on a ruling or interpretation of religious law. It serves as a source of guidance when the Quran and Hadith do not provide clear instructions on a particular issue. Ijma reflects a collective agreement among qualified scholars, ensuring that religious practices evolve in a considered and unified manner. This consensus helps maintain consistency and unity within the Muslim community, relying on knowledgeable interpretation rather than individual opinions. Essentially, it is the agreement of respected scholars as a trusted basis for making religious decisions when matters are unresolved by other sources.