ijma

Ijma (Arabic: إجماع) refers to the consensus of the Muslim scholarly community on a matter of Islamic law. The term literally means “agreement,” and in Islamic jurisprudence ijma is regarded as a source of Sharia that operates alongside the Qur’an, the Sunnah, and qiyas (analogical deduction).

Historical development: After the death of the Prophet Muhammad, jurists argued that consensus among reliable scholars could establish rulings when textual evidence was silent. Classical discussions distinguish ijma al-sahaba (consensus of the companions) from ijma al-mujtahidin (consensus of later scholars); the latter is binding only when it reflects the agreement of qualified mujtahids and does not contradict the Qur’an or Sunnah.

Role and scope: In Sunni jurisprudence, ijma is often treated as the third source of law, providing rulings that all Muslims should follow if there is genuine consensus. It is not achieved by a single individual and cannot override clear scriptural texts. In practice, ijma is difficult to verify across diverse communities, and modern discussions address the idea of universal versus regional consensus and its application to contemporary issues.

Reception and variation: In Shia Islam, ijma is less central and is not always treated as a binding source in the same way as in Sunni thought; authority is more closely associated with the teachings of the Imams. Contemporary scholars continue to debate the scope, conditions, and renewal of ijma, including whether new consensus can emerge on issues arising from modern science and society.