Good and Bad Innovations in the Views of Classical and Contemporary Scholars

Abstract

UDK:
28-254
28-722:929

Through arguments derived from Islamic law (Sharia) and the views of classical and contemporary Islamic scholars, this paper aims to clarify the dilemma and disagreement among Muslims regarding the acceptance of new practices and developments that did not previously exist, particularly in matters of religion. One group of Islamic scholars completely rejects any innovation related to religion that did not exist during the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his Companions, maintaining firmly and uncompromisingly that there are no good and bad innovations, but only bad innovations, the practice of which they regard as falling among the major sins. Another group of scholars advances the important view and thesis that both good and bad innovations do exist, even when the matter concerns the religious affairs of Muslims. Both groups present their arguments from the relevant sources of Islamic law, which we will cite, analyse, and interpret in an effort to reach sound conclusions that are firmly grounded in Islamic law while also being applicable and acceptable to the everyday lives of Muslims in every time and place.