“Ijtehad aur Taqleed” is a thought-provoking work in which Allama Murtaza Mutahhari explains two of the most important concepts in Islamic jurisprudence: ijtihad (independent scholarly reasoning) and taqleed (following a qualified jurist). In this book, Mutahhari clarifies the intellectual foundations, historical development, and practical necessity of these principles within the Shi‘a Islamic tradition.
He highlights that ijtihad is not a departure from religion but a dynamic method through which Islamic law remains alive, adaptable, and relevant to new social conditions. Mutahhari emphasizes that the Qur’an and Sunnah remain the primary sources, while ijtihad ensures that scholars can derive proper rulings when facing unprecedented issues.
On the other hand, taqleed is presented as a rational and essential system for ordinary believers who do not possess the deep expertise required for legal interpretation. By following an expert jurist, the believer ensures that their religious practice is grounded in knowledge rather than guesswork.
Mutahhari addresses common misconceptions, defends the authenticity of both concepts, and explains how they protect the integrity of Islamic law. The book offers clarity to readers who may struggle to understand the relationship between scholarly authority and personal responsibility in religious life.
Overall, “Ijtehad aur Taqleed” serves as an accessible introduction to Islamic legal thought, showing how reason, scholarship, and faith work together within the structure of Shia jurisprudence.
