altaqlid

Altaqlid, commonly anglicized as taqlid, is a term in Islamic jurisprudence referring to the practice of following the legal rulings of a recognized authority without engaging in independent legal reasoning (ijtihad). The person who practices it is called a muqallid, and the authority followed may be a mujtahid, a school of law (madhhab), or, in some traditions, a living jurist (marja’).

Historically, ijtihad by qualified jurists was the method for deriving rulings, but not all followers possessed the capacity for independent reasoning. Taqlid emerged as a way for non-mujtahids to adhere to established rulings. Over time it became a dominant mode of legal practice for many Muslims, especially laypeople, within various Sunni and Shia communities.

In Sunni Islam, taqlid is often described as following the decisions of an established madhhab or a recognized mujtahid. Some jurists permit taqlid on non-core matters or advise scholars to avoid taqlid only after attaining the ability to perform ijtihad. In Twelver Shia Islam, taqlid is more institutionalized, with adherents traditionally following a living jurist or marja’ for guidance.

Modern debates about altaqlid center on reform and renewal. Some reformist scholars argue for renewed ijtihad to address contemporary questions and social changes, while critics contend that uncritical taqlid can hinder intellectual development and adaptiveness. Proponents often emphasize continuity, communal coherence, and the authority of legitimate scholars.

Today, taqlid remains a common method of Islamic legal practice in many communities, though its acceptance and rigorous application vary by tradition, region, and era.