taqlid
lowspecialized, academic, religious
Definition
Meaning
The Islamic legal term for uncritically following or imitating the legal opinion of a religious scholar or school of law without independent reasoning (ijtihad).
In broader Islamic discourse, it can refer to blind imitation in religious or cultural matters, or the established practice of following a recognized school of jurisprudence (madhhab).
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily used in discussions of Islamic law, theology, and reform. Carries significant theological weight. Often contrasted with 'ijtihad' (independent reasoning).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Both varieties use it within the same specialized religious/academic contexts.
Connotations
Neutral-to-negative in reformist discourse (implying uncritical adherence). Neutral-to-positive in traditionalist discourse (implying rightful adherence to established authority).
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both varieties, confined to specific fields.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] practises taqlid[Subject] is bound by taqlid to [Authority]the taqlid of [Authority/School]to follow [someone/something] in taqlidVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “bound in the chains of taqlid”
- “the veil of taqlid”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in Islamic studies, law, theology, and Middle Eastern studies papers and discussions.
Everyday
Virtually never used in general conversation.
Technical
Core technical term in Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) and usul al-fiqh (principles of jurisprudence).
Examples
By Part of Speech
noun
British English
- His research focuses on the historical development of taqlid in Hanafi jurisprudence.
- The debate between taqlid and ijtihad remains central.
American English
- The lecturer argued that taqlid was a necessary development for legal stability.
- Some communities maintain a strong tradition of taqlid.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Some Muslims follow a scholar in taqlid.
- Taqlid is an Arabic word.
- The concept of taqlid is important in Islamic law.
- He criticised blind taqlid of ancient opinions without considering modern context.
- The reformist movement sought to break the shackles of rigid taqlid and revive ijtihad.
- Proponents argue that taqlid ensures consistency and prevents error among non-specialists.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'tackle' + 'lid'. To tackle a complex religious issue, a non-scholar puts a 'lid' on their own reasoning and follows an expert's opinion.
Conceptual Metaphor
RELIGIOUS AUTHORITY IS A GUIDE / BLINDNESS IS UNCERTAINTY. Traditional view: The scholar is a guide whom the layperson follows. Reformist critique: Taqlid is walking blindly, tied to another.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating as simple 'подражание' (imitation) without the specific religious/legal connotation. The closer conceptual field is 'следование мазхабу' (following a school of law) or 'таклид'. It is a borrowed term in Russian religious discourse.
Common Mistakes
- Pronouncing it as /ˈtæklɪd/ (wrong stress).
- Using it as a general synonym for 'tradition'.
- Capitalising it (not typically capitalised).
- Using it in non-Islamic contexts.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary antonym of 'taqlid' in Islamic legal discourse?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a subject of debate. Traditionalists view it as necessary and positive for non-scholars to ensure correct practice. Reformists and some modernists often criticise it as a cause of stagnation and advocate for a return to ijtihad.
Opinions vary. Some scholars prohibit it without a valid reason, while others permit it, especially if the follower finds stronger evidence in another school. The rules governing this are part of the discussions on taqlid itself.
Primarily yes, it is a jurisprudential term. However, it is sometimes used metaphorically in wider discussions about uncritically following cultural practices or religious leaders in non-legal matters.
A mujtahid is a scholar qualified to perform ijtihad (independent legal reasoning). They are not required to perform taqlid. A muqallid (follower) performs taqlid of a mujtahid.