By Dr. Yusuf al-Qaradawi1 | Translated, with slight
modifications, by Muslema Purmul Between Absolutism and
Negligence Linguistic definition: Arabic linguists say that
taqlīd is derived from the root word qalāda, which is a necklace
that is fastened around the neck. From it comes the taqlīd of a
road; it is as though the follower fastens the ruling around the
neck of the mujtahid, like a necklace. Technical definition:
Taqlīd is what Imam Ash-Shaukani describes in Sayl Al-Jarrār as
acting upon another’s words without evidence. It is important to
note that this excludes acting upon the sayings of the Prophet
Muhammad ﷺ, acting upon ijmā’ (consensus), a layperson’s acting
upon the fatwa of a mufti, and a judge’s consideration of the
testimony of trustworthy witnesses – as their authority has
already been established. The sayings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
and ijmā’, for those who recognize it, are both clear sources of
authority. A layperson’s acting upon the statement of a mufti
has been approved by ijmā’. As f