Ijma according to the Quran

Ijma, also known as Consensus of the Ummah, is not explicitly mentioned in the Quran. However, it is recognized as an important source of Islamic law and is derived from the Quranic principle of consultation (shura) and the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions (may Allah be pleased with them).

In the Quran, Allah instructs the believers to consult with one another and make decisions based on mutual agreement and consultation. For example, in Surah Al-Imran, verse 159, Allah says, "So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him]."

The practice of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions also serves as a basis for Ijma. The companions of the Prophet (may Allah be pleased with them) were known for their close adherence to the teachings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and their deep knowledge of Islam. They were consulted by the early Muslim community on matters of religious and legal importance, and their consensus on such issues was seen as a strong indication of what was considered acceptable and valid in Islamic law.

Over time, Ijma became recognized as one of the sources of Islamic law, along with the Quran and the Sunnah (the practice of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him). Islamic scholars have continued to rely on Ijma throughout history to help make decisions on important issues and to interpret Islamic law.

The concept of Ijma, or consensus, is not mentioned explicitly in the Quran. However, it is derived from several verses that encourage Muslims to follow the community of believers and seek consensus among them. One of the key verses related to this concept is:

“And whoever opposes the Messenger after guidance has become clear to him and follows other than the way of the believers – We will give him what he has taken and drive him into Hell, and evil it is as a destination.” (Quran 4:115)

This verse highlights the importance of following the way of the believers, or the consensus of the community of Muslims. It suggests that those who deviate from the consensus are misguided and will face punishment.

“And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you – when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided.” (Quran 3:103)

This verse emphasizes the importance of unity among believers and holding firmly to the “rope of Allah,” which can be interpreted as the Quran and the consensus of the community of believers. Overall, while the concept of Ijma is not explicitly mentioned in the Quran, it is derived from verses that emphasize the importance of following the community of believers and seeking consensus among them.

"So ask those who know the scripture, if you do not know." (Quran 16:43)

"And when there comes to them information about [public] security or fear, they spread it around. But if they had referred it back to the Messenger or to those of authority among them, then the ones who [can] draw correct conclusions from it would have known about it. And if not for the favor of Allah upon you and His mercy, you would have followed Satan, except for a few." (Quran 4:83)

"And We did not send before you any but men to whom We revealed—so ask the people of knowledge if you do not know." (Quran 16:43)

These verses emphasize the importance of seeking guidance and knowledge from those who are qualified to provide it, which can be seen as a basis for the concept of Ijma.

"And whoever opposes the Messenger after guidance has become clear to him and follows other than the way of the believers - We will give him what he has taken and drive him into Hell, and evil it is as a destination." [Quran 4:115]

"And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you - when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided." [Quran 3:103]

These verses can be interpreted as implying that the community of believers should unite and follow the guidance of the Prophet and his companions. This unity and consensus among the believers is known as Ijma.

In summary, Ijma is a concept in Islamic jurisprudence that refers to the consensus of the scholars of the Muslim community on a particular issue. The concept is based on the belief that the collective wisdom of the community is greater than that of any individual, and that the scholars of the community have the authority to interpret Islamic law and make decisions based on it. There are no specific Quranic verses that explicitly mention the concept of Ijma, but it is derived from the Quranic injunctions to seek knowledge, consult with others, and follow the guidance of the Prophet and the scholars of the community. Overall, the concept of Ijma plays an important role in Islamic jurisprudence and helps to ensure unity and coherence in the Muslim community's understanding and application of Islamic law.


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