Qiyas is
the fourth and most dependent source of Islamic Law. Literally, Qiyas means
measuring or comparing with or judging by comparing. In Islamic
Jurisprudence (Shariah), Qiyas is a process of deduction by which the law of
text (Nas) is applied to cases which have not been clearly covered by the other
sources of Islamic Law.
Thus, it
is extended to cases or matters not explicitly covered by the Quran and the
Sunnah on the grounds of a material similarity in the nature of the two cases.
The material similarity is termed as 'Illa or effective cause. So, by
taking the 'Illa of the Quran, or the Sunnah as absolute, subject practitioners
identify the existence of the same 'Illa in the new case, and then decide
similarly.
In the
Quran, we find a number of verses where Allah Almighty has enjoined us to use
our brains and reasoning.
For
instance, in 59:2 the Quran asks us to utilize our insight in order to learn
lessons:
Then take admonition O you with insight.
Read more
- The use of Quran and Hadith in working-out the Islamic Law
- Islamic Research Methods used by major collectors to ensure Hadith is genuine
- Major difficulties encountered by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ & his companions in Makkah
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