Scope of Ijtihad always remains open to interpret Islam in the light of changing circumstances that take place from age to age, observed Barrister Shamsur Rahman. He further said that the Holy Quran contains the fundamentals only and for executing these fundamental principles in a dynamic society, the provision of “Ijtihad” is essential. While indicting the importance of “Ijtihad” to meet the requirement of a dynamic society, he pleaded for an organised move towards conducting “Ijtihad”.

Maulana Ibrahim Nagari, while emphasising the importance of “Ijtihad” in all ages, referred to a Hadith which categorically encourages “Ijtihad” without any reservation even to the extent of promising reward for a man who, while conducting “Ijtihad”, commits [a] mistake.

Mr Hedayetullah, a retired District Judge, while affirming the basis of “Ijtihad” even during the life time of the Prophet quoted a Hadith wherein the Prophet expressed his approval to a reply by a Governor as to the application of judgment in case of an issue not covered by the Holy Quran and Hadith.—Agencies