ulamas

The ulama (singular alim) are the learned class in Islam, traditionally responsible for the study, interpretation, and teaching of Islamic law, theology, and exegesis. The word alim comes from Arabic for "one who knows," and ulama is the plural used across many Muslim societies. Variants include ulema in Turkish and Urdu-speaking regions, while Persian usage also uses ulama or ulama.

Role and functions. Ulama interpret the Qur’an and Hadith, develop and explain fiqh (jurisprudence), and oversee religious education and practice. They issue fatwas (legal opinions), supervise mosques and madrasas, and advise rulers on religious and ethical matters. In many contexts, they have administered charitable endowments (waqf), supervised religious schools, and maintained traditional scholarly networks that connect teachers, students, and communities.

Historical development. In classical Islam, the ulama formed a distinct scholarly class that operated alongside political rulers and jurists. Their authority varied by region and era but often centered on legal interpretation and religious legitimacy. In empires such as the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal, organized institutions and curricula helped shape a recognized ulama hierarchy, including roles like mufti, qadi (judge), and leading scholars. The balance between ijtihad (independent reasoning) and taqlid (following established precedence) has been a recurring theme in their tradition, and in Shia contexts the concept of marja’ al-taqlid (sources of emulation) has been prominent.

Modern context. Today, ulama range from traditional scholars associated with madrasas and religious endowments to graduates of modern universities who continue to engage in fatwa, teaching, and community leadership. In many countries, official religious councils include ulama, while in others, independent scholars influence social and political discourse, sometimes in tension with state authorities.