What is the term for the consensus of Muslim scholars?

Ijma is the term that refers to the consensus of Muslim scholars. In Islamic jurisprudence, ijma plays a crucial role as it signifies a collective agreement among scholars on a particular issue or interpretation of Islamic law. This consensus is regarded as a significant source of Islamic legal authority, second only to the Quran and the Sunnah, which are the practices and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad.

Understanding ijma is essential for grasping how Islamic law evolves and adapts over time. The concept emphasizes the collective reasoning and scholarly discourse that can lead to a unified stance on complex issues faced by the Muslim community. It highlights the importance of scholarly consensus in ensuring that interpretations of Islamic teachings remain relevant and address contemporary challenges while staying true to the core principles of Islam.

In contrast to other terms in Islamic jurisprudence, such as qiyas (analytical deduction) and ijtihad (independent reasoning), ijma specifically denotes a collective agreement, emphasizing unity among scholars. The term consensus Muslim encapsulates the idea that through collaborative scholarship, the community can arrive at decisions that reflect a shared understanding of the faith. This mechanism of consensus helps maintain coherence and stability within Islamic jurisprudence, fostering a sense of collective identity among Muslims.