❖ What is Taqlid?
Taqlid is a term that has been used with various interpretations. While some scholars use it in a linguistic sense to refer to general following, the technical or juristic definition of Taqlid—as adhered to by certain schools like the Hanafi school—refers to following someone's opinion without knowing the evidence. This type of Taqlid has been a matter of considerable discussion, and many senior scholars have distanced themselves from such a notion.Following the Hadith of the Prophet ﷺ is not called Taqlid in the technical sense, because the Prophet's word is itself a source of law and divine guidance. Therefore, accepting the Prophet’s command is termed ittiba‘ (following), not Taqlid.
❖ Misunderstandings Regarding Taqlid
Some have confused asking a scholar about an Islamic ruling or trusting the explanations of the Salaf as Taqlid. However, this does not fall under the juristic definition of Taqlid. Accepting something based on textual evidence or the authority of divine revelation is not considered blind following.For example, turning to Hadith, the consensus of the Ummah, or scholarly clarification of Quranic verses is not Taqlid because these are grounded in evidence. Similarly, a layperson asking a qualified scholar for an Islamic ruling is acting upon the command of the Quran to consult those with knowledge if unaware.
❖ Four Key Points About Taqlid
① Returning to the Prophet ﷺ for rulings is not Taqlid.② Accepting the consensus of the Muslim Ummah is not Taqlid.
③ A layperson asking a scholar about a ruling is not Taqlid.
④ A judge relying on testimony or witnesses is also not engaging in Taqlid.
These distinctions highlight the difference between following authentic Islamic sources and blindly following a human opinion without verification.
❖ Following Scholars Without Blind Adherence
Even those who adhere to a particular school do not consider themselves followers of individual contemporary scholars. For instance, if someone asks a question from a modern-day Mufti and acts upon it, that does not make them a Muqallid (blind follower) of that Mufti.This distinction is important to understand, as it separates the duty of seeking knowledge and acting upon it from the concept of binding oneself to the rulings of a specific scholar or school in all matters, regardless of evidence.
❖ Taqlid vs. Ittiba‘ (Following with Insight)
The Prophetic tradition encourages following with insight. Scholars have consistently differentiated between Taqlid (acceptance without knowing the evidence) and Ittiba‘ (acceptance based on understanding and evidence).True Islamic methodology promotes Ittiba‘, as believers are urged to act upon clear guidance from the Quran, Sunnah, and the consensus of the rightly guided predecessors.
❖ Can a Layperson Exercise Ijtihad?
Every Muslim, including a layperson, is encouraged to strive towards understanding the truth to the best of their ability. This form of striving, even if not formal Ijtihad, is a type of personal responsibility to seek the correct knowledge from qualified sources.A layperson’s version of "Ijtihad" is to seek answers from trusted and knowledgeable scholars and to ask for the evidence behind their rulings. This intellectual engagement is far from blind imitation and is highly encouraged in Islamic teachings.
❖ Conclusion
The concept of Taqlid, when properly understood, refers to blindly following someone without evidence. Islam, on the other hand, is a religion based on evidence, understanding, and clarity. It invites its followers to seek knowledge, understand the truth, and act upon it—without surrendering their intellect to unquestioned authority.Therefore, accepting the guidance of the Prophet ﷺ, the consensus of the Ummah, or consulting qualified scholars is not Taqlid but part of an informed, evidence-based religious life.
Alḥamdu lillāh.
