A Study of E-Fatwa as a Modern Development in Usul al-Fiqh
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Date
2018
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Religious and Cultural Studies, Faculty of Humanities, University of Port Harcourt.
Abstract
The advent of various sophisticated media of communication has affected many a field of knowledge. Internet precisely has made available many useful materials and data thereby facilitating teaching and learning. This influence is especially manifest in the field of Islamic studies, whereby internet has been employed to pass and communicate fatwā i.e. Islamic verdict. Thus the scope of fatwā unlike before is no more limited between muftī [the scholar] and mustaftī [the questioner]. This article seeks to study this phenomenon from both negative and perspective perspectives. The idea is to dwell on the need and ways to ensure a judicious use of the medium. This is necessary when we take into consideration the lofty position of fatwā in Uṣūl al-Fiqh i.e. the principles of Islamic jurisprudence. Many notable scholars have considered muftī as an interpreter and deputy of Allah and His prophet respectively. Moreover, muftī has also been likened to a medical doctor whose prescription of drug must be carefully made. While the latter takes care of body, the former is responsible for soul, a task that must be carried out more carefully and effectively. Thus the article contends that to avoid abuse of fatwā through the means of internet concerted efforts must be made by concerned scholars who work as e-muftīs on various websites. The institution of fatwā must be recognized as an area of specialization in order to ensure that only qualified undertake the task of passing and communication of e-fatwā.
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Keywords
Fatwa, Usul al-Fiqh, Mufti, Science and Technology