
Islamic legal theory
Islamic legal theory, known as Usul al-Fiqh, refers to the principles and methodologies used to derive Islamic law (Sharia) from its sources: the Quran, the Hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad), consensus (ijma), and analogy (qiyas). It involves interpreting these texts to address legal and ethical issues within Muslim society. Scholars analyze language, context, and tradition to form rulings on diverse matters, ranging from personal conduct to societal regulations. The framework balances tradition with contemporary needs, reflecting the dynamic nature of Islamic jurisprudence while maintaining core values.