TIDAK IKUT MAZHAB MAYORITAS | Ustadz Abu Yusuf Akhmad Jakfar, Lc.

Summary

In this episode of 'Pasuruan Mengaji,' Ustadz Abu Yusuf Ahmad discusses the importance of adhering to a specific school of thought (mazhab) in Islamic jurisprudence, particularly within Southeast Asia where the Shafi'i mazhab is predominantly followed. He addresses a viewer's question about following a different mazhab, such as the Hanbali, and emphasizes the importance of learning from knowledgeable scholars. The discussion touches on various aspects of Islamic law, including how one should approach differences in opinion on ritual practices like prayer, while advising caution in following personal desires over scholarly guidance. Ultimately, the message is to seek knowledge and practice Islam with sincerity and respect for scholarly consensus.

Takeaways

• 😀 The importance of choosing a specific Islamic school of thought (mazhab) for learning, with an emphasis on understanding and following its principles.
• 😀 The majority of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, follows the Syafi'i mazhab, but it is not mandatory to strictly adhere to it 100%.
• 😀 It is acceptable to follow different mazhabs, such as the Hanbali mazhab, as long as it is done with knowledge and guidance from knowledgeable teachers.
• 😀 While learning about Islamic jurisprudence, it is crucial to study the foundational texts and follow the teachings of qualified scholars in the respective mazhabs.
• 😀 The process of learning from a particular mazhab should be based on systematic study, which involves reading texts and understanding the principles of that mazhab.
• 😀 The Syafi'i mazhab, although widespread in Indonesia, does not mean that individuals must strictly adhere to all its rules in every situation.
• 😀 Understanding and following a mazhab is not about blind following but about learning the principles and applying them in a way that aligns with personal knowledge and understanding.
• 😀 The mazhab you follow may vary depending on local customs and teachings, but it's essential to approach Islamic practice with sincerity and understanding, not out of desire for convenience.
• 😀 Disagreements about certain practices, like whether or not to perform the Qunut prayer during Subuh, are considered differences in opinion, and individuals should follow the guidance of qualified scholars rather than make unilateral decisions.
• 😀 The primary goal of learning a mazhab is not to rigidly adhere to its practices but to understand and apply the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah as interpreted by qualified scholars, ensuring that practices align with the broader principles of Islam.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the discussion in the transcript?

The main focus is on the topic of following a specific Islamic mazhab (school of thought) in daily religious practices, with a particular emphasis on the Shafi'i mazhab. The discussion also addresses the permissibility of following different mazhabs and the importance of scholarly guidance in interpreting Islamic law.

What advice does the speaker give about following a mazhab when living in Southeast Asia?

The speaker advises that in Southeast Asia, where the majority follows the Shafi'i mazhab, it is generally recommended to adhere to the local mazhab as a method of learning and practicing Islamic law. However, if someone feels more comfortable following another mazhab, such as the Hanbali, it is still permissible as long as they study it properly with qualified scholars.

What is the significance of learning from a qualified scholar when choosing a mazhab?

Learning from a qualified scholar is crucial because they guide the student in understanding the mazhab properly, ensuring that the individual applies the correct rulings and principles from their chosen mazhab. The scholar’s role is to provide clear instruction and to ensure that the student’s practice aligns with the teachings of the mazhab.

What does the speaker mean by the term 'ittiba' (following) in relation to mazhabs?

The term 'ittiba' refers to following a specific methodology or school of thought, particularly the teachings of a mazhab, in the practice of Islamic law. However, it does not mean blindly following without understanding. The speaker emphasizes the importance of following a mazhab with knowledge and not based on personal desires.

How does the speaker address the issue of following different practices within Islamic prayer, such as qunut?

The speaker acknowledges that different mazhabs have different practices, such as the qunut during the Subuh prayer. They emphasize that it is important to follow the imam in congregation, even if the imam practices a different custom, as long as it aligns with the broader Islamic teachings. Disagreements on practices like qunut should not lead to division within the community.

Why does the speaker suggest that some people may avoid praying behind certain imams?

Some people avoid praying behind imams who practice certain rituals, like qunut, because they disagree with those practices. The speaker advises against this behavior, emphasizing that the most important aspect of prayer is following the imam in a spirit of unity, rather than focusing on specific practices that may vary between mazhabs.

What is the speaker’s stance on the rigidity of following a single mazhab?

The speaker advocates for flexibility within the mazhab system. While they recommend following the local mazhab, especially in areas where one mazhab is prevalent, they stress that it is acceptable to follow another mazhab if one feels it is more aligned with their understanding, as long as it is done with proper learning and knowledge.

How does the speaker explain the importance of studying Islamic jurisprudence in-depth?

The speaker emphasizes that the study of Islamic jurisprudence should not be superficial. For someone to follow a mazhab correctly, they must study the foundational texts, understand the key principles, and learn from experienced scholars. This depth of understanding ensures that a person’s religious practices are based on sound knowledge, not just superficial adherence.

What does the speaker say about the balance between learning the mazhab and personal understanding of Islamic law?

The speaker highlights that following a mazhab is a method of learning and understanding Islamic law, but it is important to eventually develop a personal understanding of the Quran and Sunnah. They advise studying the mazhab while also aiming to understand the underlying principles and sources of Islamic jurisprudence, particularly the teachings of the early generations of Muslims.

How does the speaker address the concept of 'khushu' (concentration) in prayer?

The speaker stresses that the key to a valid prayer is 'khushu', or concentration and devotion, rather than focusing on the minutiae of specific practices. They argue that many people focus too much on the outward actions during prayer but neglect the inner concentration, which is the essential aspect of a meaningful prayer.