The contribution of Yusuf Qaradawi to the development of Fiqh

Abstract

This paper analyses the contribution of a preeminent Muslim scholar, Yusuf Qaradawi to the religion, especially in the area of fiqh. His active role in disseminating the knowledge of fiqh began when he was 17 years old. His major works include The Lawful and Prohibited in Islam, Fiqh al-Zakat and Fiqh of Minority have greatly contributed to the progress of contemporary fiqh, putting him as one of the most influential Muslims in the world. He received many critical reviews over the years. Therefore, this paper analyses some of his fiqh works vis-à-vis the analytical reviews he received. It can be concluded that Qaradawi has made a considerable effort to exercise ijtihad corresponding to the current problems that is beneficial to Muslims worldwide. At the same time, he has called for a renewal in ijtihad process and an abandonment of religious extremism, a religious neglect and blind imitation in legal rulings.