Qiyas (Analogy)

Qiyas (Analogy) in Islamic Law

Deriving rulings by extending principles from Qur’an and Sunnah

Introduction

Qiyas, or legal analogy, is the process of deriving a ruling for an issue not explicitly mentioned in the Qur’an or Sunnah, by identifying a shared legal basis (‘illah) with a case that has a clear ruling. This method ensures that the law addresses new issues while remaining grounded in revelation.

Establishment of Qiyas

All four major Sunni schools affirm qiyas as a valid source of Islamic law. Only a minority, such as the Literalists (Dhahiris), denied it. Scholars like Imam Abu Bakr al-Jassas emphasized that their opposition holds no weight in practice.

“Their differences [in matters of method] are not of consequence.” – Abu Bakr al-Jassas

Wisdom and Benefits of Qiyas

Qiyas allows jurists to extend the guidance of revelation to new realities:

• Continuity: Ensures Islamic law remains relevant across time and place.
• Precision: Links rulings to established texts through a clear legal cause.
• Adaptability: Provides solutions for emerging issues in society, science, and technology.

However, this method is not for everyone. It is the responsibility of qualified mujtahids with mastery of the Qur’an, Sunnah, and principles of fiqh.

Examples of Qiyas

• Alcohol and Drugs: The Qur’an forbids wine due to intoxication. By qiyas, other intoxicants are also prohibited.
• Riba (Usury): Prohibition in gold and silver is extended by qiyas to modern currencies.

Addressing Misconceptions

• Not speculation: Qiyas is a disciplined method, not mere guesswork.
• Not independent of revelation: It is always rooted in Qur’an, Sunnah, or consensus.
• Not open to all: Only qualified scholars may perform qiyas; it is not personal opinion.

References

Primary Sources

• Qur’an 59:2 : Allah instructs reflection and taking lessons from rulings.
• Qur’an 4:59 : Referring disputes to Allah and His Messenger ﷺ forms the foundation for analogy.
• Sunan Abu Dawood 3592 : Hadith of Mu‘adh ibn Jabal exercising judgment where no text is found.

Secondary Sources

• Al-Haskafi & Al-Nasafi, Ifadat al-Anwar Sharh al-Manar : Explanation of qiyas and its legal basis.
• Abu Bakr al-Jassas, al-Fusul fi’l Usul : Defense of qiyas against literalist objections.
• Ibn al-Humam, Tahrir : Classical discussion on the authority of qiyas.
• Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, How Islam Works : Contemporary introduction to qiyas and Islamic methodology.