IJC 404 Contemporary Islamic Jurisprudence and Reasoning (Ijtihad)
HomeIJC 404 Contemporary Islamic Jurisprudence and Reasoning (Ijtihad)
This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) by exploring its theoretical foundations and its relevance in contemporary contexts. Through in-depth exploration, students will engage with the tools of Islamic legal reasoning, known as ijtihad, and delve into the interpretive methodologies of various schools of Islamic law (madhahib). Additionally, students will examine the dynamic relationship between Shariʿah (Islamic law) and the governing systems in different societies. The course places particular emphasis on selected areas of substantive law, including commercial, criminal, and family laws. Students will critically review the dominant tools of legal interpretation in Islam, such as the principles governing the interpretation of the Qurʾan and Prophetic tradition (hadith), as well as analogical reasoning (qiyas) and consensus (ijma’). By analyzing these methodologies, students will gain insights into the diverse rationales employed by modern jurists and their impact on contemporary Islamic law. Developing critical thinking skills, students will analyze and evaluate modern initiatives in Islamic legal and political reform. They will compare and contrast the workings of modern jurisprudence with those of classical and pre-modern times, enabling them to offer their own critiques of different approaches. The course fosters an environment where students can engage in thoughtful discussions and reflections on the complexities and implications of contemporary Islamic jurisprudence. Throughout the course, students will also focus on specific doctrinal areas, including commercial, family, and criminal law. This comprehensive approach allows students to deepen their understanding of the application of Islamic legal principles in these specific contexts.