A mufti is an Islamic jurist qualified to issue a nonbinding opinion, known as a fatwa, on a point of Islamic law (sharia) . Here are some key points about muftis:
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Qualifications: Traditionally, a mufti was seen as a scholar of upright character who possessed a thorough knowledge of the Quran, hadith, and legal literature. Muftis acted as independent scholars in the classical legal system.
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Responsibilities: Muftis interpret Islamic law and issue fatwas in response to inquiries by private individuals or judges. Their opinions are nonbinding and are based on their knowledge of the Quran, Hadith, and legal precedents.
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Role in Modern Times: In modern Islamic countries, the authority of muftis is often restricted to cases involving personal status and religious custom, such as inheritance, marriage, and divorce.
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Grand Mufti: In some contexts, such as in the Ottoman Empire, the grand mufti held a prominent position as the foremost legal authority in Islam, presiding over the judicial and theological hierarchy.
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Civilian Usage: In civilian usage, "mufti" can also refer to ordinary dress as distinguished from that denoting an occupation or station, especially when worn by a person in the armed forces.
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Interpretive Skills: Muftis use their interpretive skills to arrive at rulings, considering what ruling would benefit society while remaining within Islamic law.
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Training and Education: Muftis receive training in Islamic law and must have a deep understanding of the Quran, Hadith, and legal literature to qualify for this role.
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Fatwa: A muftis response to an inquiry is called a fatwa, and the person who asks a mufti for a fatwa is known as a mustafti.
In summary, a mufti plays a significant role in interpreting Islamic law and issuing nonbinding opinions on legal matters, known as fatwas, based on their knowledge of Islamic scriptures and legal precedents.
