The development of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) and reasons for juristic disagreements among schools of law

Abstract

Islamic Jurisprudence comprises of the laws that govern a Muslims daily life. The Prophet Muhammad explained and practically demonstrated these laws. The jurists studied the Quran and the Prophet's life and they adopted a refined methodology which they used to extract legal rulings and verdicts. This methodology is known as the Principles of Jurisprudence.

The jurists expanded on this methodology with some differences among them on the usage and the application of some aspects as acceptable forms of evidence.

Eventually, the Muslim world was left with four schools of jurisprudence that are present to this day. There are differences between these schools on some issues but these differences never caused conflict, instead it provided us with a wealth of knowledge.

We need to study these schools and its principles together with the objectives and intent of the Shariah and utilize this to find solutions to all new issues that arise.