Understanding the Principle of Rulings in Islam: Time, Place, and Ijtihad

The Importance of Context in Islamic Rulings: Insights from Sheikh Albāni

Rulings CHANGE according to TIME and PLACE! 

Sheikh Albāni raḥimahullāh said:

“The statement that ‘rulings change according to time and place’ is a VERY DANGEROUS principle if taken in its broadest sense. The correct understanding of this principle is that it applies to rulings derived from ijtihad of the scholars, and not to the rulings explicitly stated in the Book of Allah or the ḥadīth of the Messenger of Allāh. These latter rulings are not subject to this principle that says: “rulings change with the passage of time and place.”

Rather, this principle applies to those rulings which were deduced and reasoned by the scholars, as ijtihad and deduction are inherently subject to error and correctness, unlike what has been explicitly stated in the Qur’ān and Sunnah. 

Additionally, these rulings that were established through ijtihad and deduction took into consideration the context and circumstances in which people were living at the time. Hence, these rulings were formulated to suit that particular era.”

[Mutafarriqāt, Tape No. 101]

Author: IslamicHelper

IslamicHelper

Recent Articles

Authentic Salah References in Quran & Sunnah

Discover authentic Quranic and Hadith references on Salah for pure, correct Islamic worship Read More

16 hours ago

Khadijah, Aisha, and Islam’s Female Scholars

Discover the pivotal roles of Khadijah, Aisha, and other remarkable women who shaped Islamic history through their leadership, intellect, and… Read More

4 days ago

Islam Explained: Top Questions Non-Muslims Ask

Explore Islam's core beliefs, practices, and views on modern issues through answers to frequently asked questions. Dispel myths and gain… Read More

4 days ago

Muslim Modern Life: Salaf Guidance

Discover how modern Muslims can balance faith and contemporary life using the Salaf methodology. Tackle cultural integration, identity, and staying… Read More

6 days ago

Forgiveness in Islam: Healing Through Quran & Hadith

Discover how forgiveness in Islam, guided by the Quran and Hadiths, can heal your heart and bring peace to your… Read More

6 days ago

Masjid Haram: A Marvel of Organization

Discover the astonishing scale, state-of-the-art facilities, and meticulous organization of Masjid Haram—a true marvel of faith and modern ingenuity Read More

1 week ago