Imam Sadiq's (P.) Policy on Independent Judgment

According to Shiite traditions “haram” (forbidden deeds) and “halal”(permissible deeds) are valid and will continue to be until the Day of Judgment. On the other hand, taking into consideration the changing times it might be altered or modified. In accordance with the unwritten Islamic law the teaching of Islamic principles was the responsibility of the Prophet, but how to judge and make decisions according to the Prophet’s teachings and implement them is the duty of the scholars, which is called “(Independent Judgment)”.In this article the study of the issue of “independent judgment” during the time of the infallibles in general is undertaken and Imam Sadiq’s(P.) era in particular. Bearing in mind the special circumstances of that time the study provides a summary stating a report of the formation of Shiite schools of thought vis-à-vis other schools of thought. Imam Sadiq(P.) and his followers’ policy regarding “Independent Judgement” are therefore analysed.