Concept of ‘urf (Custom) in Islamic Law and its Application in Social Affairs: An Analytical Study

Abstract

The paper delves into the concept of ‘urf (custom) within the framework of Islamic law and its crucial role in the regulation and adaptation of social affairs. ‘Urf, recognized as an important source of Islamic jurisprudence, facilitates the harmonization of legal principles with prevailing social norms, thereby ensuring relevance and applicability in diverse contexts. Through a meticulous analytical study, this paper explores how ‘urf is integrated into Islamic legal systems, detailing the conditions under which customs can be considered legitimate sources of law. It also examines various case studies to illustrate the implementation of ‘urf across different Islamic societies, highlighting its dynamic capability to adapt legal and ethical norms to local conditions. This study underscores the significance of ‘urf in bridging the gap between rigid legal frameworks and contemporary social practices, thus fostering a flexible, yet principled approach to modern legal challenges. The study finds that 'urf (custom) plays a critical role in adapting Islamic law to local social realities, ensuring that legal applications remain both relevant and respectful of community norms. This flexibility highlights 'urf’s vital function in maintaining the dynamism and applicability of Islamic jurisprudence in diverse societal contexts.