This article examines two fundamental concepts essential to the dynamic application of Islam: bid‘a (innovation) and ijtihad (critical thinking for solutions to new problems). Both concepts are meant to preserve continuity with Islam’s original sources while renewing the religion’s vitality as a dynamic faith. Correct understanding of bid‘a and ijtihad is an essential element of Islamic literacy, the basic understanding of Islam that all members of the Muslim community must have. Bid‘a serves as a regulatory mechanism for the elaboration of the religious law but is not meant to be an obstructive force, impeding new ideas and silencing open discourse. Bid‘a has different shades of meaning and is not always negative; it applies equally to innovations that are obligatory, recommended, or merely neutral. Ijtihad, on the other hand, is the creative dimension of Islamic law. The obligation to perform it falls on each Muslim community in the context of its particular time and place. Ijtihad is not solely an obligation of scholars; it also is incumbent on the Muslim rank and file, who are required to think critically about which scholars to follow.

"Know ye (all), that the life of this world is but play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting and multiplying, (in rivalry) among yourselves, riches and children. Here is a similitude: How rain and the growth which it brings forth, delight (the hearts of) the tillers; soon it withers; thou wilt see it grow yellow; then it becomes dry and crumbles away. But in the Hereafter is a Penalty severe (for the devotees of wrong).And Forgiveness from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the devotees of Allah) And what is the life of this world, but goods and chattels of deception?” (Chapter 57, verse 20)

Ihsan is the striving for excellence [primarily spiritual but can include all aspects of life].  Sadly mediocrity has become the norm and depravity is the new low in conduct.  According to Abu Huraira, the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said:  "I have only been sent (as a Messenger in order) to perfect noble character (of mankind)." Character has been replaced with personality.  Many are motivated to search for a better way.  With the marketing sophistry befitting the corporate world, plebeians are offering themselves up as spiritual guides.  It is timely to raise the questions; is it necessary to have a spiritual guide and if so what are the necessary pre-requisites of a spiritual guide?  What must the seeker know/do to ensure that a charlatan does not entrap them?  Ibn Abbad of Ronda addressed these and other related issues in the following letter that offers wise counsel which is still relevant today.