taqlid

Taqlid is an Arabic term meaning imitation or conformity. In Islamic jurisprudence, taqlid refers to the practice of following the legal rulings of a qualified authority (mufti or mujtahid) without performing independent legal reasoning (ijtihad). It is contrasted with ijtihad, the process of deriving legal rulings through independent reasoning. The term is used in both Sunni and Shia traditions, though its institutional forms differ.

In Sunni Islam, taqlid describes laypersons following a madhhab—the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, or Hanbali schools—or following the rulings of a mufti. While classical jurists allowed taqlid for those not trained in jurisprudence, later reformers urged limiting or avoiding it in favor of personal ijtihad in more areas, especially in modern contexts. Nonetheless, taqlid remains common for practical matters and ritual observance in many communities.

In Twelver Shia Islam, taqlid is central to religious life. A muqallid follows the rulings of a living jurist, known as a marja' al-taqlid (source of emulation). The marja' issues updated fatawa, and followers adjust practice accordingly. Ijtihad is reserved for qualified scholars who may become maraji' or whose opinions are adopted by the community.

Critics argue that taqlid can suppress independent reasoning, while supporters view it as a practical means to access reliable guidance in complex matters. See also ijtihad, mujtahid, madhhab, fatwa, marja'iyya.