Author: dr-salih-yucel

A Mufti is a religious scholar who give fatwas or religious rulings in accordance with Shariah or Islamic law within the context of time and place. However, in many Muslim societies, Muftis were appointed by rulers and were obliged to give fatwas to defend their interest of the ruling class and maintain silence against corruption, oppression and injustice. Mohammad Hashim Kamali in his book, ‘Shari’ah Law: An Introduction’ states that “fatwa under the Shari’ah is a vehicle that facilitates the free flow of thought and expression in religious issues, whereas now it has in many countries become an instrument of restriction on freedom of expression in religious matters.” Therefore, the majority of Muslim people follow independent scholars instead of the assigned Muftis. Muftis can now be considered as ‘semi-free religious counselors.’ In Australia, we are lucky that the imams elect the Mufti. His power is merely symbolic and expected to represent and serves all Muslims. As it is known, all state positions are called public servant in the West. According to Said Nursi, ‘there is no position in Islam except public servanthood. A nation’s ruler is a public servant.’ This is based on a most prominent hadith relating an incident with the Prophet. Prophet Mohammad (s) was serving water to his companions when a bedouin came in and shouted: “Who is the master of these people?” The Messenger answered in...