The Prophetic Sunnah Between Revelation and Ijtihād: A Contextual Reassessment for Contemporary Islamic Legal Thought

Abstract

The Prophetic Sunnah occupies a central position in Islamic jurisprudence as a source of divine guidance and ethical instruction. This study critically examines the dual nature of the Sunnah, exploring whether it is entirely divinely revealed or if it includes elements of the Prophet Muhammad’s independent reasoning (ijtihād). Employing a qualitative, library-based approach grounded in usul al-fiqh, the research analyzes key Hadiths through historical and functional lenses. It distinguishes between the Prophet’s legislative actions (Sunnah tashrīʿiyyah) and those shaped by his socio-political roles (Sunnah ghayr tashrīʿiyyah), demonstrating how contextual interpretation reveals the adaptive dimensions of prophetic practice. The methodology integrates textual analysis, juristic classification, and contextual reading of Hadith, enabling a clearer understanding of how the Prophet’s roles—as messenger, leader, judge, and individual—influence the legal authority of his sayings and actions. Findings highlight that while certain Prophetic acts were divinely mandated and universally binding, others were contingent on specific historical contexts and were open to divine correction or refinement. This study argues that contextual interpretation of Hadith, coupled with the differentiation between universal and particular Sunnah, strengthens the responsiveness of Islamic law in contemporary pluralistic societies. By aligning legal rulings with the overarching objectives of Sharia (maqāṣid al-sharīʿah), such as justice, welfare, and public interest, scholars can ensure the relevance and vitality of Islamic legal thought in addressing modern challenges. Ultimately, this approach preserves the integrity of the Sunnah while promoting a jurisprudence that is both rooted and reform-oriented