Moderation in Fatwas and Ijtihad: An Analysis of Fatwas Issued by the MKI Malaysia Concerning the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Certain muftis reject the moderation method when giving fatwas. They are more prone to extremism or dereliction approaches. This rejection occurs due to various causes and, if left unaddressed, will have a detrimental impact on the fatwa institutions, muftis, and mustaftis. This research discussed the notion of moderation in Islam and how it is applied in the realm of a fatwa. Given that Malaysia is currently dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and that the MKI (Majlis Kebangsaan Bagi Hal Ehwal Ugama Islam) has issued several fatwas on it, this research will look into the fatwas and the features of moderation inherent within it. Using Bowen's document analysis methodology, this study was performed qualitatively by gathering pertinent data from primary and secondary documents. The retrieved data from both documents were analyzed using content analysis methodology to get valuable information and rearrange it to produce meaning that could be understood and digested. The findings demonstrate that moderation is a symbol of Islam and that one of Islam's virtues is to conduct religious affairs and issue rulings with moderation. In fatwas, the notion of moderation centers on facilitating Muslims' religious experiences. In the context of the MKI fatwas, this study discovered that five fatwas were issued on Islamic affairs during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the findings of this study, each fatwa has its features of moderation.