The Openness of the Gate of Ijtihad” in Salafi Thought

Salafism believes in “the openness of the gate of ijtihad”. According to them, whoever has some knowledge of the Quran must engage in ijtihad. This has caused some people who do not have sufficient expertise in religion to turn to ijtihad. These people, who are giving fatwa and have no command over Quranic verses, Prophetic traditions and related arguments, are excommunicating Muslims. This research examines the literal and technical meanings of ijtihad and then delves into the viewpoint of Salafi School concerning ijtihad followed by a discussion and critical evaluation on the history and degrees of ijtihad and Salafists' arguments on this subject-matter. Salafism has made the process of ijtihad very easy for those who want to attain this status. Therefore, there are many who do not have expertise in religion, yet they issue fatwa labeling others as heretics and disbelievers. The Salafists have also presented ittibaa' (lit. to obey/follow), a method in between ijthad and taqlid (emulation). This method has also led to an increase of takfiri verdicts.