Evaluating the Legal Authority of Ṣaḥābi Opinions: A Methodological Framework for Islamic Jurisprudence

Authors : A.h.m. Ershad Uddın, Ayhan Hira

Pages : 1721-1746

Doi:10.37697/eskiyeni.1674740

View : 130 | Download : 318

Publication Date : 2025-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Purpose: The present article explores the methodological and legal foundations of evaluating the opinions and actions (aqwāl and afʿāl) of the Companions of the Prophet Muhammad (ṣaḥāba) in Islamic jurisprudence. Although historical veneration of the ṣaḥāba as morally exemplary authorities (ʿudūl), classical Islamic legal theory is deficient in a coherent and systematic framework for det a coherent and systematic framework for determining the extent to which their statements and practices possess binding legal authority (ḥujjiyyah). In a multitude of contemporary studies on the principles of Islamic jurisprudence, the definition of the Companions (ṣaḥāba), their integrity (ʿadālah), and the evidentiary value (ḥujjiyyah) of their statements have been examined through various approaches found in classical sources. However, the absence of a comprehensive evaluative framework is becoming increasingly evident, particularly when divergent interpretations arise within modern applications of ijtihād. Method: Employing the method of document analysis, the present article offers a qualitative study that compares the approaches of the founding imams, such as Abū Ḥanīfa, Mālik, al-Shāfiʿī, and Aḥmad ibn Ḥanbal, alongside those of marginal traditions like the Ẓāhirī and Muʿtazilī schools, as well as contemporary legal theorists. Findings: To address this gap, the study proposes a six-criteria evaluative framework: (1) textual consistency with the Qurʾān and Sunnah, (2) silent consensus (sukūtī ijmāʿ), (3) proximity to the Prophet, (4) historical applicability, (5) coherence with established principles of legal methodology (e.g., qiyās, istiḥsān), and (6) endorsement by the major schools of Islamic law (madhāhib). Furthermore, the study demonstrates how this methodological framework can be applied to contemporary issues. The findings also demonstrate the feasibility of employing the proposed evaluative model in addressing contemporary jurisprudential challenges, both epistemologically and practically. Conclusion: The proposed study adopts a systematic approach, integrating the authority of the Companions (ṣaḥāba) with modern legal reasoning. This integration aims to contribute to Islamic legal thought at both theoretically and practically. The objective of this study is to fortify the methodological underpinnings of ijtihād drawing upon the exemplary practices of the Companions. This endeavour aims to construct a constructive bridge that connects the rich classical tradition with the contemporary requirements.
Keywords : İslam Hukuku, Sahabe, Sahabi Kavli, İslam Hukuk Teorisi, Hüccet, Hukuki Yöntem

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