Semantics: A Gateway to the Jurisprudence of Diversity and the Rejection of Extremism and Radicalism

Abstract

This study examines "Semantics" (Dalalat Al-Alfāẓ) as a primary cause of diversity (Ikhtilaf) among jurists and its role in rejecting extremism (Ghuluw) and radicalism (Tatarruf). It addresses the relationship between Semantic meaning and jurisprudential differences through an inductive, analytical, and comparative methodology. The research defines the concept, explains its types, and clarifies how it impacts divergent perspectives on legal issues. The study concluded that the multiplicity of jurisprudential schools (Madhahib) is a legitimate reality rooted in scientific foundations, primarily differences in "Semantics". This demonstrates the flexibility of Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), as diverse methodologies used by mujtahids (independent jurists) in deriving rulings (Istinbat) open broad horizons for understanding Sharia texts. Ultimately, this narrows the circle of blameworthy disagreement that leads to sectarian fanaticism and, subsequently, to extremism and radicalism.