The role of fiqh muqaran in promoting unity among muslim communities

Islam as a comprehensive and comprehensive religion provides various branches of knowledge to guide its followers to live their lives based on the laws of Allah SWT. One of the main branches is fiqh, which includes various approaches in formulating laws based on the Quran, Sunnah, ijma and qiyas. The diversity of fiqh views that exist today is the result of the ijtihad of scholars since the classical era to the modern era, which aims to adapt the law to the context of a particular time and place. (Labanieh M. F., 2016) However, these differences sometimes become a challenge to the unity of the ummah when there is a fanatic attitude towards each school, to the point of triggering conflict and division (Ibrahim, 2010) In facing this reality, the Fiqh Muqaran approach emerges as a scientific method that elevates the diversity of views as an intellectual treasure of Islam that needs to be appreciated. It compares the views of the muktabar schools of thought such as Hanafi, Maliki, Syafi‘i and Hanbali with a systematic analysis and based on evidence. Through this study, Muslims can recognize differences not as a divisive element, but as the basis for scholarly dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect. (Sabri A. & Gusmaneli, 2015) Not just as an academic tool, Fiqh Muqaran also plays an important role in forming open and moderate thinking (wasatiyyah), thus warding off the sectarian fanaticism that is festering in society. Through this approach, the Muslim community can also be educated to better understand the arguments behind differences of opinion, thereby avoiding judgmental attitudes and rejecting different practices. (Mokhtar, Kasoma Thia, & Mohd Sohaimi Esa, 2023) In addition, the application of Fiqh Muqaran more widely through the education system, media and public discourse can build a more inclusive and harmonious society. Knowledge about legitimate differences (ikhtilaf mu’tabar) needs to be exposed to the younger generation so that they can be critical, rational and civilized in their differences. Therefore, with a structured approach, Fiqh Muqaran has the potential to become a bridge that connects diversity and unites Muslims in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and respect.