ulemas

Ulema, singular al-‘ālim, are Muslim scholars recognized for their knowledge of Islamic sacred law and theology. The term derives from Arabic ulama, meaning “the learned ones.” In English, ulema or ulemas is commonly used to refer to this scholarly class.

Historically, the ulema have served as interpreters of the Qur’an and Hadith, authorities on fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and custodians of religious education. They issue fatwas (legal opinions), teach in mosques and madrasas, supervise religious practices, and, in many periods and places, advise rulers or participate in governance of Muslim communities. Their influence has varied widely depending on state structures, political contexts, and local traditions.

Education and institutions: Ulema are typically trained in traditional religious curricula, often through madrasas or universities. Prominent centers include Al-Azhar in Cairo, Najaf and Qom in Shia contexts, and various seminaries in the Indian subcontinent and elsewhere. Training covers the Qur’an, Hadith, fiqh, usul al-fiqh, theology, and related sciences, with different traditions emphasizing different methods of interpretation and legal reasoning.

Geographic and sectarian variation: Sunni and Shia traditions have distinct ulema networks and legal authorities, though both share the core role of interpreting religious law. In the modern era, some countries maintain state-sanctioned bodies of ulema or fatwa councils, while in others scholars operate independently or semi-autonomously. Debates about independent reasoning (ijtihad) versus reliance on established precedent (taqlid) have influenced how ulema engage with reform and political authority.

In summary, the ulema are the learned class within Islam whose interpretive and educational roles have been central to the religion’s legal and doctrinal development across regions and eras.