Reorientasi Kajian Ushul Fiqh (Reorientation of Ushul Fiqh Studies)

Abstract

Basically, usul al-fiqh is understood as a methodology to understand Islamic teaching, not only tools to understand lslamic Law as it is perceived by common people. Usul al-fiqh grows and develops throughout Islamic history. It has significant position since its inception. It has been produced many scholars who later formulate formulas that exist even today. Eventhough the science of usul al-fiqh plays an important role in Islamic studies,but not all of Muslim scholars pay full attentiont o it. Even, there is a critical notion that the science of usul al-fiqh is no longer compatible to solve the problems of lslamic community. Based on this frame of thought, the present author tries to investigate the historical aspect of usul al-fiqh and seek the cause of its stagnancy. The author finds that there are two kinds of approaches recognized in usul al-fiqh: doctrinal normative-deductive and empirical-historical-inductive. These two approaches can not be separated. However, in the practical level, certain scholars usually apply one approach and disregard another. As a result, their product tend to be more idealistic than tauching to the real problem. Finally, the author suggests to combine both methods with respect to other disciplines, particulary social sciences and their methodology.