The Role of Fiqh Ikhtilaf in the Implementation of Congregational Prayers During COVID-19

Fiqh Ikhtilaf is the diversity of views on fiqh as a result of the differences in the methodology of mujtahids in issuing laws that are understood from the Islamic nas. These differences are influenced by the background of thinking, the level of mastery of knowledge and the current needs. In this phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, society is faced with new issues that require a re-evaluation of Islamic law. The main objective of this concept paper is to explain the role of Fiqh Ikhtilaf in the implementation of SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) of Congregational Prayer in the COVID-19 pandemic. The literature review methodology was used to answer the research questions by analysing the debate on Fiqh Ikhtilaf and SOP of Congregational Prayers. The findings of the study showed that Fiqh Ikhtilaf facilitates the affairs of human life, becomes the basic reference for the Ulama in ijithad, opens the minds of the community towards the expanse of fiqh and helps realize Hifz Al-Din and Hifz Al-Nafs in Maqasid Shariah. Keywords: Fiqh Ikhtilaf, Maqasid Sharia, COVID-1