Ijma’

This entry examines the evolution and practice of ijma’ which literally means consensus and refers to the widespread agreement among Islamic jurists and scholars on matters of Islamic jurisprudence. Ijma’ is often referred to as one of the four sources of Islamic law and jurisprudence, particularly within the mainstream Sunni schools. For this reason, it holds a salient role in the history of Islam; however, as with the case of ijtihad, ijma’ now ceases to exist as a major source, despite efforts by contemporary scholars to revive it which would make a great deal of contribution to the basis and foundation of Islamic economics and finance today’s world.