The History of the Fatwa: Why Fiqh and Iftāʾ Require a Dedicated Class of Scholars

Answer

The history of the fatwā is very ancient, and its standing is very lofty — for whatever person he may be, he stands in need of a muftī with regard to matters of fiqh-knowledge; without his effort, inquiry, and considered answer, resolving a question is not easy.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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