Ijma, as one of the main sources of Islamic law

This article provides a comprehensive examination of ijmа as one of the principal sources of Islamic law and a foundational component of classical uṣul al-fiqh. The relevance of the topic stems from the increasing need within contemporary Muslim societies to rely on authoritative methodological principles of Ahl alSunna wa-l-Jamаa, which ensure the reliability and integrity of the Sharia legal framework. The study explores both the linguistic and juristic definitions of ijmа presented by leading scholars of the four Sunni legal schools, including al-Shafii, al-Juwayni, al-Ghazali, alAmidi, and other authoritative figures. The evidentiary foundations of ijma are carefully analyzed, drawing on Quranic verses, authentic Prophetic ḥadiths, and rational arguments that highlight the role of collective ijtihad in preserving religious norms. Special emphasis is placed on the conditions required for the validity of ijma, which function as essential mechanisms ensuring the authenticity and textual conformity of the resulting ruling. The article demonstrates that ijma can only be established through the unanimous agreement of all qualified mujtahid scholars of a given era, the absence of any reliably transmitted dissent, and complete consistency with the Quran and the Sunna. The historical section traces the development of the concept beginning with the era of the Companions, whose practice of collective consensus laid the groundwork for later theoretical elaboration, and continuing through its systematic formulation in the works of classical jurists. Furthermore, the article underscores the contemporary importance of ijma as a methodological tool capable of harmonizing legal approaches among Islamic schools and providing coherent solutions to emerging juristic issues. The study concludes that ijma should be viewed not only as a legal-proof category, but also as a vital element in preserving the unity of the Muslim community and maintaining continuity within the Sharia legal tradition.